The doctorate degree is granted after completion of a program which demonstrates the ability to do independent research. The student is not required to obtain a master's degree before obtaining the doctorate. There is also no language requirement.

I. Stages

Earning a doctorate in SC has three broad stages:

1. The student meets the SC preliminary requirements and explores research areas.
2. The student identifies a research area and passes the oral candidacy examination.
3. The student completes a dissertation.

II.Overall Course Requirements

The student must have taken at least 36 graduate course credits. In addition the student must have taken 12 credits of dissertation research (AMSC 899). Dissertation research can only be taken after the student is admitted to candidacy.

III. Preliminary Requirements

These include various coursework and qualifying requirements. The AMSC Graduate Committee must approve how each student meets these requirements.

See Preliminary Requirements for the SC Concentration.

IV. Candidacy Requirements

These include all the appropriate preliminary requirements and an oral examination that allows the student to demonstrate that he or she has a deep enough understanding to carry out research in a proposed area.

Once these requirements are met, the student applies to the Graduate School for Admission to Candidacy. The student must be admitted to candidacy within five years from the date of admission to the Graduate School. Extensions of time are granted by the Graduate School only under unusual circumstances. (details)

V. Dissertation Requirements

These can only be met after the student has been admitted to candidacy. The centerpiece is the writing and defending of the student's dissertation. These requirements must be completed during a four year period after admission to candidacy. Extensions of time are granted by the Graduate School only under unusual circumstances. (details)