Generally, students complete a non-thesis master’s degree. Completing a thesis can be an option with approval early on with your adviser. The following information is a summary of requirements that need to be met upon graduation. See complete Graduate School dates and deadlines outlined per quarter.
Jump to thesis degree additional requirements
International students: In addition, refer to the Graduation: Final Year Checklist from International Student Services for additional requirements.
| # | What | When |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Submit your master’s degree request using MyGradProgram. | During the quarter you plan to graduate (deadline is the Friday prior to the final week of the quarter). |
| 2 | Consult with your faculty adviser to select at least one other MSE faculty member, scientist or postdoc for your final project committee. | The sooner the better. |
| 3 | Secure a date and time that works for the committee for your final presentation and reserve a conference room. Roberts 321 and Wilcox 243 have projection systems with HDMI and display screens. Plan for 30 minutes for your presentation and an additional 15 minutes for Q&A. | Any time between the first and last day of the quarter. Do not delay in scheduling this exam. Faculty schedules fill up quickly, especially toward the end of the quarter. |
| 4 | Consult with your faculty advisor about inviting additional attendees to attend your presentation. Then send them the send the meeting room location or Zoom link information. | The sooner the better. |
| 5 | Complete final project paper, following the AMP Final Paper template. This paper will be the basis for the presentation. Note: The MS thesis master's paper written to fulfill a thesis option will be much longer and follow a different format. See additional steps below. | Must be emailed to the committee at least 1 week prior to the presentation. |
| 6 | Notify the Graduate Program Manager of your exam date. She will follow up with your committee after your exam to ensure their degree approval. | At least 1 week prior to your presentation. |
| In addition to the above requirements, students completing a thesis master’s degree must ALSO: | ||
| 7 | Complete minimum of 9 MSE 700 credits. | Upon graduation |
| 8 | Consult with faculty adviser regarding your thesis expectations. Set up your thesis committee. | The sooner the better. |
| 9 | Review Final Submission of Your Thesis for formatting and submission instructions. | The sooner the better. |
| 10 | Submit thesis and the Thesis Approval Form electronically. | Last day of the quarter. |
| 11 | If complete your final exam, but need more time to submit your thesis, you may submit a Graduate Registration Waiver. The waiver allows you to submit your thesis up to two weeks following the last day of the quarter. There is a $250 fee and you will graduate the following quarter, but you do not need to enroll in the following quarter. | |