The dissertation, the product of independent investigation under faculty supervision, is the most important requirement for the doctoral program. The research is conducted in close collaboration with members of the AS&T faculty who agree to supervise the student’s research. In consultation with the faculty research advisor, and after passing the Qualifying Examination, each student nominates a Dissertation Committee that consists of three Academic Senate members. The chair or co-chair (a committee with a co-chair will consist of 4 members) of the committee must be an Academic Senate member from the AS&T faculty. There are no other requirements regarding the percentage of members from AS&T, or from outside AS&T (e.g., a committee can come entirely from within the degree granting unit). The dissertation should be approved by the Head Graduate Advisor. The composition of the committee is subject to the approval of the Graduate Dean.

No (official) exit exam

There is no “defense” of the completed dissertation as in some other institutions; however, before graduation, each student is expected to present a formal seminar on the results of his or her research. This seminar is announced to all AS&T faculty members and students and is open to all other members of the University community.