Graduate Program Steps

This document outlines the different steps and provides links to forms you will need during your graduate program. A more detailed description of each Program is provided in the Graduate Handbook. These forms and additional information are available on the Graduate School website (www.grad.msu.edu). Completed forms should be submitted to Kim Crain, the Graduate Secretary, Rm 2240C.

STEP 1:  Enroll in the Required Courses. Contact home Department secretaries for overrides

1. Graduate Curriculum and Credit Requirements

STEP 2:  Identify a lab rotation position (PSL 980: Independent Study-Doctoral students only)

1. Complete: Application for Independent Study
2. Provide mentor with: Lab Rotation and Evaluation Form  (must be submitted for grade/credit)

Lab rotations are encouraged, but not required. Typically, 2-3 rotations (Fall, Spring, Summer).

STEP 3: Form Guidance Committee  (see Graduate Handbook)

1. MS – selection should be made by end of first semester
2. PhD – selection should be made before end of third semester

STEP 4:  Meet with Guidance Committee

1. Complete: Report of the Guidance Committee

STEP 5:  Meet annually with Guidance Committee

1. Complete: Annual Progress Report - Doctoral & Masters

STEP 6:  Comprehensive Exam  (PhD only)

1. Should be completed by middle of Fall semester of year 2 in Program
2. Contact Dr. Stephenson and Guidance Committee to arrange time and place
3. Provide Graduate Secretary with details so presentation announcement can be generated
4. Description of exam format is available in the Graduate Handbook
5. Complete: Record of Comprehensive Exam following examination

STEP 7: Complete Teaching Requirement (PhD only)

STEP 8: Complete research and written thesis, and schedule oral defense of thesis

STEP 9:Prepare for degree completion

1. Review: Degree Completion Checklist

STEP 10: Thesis and oral defense

1. Complete: Record of Completion of Requirements -Doctoral & Masters

STEP 11: Submit bound copies of Thesis to Department and MSU