Guide To Graduate Study Cornell

e D I u G e T a u to rAD G

Y D Stu

CONTENTS Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Welcome! A Letter from the Dean . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Fields of Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 What is a field? 5 What are my major and minor subject requirements? 5 Who are my GFA and my DGS, and why are they important? 5

Student Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 What is “student status”? Is it possible to study part-time? What are registration units and how many are required? Can I register at other schools while I am registered at Cornell? What are time-to-degree limits? Who can I speak to for more information about my registration and student status?

6 6 7 7 7 7

Employment and Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Can I work part-time and still receive registration units? 7 What about employment for students who hold fellowships or graduate research assistantships? 8

University Registration: Getting Registered . . . . . 8 What is university registration? Do I need to register during the summer? If I am registered, do I still need to enroll in courses during the academic year?

8 8 9

Course Enrollment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Now that I am registered and know my student status, how do I enroll in courses? How do I drop unwanted classes or change my grading options? Can I audit classes?

9 9 9

Special Committees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 What are special committees? 10 What if I am in a professional master’s program? 10 When do I need to select my special committee members? 10

How do I choose members for my special committee? Who is my special committee chair? Does anyone I do not select serve on my committee? What happens to me if a member of my committee leaves Cornell? Can I change my committee members? Can they choose to leave my committee?

11 11 11 11 12

Degree Requirements: Registration Units . . . . . . 12 What is a registration unit? 12 How many registration units do I need to earn a degree? 12 How much time is allowed to complete my degree? 12 Can I get registration units based on prior study at other universities? 13 Can I get registration units based on prior study at Cornell? 13 Can I get registration units for summer or extramural study? 13 Can I get registration units for summer research? 13 Can I get registration units for study in absentia? 13 Can I get an entire degree in absentia? 14

Degree Requirements: Examinations . . . . . . . . . . 14 What exams do I need to pass to get my master’s degree? What exams do I need to pass to get my Ph.D.? When can I hold my exams? Where can I hold my exams? What is the role of faculty members during examinations? What if a special committee member can’t attend an examination? If I am enrolled in a joint M.S./Ph.D. program, must I pass all of the aforementioned exams? What do my exam results mean? What if I am in the Ph.D. program, and I decide to cut it short? Can I get a degree for my work if I have not completed a thesis?

14 15 15 15 15 16 16 16

16

Degree Requirements: Thesis or Dissertation . . . 17 Do I really need to write a thesis or dissertation? What is the format of a thesis or dissertation? What is the Papers Option?

17 17 17

Can there be multiple authors for a single thesis or dissertation? When is the thesis or dissertation due? Can I submit my thesis or dissertation online? What do I do after my final examination? Am I allowed to publish my work before I get my degree? Why are there additional fees for publishing my thesis?

17 18 18 18 18 18

Research Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Environmental Health and Safety What research issues involve environmental health and safety? How do I learn to stay safe? Research on Human Subjects and Live Vertebrates How do I know if I need to investigate this further?

19 19 19 19 19

Course Enrollment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 How do I know if I need to take courses? Is there a difference between enrolling in graduate or undergraduate classes? What is course enrollment? Can I make changes to my course requests? Can I audit courses? Can I take classes that my special committee does not require?

20 20 20 20 21 21

Course Grades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 What are my grading options? What if I can’t finish all course requirements by the end of the semester? How long do I have to change a grade of Incomplete (INC) or No Grade Reported (NGR)?

21 21 21

Program Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Can I defer my admission offer? Can I change my field, degree program, or student status once I am enrolled? Can others affect my program without my consent? What is petitioning?

22 22 22 22



Special Committee Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 How can I change the members of my special committee? How long do I have to make changes to my special committee? Can I change the chair of my special committee? What if a committee member wants to leave my special committee? Can my chair leave my committee?

23 23 23 23 23

Registration Status Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 How do I change my registration status? How do I register in absentia? Do I need to fill out a summer registration form if I am registered in absentia? What does it mean if a student has non-registered status? How do I take a leave of absence? How do I return from a leave of absence? Does it cost anything to come back from a leave of absence? What does it mean to withdraw?

24 24 24 24 24 25 25 25

Considerations When Nearing Completion . . . . . 25 Thesis/Dissertation Do I need to write a thesis or dissertation? Must I format my thesis or dissertation a certain way? What is the Thesis Advisor? Should I consult with the Thesis Advisor? How do I submit my thesis or dissertation? General considerations What do I need to do to make sure I graduate? When during the year must I complete all of the requirements to get my degree? When is Commencement? When do I get my diploma? Can I accept employment before I get my degree?

25 26 26 26 26 26 26 27 27 27 27 27

Financial Matters: Tuition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 What will my tuition be? Will my tuition remain the same for my entire academic career? 

28 28

What expenses am I responsible for if I am registered in absentia? Do I need to pay summer tuition? Do non-degree students have to pay tuition? Under what conditions am I entitled to a tuition refund?

28 29 29 29

Financial Matters: Other Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 What is the student activity fee? ($34) What is the Candidate for Degree Only fee? ($35) What is the active-file fee? ($200 per term up to six terms) What is the dissertation fee? ($125) What is the microfilm arrangement fee? (optional: $45) What is the late-filing fee? ($100)

29 29 30 30 30 30

Financial Matters: Taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Is my financial aid package taxable? If I pay my own tuition, can I get a tax deduction? Where can I get additional information about taxation?

30 31 31

Financial Matters: Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Do I need to enroll in SHIP? What if I already have adequate insurance? Under what conditions does the university pay for SHIP?

31 31 31

Financial Matters: Cornell Fellowships . . . . . . . . 32 What kinds of fellowships are available? What types of assistantships are available? What about summer funding?

32 32 32

Financial Matters: Need-based Financial Aid . . . 32 How do I determine my eligibility for need-based financial aid? What about loans? Can international students get loans?

33 33 33

Financial Matters: Other Sources of Financial Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 What outside fellowships are available? 34 Is part-time work available on campus? 34 Are there other sources of funds? 34 Does the Graduate School offer research travel assistance? 34 What are Cornell prize competitions? 34 Is financial support available for child care expenses? 35

Cornell University Policies and Procedures . . . . . 35 Academic Integrity and Acknowledging the Work of Others Grievance Procedure for Graduate Students Relating to Graduate Education and Support Romantic and Sexual Relationships between Students and Persons in Authority Sexual Harassment Release of Information Policy of Equal Educational and Employment Opportunity Office of Workforce Diversity, Equity and Life Quality Open Doors, Open Hearts, Open Minds University Ombudsman Other Cornell University Policies

35 36 39 40 40 41 41 42 42 43

Graduate School Organization and Programs . . . 43 How do I reach someone in the Graduate School? What is the graduate faculty? What is the General Committee? How are students represented at the Graduate School? Can I spend some time at other universities? Where do graduate students go to relax on campus? Where can I get help finding a job after graduation? I’ve just been appointed to a teaching assistantship. Where can I get help figuring out how to teach other students? Cornell Online

43 44 44 44 45 45 45 45 46

Graduate School Contacts at a Glance . . . . . . . . 48 The Graduate School Graduate School Deans Graduate Student Service Representatives (GSSRs) Graduate Loans Office Thesis Advisor Publications and Graduate School web site Big Red Barn

48 48 48 49 49 49 49

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

INTRODUCTION The Guide to Graduate Study provides graduate students with a description of the policies, requirements, and organization of the Graduate School. The rules governing graduate education are established by Cornell University’s graduate faculty and published in the Code of Legislation of the Graduate Faculty, a separate publication. The Code contains specific details about graduate study and should be consulted whenever you have questions. To help you, sections of the Code are referenced in the text of various topics throughout this guide. Printed copies of the Code are available at the Graduate School, or you can read it online at www.gradschool.cornell.edu/code. The resources listed on pages 46–47 of this booklet contain general requirements pertaining to all Cornell University graduate students. However, many graduate fields have additional guidelines. You should refer to individual fields for more information or visit the Graduate School’s online catalog at catalog.gradschool.cornell.edu.

www.gradschool.cornell.edu



welcome!

A LETTER FROM THE DEAN The Cornell Graduate School is here to support your study and your research. We are dedicated to helping you succeed in your graduate program. We created this Guide to Graduate Study handbook to explain the academic requirements for an advanced Graduate School degree. It should answer many of your questions, so we encourage you to keep it available as a reference. If you need more help, please do not hesitate to call on us at the Graduate School. We are here to facilitate your education. Cornell University offers graduate students a lot of flexibility, freedom, and independence in their academic programs. With few exceptions (generally limited to certain professional degree programs) you will find minimal requirements for either total credit hours or required courses. Instead, you will take an active role in defining your degree program under the guidance of a faculty committee, called your special committee. You may choose your committee members from more than 1,600 faculty members in nearly 100 fields of study. Such flexibility ensures that you can take advantage of the breadth of resources available at Cornell to meet your academic goals. We appreciate that there is life beyond the classroom, lab, or library, and we strongly encourage you to take part in extracurricular activities. The Graduate School produces a booklet titled Life at Cornell, which describes the many sports, social, and cultural activities that take place on campus and in the Ithaca area. It’s also a resource for Cornell University and Ithaca-area services, including housing and shopping. Copies are mailed to new students. Graduate students enhance the intellectual life at Cornell University through their scholarship, research, and participation in campus activities. We are pleased you have joined us.

