Research Degrees
Doctor of Philosophy Degree
The Ph.D. degree prepares students for a career as a university faculty member or research scientist in a government agency or the private sector. It requires 70 semester hours of graduate study beyond the master’s degree, including 24 hours devoted to an original dissertation research. A final examination on the dissertation is conducted by the student’s advisory committee. The Ph.D. degree normally takes three to four years to complete, depending on individual circumstances.
Master of Science Degree (Thesis Option)
The Master of Science (thesis option) is designed for students interested in continuing on to advanced study in a doctoral program, as well as those entering professional service. It requires a minimum of 36 semester hours of study beyond a bachelor’s degree, including at least eight hours devoted to original research documented in a master’s thesis. A final examination on the thesis is conducted by the student’s advisory committee. Normally, it takes two years to complete this degree, although the time varies depending on individual circumstances.
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