Application material is available from the Office of the Registrar
or from the web site, at www.unbc.ca/graduateprograms/. The requirements
for admissibility include, but are not limited to, an acceptable
academic standing (see 1.3.2), acceptable letters of reference, the
availability of a supervisor within the program concerned, and the
availability of adequate space and facilities.
All documents submitted to the Office of the Registrar must be in the original
language in which they were produced. Documents not produced in the
English language must be accompanied by a notarized translation into
English. Documents submitted in support of an application become the
property of the University of Northern British Columbia and will not
subsequently be released.
Education (MEd -- Special Education Specialization)
February 15
no intake
no intake
English (MA)
January 15
no intake
no intake
First Nations Studies (MA)
February 15
September 15
no intake
Gender Studies (MA)
February 15
September 15
no intake
Health Sciences (PhD)
February 15
no intake
no intake
History (MA)
February 15
September 15
no intake
Interdisciplinary Studies (MA and MSc)
February 15**
September 15
February 15**
International Studies (MA)
February 15
September 15
no intake
Mathematical, Computer, and Physical Sciences (MSc)
February 15
September 15
no intake
Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (MA)
February 15**
September 15
February 15**
Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (MNRES)
February 15**
September 15
February 15**
Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (MSc)
February 15**
September 15
February 15**
Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (PhD)
February 15**
September 15
February 15**
Nursing (MScN and MScN: FNP)
February 15
no intake
no intake
Political Science (MA)
February 15
September 15
no intake
Psychology (MSc)
January 15
no intake
no intake
Psychology (PhD)
January 15
no intake
no intake
Social Work (MSW)
February 15
no intake
no intake
* Applications for admission should be submitted as early as possible
to the Office of the Registrar. Applications received after the
deadlines may not be processed in time to permit admission.
** Applications are accepted for one semester only. Applicants must indicate whether they are applying to the May or
September Semester.
Admission to a Graduate Program is valid only for the semester indicated in the letter of offer of admission.
The University of Northern British Columbia specifically reserves
the right to exercise its sole, absolute, and unfettered discretion in
admitting individuals to the University, its programs, or courses.
Applicants who have been offered admission to a graduate program must
indicate, in writing, their intention to accept or decline the offer of
admission within 30 days. Failure to notify the University may result in cancellation of the offer of admission.
In order to be considered for admission to Graduate Programs,
all applicants must provide the following to the Office of the
Registrar by the deadlines noted above:
Application form for admission to Graduate Programs.
Application fee.
Document evaluation fee (if applicable). Please see Fees.
Three assessment reports (letters of reference) sent directly to UNBC from the referees.
Official transcripts (one copy) from all post-secondary institutions attended.
Statement of Academic Interests (letter of intent).
The
following programs require the submission of additional application
material in order to complete the application: Business Administration; Community Health
Science; Development Economics; Disability Management; Education (Counselling); English; Health Sciences; History;
Interdisciplinary Studies; International Studies; Mathematical,
Computer, and Physical Sciences; Natural Resources and Environmental
Studies; Nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner; Psychology; and Social Work. See individual program listings
for further information.
1.1 English Language Requirements
English is the primary language of instruction and communication at
UNBC. Consequently, it is expected that an applicant be able to
demonstrate an acceptable level of proficiency in the use of English in order to
receive and participate in classroom instruction and discussion as well
as to complete written assignments.
Applicants whose first language is not English, regardless of
citizenship or country of origin, must submit evidence of English
language proficiency prior to admission. French-speaking Canadians and Canadian First Nations language speakers are exempted from this requirement. Students who completed their undergraduate degree program entirely in the English language are exempted from this requirement.
Acceptable evidence of English language proficiency may be any one of the following:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 88 or higher in the internet-based test, with not less than 20 in any of the Reading, Listening, Writing or Speaking components; or equivalent other TOEFL score. UNBC's institutional TOEFL code is 0320.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of at least 6.5 overall, with not less than 6.0 in any of the four modules.
LPI (Language Proficiency Index) score of at least 5.
Comparable results in any other internationally recognized English Language Assessment test considered as equivalent to TOEFL or IELTS.
A final grade of 2.00 (C) or better in the UNBC English Language Studies 50 Component 1 and 2, obtained prior to application for Graduate admission.
In order to be considered valid, these scores must be sent directly
from the testing agency/institution to the Office of the Registrar.
1.2 GRE Requirement for Graduate Programs
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is prepared and scored by the
GRE Board and Educational Testing Service. Applications are available
from: Graduate Record Examinations, Box 6000, Princeton, NJ 08541-6000,
USA, or from the University's Counselling Services. UNBC's institution
code is 0320. The GRE is used widely by universities to supplement
undergraduate records and other qualifications for admission to
graduate study.
GRE requirements are prescribed by individual programs. For some
programs, completion of the examination is mandatory. Applicants are
advised to check program listings for detailed information. However,
the Office of Research and Graduate Programs reserves the right to require a GRE
score (on Subject and General Tests) for any applicant. Voluntary
submission of a GRE score may facilitate the admission process.
1.3 Admission to Master's Degrees
1.3.1 In general, an acceptable academic standing will be a
four-year (120 credit hours) Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) from
a recognized institution.
1.3.2 A grade point average of at least 3.00 ("B") in the work
of the last 60 credit hours (approximately the last two years) leading
to the Baccalaureate degree is required for entry. Note: Higher
entrance standards than those outlined in this section may be set by
individual programs.
Courses used in the calculation of the admission grade point average cannot be used as credit toward a graduate degree program.
1.3.3 A faculty member who wishes to supervise an applicant
to a Graduate Program who has a four-year (120 credit hours)
Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) which does not meet the grade
point average requirements stated above and who obtains the
recommendation of the appropriate program may seek approval from the
Dean of Graduate Programs to admit the applicant. The applicant must
have significant formal training and relevant professional experience
to offset such grade point average deficiencies.
1.3.4 Evidence is required, in the form of three letters of
reference that are submitted directly to the Office of the Registrar
from qualified referees, of the student's ability to undertake advanced
work in the area of interest.
1.4 Admission to the Master's Degree as a Conditionally Admitted Mature Student
Five years after completion of a Baccalaureate degree as defined in
1.3.1, applicants whose academic record is such that they would not be
admissible to a Master's program may be admitted conditionally as
mature students, provided they are recommended by the appropriate
Program. Such recommendations must be made in writing by the Program
and approved by the Dean of Graduate Programs.
The minimum grade point average for admission to a Master's program as a conditionally admitted mature student is 2.67 ("B-").
