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Academic Progression
The graduate program director acts as academic advisor to each new student. The director determines the course schedule with students and monitors their progress. Soon after entry, the students select the area of research they wish to consider for their master's theses. Each student seeks out a faculty member of the Division of Medical Physics who will become his or her scientific advisor. The advisor and student assemble an advisory committee of five members, at least three of whom are on The Graduate College faculty. The advisor serves as chair of the advisory committee. The committee is responsible for adapting continued coursework to the student's needs and for providing advice and evaluation at all stages of the graduate program. Specifically, the committee will evaluate the student's thesis proposal, thesis and performance at the thesis defense. Before beginning the specific thesis research, the student must present a detailed proposal, including a literature review, to the advisory committee. At that time, the student will be required to give an oral defense of the study that demonstrates his/her understanding of the study's goals and methods. When the committee is satisfied with the proposal, the student may begin the research project. Although the major advisor will closely supervise the research, it is the student's responsibility to attain the research goals. Thesis Defense
The thesis is a scholarly work based on an original project. Its format and review by the advisory committee and dean must comply with the requirements of The Graduate College. Oral defense of the thesis serves as the final examination in partial completion of the requirements for the master's degree. The examining committee includes a minimum of five faculty members approved by the department advisory committee. At least three examiners, including the student's principal and associate advisors, are selected from within the division. Two examiners may be selected from outside the division, preferably, though not necessarily, from outside the University. Distinguished scientists may be invited as guests of the division to examine the thesis and to participate in the final defense. Passing the final examination is based upon the recommendation of the majority of the examiners. If the student fails to pass the final examination, the student may appeal to the dean of The Graduate College.
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