Policy 1.7: Graduate Degree Types

This policy defines the major types of graduate degrees overseen by the Graduate School and describes the distinguishing purposes, academic orientations, and expectations associated with each degree type.

In accordance with Executive Order VII, the Graduate School is responsible for supervising the content and academic level of programs leading to all master’s degrees and all doctoral degrees except the MD, JD, PharmD, and DDS.

In fulfilling this responsibility, the Graduate School adheres to the standards for graduate education established by the University of Washington’s accrediting body, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

Graduate degree programs may prepare students for scholarship that contributes to new knowledge, or they may be practice-oriented programs that prepare students to apply new or existing knowledge toward specific professional or personal goals.

1.7.1 Master’s Degrees

Master’s degrees vary widely in content and outcomes but emphasize advanced disciplinary training and the acquisition of specialized knowledge or high-level skills beyond the bachelor’s degree. These programs support a wide range of educational, professional, and personal goals. Depending on the field, master’s programs may be applied, practice-oriented, research-oriented, or combine multiple approaches.

1.7.2 Educational Specialist Degrees

Educational specialist degrees are advanced, practice-oriented degrees designed for educators. These programs provide specialized education beyond the master’s level.

1.7.3 Practice Doctorates

Practice doctorates prepare students for professional practice at the frontiers of existing knowledge. These degrees emphasize the practical application of knowledge in a specific field and equip students with advanced skills for professional practice. They are distinguished from research doctorates in that they do not focus on the creation of new knowledge and do not require a dissertation. The culminating experience in a practice doctorate focuses on meeting the demands of highly technical professional or clinical environments.

Graduates of practice doctorate programs—such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and Doctor of Global Health Leadership and Practice—are prepared for leadership roles within their professional fields.

1.7.4 Research Doctorates

Research doctorates are advanced, research-oriented degrees awarded to individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of mastery of the intellectual principles in a specific field of study and who have made a significant contribution to new knowledge in that field. These degrees include the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) as well as other doctoral degrees that prepare graduates for professional practice or artistic endeavor at the frontiers of existing knowledge while also requiring an original scholarly contribution in the form of a dissertation.

For all research doctorates, the dissertation consists of original research conducted under the guidance of an appropriate faculty advisor and other university faculty in the field. Prior to receiving the degree, the doctoral candidate (defined in SGP 114.7. A) must complete this original research and successfully defend it during the dissertation defense (final examination).

Research doctorates are distinguished from doctoral programs designed primarily for professional training or applied research related to professional practice, such as practice doctorates, as well as from doctoral degrees not overseen by the Graduate School (MD, JD, DDS, and PharmD). Graduates of research doctoral programs are prepared for careers in which they lead innovative research initiatives and mentor future scholars and practitioners.

[Note: See Graduate School Policy 1.1 for degree requirements.]

Policy 1.7 revised: February, 1985; June 2010; December 2022; March 2024; May 2026

Policy 1.6: Sequential Combined Undergraduate/Graduate (CUG) Degrees

Graduate programs may create a sequential combined undergraduate/graduate (CUG) degree program according to the following guidelines. The program must submit a proposal to the Office of Academic Affairs and Planning in the Graduate School for each degree combination.

View the guidelines for proposals →

The intent of a CUG program is to allow exceptional University of Washington undergraduate students a seamless transition from undergraduate education into graduate education at the University of Washington. The CUG allows students to identify and plan a graduate course of study during junior year as an undergraduate, in consultation with the student’s program advisor(s). In addition, CUG programs may allow a defined amount of graduate-level coursework that was completed as an undergraduate to count toward the graduate degree, as detailed below.

1.6.1 Admissions

The CUG program is responsible for creating a CUG program admissions process. Admission will occur no earlier than when a student has junior standing. The admission processes for students applying to the CUG while still in their undergraduate course of study is managed by the CUG program and does not include a Graduate School application until students are ready to transition into the graduate program. The specific timeline and CUG admissions criteria will be outlined by the specific program the student is applying to, and application to the CUG program will be open to all students meeting the published CUG program admissions criteria. The qualifications for admission to the CUG program must assure that students have the appropriate background to successfully complete the program. The student is responsible for applying to the Graduate School and meeting the minimum Graduate School admissions requirements before being allowed to enroll as a graduate student.

Students will not be registered simultaneously as both an undergraduate and a graduate student. Until the undergraduate degree is awarded, students are considered undergraduates with regard to all policy and tuition considerations. Undergraduate degree and credit requirements must be fully satisfied, at which point the bachelor’s degree will be awarded and the student will officially enter the graduate program. The program will create clear set of minimum requirements for CUG continuation.

The graduate program may design different admissions criteria to the graduate program for CUG students, for example waiving the GRE requirement. No more than one year may elapse between undergraduate degree completion and enrolling in the graduate program. The program may set a shorter limit.

1.6.2 Credit Applied toward the Graduate Degree

The graduate program will define a policy regarding the amount and type of previously approved, 400-level and 500-level coursework taken as an undergraduate that can be applied toward the graduate degree, with a maximum of 12 credits allowed. These credits must be taken as an undergraduate student, but after admission to the CUG program, and must fulfill the specified graduate degree requirements. Courses numbered 600 (Independent Study or Research), 601 (Internship), or 700 (Master’s Thesis) may not be taken before the student is registered as a graduate student.

1.6.3 Time Limits

Students must comply with program-determined time limits for completion of the graduate degree, beginning from the time of entry to the Graduate School. In the absence of program-determined time limits, the Graduate School defaults described in Policy 1.1 apply (6 years for a master’s program; 10 years for a doctoral program).