A student conditionally admitted to a graduate program must earn a
grade point average of at least 3.00 ("B") in each of the first two 3
credit hour graduate courses taken. The first two courses will be
determined by the Program and approved by the Dean of Graduate Programs.
If this condition is successfully met, the student's status will be
changed to regular graduate student status. If it is not, the student
will be required to withdraw from the program.
Students admitted in this category normally will not receive
transfer credit for any courses completed prior to enrolling in
their Graduate Program.
1.5 Admission to Non-degree Course Work
Non-degree graduate students are those taking graduate courses, but
not for credit toward a degree at the University of Northern British
Columbia. Such students are admitted under one of three categories
defined in 1.5.1, 1.5.2 and 1.5.3.
1.5.1 Visiting graduate students are those on a Letter of
Permission which specifies courses allowed for credit toward a graduate
degree at another university. Applicants in this category must complete
the Application for Admission to Graduate Programs and provide a letter
of permission from their home institution. No other supporting
documentation is required. Students must request that an official
transcript be sent directly to their home institution upon completion
of course work.
1.5.2 Exchange graduate students are those covered by the
Western Deans' Agreement (see 2.7 for the Western Deans' Agreement) or
other formal exchange agreement. If a student is admitted under the
Western Deans' Agreement or other formal exchange agreement, all
tuition fees at UNBC will be waived; however, ancillary student fees
will be charged. Applicants in this category must submit a completed Application for Admission to Graduate Programs and the completed
and duly signed Western Deans' Agreement form from the Dean of Graduate
Studies at their home institution (if applicable) certifying the
applicant as an exchange student, under the provisions of the
Agreement. Courses to be taken toward their degree must be specified in
the documentation. No other supporting material is required. Students
must request that an official transcript be sent directly to their home
institution upon completion of course work.
1.5.3 Non-degree students are normally those who wish to
improve their academic background. Applicants under this category who
do not hold a Master's degree must normally meet the same entrance
requirements and follow the same application procedure as outlined in
section 1.3, with the exception of 1.3.4 (letters of reference).
Holders of a Master's degree (or equivalent) from a recognized
institution in the same discipline as the course work applied for must
complete an application form for admission to Graduate Programs, and
provide proof of conferral of the Master's degree.
A maximum of three graduate courses may be taken under this
category. Individual programs may impose further restrictions.
International Students studying in Canada may be eligible to complete courses as non-degree students.Please see Graduate Studies homepage.
1.5.4 If a student admitted as a non-degree student is later
admitted to a graduate degree program, course work taken as a non-degree
student may be applied to the graduate program subject to the
recommendation of the supervisory committee and the approval of the Dean of Graduate Programs.
1.6 Auditing Graduate Courses
An individual who is either a graduate student in a UNBC Graduate Program or a non-degree graduate student as defined in Section 1.5 may be permitted to audit up to three credit hours of graduate courses in a semester. A continuing student should add the audit course to his or her Graduate Registration Form. A new applicant auditing a course should submit a Graduate Registration Form to the Office of the Registrar clearly indicating the course name and number with an Application for Admission to Graduate Programs together with proof of degree conferral.
Neither full-time nor part-time graduate students in a UNBC Graduate Program will be charged for auditing graduate-level courses as long as auditing the course is required by the graduate supervisor/supervisory committee. If any course audit is not already included as part of a student's approved graduate program, then a Graduate Program Revision Form must be completed. The supervisor must provide a rationale for the course audit, explaining how the course is related to the student's research. The appropriate signatures must also be included on the Graduate Registration Form and/or the Add/Drop Form.
Registration as an auditor is subject to the following conditions:
1.6.1 Admittance to the class is dependent on the class size and other factors that the Instructor and the Program establish.
1.6.2 The degree of participation in the course is at the discretion of the Instructor.
1.6.3 Attendance and participation shall grant no
entitlement to an academic record of such attendance and shall not be
considered as meeting admission, prerequisite or course requirements
for any graduate program.
1.7 Upgrading for Admission to Graduate Programs
Individuals wishing to apply to graduate programs may not meet the
normal requirements for admission. Such cases normally fall into either
of the following categories:
1.7.1 Admission requirements satisfied but course background inappropriate or prerequisites lacking
Upon the recommendation of the Program concerned, the Dean of Graduate
Programs may approve the inclusion of the missing background or
prerequisites as part of the requirements for the Master's degree.
1.7.2 Pre-Entry Program When admission requirements are not
satisfied and upon the recommendation of the Program concerned, the
Dean of Graduate Programs may approve a pre-entry program of
undergraduate course work totalling at least 12 credit hours of upper
division courses. An average of not less than 3.33 (B+) must be
achieved in the course work, and no course must be completed at a level
below 2.67 (B-). Courses taken for a pre-entry program may not be used
for credit towards a graduate degree. Students approved by the Dean of
Graduate Programs for a pre-entry program are guaranteed admission to
the appropriate Graduate Program upon successful completion of the
recommended courses.
1.7.3Graduate course challenge is not permitted.
1.8 Integrated Delivery Graduate and Undergraduate Courses
1.8.1 An "integrated delivery" course is one in which a graduate course is co-taught with a 400-level undergraduate course which in turn is indicated as being offered at an advanced level. At the graduate level, normally learning experiences qualitatively and quantitatively distinctive from the undergraduate experience build upon the undergraduate course content. Nevertheless, courses taken specifically to meet the registration requirements of professional bodies may have the same content at each level.
1.8.2 All courses which are integrated on a continuing basis are so indicated in the Graduate Calendar by way of stated preclusions.
1.8.3 Integrated delivery courses are taught by faculty members who are approved to teach graduate level courses.
1.9 Permission for Undergraduates to Take Graduate Course Work
1.9.1 Students in their final year of a Bachelor's degree
program at the University of Northern British Columbia who have a grade
point average of at least 3.33 (B+) in the last 30 credit hours of
course work attempted may be permitted to register in a maximum of six
credit hours of graduate courses on the recommendation of the
Instructor and the Program concerned and with the consent of the Dean
of Graduate Programs. If a student is subsequently admitted to a
Graduate Program, graduate courses used for credit toward an
undergraduate program cannot be used for credit toward a graduate
program.
This policy gives academically strong undergraduate students the
opportunity to experience graduate level instruction without
commitments being made by either the student or the University about
admission into graduate programs, or academic credit being awarded for
the courses if a student is subsequently admitted to a graduate
program.
Please see the Graduate Studies Officer in the Office of the Registrar for further information.
1.9.2 Simultaneous enrolment in a graduate program and an undergraduate, diploma or certificate program is not permitted.
