Ph.D. Requirements
This section describes the formal requirements for the Ph.D. Degree in Chemistry at Carnegie Mellon as well as the review procedures designed to ensure steady progress toward that degree. It is intended to provide a clear guide to the steps leading to the Ph.D. Degree in Chemistry. The requirements for the Ph.D. Degree have been formulated to aid the graduate student to develop the proficiency expected of a research scientist in chemistry. In the interests of both the students and the faculty, the requirements for the Ph.D. degree carry a schedule for their completion. The schedule and review procedures are intended to speed the student’s progress toward Candidacy and provide consistent focus on the student’s research progress. Although possible, extensions will not be considered the norm. The Department will regularly inform students of their progress toward the degree (see Annual Reviews). Failure to satisfy any requirement on a timely basis is cause for a dismissal from the graduate program following the procedures outlined below under Academic Actions. Note that an academic year comprises two semesters, with the summer not being construed as a semester.
In the event that the requirements are changed, students may adopt the new requirements or remain under the requirements in effect on their matriculation, at their discretion.
- Attainment Examinations (by the end of the third semester)
- Courses (by end of fourth semester)
- Graduate Teaching
- English Language Proficiency (by beginning of third semester)
- Research Advisors (by middle of second semester)
- Advisory Committee (by third semester)
- Formal Seminar (by third semester)
- Research Progress Report (by fourth semester)
- Original Research Proposal (by sixth semester)
- Advancement to Candidacy and All-But-Dissertation Status
- Dissertation Progress Meetings (each fall for ABD students)
- Residency
- Doctoral Dissertation