1.6.4 Graduate Student Appointments

Students may be appointed as an Academic Student Employee (ASE) in a graduate student service appointment as soon as enrolled as a graduate student. The student may hold an undergraduate ASE appointment until that time.

1.6.5 Advising

Upon the student’s acceptance to the CUG program, the unit is responsible for providing coordinated advising and for creating clear documentation about the plan of study. Both student and advisor must sign off on a written plan, to be included in the student’s record (kept on file by the program).

Policy 1.6 created March 2008. Revised: January 2015; October 2021

Policy 1.6.1 revised February 2024

Policy 1.5: Concurrent Degree Programs

Concurrent programs are defined as a pair of programs that may be pursued at the UW by a post-baccalaureate student resulting in completion of the requirements for either two graduate degrees or a graduate and a professional degree as defined in Executive Order VII. Graduate School policy allows for both formal and informal concurrent degree programs, as described below.

In all cases, it is the responsibility of the student to submit a written list of courses which apply toward each respective degree at the time the student files an application for the master’s degree or schedules the general examination. This list must be approved by both programs

[See: Guidance (Academic Requirements) – Concurrent Degree Graduation Review].

[Note: Concurrent enrollment in two or more degree programs may have significant impact on student tuition and fees. See Student Fiscal Services for more information on tuition and fees when students are concurrently enrolled.]

1.5.1 Formal Concurrent Degree Programs

Graduate School policy defines a formal concurrent degree program as a curriculum established by two participating academic units resulting in completion of two graduate degrees or a graduate and a professional degree. Formal concurrent degree programs must be reviewed and approved by the Graduate School, and students in formal concurrent degree programs are designated by unique program codes.

There are two types of formal concurrent degree programs: Concurrent Graduate Degrees and Concurrent Graduate and Professional Degrees.

1.5.1.1 Graduate/Graduate Concurrent Degrees

The Graduate School allows formal concurrent degree programs which lead to the awarding of two graduate degrees. The Graduate Program Coordinators (or their delegates) in the two programs involved are responsible for providing information and assistance to students engaged in concurrent programs.

Both programs must approve the shared credits counting toward both degrees.

1.5.1.1.1 Admission

An applicant who is not currently a student at the University of Washington must submit an application and fee for each program. Both programs must offer admission before admission into the concurrent degree program is granted.

Students who are currently enrolled must submit an application and fee for the second program, indicating on the application that the intent is to complete both degrees rather than to transfer to the second program.

1.5.1.1.2 Graduate Student Status

Students in concurrent graduate programs can maintain graduate student status by registering for graduate credits in either program or being approved for on-leave status by both programs.

1.5.1.1.3 Requirements

To earn two master’s degrees through a formal concurrent degree program, a student must complete at least 72 total credits. Of these credits, a minimum of 60 must be unshared, meaning they may be applied to only one degree. The unshared credits must include at least 24 credits uniquely applied to each degree. Credits beyond the required 60 unshared credits may be shared between the two degrees, subject to program approval. A shared thesis is permitted only if explicitly approved as part of the formal concurrent degree program proposal.

For formal doctoral/master’s degree concurrent programs, credits earned toward a doctoral degree may be counted toward one-third of the required credits of a master’s degree in another program. [Note: Credit values are rounded down to the nearest whole number].

Formal concurrent PhD programs are not permitted.

1.5.1.2 Graduate/Professional Concurrent Degrees

The Graduate School allows formal concurrent degree programs which lead to the awarding of a professional degree (those established as exceptions in Executive Order VII.2) and a graduate degree.

The Graduate Program Coordinator of the graduate program (or their delegate) and the equivalent role for the professional degree program are responsible for providing information and assistance to students engaged in concurrent programs.

1.5.1.2.1 Admission

An applicant who is not currently a student at the University must apply for admission to both the professional school and the Graduate School.

A student currently in a professional program at the University of Washington must submit a Graduate School application and fee.

A current graduate student must submit an application and fee for the professional program as required by that program.

1.5.1.2.2 Graduate Student Status

Graduate School minimum requirements as described in Policy 1.1 must be met by appropriate graduate courses. Required credits beyond the Graduate School minimums may be earned through professional degree program courses, as described in the concurrent degree program proposal.

1.5.1.2.3 Requirements

All graduate program and Graduate School minimum requirements must be met by appropriate graduate courses. It is the responsibility of the student to submit a written list of courses which apply toward the graduate degree at the time the student applies for the graduate degree. This list must be approved by both programs.

1.5.2 Informal Concurrent Degree Programs

Students may pursue two degrees from different departments simultaneously in an informal concurrent degree program. These programs have not been approved as formal concurrent programs and do not have unique program codes, but students have flexibility to ‘share’ coursework, given the approval of both programs.

1.5.2.1 Graduate Student Status

Current graduate students wishing to pursue an informal concurrent degree program must go to the Graduate School online application and submit an application and fee for the second program.

1.5.2.2 Registration

Students in concurrent graduate programs can maintain graduate student status by registering for graduate credits in either program or being approved for on-leave status by both programs.

1.5.2.3 Requirements for students first enrolling prior to Autumn Quarter 2023 and maintaining continuous enrollment

To earn two master’s degrees, a student must fulfill Graduate School degree requirements for each degree for a minimum of 72 credits. If one or both of the individual programs require more than the minimum of 36 credits, those additional credits may be ‘shared’ and applied to both degrees. However, the total number of credits must be at least 72 and both programs must approve the shared credits counting toward both degrees. Theses and thesis credits may not be shared.

With the approval of both degree-offering units, up to 12 credits earned toward a PhD degree may be counted toward a master’s degree in another program.