1.10 Misrepresentation of Application Information
Misrepresentation of application information constitutes fraud or
misconduct and may result in acceptance and registration being
cancelled. The applicant may also be disqualified from consideration,
not only in the year of application, but in all subsequent years. If
discovered in a subsequent semester, it may result in expulsion from the
university.
Application fraud or misconduct includes the following:
Failure to declare attendance at another post-secondary institution;
Presenting falsified academic documentation or causing or
encouraging another person to falsify records through translation or
data changes;
Presenting falsified personal documentation (e.g., using a false name, date of birth, country of origin, etc.);
Presenting falsified or fictitious reference documentation;
Cheating on or having another person write a standardized entry exam such as TOEFL or GRE;
Presenting another person's standardized test score as one's own to falsify a test result; and
Failure to report suspensions from another post-secondary institution.
2.0 Registration Procedures and Status
2.1 Initial Registration
All students admitted to a Graduate Program must normally register
during the dates specified for such registration. All letters of
admission that are not used to register in the semester to which they
apply are automatically cancelled. Students who are issued a letter of
admission for the September Semester may not use this document for
entry in the January Semester. Any requests for deferral of admission
to a graduate program must be made in writing to the Graduate Studies
Officer.
2.2 Enrollment and Re-registration
2.2.1 Continuity of Registration All students are required to either
register in every semester (September, January, May) from the time of
admission until the requirements of the degree have been met, or
formally withdraw in accordance with regulation 2.5 below. Students are required to pay minimum tuition fee units (see Fees section).
2.2.2 Re-registration Students
who are missing one semester or more of registration and who have not been
withdrawn from their graduate program must:
a.
Pay any outstanding fees
b.
Register for those semesters not previously
registered in
c.
Pay any new tuition fee units
Students who have registered at another university or college since last
in attendance at the University of Northern British Columbia are required to
state the names of all educational institutions of post-secondary level
attended and to submit an official transcript of their academic records at
these institutions to the Office of the Registrar.
2.2.3 Reinstatement Students
who have withdrawn with permission from their graduate program and later wish
to return can only do so if, inclusive of their time away from their graduate
program, they have not exceeded the time limit applicable to their graduate
program (See Regulation 7.7); and have supervisory support for
reinstatement.
Students who have not exceeded
the time limit must do the following:
a.
Submit a new Application for Admission to
Graduate Programs Form and pay the reapplication fee
b.
Provide a letter to the Graduate Studies
Officer stating their rationale for wishing to return to their graduate program
c.
Provide proof of supervisory support for
their reinstatement
Students who have registered at another university or college since last
in attendance at the University of Northern British Columbia are required to
state the names of all educational institutions of post-secondary level
attended and to submit an official transcript of their academic records at
these institutions to the Office of the Registrar.
Students who have exceeded the
time limit period or who have been withdrawn without permission please see
section 2.2.4 (Reapplication).
2.2.4 Reapplication Students
who have either a) been withdrawn without permission or b) whose time limit has
expired must re-apply to UNBC as new applicants and pay the reapplication fee.
If admitted, students must start anew; normal program requirements apply,
including time limitations regardless of previously completed coursework
accepted (see 4.2.1) and minimum tuition fee units.
2.3 Definition of Full-Time and Part-Time Status
A full-time graduate student is one who is either:
enrolled in courses totalling a minimum of six credit hours during a single semester, or
registered in a thesis, project, dissertation or other scholarly work during a semester.
A part-time student is any student who does not meet either criteria above.
Note: This definition does not necessarily govern the fee structure, which is determined at the time of admission.
2.4 Maximum Academic Load
2.4.1 The maximum academic load in a Graduate Program during
any semester is 18 credit hours of course work or 15 credit hours of
course work plus thesis, project, or dissertation. Programs may limit
students to fewer credit hours.
2.4.2 Simultaneous enrolment in a graduate program and an undergraduate, diploma or certificate program is not permitted.
2.5 Withdrawal from the University
Students in degree programs who wish to withdraw, either
temporarily or permanently, must do so formally. Requests for permanent
withdrawal must be made to the Dean of Graduate Programs.
2.5.1 Leave of Absence Students who wish to request a leave
of absence must apply using the Leave of Absence Form to the Dean of
Graduate Programs, with supporting documentation from their supervisor,
and with detailed documentation (e.g., a doctor's note) explaining the
need for such a leave. A leave of absence is granted for one semester
only. Students must register for the next semester or request a further
leave of absence. A student may normally have a leave of absence for no
more than one year in a Master's program. Students cannot undertake
academic or research work nor use any of the University's facilities
during the period of leave. The transcript will record the notation:
“Leave of Absence”.
2.5.2 Students who wish to withdraw from their Graduate Program and have their transcript indicate that they were in good standing when
they withdrew, must apply in writing to the Dean of Graduate Programs,
with supporting documentation from their supervisor. The transcript
will record the notation: “Withdrawn with Permission”. The transcript
of students who fail to notify the University of their intention to
withdraw from their graduate program will record the notation:
“Withdrawn without Permission”.
2.5.3 Time spent on an approved leave of absence (see 2.5.1)
is not counted as part of the total time allowed for completion of the
degree program (see 4.2).
2.6 Letter of Permission for Studies Elsewhere
Students currently registered in a Graduate Program who wish to
undertake studies at another institution for transfer credit toward
their graduate degree at the University of Northern British Columbia
must apply in writing to the Dean of Graduate Programs, specifying the
host institution, the courses to be taken, and their credit values. The
application must be supported by the supervisor. Students must request
that an official transcript be sent directly to the Office of the
Registrar at UNBC from the host institution upon completion of the
course work.
Note: Students are required to maintain continuous registration
and pay the fees for the semester at the University of Northern British
Columbia while studying elsewhere.
2.7 Western Deans' Agreement
Students currently registered in a graduate program who wish to
undertake studies at a western Canadian university for transfer credit
toward their graduate degree at the University of Northern British
Columbia may be eligible for exchange status under the provision of
the Western Deans' Agreement. Information and forms for this purpose are available from the Graduate Programs web site, www.unbc.ca/graduateprograms, or at
the Office of Research and Graduate Programs. Students must include an outline of the
course work that they propose to take when submitting their Western
Deans' Agreement Form to their supervisor. If the application is
approved by the Dean of Graduate Programs, the university concerned will
be notified by the Office of Research and Graduate Programs. All applicable tuition
fees will be waived by the host institution. However, ancillary student
fees are still applied. All students attending other institutions
under the provisions of the Western Deans' Agreement must register
concurrently at the University of Northern British Columbia in their
thesis or project, and pay the semester fee.
