Graduate Time Limitation on Program Completion Policy

Custodian of Policy: Graduate Council

Relevant Minnesota State System Policy

Effective Date: Fall 2020

Last Review: Fall 2020

Next Review: Fall 2027

Policy

All requirements for the master's, specialist, and doctorate degrees must be completed within ten (10) years after completion of the first graduate course taken after program admission. All courses submitted for degree requirements, including transfer credits, must be within the ten (10) year time limit. Some graduate programs have specific time requirements for degree completion. Check with your individual graduate program for verification.

A student, in consultation with his/her advisor, may file an appeal with the Office of Graduate and Extended Learning for an extension of the time limitation. Extensions may be for one semester or a full year. Extensions will be considered on a per case basis. If the student has not finished the degree towards the end of a second extension, he/she must consult with his/her advisor and the Dean of Graduate and Extended Learning to determine if another extension is warranted. Any extension given may require a detailed plan of completion as well as additional or repeated course work and/or research. This will be determined by the graduate program coordinator and the Dean of Graduate and Extended Learning at the time that the extension is approved.

Students may also file an appeal with the Office of Graduate and Extended Learning to include courses beyond the 10 year time limit.