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Graduation Requirements

Milestones and requirements for completing your graduate degree

Path to Your Graduate Degree

Graduate degree requirements vary by program and department, but all include a combination of coursework, examinations and either a thesis, dissertation or comprehensive project. Understanding these milestones early helps you plan your program timeline and stay on track for graduation. Most master’s programs can be completed in 1.5 to 2 years of full-time study, while doctoral programs typically take 4 to 6 years depending on your research area and progress.

Common Graduate Milestones

Coursework: Complete required courses in your program, typically including core technical courses, electives and research credit hours.

Examinations: Pass qualifying exams (Ph.D.) or comprehensive exams (Master’s) that test your mastery of foundational knowledge in your field.

Committee Formation: Assemble a thesis or dissertation committee of faculty members who will guide and evaluate your research work.

Proposal Defense: Present and defend your research proposal to your committee before beginning dissertation work.

Thesis or Dissertation: Complete and defend original research work that contributes new knowledge or applies advanced techniques to solve engineering problems.

Final Defense: Present your completed work to your committee and the public, answer questions and receive approval for graduation.

Department-Specific Requirements

Each engineering department sets specific requirements for graduate degrees including minimum credit hours, required courses, examination formats and thesis or dissertation expectations. Some programs require teaching assistantship experience, while others mandate attendance at research seminars or completion of professional development workshops. Check your department's graduate handbook for detailed requirements and refer to the official university catalog for degree policies and deadlines.