Statement of Mutual Expectations between Physics and its Graduate Students

Graduate students in CMPS doctoral programs are expected to develop a mastery of their field, and gain familiarity with their discipline from arrival to graduation.

In particular, full-time doctoral students in Physics who arrive with a baccalaureate degree normally will:

• Become engaged in research no later than the end of their 2nd year, and often before that;
• Identify a thesis adviser by the beginning of their 3rd year.
• Identify a thesis topic by the end of their 3rd year.
• Secure admission to candidacy within 3-4 years.
• Submit at least one paper for publication prior to graduation.
• Complete all requirements and graduate within 5-6 years.

Graduate students in CMPS doctoral programs normally may expect:

• A wide selection of courses.
• Advice and mentoring by faculty in their program prior to the selection of an adviser.
• From their adviser (or, in some instances the program):
  • Regular access and advice during the research and thesis writing process.
  • Training in the preparation of oral and written scholarly presentations; in particular, advice and support for the writing of at least one paper for publication.
  • Introductions, for example at conferences, to other members of the field.
  • Assistance and advice with job searches.