Theses & Dissertations
MS Thesis (Plan A), and PhD Dissertations all require a successful formal defense to meet graduation requirements. It is recommended that students meet each semester with the department academic advisor to ask questions and discuss the requirements and timeline for completion.
Proposals
A Thesis or Dissertation Proposal needs to be formatted to department requirements. PhD students have additional forms that need to be signed at the proposal defense, so consult the department academic advisor prior to scheduling. After the successful proposal defense, paperwork is required by Graduate School and should be submitted through the department academic advisor.
Formatting
The MAE Department requires students to complete their thesis or dissertation according to the Graduate School's Publication Guide or use the department approved LATEX template. MAE students choose AIAA or ASME reference style for the completed Proposal and final Thesis/Dissertation.
Graduate School Publication Guide
Final Defense
General Catalog, pg 121:
"At least four weeks prior to the defense, the student shall give a copy of the thesis, Plan B paper, or dissertation to each member of the supervisory committee for approval or corrections. An Appointment for Examination form must be completed by the student and committee, indicating approval of the proposed time and place for the examination and defense, and submitted by the student to the School of Graduate Studies a minimum of ten working days prior to the exam.
"The oral examination of the thesis, Plan B paper, or dissertation is a defense of a final document. Only minor changes, usually editorial, should be required following the defense. If major changes are required, a defense of the revised document should be held."
See the department advisor for degree requirements for a proposal, defense timeline requirements, and scheduling a room for the defense.