Semester one
Select an advisor.
An academic advisor will be key in helping you navigate through the policies put forth by the Graduate School and your department. Check with your prospective department chair or the faculty Web pages to find an advisor whose research interests match your own.
Establish ties in Washington.
Since graduate tuition at WSU is considerably less expensive for Washington residents than for out-of-state graduate students, you may want to establish residency as soon as possible.
Semester two
Select your committee.
By now, you're probably settled in and have some idea of the type of research you would like to conduct. But first, you should select your master's committee, which will help guide you through the research. A master's committee consists of three faculty members: two from your department. One member is identified as the committee chair, and one, your primary contact.
File a program of study.
Your committee chair, in conjunction with other members, should aid you in developing your proposed program of study. This includes an official list of classes you have taken, those you intend to take, and your research interest. After the proposed program is signed by each committee member, it should be submitted to your department chair who ensures that it meets department and Graduate School requirements.
Semester three
Apply for residency.
After you have proof that you have lived in Washington for twelve months, you should apply for residency. This will allow to be charged the lower in-state graduate tuition rate as you continue your studies.
File an application for master's degree.
You should submit an application for degree to the Graduate School at least one semester before your final exam in scheduled. The Graduate School will then notify you of any final graduation requirements before enrolling for your last semester.
Pay the graduation fee.
You must go to the cashier's office located in Room 240 of the French Administration Building, and pay the $50 graduation fee. Be sure to keep your receipt--you will need to submit it to the graduate school along with your thesis.
Semester four
Schedule your final oral exam.
After your thesis is complete, your committee should submit the final examination scheduling form to the Graduate School, which will then schedule your final examination
Graduation and diplomas.
The Bookie begins accepting orders for graduate regalia approximately two months prior to commencement. You may place your order by calling 800-937-4978, extension 318. Ask for Bonnie Quick.
Submit your thesis to the Graduate School.
To avoid any delays, be sure that your thesis is formatted in accordance with the Graduate School formatting guidelines.
Update your mailing address.
Diplomas are mailed approximately eight weeks after commencement. In the event that you move during that time, be sure to notify the Graduate School of your new mailing address.