Plan I

Students are required to take a minimum of 30 quarter units of upper-division graduate coursework and submit a thesis based on original research. The course requirements must be fulfilled by taking 18 units of core, elective, and (200+) variable unit courses, which include research seminars and journal clubs. Electives are chosen with the approval of the graduate adviser. The remaining 12 units must be research units (for example, PMI 299/299D) from the major professor or other collaborating faculty.

When 

All students must file an official application for Candidacy for the Degree of Master of Science after completing one-half of their course requirements and at least one quarter before completing all degree requirements; this is typically the Spring Quarter.  Students should initiate discussions about who should serve on their M.S. thesis committee in the Spring of Year 1. 

How

The Candidacy for the Degree of Master application will be completed online via GradSphere. A completed form includes a list of courses the students will take to complete the degree requirements. 

How Much

Before beginning their Candidacy paperwork, students should pay the Candidacy Fee ($55) via the Graduate Studies Form Store or in person at the Cashier’s Office in Dutton Hall; proof of payment (receipt) must be uploaded with their application. Candidacy Fees support professional development programming available to master’s and doctoral students through the GradPathways Institute for Professional Development.  

Who

The Graduate Adviser and Committee Chair must approve the completed form on GradSphere after the student submits it. If changes must be made to the student’s course plan after they have advanced to candidacy, the Graduate Adviser must recommend these changes to Graduate Studies.