The Second Year Qualifying Exam (SYQE) is an important checkpoint on the path to PhD candidacy. Comprised of a written report and an oral defense, the SYQE is intended to assess work ethic and motivation, basic research skills, and knowledge of the literature.
Scholars are required to enroll in CHEM 798B to document their learning and achievement with the SYQE. The specific effort, timeline, and evaluation criteria for the SYQE is guided by the syllabus for this course.
Scholars must receive an “S” grade in CHEM 798B to progress in the chemistry PhD program.
- If a scholar does not receive an “S” grade, they will be placed on probation and must successfully return to good standing within one semester to continue in the PhD program. In order to return to good standing, the scholar must re-enroll in CHEM 798B in the semester following the first attempt and successfully complete the course by receiving an “S.” The re-test date should be set no later than seven weeks before the end of the term in which it will take place (mid-semester).
- Feedback to scholar in the event of a re-test: If a re-test is required, the primary research mentor will compose a written summary of feedback from the milestone meeting. The summary will include a specific timeline for the re-test, an explanation of what elements of the milestone were not satisfied, and clear expectations (in line with the re-test timeframe provided) for what the scholar will need to accomplish to successfully complete the milestone. The written summary should be shared with the scholar and the graduate program within one week of the milestone exam. The scholar and mentor are encouraged to develop a detailed study and research plan that elaborates on the summary to facilitate the scholar’s development and successful completion of the milestone in the timeframe provided.