Bioengineering

Ph.D. Student Handbook

Ph.D. Student Graduation

Since all PhD candidates at the University of Pennsylvania are governed by procedures established in the SAS Graduate Office, Engineering PhD candidates should be aware that their applications for graduation are processed in the SAS Graduate Office and that their dissertation is submitted there.

The SAS Graduate Office firmly observes the deadlines they establish, so it is important to adhere to their requirements.

Early application for graduation is necessary to ensure that grades, dissertation preparation and/or revisions, and financial obligations can be fulfilled by the deadline for graduation. Also, the process for ordering and printing diplomas can take up to three months.

Candidates for PhD degrees need to apply for graduation online.

Graduation Checklist

1: Dissertation Instructions

Obtain dissertation instructions from 111 Towne Building or online early in the writing stage.

2: Communication with Advisor

Confer with your adviser and inform him or her of the need for a timely reading and signature before graduation.

3: Apply to Graduate

Fill out the application form well in advance of the deadline.

4: Have Finances in Order

Make sure that your financial obligations are cleared before the end of the final semester.

5: Confirm Academic Record

Check that your academic record is complete, and that appropriate courses have been taken for the degree. Students who have completed all requirements for the degree before their final semester should obtain an exemption from registration form in 111 Towne Building.

6: Order Academic Regalia

Order cap and gown from the University Bookstore in early March if you wish to participate in the May graduation ceremony. May is the only formal graduation ceremony. (Students who graduate in August or December of the preceding year are invited to attend the May ceremony. Students anticipating graduation in the same year may request, by approval, to participate in the May ceremony.)