Comprehensive Examination
The Comprehensive Examination consists of an oral defense of the thesis. During the oral defense, the student makes a brief presentation during which he or she is expected to: demonstrate foundational knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to the project; interact professionally with the audience; competently field questions about the project and the written document and; effectively use presentation software. Once all questions have been answered, the student will be asked to leave the room. Members of the committee will rate the student’s performance according to the Comprehensive Examination Evaluation Rubric, discuss the thesis and the student’s performance during the oral defense and decide whether the student should pass or fail the Comprehensive Examination.
- In the event a student fails the comprehensive examination, the student may request a re-examination. Unless there are extenuating circumstances, the re-examination must occur within six months of the date of failure. Only one re-examination will be allowed. Cases involving extenuating circumstances must be raised or supported by the graduate program faculty and presented in writing to the dean of the relevant college for approval. If a student fails the second comprehensive examination, his or her graduate program will be terminated.
