Graduation Information
Comprehensive Exam
The purpose of the comprehensive examination in the master’s program is to show a mastery of knowledge within the field of training and development. Essentially, in one form or another, you will be asked to problem solve, analyze and evaluate a case in a training and development context, and synthesize for the reader your understanding through recommendations about the case. Part of the task is to select an appropriate (theoretical or research based) framework from which to write an analysis and evaluation of the case. An additional focus needs to be on support for your judgments and what you say in response to the case by citing the research or theoretical models found in the literature in the training and development field. The response needs to go beyond the foundations you have learned in your course work to demonstrate your knowledge of a broader, more comprehensive scope of reading and subsequent reflection by you in this field.
This is a take-home, open book exam that must be completed over a weekend period (8:30 AM Friday- 4:30 PM Monday). Your response to the question(s) is limited to ten (10) double-spaced typed (printed) pages, including your bibliography. APA style is required. You will be assigned an identification number, which you should include at the top of each page of your response. Do not include your name or social security number on your response.
Applying for the Exam
All students wishing to take the exam must complete and return the application form before the last day to register for classes in the particular semester. Click here to open the application.
Exam Dates
Normally, the fall exam occurs the weekend before the Thanksgiving holiday, the spring exam occurs the second weekend in April, and the summer exam occurs the weekend after July 4.
Current dates for upcoming exams are:
- November 13-16, 2009 (Application Deadline: Nov 2, 2009)
- April 10-11, 2010 (Application Deadline: Mar 29, 2010)
- July 10-11, 2010 (Application Deadline: Jun 28, 2010)
- November 13-14, 2010 (Application Deadline: Nov 1, 2010)
Recommended Reading List
This reading list is provided as a resource, to assist you in the preparation of the comprehensive exam. You may reference other articles and books that are not included in the reading list. Click here to open the current list.
Graduation Requirements and Deadlines
Click on the appropriate link below to find out current information about graduation policies and important dates.
Renting Regalia
Students who participate in the commencement ceremony will pay the costs to rent regalia. The current cost for master's regalia rental is $75 and for the new specialty Ph.D. regalia rental is $150. This process is in line with other area universities. |
