To become an official PhD candidate, you must:
Identify a general research area/topic.
Form a faculty committee to advise you and evaluate your dissertation.
Complete candidacy evaluations with non-supervisory committee members.
You must complete this within one year after attempting 33+ credit hours (excluding approved leave). This includes courses like Research Problems. The clock starts the semester you hit 33+ hours.
6-Step Process
Step 1: Form Your Committee
With your supervisor’s help, contact 5–6 potential members (including at least one external). Share a 1–2 page research summary and coursework list. Get verbal/written agreement.
Step 2: Announce Your Committee
Email your Track PhD Coordinator with:
Your name, EID, academic track
Tentative dissertation title
Committee members and their roles
CV of external member
Step 3: Committee Approval
The GSC will review your committee on a no-objection basis. Wait for official approval before moving on.
Candidacy Evaluations
Step 4: Meet with Committee Members
Schedule 30-minute individual meetings. A formal presentation is not required, although you might choose to use slides to provide context (e.g. figures) where needed. Committee members should communicate any special expectations or requirements they may have for the evaluation beforehand.
Step 5: Get Sign-Offs
Each member of your committee will formally sign off on your readiness, the proposed research and whether they agree to serve on your committee via the ECE Candidacy Form HERE.
Final Application
Step 6: Apply for Candidacy
Wait for email instructions from the Graduate Advising Team. Once received, apply online within 2 weeks. Your application must be approved by multiple offices.
You officially become a PhD candidate after final approval by the Graduate School Dean.
Late Semester Candidacy: If admitted after the 12th class day (or 4th in summer), you may still join Dissertation hours that semester—if already registered for Research Problems. Contact grad advising to check eligibility.