The master of library and information science (M.L.I.S.), master of communication and information studies (M.C.I.S.), and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees are conferred by the university upon recommendation of the faculty of the School of Communication, Information and Library Studies. Degrees are conferred and diplomas issued only at the annual commencement each May or June. Diplomas will be issued at that time, or, upon request of the student, in November for October completion of degree requirements or in February for January completion of degree requirements. For this reason, a student who completes degree requirements by the end of a summer or fall semester may request a suitable certificate for use until commencement. This request should be sent to the university registrar, accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope, and is honored provided the student has a Graduate Diploma Application (Application for an Advanced Degree) on file and has in fact completed all other requirements for the degree by that time. Students issued these certificates receive diplomas dated October or January respectively. Students who require proof of completion of degree requirements prior to the issuance of the diploma may request a certificate of completion. Such a request is made to the registrar through the dean. Upon issuance of the certificate, the degree will also be posted to the student's transcript. Students must complete a Graduate Diploma Application before requesting a certificate of completion.
Any candidate who does not wish to attend commencement is asked to indicate that fact on the diploma application. When this is not indicated on the application, the candidate is asked to write to the university registrar requesting that the degree be conferred in absentia at the annual commencement exercises. Since arrangements for commencement are complex, and well advanced by April 1, it is appreciated if such requests are placed before that date, although they will be accepted any time before commencement. Candidates whose attendance is prevented by some last-minute emergency are asked to communicate with the university registrar within 24 hours of commencement. In all cases the candidate should indicate the address to which the diploma may be sent when it is mailed in June or July. Students may ask to have the diploma mailed, or may pick it up at the registrar's office, if not receiving it at commencement. These options may be indicated on the Graduate Diploma Application.
