Comprehensive Examination

The comprehensive examination tests a student’s knowledge and capacity for critical analysis of a particular research topic. Exams cover four domains related to the identified research topic: 1) substantive area; 2) theories of human behavior; 3) interventions (micro, mezzo, or macro, including policy); and 4) research methods and analyses. Exams are conducted the year after coursework (a minimum of 43 credits must be complete). Passing the comprehensive exam indicates a student’s readiness to begin the dissertation.

Comprehensive exams proceed in three stages, with the guidance of a supervising faculty committee. The first stage is completing a comprehensive exam proposal. The second stage is a written exam, which is comprised of two integrated essays that cover each of the four domains noted above. The aim of the essays is to help prepare the student for their dissertation research. One or both of the essays can be structured as a publishable paper. The final stage is the oral defense, which occurs within one month of completion of the written exam. The committee assesses the written and oral components of the examination. The student must pass the comprehensive exam to advance to PhD candidacy and proceed with their dissertation.