Continuous Graduate Registration for Dissertation and Thesis

Following the completion of course work, including internship or practicum (excluding comprehensive exam or qualifiers), all doctoral and master’s thesis students must be continuously enrolled for at least one credit of dissertation or thesis each fall and spring, through the graduation of the student or until the time limit is exceeded. Students are only required to enroll in thesis or dissertation credit during the summer term if they are completing their thesis or dissertation in that term. 

There is no separation between completion of course work, internship, or practicum and initiation of dissertation or thesis credit registration. Once the student has registered for the number of dissertation credits required by the program of study (typically nine or twelve), or the number of thesis credits required by their program of study (typically three to six), they must register for one extended dissertation or one thesis credit each semester annually through the graduation of the student or until the time limit is exceeded (see Time Limitations policy). Registration for summer credit is not required unless the student is completing their thesis or dissertation. For this period, the student will be considered a full-time doctoral or master’s student. 

All dissertation and thesis credits will be pass/fail credits for students who began their courses in Fall 2017 and afterward (see Grading System policy). Until the dissertation or thesis is successfully defended, a grade of “R” will be assigned to each registered credit. Upon successful completion of the dissertation or thesis, the grade assigned by the dissertation or thesis director will apply to all registered dissertation or thesis credits. Students must pay tuition and mandatory university fees for all credits (equal to the part-time mandatory fees) and may choose to pay the Wellness Fee.