Time Limit for Graduate Program Completion Policy
Sponsor: |
Office of Academic Affairs |
|---|---|
Contact: |
Provost’s Office |
Category: |
Academic Graduate Student Policies |
Number: |
800.009 |
Effective Date: |
02/01/2024 |
Implementation History: |
Approved July 2011, Revised and Senate approve June 2022 |
Keywords: |
Graduate, Time, Limit, Completion, Degree, Certificate, Waiver |
Background Information: |
Purpose
To specify the time period for the completion of a graduate program and how to request a waiver.
Definitions
Graduate Program: An advanced certificate, master’s degree, certificate of advanced study or doctoral degree.
Statements
A graduate program must be completed within six years of initial enrollment for an advanced certificate, certificate of advanced study or master’s degree, and eight years of initial enrollment for a doctoral degree. If a student exceeds the time limit, they may be permitted to continue if a waiver is granted.
A waiver of the completion rule is granted by the dean or designee of the appropriate college or school. The student needs to make this request in writing and in consultation with their academic advisor and the head of the student’s program. While waivers are rare, the dean or designee will consider the request based upon factors such as special hardship, excellence of work and closeness to completion.
Applicable Legislation and Regulations
Related References, Policies, Procedures, Forms and Appendices
- Graduate Minimum Study Policy
- Graduate Leave of Absence Procedure