Alison G. Power Dean of the Cornell Graduate School 

Fields of Study

(Code, III.D.1.)

What is a field? What are my major and minor subject requirements? Who are my GFA and my DGS, and why are they important? Fields of Study, Subjects, and Concentrations www.gradschool.cornell.edu/pubs_and_forms/ pubs/fieldsofstudy.pdf Fields of Study catalog.gradschool.cornell.edu

What is a field? A field is a group of graduate faculty members who have come together around common academic interests. They are drawn from different departments and are voted into the field by existing members. In general, a faculty member belongs to one department, but may be associated with many graduate fields. You will select major and minor subjects from within these fields. The Graduate School publishes a list of major and minor fields, the degrees offered, and the subjects and concentrations within each field. You can find this list in the Student Services Office of the Graduate School and on the Graduate School web site.

What are my major and minor subject requirements? As a master’s degree student, you must choose one major and one minor subject. Doctoral candidates choose one major and two minor subjects of study, although some fields have permission from the General Committee to require only one major and one minor subject. You pick faculty members from these approved subjects to form a “special committee.” The members of the special committee decide what is required for you to attain a Cornell graduate degree. You should consult your graduate field assistant (GFA) or your director of graduate studies (DGS) to learn more about special committees, and major and minor subject requirements.

Who are my GFA and my DGS, and why are they important? (Code, III.E.1.) The faculty members in each field appoint a director of graduate studies (DGS) to represent them to the Graduate School and coordinate activities of the field. The DGS is the primary liaison between the field and the Graduate School. He or she helps establish academic priorities and allocate resources for graduate students. The DGS strives to enhance the quality of graduate education and general student welfare. These individuals also oversee the admissions process and so may be the most familiar with you when you arrive. You will need to have your DGS sign any documents required by the Graduate School. The graduate field assistant (GFA) helps students, faculty, and the DGS in many ways. The GFAs serve as liaisons between students and the faculty. They are familiar with campus resources and can answer many questions about the degree process. The GFA also can help you with paperwork and clarify your student status.



Student Status

(Code, IV.B.)

What is “student status”? Is it possible to study part-time? What are registration units and how many are required? Can I register at other schools while I am registered at Cornell? What are time-to-degree limits? Who can I speak to for more information about my registration and student status?

What is “student status”? The university assigns each student to one of three particular statuses: regular degree, provisional, or nondegree. Regular degree candidates actively work toward a degree. Provisional students may study for a semester or two to determine if they are adequately prepared for entry into a program. (Provisional status is limited to two semesters.) Non-degree students register with the university to further their academic interests, but are not enrolled in a degree-granting program. These individuals work under the supervision of an advisor and are limited to a maximum of two semesters as non-degree students. Provisional or non-degree students who later enroll in a regular degree program may transfer registration units completed during their provisional or non-degree status (see page 7, “What are registration units and how many are required?”).

Is it possible to study part-time? Yes. There are two ways to study part-time. The first is the Employee Degree Program. After one year of regular full-time service at Cornell, all regular full-time non-academic employees, non-professorial academic staff members (who do not hold voting status on any faculty), and ROTC military personnel may apply. Employee Degree Program students need not spend any semesters as full-time students for master’s programs. Cornell University faculty members are ineligible for this program. Ph.D. programs require two semesters of full-time study. If you’re a doctoral student in the Employee Degree Program, you may petition to waive full-time study requirements in two ways. First, your special committee must attest that your employment overlaps sufficiently with the academic program, and the committee must attest that you participate fully in the graduate program on a part-time basis. The second way to study part-time is through the Area Residents program. Established Ithaca-area residents may be admitted to part-time research master’s and professional master’s degree programs. Students must be accepted or rejected following the same admissions standards set for full-time study. The pursuit of a doctorate may not be conducted in this manner. 

What are registration units and how many are required? (Code, V.C.) In addition to faculty evaluation and formal exams, your progress is measured by the length of time you spend in pursuit of the degree—also known as registration units. One registration unit equals the satisfactory completion of one academic semester of full-time study and research. Two registration units are the minimum requirement for a master’s degree. Six registration units are the minimum required for doctoral candidates, with at least two coming after the A Exam (see page 14, “Examinations”). Non-thesis or terminal master’s degree programs (see page 15, “What exams do I need to pass to get my Ph.D.?”) require at least four registration units. At least half of the registration units must be earned from full-time academic-year study on the Ithaca campus or satellite locations. (Part-time students are exempt from this requirement.) Some programs (for example, Master of Engineering or non-degree programs), by agreement with the Graduate School, do not require registration units. If you transfer from such a program to another that requires registration units, you may petition to earn registration units for the time spent in the prior program.

Can I register at other schools while I am registered at Cornell? No. Cornell University does not allow concurrent registration with other universities except through the Exchange Scholars Program. If you attempt to do this, your Cornell registration will be terminated.

What are time-to-degree limits? Master’s students should spend no more than four years between the first registration and completion of all requirements. In part-time programs, the limit is six years. Ph.D. candidates are limited to seven years of study. Extensions may be granted by petition, which includes a reasonable plan for completion. Students enrolled in the Employee Degree Program are exempt from these time requirements.

Who can I speak to for more information about my registration and student status? You may check with your graduate field assistant or with the Graduate Student Services Office in Caldwell Hall. If registration is not completed properly, you may not enroll in courses or you may be fined.

Employment and Registration

(Code, V.C.6.)

Can I work part-time and still receive registration units? What about employment for students who hold fellowships or graduate research assistantships?

Can I work part-time and still receive registration units? You may be allowed up to one registration unit each semester for up to 20 hours of employment per week, either on or off campus. 

In addition, you may be allowed up to one-half of a registration unit for each semester for 21 to 40 hours of employment per week, on or off campus. This does not apply to graduate research assistants, who are eligible for a full registration unit each semester. Master’s students may earn a maximum of one registration unit in this way. Ph.D. students may earn a maximum of two units in this way. If you wish to earn registration units in this way, you must obtain the prior approval of your special committee chair and director of graduate studies (DGS).

What about employment for students who hold fellowships or graduate research assistantships? If you have a university-funded fellowship, external fellowship, or graduate research assistantship, you may accept employment of no more than eight hours per week, if allowed under the terms of the fellowship. In dire cases of financial need, a director of graduate studies may appeal to the Graduate School for an exception on your behalf.

University Registration: Getting Registered (Code, V.) What is university registration? Do I need to register during the summer? If I am registered, do I still need to enroll in courses during the academic year? Registration dates www.cornell.edu/academics/calendar

What is university registration?

Just the Facts jtf.cornell.edu

Do I need to register during the summer? (Code, V.C.3.)

Summer Registration Form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/summer



Registration is the first step in your study at Cornell. Once registered with the university, you will have established your student status and be able to use Cornell’s many resources. You must register each semester until you finish your degree or withdraw from the program. You do not have to register if you are granted a leave of absence. All first-time registrants and continuing students with “holds” must register in person at Bartels Field House the first day of fall registration or at 143 Caldwell Hall at other times. If you are a continuing student with no “holds,” you will be registered automatically if your tuition is paid. Holds are unresolved academic or financial issues. You must register for the summer session if, during the summer, you will receive financial aid, fellowships, loans, assistantships, travel grants, or tuition awards. You also must register in order to use campus facilities during the summer. If you are not on campus, but if you meet any of the previous conditions, you must register for the summer. Summer Registration is held online and in the Graduate School Student Services Office in 143 Caldwell Hall around the third week in May. (Bring your student ID if you register in person.) There is no cost if you are not requesting registration units for summer study. If you are requesting registration units for summer study, you will have to pay tuition.

If I am registered, do I still need to enroll in courses during the academic year? Yes. Registering does not enroll you in any courses. It simply establishes your student status (see below, “Course Enrollment”).

Course Enrollment

(Code, VI.D.2.)

Now that I am registered and know my student status, how do I enroll in courses? How do I drop unwanted classes or change my grading options? Can I audit classes? Bear Access for CourseEnroll uportal.cornell.edu

Now that I am registered and know my student status, how do I enroll in courses?

General Petition form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms

How do I drop unwanted classes or change my grading options?

Almost all course enrollment at Cornell University is done online using the Just the Facts system. On or off campus, you can register at jtf.cornell.edu. All enrollment must be completed within the first three weeks of class. Some courses require permission of the instructor to register. To get permission, complete a course enrollment form, available from your GFA, and get the signature of the course instructor. Courses can be dropped or grading options and credit hours changed without penalty through the seventh week of the semester. You can do this online at jtf.cornell.edu. After week seven, changes to your courses will only be made in exceptional circumstances. In addition, your transcript will show a “W” signifying that you withdrew, rather than completed the course. If you want to drop a course after the seventh week, you must get a General Petition form signed by the course instructor and your special committee chair. In some cases, you can petition to not have a “W” shown on your transcript. Forms for petitions can be found in the lobby of Caldwell Hall or online.

Can I audit classes? (Code, VI.D.2.) Auditing a class means you regularly attend the class, but do not participate in all aspects of the course. You also will not receive any credit hours and the course will be marked with a “V” on your transcript. Some courses do not lend themselves to auditing, and in such cases instructors may not allow it.