It is the responsibility of the student to submit a written list of courses which apply toward each respective degree at the time the student files an application for the master’s degree or schedules the general examination. This list must be approved by both programs.

1.5.2.4 Requirements for students first enrolling Autumn Quarter 2023 or later

To earn two master’s degrees in an informal concurrent degree program, a student must complete a minimum of 72 total credits. Of these credits, a minimum of 60 must be unshared, meaning they may be applied to only one degree. The unshared credits must include at least 24 credits uniquely applied to each degree. Once these conditions are met, up to one‑third of the required credits for each degree may be shared and applied to both degrees [Note: Credit values are rounded down to the nearest whole number; a portion of course cannot be shared]. All shared credits must be approved by both programs.

For informal concurrent degrees, theses and thesis credits may not be shared.

With the approval of both degree-offering units, credits earned toward a doctoral degree may be counted toward one-third of the required credits of a master’s degree in another program.

When a Ph.D. and practice doctorate are earned concurrently, departments may petition the Graduate School to count 30 specified credits toward the total minimum credit count of each degree, for a total minimum of 150 credits. Core credits for either degree, as (defined as part of the core curriculum by the graduate program) may not be included in these 30 credits applied to both degrees, and this option may not be used on top of previously waived credits for either degree. It is the responsibility of each unit to ensure that the credits applied toward its degree are relevant to that degree. The student must meet Graduate School minimum requirements (18 credits 500 level and above, 18 numerically graded 400/500 level credits) for each degree.

Concurrent PhD programs are not permitted.

Policy 1.5 revised: June 1996; April 2022; January 2023; May 2026

Policy 1.5.1.1 & 2 revised January 2023

Policy 1.4: The Stacked Graduate Degree

A “stacked degree” is a master’s or practice doctorate program that requires students to complete one or more graduate certificates along with additional requirements to earn the degree, distinguishing it from degree programs in which any certificate completion is optional. Stacked degrees and the graduate certificates they are comprised of will appear as credentials on the student transcript.

1.4.1 Stacked Graduate Degree Program Requirements

1.4.1.1 Alignment with degree and certificate requirements

The combination of graduate certificates and additional requirements that comprise the stacked degree must ensure that students meet coursework/credit requirements (e.g., course levels, minimum credits, minimum graded credit, culminating experience) described in Policy 1.1 for each degree type.
All graduate certificates must follow the policies outlined in Policy 1.2.
Graduate certificates that are part of a stacked degree may be earned independently or combined to apply towards degree requirements

1.4.1.2 Curricular coherence

The title of a stacked graduate degree must clearly reflect the academic focus of the degree program.
A stacked degree with a stated goal of integrating curriculum across disciplines (such as those including “interdisciplinary” or “multidisciplinary” in their degree title) must establish an interdisciplinary curriculum oversight committee that includes at least one representative from the administrative home of each certificate that can count towards the degree.
Stacked degree programs that allow students to complete different combinations of graduate certificates to earn the same credential must ensure consistent learning outcomes and/or competencies for all students in the degree program and result in a coherent body of study.
For degree programs that involve certificates in different colleges or schools (cross-college stacked degrees), courses listed for one credential may not appear in the curriculum of any other credential within the stacked master’s degree.
[NOTE: The graduate certificates that can apply toward a stacked degree must be established in the program proposal. The addition of graduate certificate options to stacked degree program requires a program change proposal.]

1.4.1.3 Coursework that may be applied towards stacked degree requirements

6 credits of previous graduate work, including transfer and graduate non-mariculated (GNM) credit, may be applied toward each certificate per Policy 1.2. The total number of such credits applied toward the stacked degree are limited to 12, per Policy 1.1.

1.4.2 Continuous enrollment and time to completion

The Graduate School does not mandate continuous enrollment for stacked credentials. Re-entry policy is described in SGP 102.7.F
Time to stacked degree completion requirements will be made at the program level and described in the program proposal and student handbook. In the absence of program level policy, the time period to complete the stacked degree will align with those described in Policy 1.1 for each degree type.
Program guidelines and/or student handbooks must address:
- Program expectations regarding performance and progress requirements.
- Key academic milestones and expected timelines, as defined by the program.
- Time limits for specific coursework or graduate certificates to apply towards stacked degree requirements, considering that some content may become outdated if time to completion requirements are especially long.

1.4.3 Admissions

Students must be admitted to the relevant graduate certificate programs before, or at the same time as, their admission to the stacked degree program for which the certificates are required.
Admission into each certificate program must be based on the certificate’s stated admissions criteria; an application to a stacked degree program may not be used as a primary factor in certificate admissions decisions. Certificate programs that consider a student’s stated plans to pursue a stacked degree must disclose this in their published admissions materials.

Policy 1.4 created: July 2022; revised: December 2022; April 2024; January 2025; March 2025; March 2026

Policy 1.3: Graduate Programs and Credentials

Policy 1.3 defines the relationship between a graduate degree program or graduate certificate program and the transcripted credentials associated with it. This policy applies only to new and significantly revised graduate programs after June 2019.

The Graduate Programs and Credentials Companion Document provides additional information on policy implementation, including review and approval roles of the Graduate School and the Graduate School Council.

1.3.1 Definitions

For the purposes of Policy 1.3, the following definitions apply:

Academic unit. The administrative entity such as a department, school, college, or interdisciplinary group that is ‘qualified’ (Executive Order No. VII) to offer a graduate degree program or graduate certificate program.

