PhD Program General timeline
(usually 4 to 5 years; maximum allowable time seven years)
Placement exam (week prior to the start of classes) Advisor Selection (end of first semester) Committee selection and dissertation topic (end of second semester) Dissertation proposal (end of third semester) General Examination (after coursework is completed and within 3 years) Final Examination (Dissertation Defense)
Master Program General Timeline (usually 2 to 3 years; maximum allowable time 5 years)
Placement Exam (week prior to the start of classes) Advisor Selection (end of first semester) Committee selection (end of second semester) Thesis proposal (end of second semester) Final Examination (Thesis Defense)