Special Committees (Code, VI.B.) What are special committees? What if I am in a professional master’s program? When do I need to select my special committee members? How do I choose members for my special committee? Who is my special committee chair? Does anyone I do not select serve on my committee? What happens to me if a member of my committee leaves Cornell? Can I change my committee members? Can they choose to leave my committee? Special Committee Selection and Change form admin.gradschool.cornell.edu/scsc/

What are special committees? If you are in a research-based degree program, you will select a special committee chair and additional faculty members to create a special committee. The special committee is responsible for helping you develop your research and academic program. The Graduate School imposes no requirements for courses or grades, so your special committee will ensure that you make appropriate progress and achievement.

What if I am in a professional master’s program? If you enroll in a professional master’s program, you will first be assigned an advisor from your field. This professor will oversee your academic progress. You may change your advisor to fit your academic and research interests. To change an advisor, you must submit a Special Committee Selection and Change form, available online, on paper at 143 Caldwell Hall, or on the Graduate School web site as a PDF.

When do I need to select my special committee members? (Code, VI.B.4.) The first step is to select your special committee chair. You must do that within three weeks of registering with the Graduate School. (If you are uncertain of your chair, you may select a temporary one or your field’s director of graduate studies may assume the role.) Master’s degree students must complete their special committee selection by the end of the second semester. Doctoral candidates must have a full committee no later than the end of the third semester, although some fields have earlier requirements. Your graduate field assistant will know for sure.

10

How do I choose members for my special committee? (Code, VI.B.2.) You have a lot of flexibility when it comes to selecting members of your special committee. Any member of any graduate field may serve on your special committee, with occasional limits imposed on the faculty based on their field standing. Your special committee chair must be from your graduate field. At a minimum, master’s students must select one faculty member to represent their major subject (the chair) and a second member to represent their minor subject. Doctoral candidates must have one faculty member representing their major subject and two minor members, each representing each of their minor subjects. For those fields that have secured permission from the General Committee to require only one minor subject, the third member of the special committee must represent an additional concentration within your major subject. At least two of the doctoral candidate’s special committee members must be general members of the graduate faculty; the third member may be a divisional or minor member of the graduate faculty. Only the director of graduate studies can nominate ad hoc members to serve as minor members. An ad hoc member can be any qualified individual who is not a member of the graduate faculty. An ad hoc member serves in addition to the three regular members.

Who is my special committee chair? (Code, VI.B.4.) The faculty member who represents your major subject is considered the chair of your special committee. Your chair will supervise your thesis or dissertation work and will typically provide the facilities and supervision necessary to conduct your research.

Does anyone I do not select serve on my committee? (Code, VI.B.3.) Some fields require and assign a field-appointed member to special committees to help administer exams. This member serves in addition to existing committee members. If you request it—and the field-appointed member agrees—this appointee may be counted as one of your selected members and serve on the committee beyond examinations.

What happens to me if a member of my committee leaves Cornell? Your chair may serve for up to one year without special approval if he or she leaves the university. To maintain your chair’s status, you must petition on that individual’s behalf. A retiree may continue serving as either chair or minor member.

11

Special Committee Selection and Change form admin.gradschool.cornell.edu/scsc/

Can I change my committee members? Can they choose to leave my committee? (Code, VI.B.6–8.) Yes (see page 23, “Special Committee Changes”).

Degree Requirements: Registration Units

(Code, V.C.)

What is a registration unit? How many registration units do I need to earn a degree? How much time is allowed to complete my degree? Can I get registration units based on prior study at other universities? Can I get registration units based on prior study at Cornell? Can I get registration units for summer or extramural study? Can I get registration units for summer research? Can I get registration units for study in absentia? Can I get an entire degree in absentia?

What is a registration unit? One registration unit corresponds to the satisfactory completion of one academic semester of full-time study and research, representing an evaluation of your academic progress by your chair (see page 7, “What are registration units and how many are required?”).

How many registration units do I need to earn a degree? You need a minimum of two registration units for a master’s degree. A doctoral degree requires six units with at least two coming after the A Exam (see page 14, “Examinations”). At least four registration units are required for a non-thesis master’s degree (see page 15, “What exams do I need to pass to get my Ph.D.?”). You must earn at least half of your registration units from full-time academic study on the Ithaca campus or satellite locations. (Part-time students are excepted.) Following each semester, the chair of your special committee will attest to your registration status and evaluate your progress. You must register each semester until you finish.

How much time is allowed to complete my degree? (Code, VI.H.) If you’re enrolled in master’s programs, no more than four years should pass between your first registration and completion of all requirements. Part-time master’s students may take up to six years. Ph.D. candidates are limited to seven years of study. You may petition to extend these limits.

12

Request for Transfer of Registration Units form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms

Can I get registration units based on prior study at other universities? (Code, V.C.5.) As a doctoral candidate, you can petition to receive up to two registration units for master’s work completed in a relevant program. This is accomplished by completing the Request for Transfer of Registration Units form, available online or in Caldwell Hall. Master’s degree students cannot receive registration credits for previous study at other graduate schools.

Can I get registration units based on prior study at Cornell? If you transfer from provisional or non-degree status, you may petition to receive registration units for up to two semesters spent in the prior program.

Can I get registration units for summer or extramural study? (Code, V.C.3.) If you enroll in regularly scheduled Cornell courses or extramural study and register in the Graduate School and Cornell’s School of Continuing Education and Summer Sessions, you may be awarded registration units. Six credit hours are worth one-half a registration unit; 11 credit hours equate to one registration unit. To be eligible for summer study registration units, you must pay summer tuition.

Can I get registration units for summer research? If you perform research full-time for a six-week period under the direction of a member of the graduate faculty and with prior approval of the dean, you may earn a maximum of one-half of a registration unit. Under unusual circumstances, after an additional six weeks of study, you may petition to be granted one registration unit for the 12-week session. In exceptional cases, registration units for summer research may be allowed for the summer prior to your first year of registration. Under all circumstances, summer tuition must be paid in order to receive registration units for summer research.

Can I get registration units for study in absentia? (Code, V.C.7.) Yes. If you’re a regular registered student, you may register in absentia with approval from the Graduate School and your special committee. This lets you study away from the university during the academic year. When in absentia, you continue to earn registration units under the direction of the special committee, although the work should be under the immediate supervision of a qualified director designated by the committee and acting on its behalf.

13

Can I get an entire degree in absentia? No. Under certain conditions, the dean may regard a period of study in absentia under the guidance of a graduate faculty member as if it were study on campus, rather than in absentia. However, during this time, full regular tuition, rather than in absentia tuition, must be paid. No more than two registration units for the Ph.D. or one for the master’s degree may be used to satisfy the minimum registration requirements in this way. In addition, you may register for no more than eight semesters in absentia with the same limitations on employment as on-campus students.

Degree Requirements: Examinations

(Code, VI.F.)

What exams do I need to pass to get my master’s degree? What exams do I need to pass to get my Ph.D.? When can I hold my exams? Where can I hold my exams? What is the role of faculty members during examinations? What if a special committee member can’t attend an examination? If I am enrolled in a joint M.S./PhD. program, must I pass all of the aforementioned exams? What do my exam results mean? What if I am in the Ph.D. program, and I decide to cut it short? Can I get a degree for my work if I have not completed a thesis? Special examinations are required to obtain an advanced degree in the research-based programs at Cornell. Often, these exams need to be taken with consideration of anticipated completion dates.

What exams do I need to pass to get my master’s degree? (Code, VI.F.1.a.) If you are enrolled in an M.A. or M.S. degree program, you must pass the Final Examination for the Master’s Degree, an oral exam that covers your master’s thesis. You can take this after all degree requirements have been fulfilled, but no earlier than one month before completing the minimum registration unit requirement. To pass the exam unconditionally so as to receive a degree, all regular, proxy, and field-appointed members of the examining committee must assent that this exam was passed unconditionally. You can fail or conditionally pass the Final Examination for the Master’s Degree. The implications of these results are discussed later in this section.

14

What exams do I need to pass to get my Ph.D.? You must pass at least two exams, known respectively as the A and B Exams. Some fields require an additional qualifying examination. The A Exam is also known as the Examination for Admission to Candidacy. This oral exam may include a written component, as determined by your special committee. You can take the exam after completing two registration units in your program, but before beginning your seventh semester, unless special permission is obtained from the dean. (Code, VI.F.1.b.) Passing the A Exam means the graduate faculty believe you are ready to present a dissertation. Some fields may offer a non-thesis master’s degree after a doctoral candidate has earned at least four registration units and passed the A Exam. This is a master’s degree awarded to a student who is continuing on for the Ph.D., and is awarded without completion of a thesis. The B Exam is an oral defense of your thesis or dissertation. This exam can be taken after completing all degree requirements, but not earlier than one month before completing the minimum registration unit requirements. At least two registration units must be earned between the passing of the A Exam and the scheduling of the B Exam. (Code, VI.F.1.c.) The qualifying exam, or Q Exam, is required in some fields for Ph.D. applicants. This exam helps the special committee determine your ability to pursue doctoral studies, continue in a program, and tailor an appropriate program of study. All exams must be passed. Students can unconditionally pass, conditionally pass, or fail; the implications of these results are discussed later in this section. Schedule of Examination form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms

When can I hold my exams? As long as you meet the registration requirements discussed above, you can take an exam with seven days notice to the Graduate School. This gives the director of graduate studies time to announce the exam to other faculty members. Any may choose to attend.

