List of requirements 

• Submit an PHD application for graduation to graduate school. (see Deadlines for due date)
• Enroll in/complete 30 credits of 600 level coursework, some exclusions apply (GPA minimum 3.0)
• Comprehensive Exam (see eligibility, rules and more information below (link)
• Advancement to Candidacy: (see Candidacy Exam guidelines including graduation clearance publication recommendation information)
• Dissertation Research: 12 credits of AOSC 899 under advisor's section.
• Dissertation Defense: (see Dissertation Information) Schedule, announce and present a public presentation and take oral exam

Ph.D. Links

Comprehensive Exams: 

Please note that no requests to sign up for the comprehensive exam will be accepted, once the deadline to register has passed. All students must first notify their advisor of their intent to take the comprehensive exam prior to registration. 

Clarifications and FAQs (*clarifications added 01/09/25)

Rules (*clarifications added 01/09/25)

Grading Rubric (*added 09/2025)

Candidacy Exam:

It is strongly recommended that you schedule the exam for a minimum of 2 hours allowing time for committee questions and deliberations.

Specialty Examination: Prospectus Defense (Advance to Candidacy) - includes graduation clearance publication recommendation information

Doctoral Candidate Links

Dissertation Information & Form Links (*updated May 2025)

Graduation Clearance Publication Recommendation (strongly advised) 

It is highly recommended that AOSC doctoral (Ph.D.) students publish at least two (2) papers in addition to successfully completing all other doctoral degree requirements.  Students must consult with their advisor regarding their specific publication expectations and recommendations.

Dissertation Defense Links

Internal Evaluation Form for Dissertation Committee Members -- AOSC DISSERTATION ASSESSMENT FORM