This examination, given at such a time and in such a manner as the major department shall determine, shall be written, although additional oral examinations may be required. The qualifying examination shall cover the major subjects and may, at the discretion of the minor department(s) or the interdepartmental committee, cover the minor subjects as well.
Completion of Degree Requirements
Normally, the qualifying examination is taken after the student has completed all coursework for the Ph.D. All such work offered in partial fulfillment of the degree requirements must either have been completed within seven consecutive calendar years of the passing of the qualifying examination or be revalidated according to the procedures outlined in the bulletin.
Passing the Qualifying Examination
In the case of an examination of more than one part, the date of passing is regarded as the date of passing the final portion of the exam, typically the oral examination. Students who fail the qualifying examination are normally allowed to retake it only once. The qualifying examination must be passed at least eight months before the date the degree is awarded. Some programs have dates that are earlier that those of the University Graduate School; therefore students should consult with their program office.