Where can I hold my exams? Exams must be held on the Ithaca campus or at a satellite location. However, for an exam to be held in a satellite location, the exam schedule must be posted in the Ithaca office of the field of study, as well as in the satellite location, prior to the exam. (Code, VI.F.5.)

What is the role of faculty members during examinations? All members of the special committee are expected to attend the examinations and evaluate you, the candidate. Other graduate faculty members are encouraged to attend exams and they may question you only during the time allocated by the chair. 15

Designation of Proxy for Examinations/Thesis Approval Form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms

What if a special committee member can’t attend an examination? No more than one member of the committee can be physically absent from an exam. At the discretion of the field, and with the agreement of all members of the committee, you may petition to allow one committee member (either the special committee chair or a minor member) to participate from a remote location via conference call, video conferencing, or the like. For the B Exam and the Final Exam for the master’s degree, however, the student and chair must be present together in Ithaca or at a designated satellite location. If a minor member is unable to attend an exam, he or she may designate a proxy to represent the same concentration as he or she would have at the exam. Chairs may not designate proxies. If the chair is not in Ithaca for an exam, he or she must designate one of the minor members in attendance to sign the Results of Examination form on his or her behalf.

If I am enrolled in a joint M.S./Ph.D. program, must I pass all of the aforementioned exams? No. If you need an M.A. or M.S. for the Ph.D., you may petition your special committee to approve combining the Final Examination for the Master’s Degree with the Examination for Admission to Candidacy. It is still possible, though unlikely, that an additional qualifying exam may be imposed under these circumstances. If a master’s is not required for the Ph.D. degree, you may have to take all of the exams. Results of Examination form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms

What do my exam results mean? If you pass an exam, all members of the examining committee should report this decision to the Graduate School within three business days. No further action is required. You may conditionally pass an exam, in which case the examining committee provides you and the Graduate School with the conditions for passing. Once these conditions are met, you pass the exam. If you fail an exam, a re-examination is allowed only with the approval of the special committee. At least three months must pass from the time of the failed exam and the re-examination. (Code, VI.F.7.) If you’re unanimously failed, you must petition the General Committee to continue study. If the minor members, but not the chair, or the chair, but not all of the minor members opposes re-examination, you must petition the General Committee to continue study. Graduate faculty who attend the exam, but are not on the examination committee, may inform the dean in writing if they disagree with the results of the exam.

What if I am in the Ph.D. program, and I decide to cut it short? Can I get a degree for my work if I have not completed a thesis? (Code, VI.F.2.) Some fields allow a special committee to nominate a doctoral candidate for a non-thesis master’s (Code, III. A.1.b.). Such a nomination requires you to have earned at least four registration units after passing a special exam. Performance on this exam should be at least at the level of a passed master’s exam. Your GFA will know if your field offers this option. 16

Degree Requirements: Thesis or Dissertation (Code, VI.G.) Do I really need to write a thesis or dissertation? What is the format of a thesis or dissertation? What is the Papers Option? Can there be multiple authors for a single thesis or dissertation? When is the thesis or dissertation due? Can I submit my thesis or dissertation online? What do I do after my final examination? Am I allowed to publish my work before I get my degree? Why are there additional fees for publishing my thesis? The final of the three major requirements for an advanced degree is the thesis or dissertation.

Do I really need to write a thesis or dissertation? (Code, VI.G.1.) All research degree candidates must present a thesis of acceptable scholarship and literary quality. For master’s students, the thesis must include an abstract, not to exceed 600 words, signed by the special committee chair. For doctoral candidates, this must include an abstract, not to exceed 350 words, signed by the special committee chair. Thesis and dissertation requirements thesis.gradschool.cornell.edu

What is the format of a thesis or dissertation? The format and production requirements are contained in the booklet Doctoral Dissertation and Master’s Thesis: Formatting, Production, and Submission Requirements, available from the Graduate School or on the web. You can learn more about thesis requirements by attending seminars held in February, June, and October. You should also take advantage of the Graduate School’s Thesis Advisor, who can answer questions in person, on the phone, or via e-mail at [email protected].

What is the Papers Option? (Code, VI.G.2.) In certain fields, the special committee may allow you to submit a thesis or dissertation composed of publishable papers.

Can there be multiple authors for a single thesis or dissertation? (Code, VI.G.3.) In some circumstances theses and dissertations may be written as partnerships. You must get approval from the General Committee before project work is started.

17

When is the thesis or dissertation due? (Code, VI.G.4.) You must submit a complete draft to all members of your special committee at least six weeks before the final examination. (Your special committee may modify this requirement.) At least five days before the final examination, you must provide all members of your special committee with a complete, typed, and editorially acceptable copy of the thesis or dissertation for final approval. (Your examining committee may still require modifications.) Final examinations may not be scheduled until this requirement has been met. Digital submissions www.gradschool.cornell.edu/pubs_and_forms/ dspace

Can I submit my thesis or dissertation online? Yes. The Graduate School encourages all students to submit their final, approved thesis or dissertation via DSpace. This option requires you to convert your document to PDF format. The approved digital document is automatically forwarded to a local printer. There is no charge for digital submissions, but you will be charged for printing, and must provide payment before the document is sent to you or your graduate field.

What do I do after my final examination? (Code, VI.G.5.) Within 60 days of passing the final examination, you must submit two copies of your thesis or dissertation to the Graduate School. These must be in the proper specified format and must include an abstract signed by the chair of the special committee.

Am I allowed to publish my work before I get my degree? With the approval of your special committee, you may publish all or part of a thesis before receiving your degree. You must acknowledge in the publication that the work is based on a thesis or dissertation that has been accepted in partial requirements for the degree.

Why are there additional fees for publishing my thesis? One copy of your thesis or dissertation must be bound. It becomes the official record of the university and is housed in the library. To ensure broad access to dissertations, doctoral candidates must sign a contract with University Microfilms Inc. (U.M.I.) for the filming and publishing of the abstract, and pay the required fee. If you submit your thesis or dissertation digitally, some of these requirements are met. See the Graduate School web site for more information.

18

Research Considerations Environmental Health and Safety What research issues involve environmental health and safety? How do I learn to stay safe? Research on Human Subjects and Live Vertebrates How do I know if I need to investigate this further? Candidates working with hazardous materials or human or animal subjects must follow special policies intended to help prevent accidents and injuries; conform to environmental and occupational health and safety regulations; reduce institutional liability; and establish safety responsibilities for members of and visitors to the university. Environmental Health and Safety

What research issues involve environmental health and safety? Biological safety, fire safety, radiation safety, and chemical and laboratory safety all qualify as environmental health and safety considerations. Cornell Environmental Health and Safety www.ehs.cornell.edu

How do I learn to stay safe?

University Committee on Human Subjects www.osp.cornell.edu/Compliance/UCHS/ homepageUCHS.htm

Research on Human Subjects and Live Vertebrates (Code, VI.E.)

Animal Research www.osp.cornell.edu/Compliance/animals.html

Federal and state regulations require that employees with certain job responsibilities receive training. Cornell Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) offers short courses on chemical safety for laboratory workers and EPA requirements for chemical waste disposal, as well as training in laboratory inspection, laser safety, and radiation safety. If your work may include these responsibilities, you must be trained before you begin your research. Visit www.ehs.cornell.edu, where you can enroll in the training you need. You will also find other safety resources, including links to databases and material safety data sheets.

How do I know if I need to investigate this further? If you plan to involve human subjects in your research, you must seek the approval of the University Committee on Human Subjects. Research need not involve physical intervention to require approval. The committee must review many kinds of data gathering. If you use live vertebrates in your research, you must seek approval of the Cornell University Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee prior to ordering, acquiring, or handling animals. 19

Course Enrollment How do I know if I need to take courses? Is there a difference between enrolling in graduate or undergraduate classes? What is course enrollment? Can I make changes to my course requests? Can I audit courses? Can I take classes that my special committee does not require?

How do I know if I need to take courses? (Code, VI.D.2.) The Graduate School does not require courses for a degree. The special committee (or advisor) is the sole judge of whether you must take courses. If you’re in a professional master’s programs, such as the Master of Engineering, Master of Professional Studies, or Master of Regional Planning, you will often have course requirements specified by the field.

Is there a difference between enrolling in graduate or undergraduate classes? The graduate faculty does not differentiate between undergraduate and graduate courses; nor does it regulate the type or number of courses you may take. However, you must be aware of your special committee’s requirement.

What is course enrollment? Course enrollment is the act of signing up for specific courses. All students must enroll in courses within three weeks of registration. If you are not enrolling in courses, you must enroll in thesis or dissertation research using the appropriate course numbers assigned for that purpose.

Can I make changes to my course requests? You may add courses through the third week of the semester. You may drop courses, change grading options, or change the number of credit hours in variable unit courses through the seventh week of the semester. After that, such actions may only be made in exceptional circumstances, requiring a petition signed by the course instructor and the special committee chair. A course dropped after the seventh week appears as a “W” on your transcript, signifying withdrawal. Exceptions are granted only in exceptional circumstances with the approval of the instructor and the special committee chair. After the last day of classes for the semester, no course may be dropped and no changes may be made to credit hours or grading options.

