All HCDE PhD students may participate in the preliminary exam during spring quarter of their first year or autumn quarter of their second year in the program.
The exam consists of two portions, a written paper and reflection, and an oral presentation with time for questions from the audience. In fall quarter, the written portion is due in late October and the oral exam takes place in early to mid-November. In spring, the written materials are typically due in late April with an early May oral exam date to follow. Exams and paper deadlines are set by the GPC and PhD Program Committee and may vary. Upcoming exam dates will be shared with advance notice.
Eligible reviewers include all HCDE faculty who advise doctoral students as well as adjunct faculty who recruit and advise HCDE PhD students. Current PhD students who have successfully passed the Preliminary Exam may also participate as peer reviewers on the presentation portion only.