Ph.D. in Geology
Coursework
There are no formal course requirements for the Ph.D. Courses are to be selected by the student in collaboration with his advising and dissertation committees.
Residency
University residency is a minimum of one year.
Plan of Study
Students admitted to the Ph.D. program will have identified a prospective research area and advisor prior to admission. The student will meet with an Advising Committee prior to the first week of classes in order to draft a Plan of Study. The Plan of Study will identify a preliminary dissertation topic, coursework, and areas of specialization for the candidate.
Preliminary Examination
A preliminary exam will be completed by the student during his/her first semester in residence, as part of the requirements for Geology 796, Ph. D seminar. This will involve both short written and oral presentations by the student on a topic of his/her choice. The exam will asses the student's ability to write, speak, and organize ideas clearly. It will not be a test of comprehensive knowledge, nor of geological background.
Proposal Defense
The student will present and defend their formal research proposal by the end of their third semester in residence.
Comprehensive Examinations
The student will undergo comprehensive examinations administered by the Dissertation Committee near the end of the 2nd year in residence, if possible, and no less than 12 months before anticipated graduation. The purpose of the examinations is to test the student's comprehensive geological and scientific background and their ability to integrate material from various areas of geology and related sciences.
Evaluation of Examinations
All exams will be judged as pass or fail, based on closed vote of the respective committee. One retake (only) is allowed for each exam or defense. Students must pass all examinations to meet requirements for award of the doctorate.
Dissertation Defense
A final draft of the dissertation must be approved by the student's committee members before the defense can be scheduled. In a presentation open to the public the student will outline highlights of the research results. After the presentation, the student will respond to questions from the general audience, and then the Dissertation Committee. Following revision of the dissertation according to committee comments and after final approval/sign-off by all committee members, the dissertation is submitted to the library (3 copies, acid-free paper) for binding. The COMPLETED PLAN OF STUDY is prepared by the student's advisor, allowing award of the degree. |