20

Can I audit courses? You can either enroll in courses for credit or you can audit them. An audited course will appear as a “V” on your unofficial transcript and will not appear on your official transcripts. Auditing a course requires regular class attendance, but not necessarily participation in all aspects of the class. You should discuss this option with the course instructor.

Can I take classes that my special committee does not require? Graduate students may enroll in any course offered by the university, though some courses impose restrictions or prerequisite requirements. Your special committee may want you to concentrate solely on your research, so you should discuss potential elective courses with your committee members.

Course Grades What are my grading options? What if I can’t finish all course requirements by the end of the semester? How long do I have to change a grade of Incomplete (INC) or No Grade Reported (NGR)? Fields and special committees may require coursework, professional development, or other requirements above the minimum requirements of the Graduate School. Degree candidates are expected to meet these requirements in a timely and satisfactory manner.

What are my grading options? (Code, VI.D.2.) When you enroll in a course for credit, you may be offered the option of taking it for a grade or pass/fail. Not all classes offer this option.

What if I can’t finish all course requirements by the end of the semester? If you do not finish all the coursework by the end of the course, the professor may assign you an Incomplete (INC) and give you time to finish. However, instructors are not required to do this and may instead deduct unfinished work from your final grade.

How long do I have to change a grade of Incomplete (INC) or No Grade Reported (NGR)? (Code, VI.D.3.)

You have one year from the end of the course to satisfy its requirements. If successful, your professor will change your grade from INC or NGR to a letter grade. That grade will appear with an asterisk on your transcript. If you do not satisfy course requirements, the INC or NGR becomes a permanent part of the transcript. You can retake the course, but both the INC or NGR and the most recent grade will be on your transcripts. 21

Program Changes Can I defer my admission offer? Can I change my field, degree program, or student status once I am enrolled? Can others affect my program without my consent? What is petitioning?

Can I defer my admission offer? (Code, IV.D.1.) Generally, you are offered admission for a particular semester. If you want to defer admission, you must receive approval from your graduate field.

Can I change my field, degree program, or student status once I am enrolled? (Code, IV.D.3.) Yes, but you must obtain approval from the intended field of study and the Graduate School. If you’re an international student seeking to change to a new degree program or field of study, the Graduate School must again verify that financial support is available for the new program. If full Cornell support is not available, you will be required to provide evidence of non-Cornell financial support for yourself and any dependents that accompany you.

Can others affect my program without my consent? The special committee may recommend that a doctoral candidate’s degree program be changed to a master’s degree program at any time. General petition form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms

22

What is petitioning? The General Committee, which is the faculty governing board of the Graduate School, may grant exceptions to specific legislation within the Code of Legislation if it feels such actions are in accord with the Graduate School’s fundamental educational principles. Under extenuating circumstances, you may request an exception, but you must submit convincing evidence that an exception is warranted. The General Committee may delegate the handling of routine student petitions to the dean. If the dean refuses to grant a petition, you have the right to have the case reviewed by the General Committee.

Special Committee Changes

(Code, VI.B.7.)

How can I change the members of my special committee? How long do I have to make changes to my special committee? Can I change the chair of my special committee? What if a committee member wants to leave my special committee? Can my chair leave my committee? Special Committee Selection and Change form admin.gradschool.cornell.edu/scsc

How can I change the members of my special committee? Changing the members of your special committee requires approval from all members of the newly formed committee. It does not require approval from members that are leaving the committee. File these changes immediately with the Graduate School on the Special Committee Selection and Change form, available online as an interactive form or printable PDF, or on paper at 143 Caldwell Hall.

How long do I have to make changes to my special committee? You can make changes at any point prior to three months before the final examination. No doctoral candidate may schedule a B Exam within three months of a change to the special committee without the dean’s approval.

Can I change the chair of my special committee? Yes. It is the same as changing any other committee member. However, a change in a doctoral student’s chair after the A Exam requires the director of graduate studies to confer, at a minimum, with the student, the outgoing chair, and the prospective chair. The director of graduate studies will report any problems to the dean, who may not approve the switch.

What if a committee member wants to leave my special committee? (Code, VI.B.8.) Any member may resign at any time from a special committee. It is your responsibility to reconstitute your special committee. If you fail to find other members, you will not be permitted to continue registration in the Graduate School.

Can my chair leave my committee? Yes. A chair may resign at any time.

23

Registration Status Changes

(Code, V.)

How do I change my registration status? How do I register in absentia? Do I need to fill out a summer registration form if I am registered in absentia? What does it mean if a student has non-registered status? How do I take a leave of absence? How do I return from a leave of absence? Does it cost anything to come back from a leave of absence? What does it mean to withdraw? Student Program Change form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms

How do I change my registration status?

In Absentia Petition form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms

How do I register in absentia? (Code, V.C.7.)

You can change your status by submitting the Student Program Change form to the Graduate School, available online as a printable PDF, or on paper at 143 Caldwell Hall. To be registered in absentia, you must fill out the In Absentia Petition form outlining the reason you must pursue your degree requirements off-campus. When registering in absentia, you may waive the Student Health Insurance Plan requirement if you show you will have adequate insurance coverage.

Do I need to fill out a summer registration form if I am registered in absentia? Yes. Summer registration is a separate process required of all students who receive financial aid, assistantships, or use campus facilities during the summer.

What does it mean if a student has non-registered status? (Code, V.D.) This means you are either on leave or have withdrawn. Leave of Absence form www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms

24

How do I take a leave of absence? (Code, V.D.1.) Leaves of absence can be granted for personal or medical reasons. You must file a Leave of Absence/ Withdrawal form with the Graduate School Office in Caldwell Hall. A leave of absence can run for up to 12 months and may be renewed up to three times. After four years, you must reapply for admission to the Graduate School.

International Students and Scholars Office www.isso.cornell.edu

If you take a leave, you lose access to campus facilities and personnel, and there is no guarantee your financial aid will be continued. If you are not an American citizen and hold a non-immigrant visa, you must leave the country within 15 days or apply for optional practical training before the effective leave of absence date. Before leaving Cornell, international students should contact the Graduate Student Services Office and the International Students and Scholars Office for information on maintaining visa eligibility for re-entry. For U.S. citizens with educational loans, the repayment grace period starts the date the loans become active.

How do I return from a leave of absence? (Code, V.E.1.) If you want to return within four years and your leave has been renewed annually, you need only submit a written request to the Graduate School. If you have been away for more than four years, the Graduate School considers you to have withdrawn and you must reapply for admission. Under certain circumstances, you may just file an Application for Student Program Change form. Your field may then request additional information. If your leave was for health reasons, you must get approval from Gannett Health Services or another appropriate health care professional before coming back. Before registering, you also will need approval from your field and the Graduate School.

Does it cost anything to come back from a leave of absence? A doctoral candidate who has passed the A Exam and has earned six or more registration units must pay an active file fee for each semester of leave up to six semesters when he or she files the dissertation. As of spring 2006, this fee is $200 per semester. A master’s candidate who returns to take a final exam must register for that day as a Candidate for Degree Only and pay an administrative fee.

What does it mean to withdraw? (Code, V.D.2.) Any interruption of continuous registration is considered a withdrawal unless you are granted a leave of absence. You may voluntarily withdraw at any time. Withdrawal is the most appropriate option if you do not intend to resume studies or complete an advanced degree at Cornell University.

Considerations When Nearing Completion Thesis/Dissertation (Code, VI.G.) Do I need to write a thesis or dissertation? Must I format my thesis or dissertation a certain way? Who is the Thesis Advisor? Should I consult with the Thesis Advisor? How do I submit my thesis or dissertation? 25

Do I need to write a thesis or dissertation? You must write a dissertation if you are pursing a doctoral degree. A thesis is required for all M.A. and M.S. degrees and for some professional master’s degrees (see page 17, “Thesis or Dissertation”). Thesis and dissertation requirements thesis.gradschool.cornell.edu

Must I format my thesis or dissertation a certain way? There are some strict but easy-to-follow rules for dissertations and theses. They are contained in the publication Doctoral Dissertation and Master’s Thesis: Formatting, Production, and Submission Requirements, which you can get at the Graduate School Office or online at thesis.gradschool.cornell.edu. In addition, you can download Microsoft Word and the LaTeX templates for properly formatting theses and dissertations.

Who is the Thesis Advisor? The Thesis Advisor approves the final format of your thesis or dissertation before you present it for final submission to the Graduate School.

Should I consult with the Thesis Advisor? As you write your thesis or dissertation, you should feel free to consult the Thesis Advisor during posted office hours for advice on standards and requirements. You also can call the Thesis Advisor, 255-5828, or send e-mail to [email protected]. The Thesis Advisor also holds workshops, usually in February, June, and October. Digital submissions www.gradschool.cornell.edu/pubs_and_forms/ dspace

How do I submit my thesis or dissertation? There are two ways to submit your thesis or dissertation: through the traditional, hard-copy submission, or through digital/web-based submission called DSpace (an overview and the advantages of using DSpace can be found at www.gradschool.cornell.edu/pubs_and_forms/dspace). Within 60 days of successfully defending your doctoral dissertation, you must submit two unbound and signed final copies of the dissertation to the Graduate School along with the required forms (master’s candidates must submit two bound copies with signatures or submit a single digital version via DSpace). A list of all required forms can be found using the appropriate link at thesis.gradschool.cornell.edu. If you wait more than 60 days to file you thesis or dissertation you will have to pay a $100 late filing fee. General Considerations

26

What do I need to do to make sure I graduate? When during the year must I complete all of the requirements to obtain my degree? When is Commencement? When do I get my diploma? Can I accept employment before I get my degree?

