Master's Program Procedures

Complete your master’s program of courses (PDF) before the end of the first semester, usually when registering for second-semester courses.

Complete the thesis director appointment and committee member(s) forms when your thesis director and committee member(s) are agreed on.

This form is required for initial registration only. The graduate studies assistant will obtain permission in future semesters.

Semester thesis work begins with permission of your advisor, who determines credit hours. Continuous enrollment is required until formal approval of your thesis by the Graduate School.

The graduate studies assistant will notify you and provide instructions following the appointment of the thesis director and completion of 30 credit hours. Requires area endorsement.

Complete the designation of research tool (PDF) (tool course) upon conditional admission to the doctoral program.

IRB or IACUC approval information

File the thesis proposal (PDF) when approved by the committee.

When the thesis is completed to committee satisfaction, you will complete the appointment of thesis examination committee and scheduling of oral defense.

When thesis corrections are made to the satisfaction of the examination committee, file a report of oral defense and approved thesis. Your advisor provides information to the graduate studies assistant, who submits materials to the Graduate School.

Before the award of your M.A., complete the foundation courses.

Review graduation deadlines and visit MyNIU to apply for graduation.