Doctoral Flow Chart
Track your progress toward graduation!
Phase 1: Advisory & Coursework Phase
- Deadline: Before the end of the second semester
- Key Action: File the Plan of Study attached to the Advisory Phase Form
- Warning: A registration hold is placed until this is on file
- 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 Packet 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, 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
- 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