3.0 Student Responsibilities
Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the
Graduate Regulations. If students are unsure about any aspect
of the Graduate Regulations, they should contact the Office of
the Registrar or the Office of Research and Graduate Programs.
Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the
program requirements and deadlines. If students are unsure about any
aspect of the program regulations, they should contact the Graduate
Program Chair.
Students are responsible for ensuring the completeness and accuracy
of their registration. If students are unsure about any aspect of their
record, they should contact the Office of the Registrar.
Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with their
fee obligations as outlined in the Fees Section of the calendar. If
students are unsure about any aspect of the fee regulations, they
should contact the Office of the Registrar.
Students are equally responsible for maintaining open communication
with their supervisor, supervisory committee, and Graduate Program
Chair through mutually agreed upon regular meetings. Any problems, real
or potential, should be brought to the attention of the supervisor,
supervisory committee and Graduate Program Chair promptly. Students
should be aware that formal routes of appeal exist in the form of the
Appeals Procedure of the Office of the Registrar (see Appeals Section).
A letter mailed to a student's address as it appears on record in
the Office of the Registrar will be deemed adequate notification to the
student for all matters concerning the student's record. Changes in address and telephone number must be reported promptly to the Office of the Registrar.
4.0 Academic Standards for Master's Degree Programs
4.1 Course and Program Requirements
4.1.1 Graduate Programs Within the first semester of
attendance in a graduate degree program, a completed Graduate Program
Approval Form will be forwarded to the Office of Research and Graduate Programs by
the Supervisor on behalf of each student.
4.1.2 Graduate supervision Unless otherwise specified, the
supervisory committee will be nominated by the graduate supervisor and
names forwarded to the Office of Research and Graduate Programs by the Program,
normally within one semester of the first registration in the thesis,
project, practicum, comprehensive examination or dissertation.
4.1.3 Course work and research Considerable variation is
permitted in the balance between research and the course work required
for the Master's degree, although most programs include a thesis based
on research (see 4.1.7 ).
Before the thesis, project, or practicum is written, the student
should contact the Office of Research and Graduate Programs for a copy of the Formatting Guidelines For Graduate Dissertations, Theses, Projects & Practicum Reports,
which specifies academic and technical requirements to ensure
acceptability of the document by the University and the National
Library of Canada.
4.1.4 Integrated courses Normally, Master's students enroled in thesis programs should complete at least six credit hours of graduate course work in addition to any integrated delivery courses that may be taken.
4.1.5 Language requirements Some Master's programs may
require a reading knowledge of one or more languages other than
English. Language requirements will be prescribed for individual
students by the supervisory committee according to program regulations.
Such requirements are considered part of the student's program. When a
language requirement is imposed, it must be met prior to taking the
oral examination or, in the case of non-thesis Master's programs,
before the completion of the comprehensive examination and/or the
project oral.
4.1.6 UNBC course requirements and applicability of transfer of credit
At least half of the course work taken must be completed as a degree
candidate in a Graduate Program at the University of Northern British
Columbia and be UNBC courses. On the recommendation of the Program
concerned, the Dean of Graduate Programs may accept courses taken at
other institutions for credit toward a UNBC graduate degree.
Courses taken at the University of Northern British Columbia as a
non-degree student in a Graduate Program may be considered for transfer
to a graduate degree (see 1.5.4).
In order to qualify for transfer of credit, courses must meet all of the following conditions:
must be a graduate level course;
must be completed with a grade of at least B (or equivalent);
must not be used to meet the minimum admission requirements for Graduate Programs; and
must not have been used to obtain any degree, diploma, certificate or other credential.
The
grades from courses allowed for transfer of credit will not appear on
the transcript, and they will not be used in determining sessional or
cumulative grade point averages. Credit granted at another institution
on the basis of life or work experience is not acceptable for transfer
of credit. For students admitted as mature students (see 1.4), transfer
of credit will not normally be granted for courses taken before
enrolling in Graduate Programs at the University of Northern British
Columbia.
4.1.7 Master's degree without a thesis Not all programs offer the option of a Master's degree without a thesis. The following regulations apply:
a program of study must be approved as for all other graduate degrees;
a supervisory committee shall be formed according to 4.4.2;
there must be evidence of independent scholarly work which may be
in the form of a project, extended paper(s), work report, etc. The
credit value for this work may range from three to twelve credit hours;
and
normally there shall be an oral examination, in accordance with regulation 4.5.
4.2 Time Limit
The maximum time for completion given below is not intended to be
the normal time for completion. It is intended to take into account a
wide variety of extraordinary circumstances and events that may delay
completion.
4.2.1 Normally, a student proceeding toward a Master's
degree will be required to complete all degree requirements within five
years (60 consecutive months) from the date of the first registration
in the Master's degree. In no case will a degree be awarded in less
than 12 consecutive months from the time of the first registration.
However, it is expected that a full-time student will complete a
Master's degree within 36 consecutive months from the date of first
registration.
4.2.2 Variances to the time limits specified in 4.2.1 are as
follows:
Master of Education (Part time) seven years (84
consecutive months),
Master of Education (Full time) four years
(48
consecutive months).
4.2.3 If a degree is not awarded within the specified period following the
first registration, the student will be withdrawn from the program.
Under exceptional circumstances, time extensions may be granted by the
Dean of Graduate Programs. Such requests for time extension must be made
in writing to the Dean of Graduate Programs prior to the end of the
semester in which the student's time limit expires.
4.2.4 Variances to the time limits specified in 4.2.3 are as
follows:
Master of Education (Part time) seven years (84
consecutive months),
The request must include a timeline for the completion of
the degree accompanied by supporting documentation from the student's
supervisor.
4.3 Academic Performance
A student who fails to meet academic standards, or whose thesis,
project, practicum, or comprehensive examination is not progressing
satisfactorily, may be required to withdraw by the Dean of Graduate
Programs on the advice of the supervisor and supervisory committee.
4.3.1 Students must attain a semester grade point average of
at least 3.00 ("B") for every semester in which they are registered.
Individual programs may set higher standards. Any student with a
semester grade point average below 3.00 will not be allowed to register
in the next semester until their academic performance has been reviewed
by their supervisory committee and continuation in their Graduate Program is
approved by the committee and the Dean of Graduate Programs.
4.3.2 Every grade lower than "B-" in a course taken for credit
in a Graduate Program must be reviewed by the supervisory committee and a
recommendation must be made to the Dean of Graduate Programs concerning
continuance of the student in the program. Such students will not be
allowed to register in the next semester until approved to do so by the Dean of Graduate Programs.
4.3.3 Graduate students may not repeat graduate courses
except under exceptional circumstances and only with the approval of
the Dean of Graduate Programs on the recommendation of the supervisory
committee.
