Timeline

A MSc candidate will typically complete the programme in 20 months as follows. Each term lasts four months, and Term 1 normally begins on September 1.

• Term 1: Take 3 graduate courses.
• Term 2: Take 2 graduate courses and identify research topic.
• Term 3: Do research for thesis.
• Term 4: Do research for thesis.
• Term 5: Write thesis and defend it.

Some students take a little longer, but most complete the programme within 24 months.

A PhD candidate can complete the programme in four years as follows.

• Year 1: Take graduate courses and select area of research.
• Year 2: Prepare a literature review and submit it to dissertation supervisory committee (three professors). The committee gives you a qualifying exam based on the literature review. Begin dissertation research.
• Year 3: Continue dissertation research. Present dissertation proposal to supervisory committee. Teach one course or do a short industrial internship.
• Year 4: Complete dissertation and defend it.