07.03.07 Dissertation & Final Examination – PhD
The University of Rochester requires that all dissertations be published through ProQuest. Instructions for this process will be provided by the Office of Graduate Studies prior to receipt of the final copy of the dissertation. In addition to the electronic (pdf) version of the dissertation submitted to ProQuest, the University Dean of Graduate Studies Office requires students to submit one permanent unbound paper copy to their office.
The final oral examination for the doctor of philosophy degree must be taken at the University of Rochester. A candidate may present himself or herself for this examination only after receiving permission of the advisors.
The final oral examination shall be taken after completion of all other requirements for the degree, but not earlier than six months after the qualifying examination. The final oral examination may be open, at least in part, to all members of the University community. It shall include the subject covered by the dissertation and the special field in which the dissertation is written, with particular attention to the recent and significant developments in that field. This examination may also include other fields of study if specifically recommended by the qualifying examining committee.
PhD-granting departments may invite the candidate to present a public lecture, followed by a private dissertation defense with the examination committee.
The committee for the final examination for the doctor of philosophy degree is appointed by the University Dean of Graduate Studies on the advice of the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies. The University Dean or his or her representative will be chair and have a vote.
A vote of approval of the final oral examining committee must be unanimous, but in the case of a single dissenting vote the issue may be presented for decision to the University Council on Graduate Studies.
Definitions of Dissertation Copy Terms:
- Fair copy – a copy of the dissertations in final-draft form. It must be typed and easily readable by the reading committee.
- Final copy – a copy which incorporates all corrections from the reading committee.
- Permanent copy – copies which incorporate any additional corrections or changes required as a result of the final examination.
Dissertation or Thesis Work during Summer Session
Graduate students who plan to register for thesis or dissertation credits during the summer session are requested to do so by May 15th; otherwise, no assurance can be given that the time of an advisor will be available. Doctoral students who have completed all courses and credit requirements and who will be working on their dissertation with an advisor during the summer session must register for ESM 999 (Continuation of Graduate Enrollment).
