Graduate Examinations
There are several examinations within the graduate program, in addition to examinations in particular courses. The first is a written diagnostic exam in theory and methods of research given at the end of second semester of graduate study. All students are required to take this examination. The results are an important component in the department's decision about the continuation of students toward the doctorate or termination at the masters level. A second set of written preliminary exams are required in three areas of specialization, and are usually taken at the end of the sixth or the beginning of the eighth semester. There will also be an oral presentation of the Ph.D. dissertation proposal (the Brown Bag) and an oral defense of the Ph.D. dissertation.
At the end of the second semester, graduate students take a written, take-home diagnostic examination in sociological theory and methods, in large part based on application of material covered in Sociology 2430. This examination serves as part of an overall assessment of the student's progress in the department. The diagnostic exam is graded by three faculty members and the results entered into the student's record. These results, along with an evaluation of course work, the M.A. thesis project, and evaluations from advisors and other faculty members, serve as the basis for assessing each student's standing within the department. A written evaluation of the student's progress is prepared along with the specific determination of whether the student may continue for the doctorate.
When insufficient information is available for complete assessment (either because the student has not yet formulated an acceptable M.A. thesis project, the results of the diagnostic examination were marginal, or there are other bases for questioning whether the student should continue), the student will be notified of the issues in writing. A final determination of the status of the student beyond the M.A. level will be made no later than the beginning of the fourth semester when the quality of the M.A. thesis can be assessed. This evaluation is discussed and communicated in writing to the student. Completion of an acceptable M.A. thesis by the end of the fourth semester is a prerequisite for continuing in the Ph.D. program.
Decisions about funding in years after the first academic year of study are made based on the student's standing and progress toward the Ph.D. degree. The diagnostic examination, the assessment of the quality of the Masters thesis, and the evaluation of faculty are key components of that decision.
Selected areas of specialization normally represent areas in which the student carries out research for the M.A. and Ph.D. degrees. Mastery of theory and research in these areas is necessary in order to qualify for teaching and/or carrying out independent research. A set of three areas must be approved in writing by the Graduate Committee. Normally the three areas will be examined by a written set of questions/essays, or a major review/research paper, demonstrating mastery of the bibliography for each area submitted by the student and approved by the specialization committees. Students should begin planning their areas of specialization through consulting with their advisor in the first year of graduate study.
There are diverse ways to prepare an area of specialization, including a combination of course work (including courses numbered above the 1000 level), seminars (including 1870 level seminars), reading and independent study courses, teaching assistance in relevant courses, and research assistance. With the support of the faculty advisor and the approval of the Graduate Committee, the preparation for a specialization may involve courses and research with faculty outside of the department.
Areas of specialization can be proposed by students when two faculty members agree to serve as mentors in the area and as an examining committee. The Graduate Committee will certify that the three areas selected in combination constitute a comprehensive and balanced set of specializations within the department. Students will be encouraged to select their areas of specialization to increase their breadth of sociological expertise and their depth of sociological focus.
Students must prepare a brief written document for each of their committees of specialization indicating how they have mastered their three areas and the basis for defining them. These should normally be not more than three pages each in length. This statement will serve as the basis for the student and committee members to develop an agreed upon bibliography of materials, from which the specialization committee will formulate the examination. After the committees have certified that the student has been adequately prepared in each area of specialization, the student's advisor will convey the documents (statements and bibliographies) to the Graduate Committee for its approval.
Two of the three areas will be examined through a 7-day take-home, traditional exam format. The third area (student's choice) will be certified through a paper plus statement/justification option.
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