4.3.4 Students registered in a thesis, project, practicum
or comprehensive examination will have their progress evaluated through
progress reports completed by their supervisor in consultation with the
supervisory committee and the student, and submitted to the Dean of
Graduate Programs.
4.3.5 Conditions may be imposed by the Dean of Graduate
Programs for continuation in the program. The conditions normally must
be met within the next semester or the student will be required to
withdraw.
4.4 Academic Supervision
4.4.1 Supervisor Each graduate student shall have a member
of the faculty assigned as a supervisor to counsel the student in
academic matters. The supervisor is nominated by the Program and
approved by the Dean of Graduate
Programs.
In particular, the supervisor must be aware of the nature and
progress of research, the standards expected, the adequacy of progress,
and the quality of work.
The supervisor and student must maintain contact through mutually
agreed upon regular meetings, and be accessible to the student to give
advice and constructive criticism. Supervisors who expect to be absent
from the University for an extended period of time are responsible for
making suitable arrangements with the student and the Graduate Program
Chair for the continued supervision of the student or for requesting
the Program to nominate another supervisor.
4.4.2 Supervisory Committee Each student shall have a
supervisory committee nominated by the Program and approved by the Dean of Graduate
Programs. The chair of this committee shall be the
supervisor. The duties of the committee include: recommending a program
of study chosen in conformity with Program regulations; meeting
periodically to facilitate appropriate supervision of the thesis,
project, or practicum; participating in a final oral examination when
the Program prescribes such an examination.
The committee consists of at least three members including the supervisor. One member must be from outside the Program.
4.5 Final Oral Examinations and Examining Committees
4.5.1 General Regulations
Master's degrees require a final oral examination. Master's degrees with
project, comprehensive examination, or practicum completion routes shall be examined and certified in a manner agreed upon by
the Program and the Dean of Graduate
Programs.
Students may proceed to an oral examination when the supervisory
committee is satisfied that the thesis, project or other scholarly
work represents an examinable document for the degree requirements. The
supervisory committee confirms this by signing the Request for Oral Examination and Appointment of an External Examiner
form. This form must be submitted to the Dean of Graduate
Programs at
least six weeks before the anticipated date of oral examination. Two
copies of the document are required by the Office of Research and Graduate
Programs upon submission of the Request for Oral Examination and Appointment of an External Examiner
form. One copy of the document is forwarded to the External
Examiner by the Office of Research and Graduate Programs.
Before proceeding to the oral examination, all courses taken for
credit in Graduate Programs must be completed with a cumulative grade
point average of not less than 3.00 ("B") and with no grade in any course
less than "B-" (or the higher standard set by the individual program).
Any language requirement must be met before the student proceeds to the
oral examination.
The Dean of Graduate
Programs (or designate) will act as Chair at
the final oral examination. Any tenured member of the faculty at the
Associate Professor level or higher with extensive experience in
Graduate Programs is eligible to serve as the Dean's nominee.
The MBA Program schedules its project defences in the final semester concurrent with course work.
4.5.2 Examining Committees
The role of the examining committee is to assess the thesis, project or
practicum, and to conduct an oral examination, if applicable, based on
that scholarly work. The examining committee will consist of the
supervisory committee and at least one other examiner, called the
external examiner, who must be from outside the program area and who
has had no previous involvement with the student or the thesis
research.
External examiners should have established reputations in the area
of the thesis research, and should be able to judge whether a thesis is
acceptable at a university comparable to UNBC. Ideally, they should be
at associate or full professor rank if they are at a university or be
of comparable stature if they are not at a university.
To ensure that arm's length, independent review is possible, the
external examiner should not have participated directly in supervising
the student or directing the work. Please refer to the Policy on the
Appointment of an External Examiner available from the Office of
Research and Graduate Programs, or from the website at www.unbc.ca/graduateprograms.
For Master's degrees without a thesis, the membership of the final oral examining committee and procedure shall be determined and approved by the Program and the Dean of Graduate
Programs (see 4.5.1a).
4.5.3 Format of the Thesis Examination The first part of the
oral examination shall consist of an oral presentation by the candidate
to include a summary of the salient points of the research normally
within a time span of 20 to 25 minutes. This is followed by the
questioning and examination of the candidate by the examining
committee. The oral defence is normally about two hours in duration.
It is the responsibility of the Chair of the oral examination to
pose questions raised by the external examiner (if not in attendance).
The Chair of the oral examination may exercise discretion in
allowing questions from guests following completion of the formal
examination.
4.5.4 Results of Oral Examinations The decision of the
examining committee shall be based on the content of the scholarly work
or thesis, as well as the candidate's ability to defend it. After the
examination, the committee shall recommend to the Dean of Graduate
Programs one of the following results:
Clear Pass
That the thesis, project or practicum is acceptable as presented, and the oral defence is acceptable.
In this case, all members of the examining committee shall sign the
approval pages. A “pass” grade is submitted to the Office of the
Registrar for the student's thesis, project or practicum.
Pass with Minor Revision
That the thesis, project or practicum is acceptable subject to minor revision, and the oral defence is acceptable.
In this case, all members of the examining committee, except the supervisor, shall sign the approval pages.
The supervisor shall sign the approval pages when the thesis,
project or practicum has been amended to include the changes that were
requested by the examining committee. A “pass” grade is submitted to
the Office of the Registrar for the student's thesis, project or
practicum.
Pass with Major Revision
That the thesis, project or practicum is acceptable subject to major revision, and the oral defence is acceptable.
In this case, none of the members of the examining committee shall
sign the approval pages. The supervisor shall supervise the revision of
the thesis, project or practicum. When the revisions have been
completed and have been approved by the supervisor, the supervisor
shall distribute the revised thesis, project or practicum to the rest
of the examining committee. If it is acceptable to the examining
committee, the supervisor shall ensure that the approval pages are
signed by each member of the examining committee. A “pass” grade is
submitted to the Office of the Registrar for the student's thesis,
project or practicum.
Adjournment of the Examination
That the examination be adjourned.
Reasons to adjourn the examination include, but are not limited to,
further research or experimentation is required; the thesis is
acceptable but the student has failed the oral defence; the external
examiner casts the lone dissenting vote. In the case of an adjourned
examination, the candidate shall not be passed and no member shall sign
the approval pages.
When an examination is adjourned, each member of the examining
committee shall make a written report to the Dean of Graduate
Programs within 14 calendar days of the date of the oral examination. After
reviewing these reports the Dean sets a date for reconvening the
examination. The Dean shall also determine whether or not the
composition of the original committee is appropriate for the reconvened
examination. The date for reconvening shall be no later than six months
from the date of the first examination.
