M.S. Recommended Schedule

Prior to First Semester

Identify a general area of study interest
Identify an academic and research advisor

First Semester

Take formal coursework. Credit load may vary depending on time commitments for teaching or research assistantships
Become familiar with nutrition facilities and programs
Develop a plan of study in conjunction with advisor
Identify an area of thesis research interest in conjunction with advisor
Identify members of the M.S. Thesis Committee
In conjunction with advisor determine opportunities for research and/or field experiences

Second Semester

Take formal coursework
Schedule M.S. Thesis committee meeting during the semester to:
• Discuss and develop a specific Thesis topic and a plan of action for its completion
• Discuss progress made in coursework and any courses the committee feels are necessary for the student to take
By the end of the second semester a detailed thesis research proposal should be written and submitted to the thesis committee.
Begin thesis research as early as appropriate

Third Semester

Take formal coursework
Continue thesis research. Determine journals and other media which would be most appropriate to publish findings of research

Fourth Semester

Continue formal coursework as required to complete plan of study
Complete thesis research and write thesis
Schedule public seminar and final oral defense of thesis with committee. This should be scheduled at least two weeks in advance
Prepare final draft (from thesis) of journal article(s), and as appropriate, other types of publications
Graduate

During the summer, students are expected to pursue thesis research and participate in Regional or National technical meetings as appropriate. Students are expected to attend Departmental Semiars and are encouraged to attend other seminars that are of interest.

Although the Graduate Program and Admissions Committee feels that research projects should get underway no later than the second semester, it is appropriate to begin research earlier.