Graduate Degree Program. A set of defined activities and outcomes under the authority of the graduate faculty of an academic unit that results in completion of a graduate degree as defined in Policy 1.1. The graduate degree program title generally indicates the type of degree (Master of Arts; Master of Science; Doctor of Philosophy; etc.) plus a the general area of study (Classics; Chemistry; Immunology); or graduate degree program title may indicate a designated degree title only (Master of Business Administration; Master of Supply Chain Management; Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies; etc.). Upon creation, a graduate degree program is reviewed by the Graduate School Council and approved by the Board of Regents.

Graduate Certificate Program. A set of defined activities and outcomes delivered by the graduate faculty of an academic unit that results in completion of a graduate certificate, as defined in Policy 1.2. The graduate certificate program title normally indicates the certificate title only (Graduate Certificate in Real Estate; Graduate Certificate in Textual and Digital Studies; etc.). Upon creation, a graduate certificate program is reviewed by the Graduate School Council and approved by the Board of Regents.

Graduate Program. Collective term that encompasses both graduate degree programs and graduate certificate programs.

Diploma Title. Upon completion of a graduate degree program, the degree title without the general area of study appears on the diploma (e.g., Master of Arts, Master of Science, Doctor of Philosophy, Master of Business Administration, Doctor of Nursing Practice). Graduate Certificates do not appear on the diploma.

Credential. The credential is the outcome of a specific program of study and is what is noted on the student transcript. The credential title will include indication of the overarching graduate program designation (e.g., Master of Arts (Classics); Master of Science (Chemistry); Master of Business Administration; Doctor of Philosophy (Immunology); Graduate Certificate in…), and may include an additional area of specialization. The program of study leading to each unique credential must be distinct, but it must also share substantial curricular components with all other credentials associated with the overarching graduate program as described below. The transcript may reflect an abbreviated credential title.

Program of Study. A program of study encompasses the academic requirements leading to a specific transcripted credential.

1.3.2 General

A graduate degree program or graduate certificate program as described above must have at least one, but may have multiple, transcripted credentials associated with it. Each unique credential must correspond to a program of study with distinct academic outcomes. The overarching graduate program title will be assigned to any curriculum or credential associated with that program.

For example, a unit with multiple graduate programs and the associated credentials:

Academic Unit [e.g., Foster School of Business]
- Graduate Program A [e.g., Doctor of Philosophy]
  - Credential A1 [e.g., Doctor of Philosophy (Business Administration)]
Graduate Program B [e.g., Master of Science in Information Systems]
- Credential B1 [e.g., Master of Science in Information Systems]
Graduate Program C [e.g., Master of Business Administration]
- Credential C1 [e.g., Master of Business Administration]
- Credential C2 [e.g., Master of Business Administration (Information Systems)]
- Credential C3 [e.g., Master of Business Administration (Environmental Management)]
Graduate program D [e.g., Graduate Certificate in…]
- Credential D1 [e.g., Graduate Certificate in…]
etc.

1.3.3 Common Elements: Minimum Similarity of Programs of Study Associated with a Graduate Program

All programs of study under an approved graduate degree program or graduate certificate program must share a set of common elements which define core components of the overarching graduate program. The graduate faculty of the academic unit authorized to offer the graduate program must define these common elements and how these common elements relate to program outcomes when creating or when significantly changing a graduate program or the program of study leading to a distinct credential under that program.

1.3.3.1 Common Elements for a Graduate Certificate Program

For a graduate certificate program, the common elements included in each credential associated with the certificate must constitute a minimum of 9 course credits.

1.3.3.2 Common Elements for a Master’s Degree Program

For a master’s degree program, the common elements included in each credential associated with the graduate degree program must constitute a minimum of 50% of the program of study, as evidenced by one or more of the following:

shared course or credit requirements;
shared learning outcomes;
shared competencies.

The common elements may be defined by any portion of the program of study with the exception of: 600 Independent Study or Research; 700 Master’s Thesis. The common elements need not contain the coursework used to fulfill the Graduate School minimum requirements (graded coursework; 500-level coursework; transfer credit; etc.). Likewise, transfer or other credit may be applied to any portion of the degree requirements, independent of their inclusion as part of the common elements, if otherwise deemed acceptable by the program and the Graduate School.

1.3.3.3 Common Elements for a Doctoral Degree Program

For a doctoral degree program, the common elements included in each credential associated with the graduate degree program must constitute at least 50% of the program of study, as evidenced by one or more of the following:

shared course or credit requirements;
shared learning outcomes;
shared competencies.

For doctoral programs with a dissertation, the dissertation must significantly overlap with the overall goals of the doctoral program as well as reflect the distinct academic focus of the specific credential. The common elements may be defined by any portion of the program of study with the exception of: 600 Independent Study or Research; 700 Master’s Thesis; 800 Doctoral Dissertation; 801 Practice Doctorate Project/Capstone. The common elements need not contain the coursework used to fulfill the Graduate School minimum requirements (graded coursework; 500-level coursework; transfer credit; etc.). Likewise, transfer or other credit may be applied to any portion of the degree requirements, independent of their inclusion as part of the common elements, if otherwise deemed acceptable by the program and the Graduate School.

1.3.4 Minimum Distinction of a Graduate Certificate Credential

A unique credential associated with a graduate certificate program must include a coherent curricular focus that constitutes a minimum of 6 credits. This curricular focus and the associated credits (1) must lead to a defined set of distinct learning outcomes or competencies; (2) must not be part of the defined common elements for that graduate program; and (3) a minimum of 6 credits must not be a required component of the course of study leading to any other credential under that graduate program.

