The first half of the Exam will test the student’s knowledge of the assigned reading topics. The questions asked should test the students:
Knowledge of the “facts” of the field
Understanding of the methods used to arrive at these conclusions
Ability to read the literature critically. It is the responsibility of the Committee Chair to ensure that the student is questioned in each of the topic areas designated at the time of the Pre-Prospectus meeting
The second half of the Exam will explore in depth the proposed plan of research described in the Prospectus. The student will begin with a brief (no more than 15 minutes) presentation, outlining the proposed research. Questions during and following the presentation should bear in mind that the purpose of the Qualifying Exam is to test the student’s ability to:
Identify interesting and important questions,
Plan a project with well-defined goals and carefully considered experimental strategies
Anticipate potential problems and devise alternative approaches
Demonstrate a clear understanding of where the proposed research fits into the “big picture”
After the questioning period, the Chair will ask the student and the Thesis Advisor to leave the room while the Committee deliberates. The Chair of the Committee, in consultation with other Committee members, should fill out the Qualifying Exam Meeting Form.
Following the Exam, the evaluation form should be delivered to the Graduate Registrar who will distribute the completed form to the student, and all Committee members.