Preparing to Graduate
All MS students should consult their advisor regularly to track their degree progress. Use the following links to view information about the graduation process:
Apply to Graduate
To graduate, you must file an online application with the Graduate School by the second week of the quarter that you intend to graduate. Applications are valid for one quarter only. You must be enrolled for at least two credits during the quarter that you expect to graduate.
All work for the MS degree must be completed within 3 years, including any time spent with on-leave status or any credits transferred from other institutions.
The quarter you plan to finish, apply to graduate on the Graduate School's website at: https://grad.uw.edu/student/mastapp.aspx
The application period opens during the first week of your final quarter and ends the seventh week of that same quarter. You must be registered for at least two credits during your final quarter.
If you do not finish the quarter you applied, you must submit another application on the Graduate School's website.
Final Steps for Coursework Option
Almost all MS students complete the degree utilizing the coursework option. During your final quarter when you expect to complete all of your coursework, you will need to apply to graduate. A degree warrant will be generated and available from the Director of Student Services. You must provide the warrant, with your approved course of study form, to your supervisory committee to be reviewed and signed. Return the signed warrant and course of study form to the Director of Student Services, who will then submit the department's approval to the Graduate School.
Final Steps for Thesis Option
If you choose to pursue the thesis option, you should consult the Director of Student Services and your thesis committee about the MS thesis process during your first academic year. Thesis students are required to take a minimum of nine thesis credits (HCDE 700) to graduate. In your final quarter, you will need to apply to graduate, as well as complete an oral examination.
