Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
The degree of doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) is
conferred in recognition of two accomplishments: (1) accomplishment in a field
of study; and (2) distinguished critical or creative achievement within a
special area of the general field, typically taking the form of a doctoral dissertation.
A student must devote a minimum of three years of full-time study beyond the
bachelor's degree for the Ph.D. Full-time study for one year is represented by
18 credits of coursework or research. At least 60 credits are required for the
Ph.D. degree, of which at least 9 credits must be devoted to research (consult
the requirements for specific programs, as some require more credits). If any
of the work is conducted on a part-time basis, the minimum time required will,
accordingly, be longer.
Doctoral programs normally are arranged in two
phases. The preliminary
phase generally involves the completion of formal course work and the passage
of the qualifying exam after which post qualifying status may be achieved. Additionally, the dissertation committee must approve
a formally submitted dissertation proposal.
In the final phase, the student usually pursues research and writes his
or her dissertation. This phase concludes when the dissertation is accepted and
the defense of it is approved.
Between admission to the Graduate School-Camden
and the conferral of the Ph.D. degree, the student must: (1) satisfy the course
and other preliminary requirements of the particular graduate program in which
the student is enrolled; (2) make satisfactory progress toward completion; (3)
assemble a dissertation committee of no fewer than three members, subject to
approval by the graduate program committee; (4) pass the qualifying
examination; and (5) successfully defend the dissertation as determined by the
dissertation committee.
Degree Requirements 
