Ph.D. Timeline
A Recommended Course of Study
The following table describes a recommended course of study to complete the program in 5 years of funding. Deviations are applicable by student in consultation with their advisor(s) and the DGS. Deadlines are requirements of the program.
| Year | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Plan | Coursework in substantive fields, methods (7 courses) | Coursework in substantive fields, methods (7 courses). Develop original/ second-year papers. | Complete quality course requirements if not already finished. Take 9 hours of research credit (8999) – prospectus coursework each semester. Defend prospectus. Edit papers. All requirements for degree except dissertation must be complete prior to prospectus defense. | Take 12 hours or research credit (9999) – dissertation coursework. Complete 2-3 chapters or 2 articles of dissertation. Submit & revise papers for publication. Apply for grants to support research. | Job market. Finish dissertation. |
| Deadlines | First-year review by May 15 | Comprehensive exam in first field in May. | 2nd-year review with plan-of-study by Aug 15 2nd-year paper submitted and presented in August. | Prospectus defense must be completed by September 1 of 4th year. | |
| The Following Summer | Summer training, deepen topic knowledge | Second-year paper and prospectus research. | Advance dissertation & publications | Write another chapter. Prep job talk and materials. | Move to your new job! |