Failure
That the thesis, project or practicum is unacceptable, and the oral defence is unacceptable.
If two or more members of the examining committee are opposed to
passing the student, the student will not be recommended for the
degree. In this case, the examining committee shall make a written
report to the Dean of Graduate
Programs within 14 calendar days from the
date of the oral examination outlining the reasons for this decision. A
student who fails the oral examination has the right to appeal, and
should consult with the Office of the Registrar regarding the
appropriate procedures.
4.5.5Consequence of Failed Examination A student who fails the oral examination twice shall be required to withdraw from his or her Graduate Program.
4.6 Degree Completion and Graduation
4.6.1 The University Senate grants degrees in May each year.
Each candidate for a degree must complete an Application for Graduation
form and must pay the graduation fee (see Fees section). Application
for Graduation forms are available in the Office of the Registrar.
4.6.2 The deadline for completing all requirements for the degree is the final business day in April for Spring graduation.
4.6.3 Students can be considered for the awarding of a degree only when all of the following requirements have been satisfied:
Completion of the program of study and meeting the grade point average requirements for the degree.
Signing of the approval pages for the student's thesis, project or other scholarly work by the supervisor.
Submission of an Application for Graduation form to the Office of
the Registrar, and an official degree audit completed by the University.
Payment of all outstanding fees. Those students who have
outstanding accounts will not receive their degree parchment or be
issued transcripts. Students should be aware of the semester fee
payment schedule for graduate degrees (see Fees section).
5.0 Appeals
Appeals are heard by the Senate Committee on Academic Appeals and
are not subject to further appeal. Further information may be obtained
from the Office of the Registrar. See also the Academic Appeals Policy
and Procedures section under the Graduate General Regulations and Policies
section of the Graduate Calendar.
6.0 Research Services
All matters concerning the administration of research grants and
contracts are handled by the Office of Research and Graduate Programs, to
which inquiries concerning research policies and procedures should be
directed. Students whose research falls within the University
definition of research involving human and non-human subjects and other
ethical and safety issues must receive prior approval from the
appropriate screening committee. Regulations on these issues may be
obtained from the Office of Research and Graduate Programs. The Office of
the Research and Graduate Programs should be contacted for further details
concerning research-oriented services offered to graduate students.
7.0 Regulations Governing Doctoral Programs
The calendar regulations listed below, apply to Doctoral students as well as to Master's students:
General Admission.
GRE requirements.
Admission to non-degree course work.
Auditing graduate courses.
English requirements for international students.
Registration procedures and status.
Student responsibilities.
Academic performance.
In addition, Doctoral students are subject to the regulations that follow:
7.1 Admission
7.1.1 Admission to a Doctoral program normally requires a
Master's degree or equivalent from a recognized institution. Admission
to a Doctoral degree program requires evidence that the applicant is
capable of undertaking substantial original research. Such capability
will be judged partly by means of three external assessment reports
sent directly to the Office of the Registrar by qualified referees.
7.1.2 Admission to a Doctoral program will require a
cumulative grade point average of 3.33 ("B+") from the Baccalaureate and
Master's degree, to be calculated over the last 30 credit hours of
graded academic course work.
7.1.3 Admission to a Doctoral program without a Master's
degree normally requires a Baccalaureate degree from a recognized
institution with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.67 ("A-")
and the completion of at least two semesters of a Master's degree
program at the University of Northern British Columbia with a
cumulative grade point average of at least 3.67 ("A-").
7.1.4 Continuation to a Doctoral Program. Students enrolled
in a Master's program at the University of Northern British Columbia
may continue to a Doctoral program prior to completion of the Master's
degree. Students may apply to be transferred to Doctoral status no
sooner than two semesters after initial registration in the Master's
program at the University of Northern British Columbia. After a review,
which must include an evaluation by the student's supervisory
committee, the Program will recommend to the Dean of Graduate Programs one of the following:
admission to the Doctoral program without completion of a Master's program;
admission to the Doctoral program but with concurrent completion of
all requirements for a Master's degree within one semester from the
date of transfer;
admission to the Doctoral program following completion of the requirements for the Master's degree;
refusal of admission to the Doctoral program.
Students
admitted to a Doctoral program under 7.1.4.a must complete courses from
the Master's and Doctoral programs as recommended by the existing
Supervisory Committee and approved by the Dean of Graduate Programs.
Students admitted under 7.1.4.b who do not complete the
requirements for the Master's degree within the one semester limit will
lose their status in the Doctoral program and be returned to Master's
status.
Students admitted to a Doctoral program under 7.1.4a, but who are
not continuing in the Doctoral program, may re-register as a candidate
for the Master's degree, provided that work to date has met the
standards of the Master's program and the candidacy examination has not
been attempted.
7.1.5 No more than four full-time tuition fee units or the
equivalent for part-time students will be credited in such cases
towards the fees for the Doctoral program.
7.1.6 Part-time doctoral work is not feasible in some areas
because of the divergent nature of academic disciplines. Accordingly,
no Program is obligated to offer part-time doctoral work.
7.2 Minimum Requirements
The minimum requirement for a Doctoral degree is 24 credit hours of
course work beyond the Master's level, or 36 credit hours of course work
beyond the Bachelor's level, and satisfactory completion of the
prescribed program. Individual programs may require more credit hours
of course work.
7.3 The Dissertation
A Doctoral program requires a broad and comprehensive knowledge of
the field or fields of study, such knowledge to be demonstrated through
a candidacy examination. It also requires the completion of a research
project culminating in a dissertation which meets the requirements and
standards of Graduate Programs. This dissertation must contain original
work, and must be a significant and original contribution to knowledge
in the candidate's field(s) of study. It must contain evidence of broad
knowledge of the relevant literature, and must demonstrate a critical
understanding of the works of scholars eminent in the field(s) related
to the dissertation. The dissertation should, in the opinion of
scholars in the field(s), merit publication, in whole or in part.
The general style and form of dissertations may differ from program
to program, but all dissertations must be presented in a form which
constitutes a connected and continuous text. The dissertation may
contain material previously published by the candidate, whether alone
or in conjunction with others. Such previously published material must
be fully integrated into the dissertation. In such cases, the
candidate's own work must be clearly distinguished from that of other
researchers. The candidate is responsible at the final oral examination
for defence of the entire contents of the dissertation.
Before beginning to write the dissertation, the candidate should obtain a copy of the Formatting Guidelines For Graduate Dissertations, Theses, Projects & Practicum Reports
from the Office of Research and Graduate Programs; this document specifies the
academic and technical requirements necessary to ensure that the work
is acceptable to the University and to the National Library of Canada.
