Graduate Student FAQ

Off-campus

How do I prepare my Program of Study?

The first step is to identify a supervisory committee, starting with identifying a major professor. Once you've spoken to a faculty member and he or she has agreed to serve in that capacity, you will need to identify two other faculty members to serve on your committee. Once the committee is determined, you can complete the program of study by listing the coursework on the front page. The form is available on the Graduate School's website.

What does the final oral examination cover?

During your last semester, you will be required to give a presentation as part of the final oral examination. You are encouraged to visit the campus, but you may also request to do it remotely by submitting the video/teleconference request form. We usually ask students to prepare a presentation on a project you have done as part of your work and is related to the courses you took for your degree. You may also present a design project related to one of the elective classes if you are not currently working in the industry. The presentation should be 30 to 40 minutes long. Be prepared to answer questions related to the presentation and general questions related to your courses.

How do I set up my final oral examination?

Contact your committee members with a few proposed time frames. Once a date and time has been agreed upon, ask the ECE office to find a room for your exam. You will then need to fill out the approval to schedule final examination form. Please submit this form at least a few weeks prior to your exam.

On-campus

How do I decide who should be on my supervisory committee?

The first step is to identify a major professor. Once you've spoken to a faculty member and he or she has agreed to serve in that capacity, you will need to identify two other faculty members to serve on your committee.

How do I prepare my Program of Study?

Once you've selected your supervisory committee you will need to complete a Program of Study. There is more information on the Graduate School website for master’s students and doctoral candidates as well as different forms.

What do I need to do if I need to make a change to my Program of Study or change a professor who is serving on my Supervisory Committee?

A Program/Committee Change Form must be submitted to the Graduate School.

Is enrollment in a graduate seminar required every semester?

Yes! Graduate student seminars will be held regularly throughout the semester. When a seminar is scheduled, announcements will be posted on the graduate bulletin board and an email will be sent to the ECE grad listserv. You are required to attend. If you have a conflict during a seminar , please notify Dr. Rys in writing.

How do I get added to the graduate student listserv?

Once you've enrolled in your first semester, you should be automatically added to the listserv. If for some reason you are not receiving updates, please let the ECE office know and you will be added.

How do I get a key to the building?

Please visit the ECE office to fill out a building key request form.