1.3.5 Minimum Distinction of a Graduate Degree Credential

A unique credential associated with a graduate degree program must include a coherent curricular focus that constitutes a minimum of 9 credits, or the equivalent of 9 credits measured by learning outcomes or competencies. This curricular focus and the associated credits (1) must lead to a defined set of distinct learning outcomes or competencies; (2) must not be part of the defined common elements for that graduate program; and (3) a minimum of 9 of the credits that define the credential must not be a required component of the course of study leading to any other credential under that graduate program.

1.3.6 Credit Requirements and Relationship between Credentials under a Single Graduate Program

Requirements for different credentials under a graduate program may lead to the same total credit requirements (e.g., if specific requirements for one credential replace elective requirements for another credential). Alternately, requirements for one credential may lead to a larger number of required credits than for another credential.

1.3.7 Multiple Credentials under a Graduate Program

Note: There is currently a moratorium on dual transcripting of multiple credentials under a single degree program for an individual student, as described in Policy 1.3.7 below, beyond those already approved as of Spring Quarter 2016.

When multiple credentials exist under a graduate degree program, these may be structured by the graduate program to allow for completion and transcripting of multiple programs of study that are normally each associated with a single credential. In this case, the multiple areas of academic content will be reflected on the student transcript as part of a single graduate degree. This requires review and approval by the Graduate School at the graduate program level, such that multiple credentials will not be awarded to individual students unless the program has been previously approved to offer this.^[5]

Policy 1.3 created: June 2019

Policy 1.2: Graduate Certificates

A graduate certificate program is a small coherent body of graduate-level study that culminates in a capstone or equivalent unifying experience. Graduate certificates are intended to enhance the education of matriculated graduate or professional students beyond their regular course of study, to provide students access to graduate education as a standalone graduate credential or serve as components of a stacked master’s degree [See Policy 1.4]. Graduate certificates are not open to undergraduate students.

[Note: Completed graduate certificates are recorded on the student’s UW transcript. UW also offers certificates that are not recorded on the UW transcript, for example certificates offered by UW Continuum College. These non-transcripted certificates are distinct from graduate certificates and are not under purview of the Graduate School.]

1.2.1 Requirements

1.2.1.1 General

Students who are admitted to the University of Washington through a graduate certificate are matriculated graduate students and must meet the admission standards described in Policy 3.1.

The curriculum must constitute a coherent body of study that culminates in a capstone or equivalent unifying experience.

Time-to-completion limits should be established at the program level and clearly communicated to all newly enrolled students. In the absence of program-level limits, the Graduate School’s default policy is that all work applied to the certificate must be completed within six years from the time of first enrollment in a class applied toward the certificate. Periods spent on leave or out of status count toward this time. Students nearing or past the program’s limit should be placed on Academic Alert (potentially leading to Final Academic Alert and Academic Drop; Policy 3.7.3). Extensions of time to degree limits can be made at the program level.
- Within the time-to-completion limit, graduate certificates can be awarded even if a student has not maintained registration.
- Programs must petition to award graduate certificates past the time-to-completion limit.

1.2.1.2 Coursework

A graduate certificate must include a minimum of 15 credits, nine of which must be earned in courses numbered 500 and above, and nine of which must be from numerically graded courses.
Courses at the 300 level and 400 level may be part of a student’s course of study and applied toward graduate degree requirements when confirmed by the Graduate Faculty with oversight of a graduate program to have a level of rigor and depth appropriate to the graduate program and to have a subject matter closely aligned with the graduate certificate’s learning outcomes. Coursework at the 300 level may not be applied towards the minimum 9 graded credits.
A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 is required for courses applied to a graduate certificate, and a minimum of 2.7 is required in each course that is counted toward a graduate certificate.  Courses at the 300 level are not included in the calculation of the GPA.

1.2.2 Coursework that may be applied towards graduate certificate requirements.

1.2.2.1 Credit sharing

There are no restrictions on credit sharing between a graduate certificate and a graduate degree program. However, the culminating experiences of each certificate and degree must be distinct. Applying credits from a previously earned degree toward a certificate requires approval from the graduate program offering the certificate.
No credit sharing is allowed between graduate certificates.

1.2.2.2 Transfer Credits

With program approval and confirmation of policy compliance by the Graduate School:
- A maximum of 6 applicable Graduate Non- Matriculated (GNM) or graduate-level transfer credits may be applied towards a graduate certificate.
- A maximum of 6 credits of 400-level or 500-level coursework, taken as a senior while an undergraduate at the University of Washington, may be applied towards graduate certificate requirements.
Credit taken while enrolled as a non-matriculated student or while matriculated as a post-baccalaureate student at the University of Washington may not be applied towards graduate certificate requirements.
Credit by independent study or advanced credit examination is not transferable.

Policy 1.2 created: March 2008. Revised: June 2012, July 2022, January 2026.

Policy 1.2.1 revised November 2023

Policy 1.1: Graduate Degree Requirements

The Graduate School defines minimum degree requirements for all University of Washington graduate programs.

Individual graduate programs may have degree requirements that exceed the Graduate School minimum requirements. The Graduate Faculty with oversight of a graduate program have primary responsibility for assuring that students recommended for graduation have satisfactorily fulfilled the degree requirements for the program in which they are enrolled.

A student must meet the degree requirements in effect in the term they graduate. When proposing changes to degree requirements, programs can work with the Graduate School to establish a transitional exception plan for students enrolled before the change.

1.1.1 Requirements Applying to All Graduate Degree Programs

A graduate degree program consists of a coherent body of study beyond the baccalaureate degree that includes a meaningful progression of coursework and includes a final culminating experience or an integrated experience across the curriculum. [Note: Examples of culminating experiences include a thesis, dissertation, other creative work, capstone project, comprehensive examination, or supervised field experience. Integrated learning experiences are those that intentionally link courses, concepts, and practical activities across a program so students see how different parts of the curriculum work together.]

