It is very possible, and desirable, to complete the degree in two years. The Department offers the required courses so that this is possible. In the first year a student will complete the required seminars, some elective courses and perhaps get some experience as a teaching assistant. In the second year the student will complete any remaining elective courses and write a thesis. Normally, students begin to think about and plan a thesis via a mock thesis proposal in Cine 700, Introduction to Graduate Study, taken in the first semester of enrollment. The student then refines or develops the thesis proposal in 897 in the fall of the second year, normally by working with the person who they wish to supervise the thesis. By taking Cine 898 in the spring, a student receives another 3 units of credit for writing the thesis (the expectation is that this will be a solid but modest term paper of no more than 30-35 pages). This can be completed in time for graduation at the end of the second year. Many students chose to give some time in second year to gaining additional teaching experience, doing part-time work or an internship, or taking additional courses. This may delay progress toward the degree but nearly all students are able to complete the program in three years at the most. The university allows seven years as a maximum limit.
How long does it take to get my degree?
