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XI. Graduation Procedure

Ph.D. Graduation Procedure
Doctoral candidates work closely with their faculty advisor while completing the research and writing necessary to complete their PhD dissertation.  Whereupon the faculty advisor and the dissertation reading committee agree that the doctoral candidate has completed work worthy of awarding a Ph.D. in Physics, students should complete the requirements listed below (https://graddiv.ucsc.edu/current-students/applications-forms/index.html#seven the Graduate Division has provided an excellent Dissertation and Thesis Checklist which provides essential information)

  1. Apply for Graduation
    Apply for PhD
    Students should apply for the PhD at the beginning of the term in which they will complete all degree requirements.
  1. Schedule a Defense Date
    Defense Rubric
    A public dissertation defense is required.  Students should work with their committee to confirm a defense date and time. The Physics Department can assist with providing a room for the defense and with publicizing the event.  Students should have a good draft of their dissertation and they should provide it to their committee prior to the defense (we suggest at least one month prior, but this is at the committee’s discretion).

    The above rubric may help in planning and evaluating your thesis to prepare for the defense.
  1. Sign the Title Page
    Students must create a Title Page and then, at the defense, they must obtain original signatures for this Title Page.  The Graduate Division does not accept digital signatures on this document, original signatures only.  By signing the Title Page the faculty are affirming that you have earned your PhD.  This form must be submitted to the Graduate Division prior to the deadline listed on the Academic and Administrative Calendar.
  1. Upload to ProQuest
    ProQuest
    UCSC uses a service called ProQuest to host theses and dissertations.  You are required to submit your dissertation to this site prior to the last day of the quarter in which you intend to graduate.
  1. Complete UCSC Exit Survey
    UCSC Exit Survey
    We ask that you complete the Exit Survey, which helps us understand your experiences and improve the graduate program.
  1. Complete Survey of Earned Doctorates