Sample timeline

Students complete their graduate studies at a pace that works best for them. A suggested timeline is articulated below, but please note that the timeline outlined here is not mandatory, and is to be followed at the discretion of the individual. 

YEAR 1

MSc/PhD

  • Course Work (NRSC 500- Fall, NRSC 501- Winter)
  • Begin training and research
  • Form Supervisory Committee and have first meeting (Supervisory committee should meet once a year)
  • Additional course work

YEAR 2

MSc

  • Research
  • Thesis Work
  • Eligible for thesis submission, defense, graduation
  • Limit to transfer to PhD
  • Additional course work (If no courses are being taken, you must be registered in the thesis course.  NRSC 549 for MSc or NRSC 649 for PhD)

PhD

  • Research
  • Comprehensive Examination Suggested (End of Year 2/Beginning of Year 3)

YEAR 3

MSc

  • Defense and Graduation time limit

PhD

  • Continue research and begin thesis work
  • Comprehensive Examination Required

YEAR 4

PhD

  • Thesis Work
  • Eligible for thesis submission, defense, graduation.

YEAR 5

PhD

  • Defense and Graduation