7.4 Language Requirements
A Doctoral program may require a reading knowledge of one or more
languages other than English. Language requirements will be set for
individual students by their supervisory committees according to the
regulations of the Programs, and shall, as a rule, be geared to the
individual research requirements of each candidate. Where language
requirements are set, they shall be considered part of the student's
program, and must be met, at the latest, before the student defends the
dissertation.
7.5 Course Transfer
On the recommendation of the Program concerned, the Dean of Graduate Programs may accept courses taken at other recognized
universities for credit towards a Doctoral program. However, at least
half of the courses taken for the degree must be taken as a graduate
student at the University of Northern British Columbia.
7.6 Integrated Courses
Doctoral students will not receive degree credit for more than six credit hours of integrated delivery course work (see Section 1.8.1).
7.7 Time Limit
The maximum time for completion given below is not intended to be
the normal time for completion. It is intended to take into account a
wide variety of extraordinary circumstances and events that may delay
completion.
7.7.1 Normally, a student proceeding to a Doctoral degree
must complete all the degree requirements within seven consecutive
years (84 consecutive months) from the date of first registration in
the program. If the student has transferred from a Master's program,
completion is required within seven years of the date of the first
registration in the Master's program.
7.7.2 If a degree is not awarded within seven years of the
first registration, the student will be withdrawn from the program.
Under exceptional circumstances, time extensions may be granted by the Dean of Graduate Programs. Such requests for time extension must be made
in writing to the Dean of Graduate Programs prior to the end of the
semester in which the student's time limit expires. The request must
include a timeline for the completion of the degree, accompanied by
supporting documentation from the student's supervisor.
7.7.3 Residency Requirement A student with a Master's degree
registering in a Doctoral program must pursue studies under the
direction of a faculty member as a full-time student for at least two
full semesters within 24 consecutive months of initial registration.
7.8 Academic Supervision
7.8.1 Each Doctoral candidate shall have a member of the
Program assigned as the Supervisor to counsel the student in academic
matters. The Supervisor is nominated by the Program and approved by the Dean of Graduate Programs.
The Supervisor must be aware of the various university regulations;
must provide guidance to the student on the nature of research, the
standards required, the adequacy of the student's progress, and the
quality of the student's work; and must be accessible to the student to
give advice and constructive criticism.
The Supervisor and student must maintain contact through regular
meetings. Supervisors who expect to be absent from the University for
an extended period of time must make suitable arrangements with the
student and the Program for the continued supervision of the student,
or must request the Program or College to nominate another Supervisor.
7.8.2 Supervisory Committee Each student will have a
supervisory committee nominated by the Program and approved by the Dean of Graduate Programs. The chair of this committee will be the College
Dean, Graduate Program Chair or designate. The duties of the committee
include recommending a program of study chosen in conformity with
Program regulations, supervision of the dissertation, and participation
in a final oral examination. The committee may conduct other
examinations, and will recommend to the Dean of Graduate Programs whether or not a degree shall be awarded to the candidate.
The composition of the Doctoral supervisory committee is as
follows: at least four members, including the academic supervisor. At
least one member of the committee must be from outside the Program in
which the candidate's research is being carried out.
7.9 Doctoral Candidacy Examination
Within two years of registration as a Doctoral candidate and at
least six months before the final oral examination, a student must pass
a candidacy examination. The purpose of this examination is to test the
student's understanding of material considered essential to completion
of the degree, and to test the student's competence to conduct the
research which will culminate in the dissertation. The candidacy
examination may be written or oral, or both, at the discretion of the
Program. Individual Programs or supervisory committees may also require
other examinations in addition to the candidacy examination. Examples
of such examinations would be those to test competence in languages
other than English, in statistics, in computing, or in other research
skills. In some Programs there may be, in addition to the candidacy
examinations, comprehensive examinations to be completed before the
candidacy examinations to test knowledge in the field.
The candidacy examination is a requirement of the Office of
Research and Graduate Programs, and cannot be waived by any Program. However, the
form, content, and administration of such examinations are determined
by the individual Programs. While there may be wide variety in the
content of candidacy examinations, the manner in which the examinations
are constructed, conducted, and evaluated must be consistent within
Programs.
Programs are responsible for providing students with a written
statement of procedures, requirements, and regulations governing
candidacy examinations. This information must be provided to Doctoral
students at their initial registration, and must be on file with the
Office of Research and Graduate Programs.
When a student has successfully completed the candidacy
examination, the College Dean, Graduate Program Chair or Graduate
Advisor is responsible for sending confirmation of the fact, signed by
all members of the supervisory committee, to the Dean of Graduate Programs.
7.10 Final Oral Examinations
All Doctoral programs require a final oral examination. The
regulations for such examinations are the same as for Master's
programs, except as noted below.
7.10.1 Formation of the Examining Committee The final oral
examining committee for the Doctoral degree shall consist of the Dean of Graduate Programs or designate as Chair, the supervisory committee,
and an external examiner from outside the university, who will
normally attend the oral examination.
Before the dissertation is forwarded to the external examiner,
Doctoral supervisory committee members shall each declare in writing to
the supervisor and the Dean of Graduate Programs either that the
dissertation is of adequate substance to warrant that the student
proceed to the final examination or that the dissertation is
unsatisfactory and that the student should not be allowed to proceed to
the final oral examination. An evaluation of the dissertation's merits and deficiencies should accompany the declaration. A
declaration of satisfactory does not constitute final approval of the
dissertation. A judgement of unsatisfactory performance by a doctoral supervisory committee member will be reviewed by the Dean of Graduate Programs, but normally constitutes grounds for not sending a copy of the
dissertation to the external examiner.
7.10.2 External Examiner A distinguished scholar with
particular experience both in the field of the dissertation research
and in supervising doctoral students shall be chosen as the external
examiner. The student's supervisory committee shall make the
recommendation, and the supervisor should then make an informal inquiry
as to the prospective external examiner's willingness to serve. If the
individual is prepared to serve, the nomination is then made by the
Supervisor and the Graduate Program Chair to the Dean of Graduate Programs who makes the formal invitation to the external examiner.
The Dean of Graduate Programs will request that the external
examiner provide a detailed report on the merits and deficiencies of
the dissertation, as well as an overall evaluation using the same
categories as those used by internal examiners. The external examiner
is requested to present the report to the Dean of Graduate Programs within one month of the receipt of the dissertation. Adequate time must
be allowed for the transmission of the dissertation and the receipt of
the report. A judgement of unsatisfactory performance by the external
examiner will be reviewed by the Dean of Graduate Programs, but normally
constitutes a failed attempt of the dissertation defence.
