Each spring, faculty gather to evaluate students’ performance through the course of the last year.
The purpose of the annual evaluation process is to ensure that each student has made satisfactory progress toward completion of the degree and is fulfilling a proposed study plan. The ultimate goal of the faculty and program throughout this process is to provide the encouragement and direction that will best serve students’ objectives.
Discussion of each student’s progress culminates in a narrative letter for each student that comments on past progress, outlines areas of accomplishment and concern, and, if necessary, lists steps for remediation. Students meet with their faculty advisors in preparation for the annual review, and following the annual review.
This annual review process provides students with consistent feedback and guidance throughout their PhD Program. Students complete the program in four to five years.