Graduate Time Limit for Program Completion Policy

Graduate Time Limit for Program Completion Policy

Sponsor:

School for Graduate Studies and School of Nursing and Allied Health

Contact:

Director of Graduate Student Services

Category:

Graduate Studies

Number:

800.009

Effective Date:

02/01/2024

Implementation History:

Approved July 2011, Revised and Senate approve June 2022

Keywords:

Graduate, Time, Limit, Completion, Degree, Certificate, Waiver

Background Information:

Purpose

To specify the time period for the completion of a graduate program and how to request a waiver.

Definitions

Graduate Program: An advanced certificate, master’s degree, certificate of advanced study or doctoral degree. 

Statements

A graduate program must be completed within six years of initial enrollment for an advanced certificate, certificate of advanced study or master’s degree, and eight years of initial enrollment for a doctoral degree. If a student exceeds the time limit, they may be permitted to continue if a waiver is granted.

A waiver of the completion rule is granted by the dean or designee of the appropriate school. The student needs to make this request in writing and in consultation with their academic advisor and the head of the student’s program. While waivers are rare, the dean or designee will consider the request based upon factors such as special hardship, excellence of work and closeness to completion.

Applicable Legislation and Regulations

Related References, Policies, Procedures, Forms and Appendices