Doctoral Flow Chart
Track your progress toward graduation!
Phase 1: Advisory & Coursework Phase
- Deadline: Before the end of the second semester.
- Key Action: Meet with your advisor and review your GPS Audit and Roadmap for your coursework.
- Transition: In your last semester of coursework, coordinate with your advisor for comprehensive exams.
Phase 2: Comprehensive Examinations & Candidacy
- Application: File the Comprehensive Exam Application at least four weeks before the exam.
- The Exam: Complete the written exam, followed by an oral defense within approximately 30 days.
- Entering Candidacy: After a successful defense, initiate the Oral & Written Comprehensive Examination electronic forms.
- Committee: File the Dissertation Phase Committee Form before registering for Dissertation II.
Phase 3: Dissertation Proposal & IRB
- Continuous Registration: Once in candidacy, you must register for dissertation credits every semester (spring and fall), including summers if using university resources.
- The Proposal: Conduct the proposal meeting once the committee agrees it is ready.
- IRB Approval: Submit for IRB approval/exemption and file the IRB Approval Form. Note: IRB approval must be renewed annually.
Phase 4: Final Defense & Graduation
- Graduation Application: Apply via Flashline by the first Friday of your intended graduation semester
- The Defense Process:
- Student initiates the Notification of Readiness to Defend form and attaches brochure.
- Advisor files the Graduate Faculty Representative Form.
- A 10-day review period is followed by a pre-defense meeting (student does not attend).
- Final Steps: Successfully defend, complete revisions, and upload the final dissertation to the OhioLink ETD Center.