Master of Science
Graduate Student Progress Checklist
2-Year Program (Thesis Option)

FIRST SEMESTER:

• Select thesis advisor
• Identify thesis research topic
• Select committee members
• Begin work on (or even complete!) thesis proposal
• Submit Planned Program to the Graduate School
• Complete (if possible) any prerequisites (e.g., Genetics, Ecology, or physiology)

SECOND SEMESTER:

• Complete thesis proposal
• Submit Admission to Candidacy form to the Graduate School
• If possible, get started with thesis research

THIRD SEMESTER:

• Continue with thesis work (research or data analysis or writing)
• Apply for graduation
• Begin preparation for the Written Comprehensive Examination (e.g., check with committee members & determine what you'll be tested on)

FOURTH SEMESTER:

• Schedule & take Written Comprehensive Examination
• Write Thesis
• Schedule & take Oral Examination
• Submit final copy of thesis to the Graduate School
• GRADUATE