Template for Graduate Degree Handbook

The Graduate School’s Graduate Student Handbook sets out the academic rules, procedures, and deadlines, and is intended to guide students from the initial step of registering to degree completion. However, each PhD program is unique, making a program- or department-specific handbook a necessary complement. From a graduate student perspective, their program handbook is an orienting document that can provide guidance at every stage of their academic journey. Moreover, a handbook provides transparency regarding departmental policies, expectations, and practices. Therefore, a well-conceptualized departmental handbook can be an effective tool that makes visible the “hidden curriculum” of a Ph.D. program and academic success in a given discipline.

Given the diverse requirements of graduate programs, there is significant variation among available handbooks. Some schools, like Isenberg School of Management and Ellen Marieb College of Nursing, have a single handbook covering common elements for all PhD programs, with specific sections for each program. This structure suits schools with closely related disciplines. However, other departments within different schools have their own distinct handbooks, reflecting varied needs. Therefore, we refrain from enforcing uniformity across all PhD handbooks, recognizing the individuality of each school, department, and program. Instead, we offer guidance to ensure handbooks contain essential information, drawing from existing formats at UMass Amherst. While our focus is on PhD handbooks, the suggestions can be adapted for master’s programs.

Full "Best Practices for Graduate Degree Handbooks" document