5.4.8 Written Qualifying Examination

(Approved May 5, 1995)

The written qualifying examination is a comprehensive test of the student's basic knowledge of and skills in the major area. The exam is the responsibility of the departmental Ph.D. committee, and is administered by this committee or by faculty members whom the departmental Ph.D. committee designates to act on its behalf.

The written exam is administered after the student's program of study is essentially completed. An up-to-date written statement of the format and procedures of the examination must be filed by each academic unit with the Academic Council.

Passage of the written qualifying examination requires a unanimous vote of the departmental Ph.D. committee or those faculty members designated to act on its behalf.

If the student fails the first written qualifying examination, the departmental Ph.D. committee may grant a second examination opportunity to the student. If the privilege of re-examination is granted, the time period within which it must be accomplished is specified by the departmental Ph.D. committee, but it shall not exceed 12 months. Only two opportunities for passage are allowed.