Doctoral Degree (Ph.D.)
A doctorate degree is the highest post-secondary degree awarded that requires a minimum of four semesters of academic residency. Typically, a longer period of study, four to six years, is required for completion of all degree requirements. In addition, a doctoral student is required to conduct extensive original research, serve as teaching assistant (most programs), and publish portions of their research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
Students can be admitted to the Ph.D. program directly with a related bachelor’s degree completed. Students who have completed a related MS degree may have reduced coursework requirements.
For more information regarding minimum Ph.D. Degree Requirements, please refer to the Graduate Policies & Procedures Handbook at: http://graduatedivision.ucmerced.edu/faculty-staff-resources/forms-publications.
For specific details regarding doctoral degree requirements, please refer to the graduate program/emphasis website.
