Master of Science Degree (non-thesis) En Route to the Doctor of Philosophy

A student enrolled in the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in Food Science may be eligible to receive the Master of Science (MS) degree en route to the PhD as an intermediate academic milestone during doctoral study. This degree is intended to recognize meaningful progress in graduate education and research training and to provide an additional academic credential while the student continues in the PhD program.

The MS degree en route to the PhD is not an exit option and does not replace, reduce, or modify any requirements for the PhD degree. Students who are awarded the MS degree through this route remain fully subject to all doctoral requirements, milestones, and standards of satisfactory progress established by the program, the Graduate School, and the University.

Eligibility

A PhD student may apply to receive the MS degree en route to the PhD when all of the following conditions have been met:

1. The student is enrolled in the Food Science PhD program. 
2. The student is in good academic standing (GPA >3.0). 
3. The student has completed the coursework and credit requirements designated by the Food Science graduate program for the non-thesis MS degree en route to the PhD. 
4. The student has obtained approval from the research advisor. 
5. The student has obtained approval from the Graduate Program Director. 

All students must also satisfy any applicable Graduate School and University requirements for the award of the master’s degree.

Application and Approval Process

The process for awarding the MS degree en route to the PhD shall be as follows:

1. Student Application

The student shall submit an application requesting award of the MS degree en route to the PhD. The application must include documentation demonstrating completion of the required coursework and other program requirements, including passing of a general exam.

2. Research Advisor Approval

The student’s research advisor shall review the application and determine whether the student is making satisfactory progress in doctoral training. Approval by the research advisor signifies that, in the advisor’s judgment, the student has demonstrated satisfactory academic progress, research progress, and professional performance, and that award of the MS degree is appropriate as an intermediate milestone within the doctoral pathway.

3. Graduate Program Director Approval

Following approval by the research advisor, the application shall be reviewed by the Graduate Program Director. The Graduate Program Director shall determine whether the student has met the program requirements for award of the MS degree en route to the PhD and whether the application is complete and appropriate for processing.

4. Administrative Processing

Upon approval by both the research advisor and the Graduate Program Director, the student shall complete all required administrative procedures for award of the master’s degree in accordance with Graduate School and University policies.

Approval Authority

Routine applications that meet all stated requirements shall be approved through the following sequence only:

Student application → Research Advisor Approval → Graduate Program Director Approval

Routine applications do not require review or vote by the Graduate Program Committee.

Non-Routine Cases

If questions or concerns arise regarding eligibility, academic standing, research progress, professional conduct, or any other relevant matter, the Graduate Program Director may refer the application to the Graduate Program Committee for further review and recommendation.

Academic Significance of the Degree

The MS degree en route to the PhD is intended to serve as a meaningful milestone in doctoral education. Award of the degree reflects achievement beyond coursework alone and recognizes satisfactory progress in advanced graduate study and research development. The degree is awarded only when the student has met the requirements established by the program and received the required approvals.

Effect on Doctoral Status and Requirements

Students who receive the MS degree through this route are expected to continue in the PhD program and fulfill all remaining doctoral requirements.

Administrative Implementation

The Graduate Program Director, in consultation with program staff, shall develop any forms, checklists, instructions, deadlines, and related administrative procedures necessary to implement this policy.