1.1.1.1 Minimum coursework requirements

Credits applied towards graduate degree requirements must include University of Washington coursework of (1) at least 18 credits at the 500 level and above; and (2) at least 18 numerically graded credits of 400- and 500-level coursework, excluding 499 and transfer credit (credit earned at a different institution).
Graduate degree requirements consist primarily of graduate-level coursework at the 500-level and above. Courses at the 300 level and 400 level may be part of a student’s course of study and applied toward graduate degree requirements when confirmed by the Graduate Faculty with oversight of a graduate program to have a level of rigor and depth appropriate to the graduate program and to have a subject matter closely aligned with the degree program’s outcomes.
Coursework at the 300 level may not be applied towards the minimum 18 graded credits and may not be applied towards more than one-third of total degree requirements, except by petition to the Graduate School from the graduate program.
A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 is required to earn a graduate degree, and a minimum of 2.7 is required in each course that is counted toward graduate degree requirements. [Note: per Scholastic Regulations 110, The GPA for graduate students is calculated entirely on the basis of numeric grades in 400- and 500-level courses]

1.1.1.2 Credits taken prior to program enrollment.

With program approval and confirmation of policy compliance by the Graduate School:

- Up to 6 credits of 400-level or 500-level coursework, completed as a senior while an undergraduate at the University of Washington, may be applied towards graduate degree requirements [Note: See Policy 1.6 for information on exceptions to this policy for Combined Undergraduate – Graduate (CUG) programs].
- A restricted amount of Graduate Non-Matriculated (GNM) credit may be applied towards degree requirements, as described in Policy 3.3.
Credit taken while enrolled as a non-matriculated (NM) student or while matriculated as a post-baccalaureate student at the University of Washington may not be applied towards graduate degree requirements.
Credit by independent study or advanced credit examination from UW undergraduate or other institutions cannot be applied to graduate degree requirements.
The number of credits from other institutions (transfer credits) that can be counted toward UW graduate degrees depends on the degree type as described in sections 1.1.2-1.1.5.

1.1.1.3 Culminating Experience

If included as part of the degree requirements, a program may offer multiple culminating experience options, provided that the overall level of achievement for the degree remains the same.
A student must be registered for credit the quarter in which any required exam or presentation occurs.
A student must maintain registration as a full-time or part-time graduate student for the quarter during which the degree is conferred.
The Graduate School does not require that student presentations (such as Final Examinations/Defenses, thesis presentations, or capstone presentations) be public. Programs may elect to require public presentations, but must clearly state their expectations and requirements for presentations in their program handbooks, including:
- Whether presentations are expected to be open to the public (i.e., not limited to departmental faculty or invited guests).
- How presentations are typically advertised.
- A process by which students may petition for a more limited audience. This process and the criteria used to evaluate petitions will be determined at the program-level.
- [Note: This requirement was enacted in February 2026, programs should update their handbooks by Autumn 2026]
[Note: Advertising a presentation (e.g., via email, website, or posters) is distinct from the requirement that a presentation be public. Advertising must comply with FERPA. It is a FERPA violation to publish presentation information to audiences beyond departmental faculty for students who have opted out of UW Directory Information without receiving their written (on paper or digital) permission. It is best practice to obtain documented permission (written or through forms) from all students prior to advertising their presentation.]

1.1.2 The Master’s Degree

In addition to the requirements listed under Policy 1.1.1 :

Master’s degree requirements must include a minimum of 36 credits.
Time to master’s degree limits should be established at the program level and clearly communicated to all newly enrolled students. In the absence of program-level limits, the Graduate School’s default policy is that all work applied to the master’s must be completed within six years from the time of first enrollment. Periods spent on leave or out of status count toward this time. Students nearing or past the program’s limit should be placed on Academic Alert (potentially leading to Final Academic Alert and Academic Drop; Policy 3.7.3). Extensions of time to degree limits can be made at the program level.
A master’s program must require a final culminating (such as a thesis or capstone course), or integrated experience across the curriculum except for applied professional programs when justified in the program proposal and where a coursework-only program is the standard in the field.

1.1.2.1 Coursework that may be applied towards master’s degree requirements.

With program approval and policy compliance confirmation by the Graduate School:
- A maximum of 6 quarter credits of graduate-level (500-level or equivalent) coursework taken at another recognized academic institution may be transferred and apply to UW master’s degree requirements.
- Up to 12 credits from a previously enrolled UW graduate or professional degree program may be applied toward current degree requirements. These credits may not be used to satisfy the thesis or culminating experience requirement. If a degree was completed, then credits:
  - Cannot count toward the minimum 36 total credits required for master’s degrees.
  - Cannot count toward the 18 numerically graded credits required for graduate degrees.
- Any number of credits applied to a UW graduate certificate in the same program may be counted towards master’s degree requirements. These credits may not be applied towards the degree’s thesis or culminating experience requirement.
No more than 12 credits derived from any combination of GNM credits, previous UW credits and transfer credits may be applied towards the total degree requirements. These credits may not be applied towards the thesis or culminating experience requirement.

1.1.2.2 Thesis Programs

The master’s thesis provides evidence of the graduate student’s ability to conduct independent investigation and to present the results in clear and systemic form. [Note: See Policy 4.2.1for any thesis that will include human or animal subjects.]
- The thesis must be written in the English language. If there are circumstances that warrant a thesis in another language, the program may petition the Graduate School.
- A thesis program must include a minimum of 9 thesis credits (700, per Policy 4.2).
- Thesis credits cannot be applied to requirements for a non-thesis master’s degree.

