Comprehensive Examination

After successful completion of coursework, students are required to take a qualifying comprehensive exam by the end of 18 months from the date of admission to the programme. The exam will consist of a public presentation of the proposed research by the student followed by a closed-door oral exam with the doctoral committee and a member of the Academic Council of ATREE. In preparation for the comprehensive examination, the student should provide a written synopsis of proposed research (including literature review, discussion of methods, etc.) to the doctoral committee at least 2 weeks in advance. The student should successfully complete comprehensive examination and secure unanimous approval of the doctoral committee in order to qualify for the doctoral degree.

In the case that a candidate does not successfully complete the comprehensive exam, a second chance will be provided before the end of 24 months from the date of joining. If the candidate fails again to meet the requirements to qualify the comprehensive examination, the doctoral committee will recommend to the Academic Council of ATREE that the student's registration be cancelled and be discontinued from the doctoral programme.