Back to Previous Page

Comprehensive Exams


Number of exams

Students are required to take two written comprehensive exams, drawing from a reading list prepared in consultation with their committee.  Committee members are encouraged, though not required, to hold a meeting with the student after the exam has been graded.

Exam Committee

The exam committee will consist of two members from the sociology department, selected by the student in consultation with his/her advisor and the Director of Graduate Studies.

Timing of Exam

  • All full-time Ph.D. students must have their comprehensive exams completed by the first exam period of their Third Year Fall Semester.  They can, should they so wish, complete them earlier, in any of the other exam periods (e.g. during the exam week at the end of their second year Spring Semester).

  • Students will not be permitted to hold a defense of their dissertation proposal until they have passed both comprehensive exams. 

Format of the Exams
  • The exams will consist of three questions. The examination committee will have at its discretion whether to offer a list of questions from which the student can select three.

  • Students will have a 24-hour period in which to return the exam to the administrator.

  • Students will be graded as "pass" or “fail."