Thesis or Comprehensive Exam Options
Students may elect either a Thesis or Comprehensive Exam option as their capstone requirement. It is highly recommended that students consult with their advisor about this decision by the end of their first full term in the program.
Thesis
The Master's Program with thesis includes a minimum of 42 semester hours of approved graduate credit, including six semester hours of 500 (Thesis) credit in the preparation of an acceptable thesis, representing original independent work and a final oral examination.
Comprehensive Examination
Students who opt to take the comprehensive examination option will be tested in the final semester of their graduate program. This examination lasts six hours and includes a two‑hour comprehensive objective examination of the entire field, plus four hours in the area of major emphasis.