This policy applies to all PhD students in the Biological Sciences Division (BSD) who wish to transfer between graduate programs. The BSD provides significant flexibility in mentor selection, with many graduate programs allowing students to work with faculty beyond their appointed training faculty. While this flexibility minimizes the need for program transfers, students may request a transfer when their research interests become better aligned with another graduate program. This policy ensures students can pursue their evolving research interests while maintaining the academic standards of the BSD.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for transfer, students must be in good academic standing. The transfer must occur with sufficient time remaining to complete all degree requirements of the new program, including required coursework and examinations. The accepting program will conduct a formal review of the student's academic record, typically through its Curriculum Committee, to determine which requirements must be fulfilled.
Approval Process
Transfer requests require approval from three parties:
- The student's current graduate program
- The proposed new graduate program
- The BSD Associate Dean for Education, Graduate Education
Both the releasing and accepting programs must submit formal notification to Dean of Students Office (DOS), with final approval granted by the Associate Dean for Education, Graduate Education. The transfer will then be processed according to standard University procedures.
Transfers to a New Division or School
For transfers to a new division or school, the policies and procedures of the accepting unit apply. DOS will forward copies of the student's academic record upon request by the accepting unit. All transfers within the University's Academic Information System are subject to existing institutional policies and procedures.