The proposed external examiner must be in a position to review the
dissertation objectively and to provide a critical analysis of the work
and the presentation. It is therefore essential that the external
examiner not have a current or previous association with the student,
the supervisor, or the Program which would hinder this type of
objective analysis. The external examiner should hold a PhD, hold an
appointment with a recognized university or be a recognized scholar in
their field, and have no affiliation (as described below) with the
student or the supervisor. The supervisor and the student must submit a
declaration to the Dean of Graduate Programs that neither party has
performed collaborative research work with the external examiner within
the last five years. While the definition of “arm's length” is left to
the discretion of the Program, justification of the selection may be
required by the Office of Research and Graduate Programs.
7.10.3 Changes in the Examining Committee The Dean of Graduate Programs must also approve changes to the membership of the
examining committee. No changes shall be made to the examining
committee after the dissertation is distributed by the Office of
Research and Graduate Programs to the committee for examination. Should the
dissertation not be submitted for examination within 12 months after
the appointment of the examining committee, the committee appointment
will lapse and a new appointment shall be necessary.
7.10.4 Approval For Advancement to the Oral Examination The
Office of Research and Graduate Programs must receive all examiners' reports at least
two weeks prior to the intended date of the oral examination.
7.10.5 Guidelines For Advancement to the Oral Examination
When considering the candidate's advancement to the final oral
examination, the doctoral supervisory committee members may wish to use the
following guidelines:
If all the reports judge the dissertation to be satisfactory,
advancement to the oral examination should be automatic. The Office of
Research and Graduate Programs shall send copies of all reports to each doctoral supervisory committee member and also to the candidate.
If one or more of the reports judge the dissertation to need major
revisions, the Office of Graduate Studies shall send copies of all the
reports to each doctoral supervisory committee member and the Graduate Program
Chair. Two copies of all the reports are sent to the supervisor who
shall provide one copy to the candidate. The doctoral supervisory committee members should strive to provide the supervisor and the candidate
with specific advice about the nature and scope of the revisions
required and any other pertinent matters (such as the time that should
elapse before the dissertation will be accepted for reconsideration).
If the doctoral supervisory committee members judge an unfavorable report by an
external examiner to be unwarranted, they may recommend, through the
Graduate Program Chair, that the Dean of Graduate Programs submit the
dissertation to a second external examiner.
7.10.6 Requirements Prior to Oral Examination Scheduling
The examination will normally be held at the Prince George Campus.
Exceptions must have the unanimous agreement of all examining committee
members and the student. Normally, the oral examination shall be open
to all members of the University of Northern British Columbia
community. In exceptional cases, the final oral examination may be
closed, for example, when the results of the dissertation research must
be kept confidential for a period of time. In such cases, the doctoral supervisory committee members and Graduate Program Chair shall recommend such action to the
Dean of Graduate Programs who may then approve that the final oral
examination be closed to all but the examining committee and the Dean of Graduate Programs (or designate).
Candidate Information At least two weeks prior to the oral
examination, the candidate must submit to the Office of Research and Graduate
Programs the following information: biographical data (where and when
born); outstanding points in career, awards, etc.; list of degrees
obtained (where and when); the exact title of the dissertation; an
abstract of the dissertation (not more than 350 words); and a list of
publications. This information is used to advertise the oral
examination.
Note: The above documentation should be submitted in electronic form.
Notice of Examination Except in the case of a closed
examination and provided the information is received in sufficient time
to meet publication deadlines, a notice of the candidate's oral
examination will be published. Students, staff and faculty members who
are not members of the examining committee are invited and encouraged
to attend the oral examination, but are not permitted to participate in
the formal questioning.
7.10.7 Format of the Examination The first part of the oral
examination shall consist of an oral presentation by the candidate to
include a summary of the salient points of the research within a time
span of 25 to 30 minutes. This is followed by the questioning and
examination of the candidate by the examining committee. The question
period is normally about two hours in duration.
It is the responsibility of the Chair of the oral examination to
pose questions raised by the external examiner (if not in attendance).
The Chair of the oral examination may exercise discretion in
allowing questions from the audience following completion of the formal
examination.
7.10.8 Decision of the Committee Following completion of the
formal examination, the candidate and audience are required to withdraw
from the examination room. The examining committee members will consider their report and
will also determine the nature of and procedures for approval of any
revisions that will be required prior to submission of the
dissertation.
The examining committee may exercise its discretion on the following matters:
who must approve the required revisions, time limits for the completion
of revisions, the necessity for a second oral examination, and any
other matters. These matters should be summarized in a memorandum sent
to the student by the Supervisor. Before being sent to the student, the
memorandum should be circulated to the examining committee members for
confirmation. It shall be the responsibility of a designated member of
the oral examination committee (normally the supervisor) to ensure that
all such revisions are completed before the copies of the unbound
dissertation are submitted to the Office of Research and Graduate Programs for
binding. The candidate will be recommended for the PhD degree when the
dissertation, accompanied by a signed statement from the supervisor
that the required revisions are completed, is submitted to the Office
of Research and Graduate Programs, providing all other degree requirements have been
satisfied.
7.10.9 Report of the Committee The final judgement of the
examiners on the dissertation and the oral examination shall be
reported to the Dean of Graduate Programs in the term "pass" or "fail".
The dissertation must be passed by the external examiner and a majority
of members of the examining committee. In the case of a failure for the
dissertation at the PhD level a detailed written report will be
prepared by the Chair and made available to the candidate and also
submitted to the Dean of Graduate Programs.
A student who receives a failure on either the dissertation or the
oral examination twice shall be required to withdraw from his/her doctoral program.
7.11 Degree Completion and Graduation
7.11.1 The University Senate grants degrees in May of each
year. Each candidate for a degree must complete an Application for
Graduation form and must pay the graduation fees (see Fees Section).
Application for Graduation forms are available in the Office of the
Registrar.
7.11.2 The deadline for completing all requirements for the degree is the final business day in April for Spring graduation.
7.11.3 Students can be considered for the awarding of a degree only when all of the following requirements have been satisfied:
Completion of the program of study and meeting the grade point average requirements for the degree.
Signing of the approval pages for the student's dissertation by the supervisor.
Submission of an Application for Graduation form to the Office of
the Registrar, and an official degree audit completed by the University.
Payment of all outstanding fees. Those students who have
outstanding accounts will not receive their degree parchment or be
issued transcripts. Students should be aware of the semester fee
payment schedule for graduate degrees (see Fees Section). All students
must check their fee status with the Graduate Studies Officer at the
Office of the Registrar.