What do I need to do to make sure I graduate? Besides satisfying the academic and research requirements imposed by your special committee, you must: • have a final transcript of your undergraduate degree on file with the Graduate School; • pay all your bursar bills. Doctoral students must: • file a dissertation within seven years of first registering in the Graduate School; • earn a total of six registration units; two must be between the Admission to Candidacy Examination (A Exam) and the Final Examination (B Exam). Exceptions require permission of the Graduate School. Master’s students must: • file a thesis within four years of first registration in the Graduate School; • earn a minimum of two residence units in registration.

When during the year must I complete all of the requirements to get my degree? The Graduate School announces a deadline for candidates to fulfill all requirements. This deadline is just before members of the graduate faculty meet to vote on degrees. These meetings are in August, January, and May.

When is Commencement? Commencement exercises are held in May and December for students who complete their degree requirements in the previous year. If you expect to complete your degree requirements in August, you may participate in Commencement exercises the May before the degree is expected.

When do I get my diploma? Diplomas are available for pick-up for the May conferral or mailed to a street address 12 to 16 weeks after the degree conferral date. For May graduates, most diplomas are available at field receptions on Commencement Day. Diplomas also may be shipped internationally to a valid street address. For August and January graduates, diplomas are available 12 to 16 weeks after conferral in Day Hall or may be shipped.

Can I accept employment before I get my degree? (Code, V.C.6.) You must follow the Graduate School’s policy on employment to continue as a student. If you receive financial support from Cornell, you must adhere to the university’s limit on work hours. If you exceed that limit, assistantship and fellowship payments will stop and you will have to pay prorated tuition. If you begin a job that precludes further university funding, you should file for a leave of absence “upon completion of degree” with the Graduate School. The effective date of the leave will be reported to the federal government, which will initiate loan repayment procedures. If you receive outside funding, you must adhere to the requirements of the funding agency.

27

Financial Matters: Tuition What will my tuition be? Will my tuition remain the same for my entire academic career? What expenses am I responsible for if I am registered in absentia? Do I need to pay summer tuition? Do non-degree students have to pay tuition? Under what conditions am I entitled to a tuition refund? Policy on Graduate Student Tuition www.policy.cornell.edu/vol3_13.cfm

What will my tuition be?

Graduate Student Services 143 Caldwell Hall 607 255-5820 www.gradschool.cornell.edu/contact e-mail: [email protected]

Will my tuition remain the same for my entire academic career?

Graduate Loans Office 190 Caldwell Hall 607 255-5821 www.gradschool.cornell.edu/loans e-mail: [email protected]

28

Tuition for graduate students is based on the college to which the chair of your special committee belongs. There are three kinds of graduate tuition: endowed, contract, and law school. You pay endowed tuition if your chair is in the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning; the College of Arts and Sciences; the Johnson Graduate School of Management; the College of Engineering; or the School of Hotel Administration. If your chair is on the faculty of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the College of Human Ecology, the School of Industrial and Labor Relations, or the College of Veterinary Medicine, you pay contract tuition. If your chair is in the Law School, you must pay law school tuition. If you’re in the landscape architecture program or in one of the nine fields in the former Division of Biological Sciences, you will pay tuition at the contract rate, regardless of your chairperson’s appointment. (The following fields were in the Division of Biological Sciences: biochemistry, molecular, and cell biology; biophysics; ecology and evolutionary biology; genetics and development; microbiology; neurobiology and behavior; physiology; plant biology; and zoology.) No. Tuition is likely to increase each year and may do so without notice. Also, the amount, type, and source of financial support are subject to change.

What expenses am I responsible for if I am registered in absentia? If you register in absentia, you pay $200 tuition each semester.

Continuing Education/Summer Sessions www.sce.cornell.edu

Do I need to pay summer tuition? If you plan on taking classes over the summer, you must register in the Graduate School and in the School of Continuing Education and Summer Sessions, which sets the per-course tuition and fees. If you register for registration-unit credit for summer, you will be charged based on the fraction of the registration unit to be earned. If you do not enroll in summer courses, you may register with the Graduate School for the summer at no charge (see page 8, “University Registration: Getting Registered”).

Do non-degree students have to pay tuition? (Code, IV.B.3.) Yes. Non-degree students are charged full tuition. A faculty sponsor may request that a field’s director of graduate studies and the Graduate School waive the tuition. If the faculty sponsor is a member of a statutory college, the Johnson Graduate School of Management, the School of Hotel Administration, or the Law School, the request must be directed to the dean of that college or school.

Under what conditions am I entitled to a tuition refund? If you are granted a Leave Upon Completion of Degree, tuition for that semester is prorated on a daily basis and the money is returned to you (or to your funder, if that entity paid your tuition initially). If you request a leave of absence or withdrawal from the university within the first part of the semester, you may get some tuition refunded.

Financial Matters: Other Fees What is the student activity fee? ($34) What is the Candidate for Degree Only fee? ($35) What is the active-file fee? ($200 per term up to six terms) What is the dissertation fee? ($125) What is the microfilm arrangement fee? (optional: $45) What is the late-filing fee? ($100)

What is the student activity fee? ($34) The required graduate student activity fee funds many organizations and activities for graduate students. It is not usually covered by university tuition awards, and is included in your bill from the bursar’s office. Students studying in absentia are not charged the student activity fee.

What is the Candidate for Degree Only fee? ($35) A master’s candidate who is not registered in the Graduate School at the time of the final examination pays a Candidate for Degree Only (CDO) registration fee. A grace period to avoid the fee extends three weeks into the beginning of the semester following your final semester registered as a full-time student. The grace period includes the summer after the spring semester and first three weeks of the fall semester.

29

What is the active-file fee? ($200 per term up to six terms) Doctoral candidates pay an active-file fee for each semester they take a leave of absence or fail to register until the dissertation is accepted. Candidates not registered at the time of the final examination pay the active-file fee for that semester.

What is the dissertation fee? ($125) Graduating doctoral candidates must pay this fee, which covers the costs of preparing and mailing a master microfilm of the entire dissertation, publishing the abstract in the monthly periodical “Dissertation Abstracts International,” and binding both copies required for the Cornell University libraries.

What is the microfilm arrangement fee? (optional: $45) The dissertation research of doctoral students must be published in its entirety on microfilm whether or not you plan to or already have published any or all of the work. University Microfilms Inc. provides worldwide distribution of your work. You retain all other control over your dissertation and are free to grant publishing rights as you see fit.

What is the late-filing fee? ($100) After your final exam, you have 60 days to make the needed changes in your dissertation or thesis, obtain final approval, and submit the final copies to the Graduate School. If you take longer, you are charged a latefiling fee. Tax Compliance Office www.payments.cornell.edu/Tax_Compliance.cfm

Financial Matters: Taxes Is my financial aid package taxable? If I pay my own tuition, can I get a tax deduction? Where can I get additional information about taxation?

Is my financial aid package taxable?

30

Stipends for assistantships are subject to state and federal taxation and must be treated as regular wages. Cornell will withhold taxes on stipends as required by state and federal guidelines. Foreign students who are classified for tax purposes as non-resident aliens must file an IRS form 1040NR and a New York State form IT 203. Fellowship awards are taxable, excluding tuition, fees, and the cost of books, supplies, and equipment. Make sure you keep proof of receipts, cancelled checks, and other expenditures. Cornell University is not required to withhold taxes on fellowship checks of U.S. citizens and permanent residents, and recipients are responsible for all taxes. If you’re a nonresident alien, you will have taxes withheld on the stipend portion of your fellowship unless the proper form is filed showing that a tax treaty with your home country excludes the fellowship.

Internal Revenue Service www.irs.gov New York State Department of Taxation and Finance www.tax.state.ny.us

If I pay my own tuition, can I get a tax deduction? You might be eligible for the Lifetime Learning Tax Credit. Consult IRS Publication 970 “Tax Benefits for Higher Education,” available on the IRS web site.

Where can I get additional information about taxation?

Cornell University Payment Services and Tax www.payments.cornell.edu

Additional information is available on the Cornell University Payment Services and Tax web site, www.payments.cornell.edu. NOTE: All foreign students should complete the foreign national questionnaire and follow the instructions for remitting it to “tax dept” for review. It can be downloaded from the web site noted above.

Student Health Insurance Plan www.studentinsurance.cornell.edu

Financial Matters: Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) Do I need to enroll in SHIP? What if I already have adequate insurance? Under what conditions does the university pay for SHIP?

Do I need to enroll in SHIP? Yes. You will be automatically enrolled in the mandatory SHIP. The coverage is optional for off-campus students.

What if I already have adequate insurance? On-campus students who are paying all or part of their tuition and think they have sufficient health insurance coverage may petition Student Insurance to have the Graduate School pay SHIP fees. However, such students will hold both policies—their own and SHIP. Contact the Graduate School in Caldwell Hall for a health insurance appeal form. In absentia students may, if they have adequate alternate insurance, waive SHIP coverage. Complete the waiver form attached to the in absentia form to appeal SHIP.