1.1.2.3 Final Examination

If a master’s program requires a final examination, it may be either oral or written. A majority of the supervisory committee (see Policy 4.2.1) must approve for satisfactory completion, and all members of the supervisory committee must certify examination results (either through a Committee Signature Form or through a department or school-level process).
If an examination is unsatisfactory, and if permitted by the graduate program, a supervisory committee may, with notification to the Graduate School, allow the student to take another examination after a period of further study. A maximum of two re-examinations is permitted.

1.1.3 The Educational Specialist Degree

In addition to the requirements listed under Policy 1.1.1 :

Educational specialist degree requirements must include a minimum of 54 credits. An educational specialist program may require more than this minimum.
Degree requirements must include at least 6 credits of capstone experience (750 – Educational Specialist Capstone, per Policy 2.1)
Time to educational specialist degree limits should be established at the program level and clearly communicated to all newly enrolled students. In the absence of program-level limits, the Graduate School’s default policy is that all work applied to the degree must be completed within six years from the time of first enrollment. Periods spent on leave or out of status count toward this time. Students nearing or past the program’s limit should be placed on Academic Alert (potentially leading to Final Academic Alert and Academic Drop; Policy 3.7.3). Extensions of time to degree limits can be made at the program level.”

1.1.3.1 Coursework that may be applied towards educational specialist degree requirements.

With program approval and confirmation of policy compliance by the Graduate School,
- Up to 12 credits from a previously enrolled UW graduate or professional degree program may be applied toward current degree requirements. These credits may not be used to satisfy the thesis or culminating experience requirement. If the previous degree was completed:
  - Credits cannot count toward the minimum 54 total credits required for educational specialist degrees.
  - Credits cannot count toward the 18 numerically graded credits required for graduate degrees.
- A maximum of 12 quarter credits of graduate-level (500-level or equivalent) coursework taken at another recognized academic institution may be transferred and apply to UW educational specialist degree requirements.
- Any number of credits applied to a UW graduate certificate in the same program may be counted towards educational specialist degree requirements. These credits may not be applied towards the degree’s capstone requirement.
No more than 12 credits derived from any combination of GNM credits, previous UW graduate credits and transfer credits may be applied towards the total degree requirements. These credits may not be applied towards the capstone requirement.

1.1.4 Doctoral Degrees other than Practice Doctorates

In addition to the requirements listed under Policy 1.1.1, the following requirements apply to all doctoral degrees other than practice doctorates:

Doctoral degree requirements must include a minimum of 90 credits beyond the baccalaureate. A doctoral degree program may require more than this minimum.
Doctoral programs require a culminating experience, with PhD programs requiring original research reflected in the dissertation. [See Policy 4.2.2for any dissertation that will include human or animal subjects.]
Time to doctoral degree limits should be established at the program level and clearly communicated to all newly enrolled students. In the absence of program-level limits, the Graduate School’s default policy is that all work applied to the doctoral degree must be completed within ten years of enrollment in the PhD program or master’s program in the same unit. Periods spent on leave or out of status count toward this time. Students nearing or past the program’s limit should be placed on Academic Alert (potentially leading to Final Academic Alert and Academic Drop; Policy 3.7.3). Extensions to time to degree limits can be made at the program level.

1.1.4.1 General Examination

The student must successfully pass a general examination.

Prior to the General Examination:

At least 18 credits of coursework at the 500 level and above must be completed prior to scheduling the general examination.
At least 18 graded credits of 400- and 500-level coursework, excluding 499, must be completed prior to scheduling the general examination.
At least 60 credits must be completed before taking the general exam. Some of these credits may be taken the same quarter of the exam.
All members of the supervisory committee (Policy 4.2.2) must approve that the student’s background of study and preparation is sufficient to schedule the General Examination.

The General Examination:

Registration as a graduate student is required the quarter that the General Examination is taken.
At least four members of the committee (including the Chair(s), GSR, and one additional Graduate Faculty member) must be physically or virtually present at the General Examination.
If the General Examination is satisfactory, the supervisory committee members who participate in the examination sign the Committee Signature Form.
If an examination is unsatisfactory, and if permitted by the graduate program, a supervisory committee may, with notification to the Graduate School, allow the student to take another examination after a period of further study. A maximum of two re-examinations is permitted.
If members of the doctoral supervisory committee do not agree with the majority recommendation concerning the examination, the minority report portion of the Committee Signature Form must be used.

1.1.4.2 Advancement to Candidacy

Advancement to Candidacy indicates successful completion of the general examination and all other requirements for the doctoral degree except satisfactory completion of the dissertation and the final examination. This is recognized for the Doctor of Philosophy, Doctor of Musical Arts, and Doctor of Education degrees that are not practice doctorates [See also Scholastic Regulations Chapter 114.7].

1.1.4.3 Dissertation

Requirements must include preparation of and acceptance by the Dean of the Graduate School of a dissertation that is a significant contribution to knowledge and clearly demonstrates research training.
The dissertation must be written in the English language. If there are circumstances that warrant a dissertation in another language, the program may petition the Graduate School.
The student must satisfactorily complete a minimum of 27 credits of dissertation (800, per Policy 4.2) over a period of at least three quarters, with at least one quarter occurring after the general examination.
Students are limited to a maximum of 10 credits of dissertation per quarter, unless they receive program approval to register for up to 18 credits.

1.1.4.4 Final Examination

The student must pass a final examination usually focused on the dissertation and the field with which it is concerned.

Prior to the Final Examination:

When the reading committee has read a draft of the entire dissertation and the members of the doctoral supervisory committee agree that the Candidate is prepared to take the Final Examination, all members of the doctoral supervisory committee must give the student approval to schedule the Final Examination.
The General Examination and Final Examination cannot occur during the same quarter.

