Time Limit for Completion of Degree

The policy regarding time limit for completion of degrees has a serious and important academic purpose. The timing of the degree indicates the currency of the student’s knowledge and training. Full-time and part-time students are expected to complete the requirements for their degree (including thesis, essay, or creative project) within the six-year period specified in their acceptance letters.

At the conclusion of the sixth academic year, students who will not complete their degree requirements must apply for an extension of the six-year time limit. Such a request must be directed through the department chairperson/program director for the approval of the appropriate dean and must include a timetable approved by the chairperson/director. This procedure does not guarantee that an extension will be granted.

When program extensions are granted, departments/programs reserve the right to review any courses that are three or more years old and may require that the student demonstrate currency of knowledge in that area. The department also reserves the right to impose current program requirements. Students may be asked to meet other requirements imposed by the appropriate dean after consultation with the department chairperson or program director and must maintain continuous enrollment until all requirements are completed. Failure to adhere to the timetable or to meet other conditions could result in dismissal from the graduate program.

Matriculated students who are not registered for two calendar years are automatically considered inactive. If they desire to continue their degree program, they must apply for readmission and receive the approval of the appropriate dean. Readmission is not automatically granted (see section on readmission).