Under what conditions does the university pay for SHIP? The university will pay for the health insurance if you are receiving full tuition and stipends from or through Cornell. Cornell will pay the SHIP premium for graduate students with external fellowships only if the fellowship provides full support through the university.

31

University Policy on Graduate Student Assistantships www.policy.cornell.edu/vol1_3.cfm

Financial Matters: Cornell Fellowships What kinds of fellowships are available? What types of assistantships are available? What about summer funding?

What kinds of fellowships are available? The Graduate School makes fellowships available to outstanding students through the graduate fields. Some fields have income from restricted endowments or other departmental funds that also may be used for fellowship awards. If you’re an incoming student, you can apply for a fellowship as part of your application for admission. If you’re a returning student, you should consult with your director of graduate studies or department chair about fellowship availability and the application process.

What types of assistantships are available? Full-time graduate students may be awarded assistantships, which fall into four general categories: Teaching Assistant (TA), Research Assistant (RA), Graduate Assistant (GA), and Graduate Research Assistant (GRA). These awards are administered by fields and departments.

What about summer funding? Your field may provide some additional support for the summer months, but it is not guaranteed. Recipients of summer funding must register with the Graduate School (at no charge) during the summer to receive funding.

Financial Matters: Need-based Financial Aid How do I determine my eligibility for need-based financial aid? What about loans? Can international students get loans?

32

How do I determine my eligibility for need-based financial aid? Cornell University administers several financial aid programs for United States citizens and permanent residents, offered in the form of loans and tuition assistance. You must reapply for loans each year; renewal is not automatic. Contact the Graduate School for application information. International students who are creditworthy may apply for private educational loans with a creditworthy co-signer who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. New York State residents who pay part or all of their own tuition to Cornell may apply for the state’s Tuition Assistance Program. Submit an application form to the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation, Student Financial Aid, 99 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12255. More information is available at www.hesc.com. Higher Education Services Corporation www.hesc.com

What about loans? The Federal Ford Direct Loan program is available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who demonstrate a financial need. In addition, the Federal Perkins loan is need-based. It is a low-interest loan repaid to the school. Due to limited funds, the priority for the Perkins loans is given to Ph.D. students with no funding or partial funding. If you do not qualify for need-based aid or federal loans do not meet your needs, you may be eligible to borrow through private educational loan programs. Information is available from the Graduate School Loans Office in Caldwell Hall.

Can international students get loans? International students who are creditworthy may apply for private educational loans with a creditworthy cosigner who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Financial Matters: Other Sources of Financial Assistance What outside fellowships are available? Is part-time work available on campus? Are there other sources of funds? Does the Graduate School offer research travel assistance? What are Cornell prize competitions? Is financial support available for child care expenses?

33

Graduate Fellowship Database www.gradschool.cornell.edu/fellowships

What outside fellowships are available? The Graduate School maintains a database of more than 750 external graduate fellowships. The searchable database, known as the Fellowship Database, is available on the web at www.gradschool.cornell.edu/ fellowships. Many of Cornell’s libraries and career centers also have information on fellowship and grant opportunities.

Is part-time work available on campus? Yes. Check with your director of graduate studies or department chair about the availability of work. Parttime employment must not exceed the hourly limitations established by the graduate faculty.

Are there other sources of funds? You should investigate the following sources: the chairperson of your special committee or department, or the dean of the college; the Graduate School Loans Office; the Mario Einaudi Center for International Studies; Conference Transportation Grants; and Cornell prize competitions. Conference and Research Travel Grant forms www.gradschool.cornell.edu/forms Mario Einaudi Center for International Studies www.einaudi.cornell.edu

Does the Graduate School offer research travel assistance? Full-time students may apply for assistance from the Graduate School for research-related travel. These grants are for dissertation research, not conference travel. Priority is given to Ph.D. students who have passed or will pass the A Exam before traveling, who need to do pre-dissertation research, and who need to travel far from Ithaca. Awards are made twice a year. The deadline is November 1 for fall/winter research travel and February 1 for spring/summer research travel. Awards may be made retroactively if you traveled in the early part of the fall semester. The Mario Einaudi Center for International Studies offers research travel grants for Cornell master’s and Ph.D. students conducting short-term research and/or fieldwork in countries outside the United States. The deadline is in early February. Full-time graduate students who have been invited to present papers or posters at professional conferences may apply for grants from the Graduate School to help cover transportation expenses. These grants are awarded monthly subject to funding availability.

What are Cornell prize competitions? Several university prize competitions with cash awards are open to graduate students. Often, these are restricted to members of specific fields or colleges. Contact your department chair for more information.

34

Is financial support available for child care expenses? Yes. Day care grants of up to $5,000 are available on an annual basis on a sliding income scale to registered graduate students with dependent children 12 and under. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. For information on applying, contact Victoria Blodgett at [email protected] or 607 255-5184.

Cornell University Policies and Procedures Academic Integrity and Acknowledging the Work of Others Grievance Procedure for Graduate Students Relating to Graduate Education and Support Romantic and Sexual Relationships between Students and Persons in Authority Sexual Harassment Release of Information Policy of Equal Educational and Employment Opportunity Office of Workforce Diversity, Equity and Life Quality Open Doors, Open Hearts, Open Minds University Ombudsman Other Cornell University Policies Cornell Policy Office www.policy.cornell.edu Cornell Policy Notebook www.policy.cornell.edu/notebook.cfm

Academic Integrity and Acknowledging the Work of Others (Code, VII.A.) All students are expected to adhere to the Code of Academic Integrity contained in the Policy Notebook for Cornell Community. The Principle of the Code reads, in part: Absolute integrity is expected of every Cornell student in all academic undertakings. Integrity entails a firm adherence to a set of values, and the values most essential to an academic community are grounded on the concept of honesty with respect to the intellectual efforts of oneself and others. Academic integrity is expected not only in formal course work situations but in all university relationships and interactions connected to the educational process, including the use of university resources. While both students and faculty of Cornell assume the responsibility of maintaining and furthering these values, this document is concerned specifically with the conduct of students. A Cornell student’s submission of work for academic credit indicates that the work is the student’s own. All outside assistance should be acknowledged, and the student’s academic position truthfully reported at all times. In addition, Cornell students have a right to expect academic integrity from each of their peers. (From Policy Notebook for Cornell Community, page 67) In addition, all students should be familiar with another chapter of the Policy Notebook for Cornell Community called “Acknowledging the Work of Others.” The Policy Notebook is available in the Graduate School Office and online. The university has established procedures for addressing violations of these standards. Each college and school of the university, including the Graduate School, establishes its own Academic Integrity Hearing Board. 35

Grievance Procedure for Graduate Students Relating to Graduate Education and Support (Code, VII.C.) The Grievance Procedure for Graduate Students Relating to Graduate Education and Support outlines general provisions and procedural steps for handling most grievances involving graduate students and faculty members, including issues such as academic integrity, remuneration, or joint publication. All conflicts should be dealt with in a patient, sensitive, and dignified manner. The following procedure was developed and written by the General Committee of the Graduate School in May 1992, and amended in May 1997. INTRODUCTION This procedure is intended to provide a mechanism through which grievances can be fully investigated and decisions rendered. It covers grievances which involve individual graduate students and faculty on issues relating to graduate education and support. It is expected that most grievances will take the form of alleged violations of terms of written agreements and guidelines. However, these procedures should continue to recognize as “grievances” a broader range of more subtle and sensitive matters having to do with such issues as remuneration, joint publication, etc. These kinds of issues often involve unwritten expectations, expectations that must be dealt with in a patient and sensitive manner that respects the dignity of all participants. (The university-wide Sexual Harassment Procedures Policy 6.4 adopted July 8, 1996, supersedes all college and university procedures which purport to handle sexual harassment complaints. Complaints from a student alleging sexual harassment by a staff or faculty member should be filed with the Office of Equal Opportunity (see below). Complaints alleging student vs. student sexual harassment should be referred to the Judicial Administrator for handling under the Campus Code of Conduct.) PROCEDURAL STEPS 1. Speak Directly to the Source of the Grievance Whenever possible, the aggrieved shall first speak directly to the person(s) who is the alleged cause of the complaint, or who bears responsibility for the cause.