The Final Examination:

At least four members of the committee (including the Chair(s), GSR, and one additional Graduate Faculty member) must be physically or virtually present at the Final Examination.
At the Final Examination, the dissertation is evaluated and, if a majority of the supervisory committee members in attendance agree that the evaluation is positive, the recommendation is made to the Dean of the Graduate School (via the Committee Signature Form) that the degree be awarded.
If members of the doctoral supervisory committee do not agree with the majority recommendation concerning the examination, the minority report portion of the Committee Signature Form must be used.
If an examination is unsatisfactory, and if permitted by the graduate program, a supervisory committee may, with notification to the Graduate School, allow the student to take another examination after a period of further study. A maximum of two re-examinations is permitted.

1.1.4.5 Coursework that may be applied towards doctoral degree requirements.

With the approval of the graduate program and confirmation of policy-compliance by the Graduate School:

A master’s degree in a relevant field of study from an accredited institution, including UW, may substitute for up to 30 of the required 90 credits. No other transfer credits are allowed for doctoral programs. Transfer credits may not be applied towards the dissertation or culminating experience requirement.
Any number of credits applied to a UW master’s degree in the same program may be counted towards doctoral degree requirements. These credits may not be applied towards the dissertation or culminating experience requirement.
Up to 12 GNM credits or graduate-level credits from an incomplete degree in a different UW graduate program may count towards doctoral degree requirements as outlined in Policy 1.1.1and Policy 3.3.3.

1.1.5 The Practice Doctoral Degree

A practice doctorate is intended as preparation for professional practice at the frontiers of existing knowledge (see Policy 1.7.3). A practice doctorate involves extensive coursework and a culminating project/capstone that is in lieu of a traditional PhD dissertation. The nature of this project/capstone may be specific to each program [Note: The project/capstone is not filed with the Graduate School].

In addition to the requirements listed under Policy 1.1.1 :

Practice doctoral degree requirements must include a minimum of 90 credits beyond the baccalaureate.
The practice doctorate requires successful completion of 12 credits of project or capstone credit (801 Practice Doctorate Project/Capstone).
Time to practice doctorate limits should be established at the program level and clearly communicated to all newly enrolled students. In the absence of program-level limits, the Graduate School’s default policy is that all work applied to the practice doctorate must be completed within ten years from the time of first enrollment. Periods spent on leave or out of status count toward this time. Students nearing or past the program’s limit should be placed on Academic Alert (potentially leading to Final Academic Alert and Academic Drop; Policy 3.7.3). Extensions of time to degree limits can be made at the program level.

1.1.5.1 Practice Doctorate Milestones

It is the responsibility of the program to establish appropriate milestones towards the degree. Requiring a general exam or other milestones is at the discretion of the program and is not reported to the Graduate School.
Two milestones are formally recognized by the Graduate School:
- admission to the program
- approval of the final project/capstone (through the Committee Signature Form)
After the practice doctoral supervisory committee has evaluated the final project/capstone, if a majority of the supervisory committee members agree that the evaluation is positive, the recommendation is made to the Dean of The Graduate School (via the Committee Signature Form) that the degree be awarded.
If members of the practice doctoral supervisory committee do not agree with the majority recommendation, the minority report portion of the Committee Signature Form must be used. (see: Committee Signature Form – GPA/GPC Resources)

1.1.5.2 Coursework that may be applied towards practice doctoral degree requirements.

With program approval and confirmation of policy compliance by the Graduate School:
- A Ph.D. or a master’s degree in a relevant field of study from an accredited institution, including UW, may substitute for up to 30 of the required 90 credits (hereafter, substituted credits).
- Any number of credits applied to a UW master’s degree in the same program may be counted towards practice doctoral degree requirements.
- A maximum of 10 quarter credits of graduate-level coursework taken at another recognized academic institution may be transferred and apply to UW practice doctorate degree requirements.
- Up to 12 GNM credits or graduate-level credits from an incomplete degree in a different UW graduate program may count towards doctoral degree requirements as outlined in Policy 1.1.1and Policy 3.3.3.
No more than 12 credits derived from any combination of GNM credits, previous UW graduate credits, and transfer credits may be applied towards the total degree requirements.
No more than 30 credits derived from any combination of GNM, previous UW graduate credits, transfer, and substituted credits may be applied towards the total degree requirements.
No GNM, transfer, previous UW graduate credits, or substituted credits may be applied towards the capstone requirement.
When a Ph.D. and practice doctorate are earned concurrently, departments may petition the Graduate School to count 30 specified credits toward the total minimum credit count of each degree, for a total minimum of 150 credits. Core credits for either degree, as (defined as part of the core curriculum by the graduate program) may not be included in these 30 credits applied to both degrees, and this option may not be used on top of previously waived credits for either degree. It is the responsibility of each unit to assure that the credits applied toward its degree are relevant to that degree. The student must meet Graduate School minimum requirements (18 credits 500 level and above, 18 numerically graded 400/500 level credits) for each degree.

Policy 1.1 revised: October 2021; October 2022; November 2022; February 2026.

Policy 1.1.2.2 and 1.1.4.3 revised March 2023

Policy 1.1.4, 1.1.4.1, and 1.1.4.4 revised March 2023

Policy 1.1.1 revised April 2023

Policy 1.1.1 revised July 2023

Policy 1.1.5 revised October 2023

Policy 1.1.1 revised November 2023

Policy 1.1.4.5 revised March 2024

Policy 1.1.2.2 revised March 2024

Policy 1.1.4.3 revised April 2025