Pursuit of a graduate degree is a partnership between the graduate student, the faculty advisor, and the graduate student’s committee. The graduate degree is a research-driven experience (with the exception of the M.S. Forestry – non-thesis option), with graduate coursework designed to enhance the overall background of the student. In general, the graduate student develops the thesis/dissertation research in consultation with the graduate advisor and with input from the graduate committee.
Graduate Student Responsibilities
The graduate student is responsible for designing and conducting the research, analyzing the resulting data, and writing the thesis or dissertation. In addition, the student is expected to develop several manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals during or after completing the degree requirements. The graduate student must meet the degree requirements relative to successful completion of their program of study. The student is also expected to contribute to the teaching program of the advisor and the school in general and assist with other duties associated with the advisor’s program and other school activities.
Advisor Responsibilities
The advisor is responsible for providing critical input in designing the research, providing technical and logistical support during research implementation, assisting with conducting and interpreting analyses, and providing critical review during the writing phase. When available, the advisor will also provide financial support in the form of a Graduate Research Assistantship or a Graduate Teaching Assistantship. The advisor also should provide input on the student’s program of study and encourage other professional development activities for the student, such as attending and presenting at professional meetings, and attaining other skills to enhance the student’s overall portfolio.
