Most programs require a comprehensive examination. (Consult the program website for further information.) All graduate students who are candidates for the master's degree must pass a comprehensive examination. The nature of the examination may vary from department to department, but it commonly has a written component and may have an oral component as well. The purpose of the examination is to evaluate the graduate student's ability to demonstrate the achievement of the objectives and/or competencies prescribed in the student's program.

The comprehensive examinations are administered by the department and are scheduled approximately halfway through the semester or the summer session. The date for this comprehensive examination is always announced by the department. Such examinations normally require three hours. Information about departmental examinations should be obtained from the faculty advisor or program coordinator.

Applications to register for the comprehensive examination can be obtained in the office of the School of Graduate Studies and Research in Dixon Hall.