36

2. Contact the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) If a satisfactory resolution is not reached, the aggrieved may file a grievance by sending a letter describing the issue to the DGS in her/his field. This letter should be dated and filed as soon as possible but not more than four months after the event giving rise to the grievance. (In a case in which the complaint is about a recurring pattern of behavior, this time limit shall refer to the most recent instance of the behavior.) Copies of this letter should be sent to the Dean of the Graduate School and to the University Ombudsman. If the letter describes the grievance as involving issues of racial or gender-based discrimination, the Ombudsman shall send a copy to the Office of Equal Opportunity, which shall then investigate that aspect of the charge. If the DGS is the “source” of the grievance, Step 2 should be skipped and the grievance letter sent directly to the Dean of the Graduate School. If, in the judgment of the Dean of the Graduate School, the subject of the grievance involves matters of college or university-wide implication or is otherwise beyond the authority of the DGS to resolve, the grievance, upon the request of the dean, shall be removed to Step 3 below. After notification, the DGS in the department in which the event occurred shall meet with both parties and discuss the issue in as informal a manner as possible. Within 20 working days of having received the original letter, the DGS shall provide a written response recommending a resolution to the problem, a copy of which should be sent to the aggrieved, the Dean of the Graduate School, and the Ombudsman. The recommended resolution must be consistent with university policy. 3. Bring the Case to the Dean of the Graduate School If one of the parties is not satisfied with the resolution at Step 2, she/he should notify the Dean of the Graduate School in writing within ten days of receiving the decision. Upon receiving such notification, the dean or her/his representative, shall meet with both parties to discuss the issue. The dean may, as she/he feels necessary, request that others be present as will help her/him to arrive at a fair and informed decision (as, for example, in a case where the grievance involves specialized expertise in a field). Within 20 working days of having received notification, the dean shall issue a decision. It is recognized that under extraordinary circumstances this deadline may not be met; then all parties should be notified of the delay. 4. Refer the Case to the Graduate Grievance Review Board (GGRB) If one of the parties is not satisfied with the resolution at Step 3, she/he can refer the matter to a five-member Graduate Grievance Review Board, which shall issue a recommendation. Within 25 days after receiving the dean’s decision, the aggrieved shall inform the Ombudsman of her/his intent to take the issue to the GGRB.

37

The GGRB shall be established within the academic area (Humanities, Social Sciences, Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences). Board members are chosen as follows: • Two graduate student members elected by the representatives to the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GPSA) in that academic area. (Neither of these Board members should be in the same department as the two parties.) • Two faculty members in that academic area selected from the members of the General Committee (GC) of the Graduate School. • A chair chosen from the Graduate Faculty by the Ombudsman with the mutual consent of the parties involved. If the parties can’t agree on the recommendation of the Ombudsman, then the Ombudsman will submit a panel of five names to the parties involved. They shall indicate their preference for the persons in numerical order. The one receiving the lowest total points shall be designated as the chair. Within 20 working days after the Ombudsman is notified of the aggrieved’s intention to take the issue to the GGRB, the Board shall meet to discuss the issue. The meeting shall include a hearing granted to both parties. The Board shall arrive at a decision by a majority vote and shall, within five days after the hearing, issue a final recommendation. This recommendation shall be forwarded to the Provost for final resolution. GENERAL PROVISIONS a. Since most of the issues of grievance that arise in graduate student-faculty relations involve matters of personal sensitivity, they need to be resolved amicably and with a minimum of legalistic maneuvering. b. Both parties in a grievance shall have the right to be present at each meeting outlined in the procedure and to bring along a friend or other witness. c. Both parties shall have the right to all cited relevant non-confidential documents, including meeting records, and a summary of cited relevant confidential documents which shall be provided by the Ombudsman. In the case of disagreement, the relevance of requested documents shall be determined by the Ombudsman. d. The graduate student shall suffer no reprisals or harassment for using the grievance procedure. Her/ his supervisors shall make reasonable allowance to adjust schedules to allow attendance at meetings described herein, and shall not dock pay. e. If several graduate students share a common grievance, they may file a grievance jointly and pursue it according to the above procedure. f. No decision will be construed as setting a precedent for any subsequent decision.

38

TIME LIMITS AND THE ROLE OF THE OMBUDSMAN Oversight of the smooth functioning of the procedure shall be the responsibility of the Ombudsman. Upon receiving the letter described in Step 2, she/he shall create a file to contain a clear record of the progress of the procedure and other documents as she/he shall deem warranted. If the letter in which the aggrieved files the grievance charges that the matter involves issues of discrimination that violate the university’s policy of equal opportunity, the Ombudsman shall forward a copy of the letter to the Office of Equal Opportunity, which shall then investigate those aspects of the grievance. If the proceedings advance to Step 4, the Ombudsman shall select the chair of the GGRB from among members of the Graduate Faculty. The Ombudsman shall monitor the time limits described above, as follows: • The date at which the grievance is considered filed shall be the date the grievance is received by the addressee. • If the aggrieved fails to respond to a decision within the time limit described herein, then the issue will be presumed settled and the grievance will be closed. Faculty Council of Representatives Resolution on Romantic and Sexual Relationships Between Students and Staff www.ohr.cornell.edu/policies/academic/ aclinksInteract.html

Romantic and Sexual Relationships Between Students and Persons in Authority The following became university policy on September 18, 1996: The relationships between students and their teachers, advisors, coaches, and others holding positions of authority over them should be conducted in a manner that avoids potential conflicts of interest, exploitation, or personal bias. Given the inherent power differential, the possibility of intentional or unintentional abuse of that power should always be borne in mind. For example, a conflict of interest arises when an individual evaluates the work or performance of a person with whom he or she is engaged in a romantic or sexual relationship. Romantic or sexual relationships between students and persons in positions of authority compromise the relationship between students and the university. No member of the university community should simultaneously be romantically or sexually involved with a student whom he or she teaches, advises, coaches, or supervises in any way. Individuals in such positions of authority must not allow these relationships to develop or continue. In unusual circumstances the supervising dean* of the person in a position of authority may grant an exemption from this policy when full severance of the university relationship would create undue academic or financial hardship for the student.

*The supervising dean shall mean the dean of the school or college of the staff member’s primary appointment, the dean of the Graduate School in the case of graduate students, the Vice President for Student and Academic Services for staff members holding appointments in that division.

39

Sexual Harassment Policy www.policy.cornell.edu/vol6_4.cfm Sexual Assault Policy www.policy.cornell.edu/vol6_3.cfm

Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment is a serious issue in the workplace and educational environments. It is unacceptable in any form. Sexual harassment is demeaning, degrading, and illegal. It affects an individual’s self-esteem, and can have a negative impact on an individual’s work or academic performance. Sexually harassing behavior is prohibited throughout Cornell University. This policy addresses, and is limited to, sexual harassment in the working and education environments. (From Policy Notebook for Cornell Community, page 111) The university-wide Sexual Harassment Procedures supersede all college and university procedures, which purport to handle sexual harassment complaints. Complaints from a student alleging sexual harassment by a staff or faculty member should be filed with the Office of Equal Opportunity. The Judicial Administrator handles sexual harassment complaints between students under the Campus Code of Conduct.

Release of Information The Graduate School is committed to protecting a student’s right to privacy and keeping confidential all student academic and financial records. Information contained in the University Telephone Directory (name, local address, local telephone number(s), and network ID) is not restricted. However, a student may request that some or all of their information be omitted from either print or electronic versions of the directory by completing a no-release form at the Office of the University Registrar. The form must be submitted in writing each academic year within ten days of the date of official university registration. Other information, including home address, dates of attendance and degrees earned, awards received, and participation in officially recognized activities, may be released, but only with strict limitations. No other information concerning a student may be released without a student’s written authorization. For more information, consult the Policy on Access to and Release of Student Education Records, available from the Office of the University Registrar.

40

Policy of Equal Educational and Employment Opportunity The Cornell University Board of Trustees has the following policy on equality of educational and employment opportunity. It is the policy of Cornell University actively to support equality of educational and employment opportunity. No person shall be denied admission to any educational program or activity or be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, or disability. The university is committed to the maintenance of affirmative action programs that will assure the continuation of such equality of opportunity. Sexual harassment is an act of discrimination and, as such, will not be tolerated. (From Policy Notebook for Cornell Community) Office of Workforce Diversity, Equity and Life Quality 160 Day Hall 607 255-3976 www.ohr.cornell.edu/contacthr/workLifeDiversity/

Office of Workforce Diversity, Equity and Life Quality The Office of Workforce Diversity, Equity and Life Quality prepares the University Affirmative Action Plan and monitors and assists with the implementation of Cornell’s affirmative action and equal opportunity policies and programs. Persons who want to obtain more information or have concerns or complaints based upon, but not limited to, race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, national origin, color, creed, sexual orientation, disability, or status as a veteran, should contact the Office of Workforce Diversity, Equity and Life Quality, 160 Day Hall; 607 255-3976; TDD: 607 255-7066.

41

Open Doors, Open Hearts, Open Minds Open Doors “I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study.” This statement, made by Ezra Cornell in 1865, proclaims Cornell University’s enduring commitment to inclusion and opportunity, which is rooted in the shared democratic values envisioned by its founders. We honor this legacy of diversity and inclusion and welcome all individuals, including those from groups that have been historically marginalized and previously excluded from equal access to opportunity. Open Hearts Cornell’s mission is to foster personal discovery and growth, nurture scholarship and creativity across a broad range of common knowledge, and affirm the value to individuals and society of the cultivation of the human mind and spirit. Our legacy is reflected in the diverse composition of our community, the breadth of our curriculum, the strength of our public service, and the depth of our commitment to freedom, equity, and reason. Each member of the Cornell community has a responsibility to honor this legacy and to support a more diverse and inclusive campus in which to work, study, teach, research, and serve. Open Minds Free expression is essential to this mission, and provocative ideas lawfully presented are an expected result. An enlightened academic community, however, connects freedom with responsibility. Cornell stands for civil discourse, reasoned thought, sustained discussion, and constructive engagement without degrading, abusing, harassing, or silencing others. Cornell is committed to act responsibly and forthrightly to maintain an environment that opens doors, opens hearts, and opens minds. University Ombudsman 118 Stimson Hall 607 255-4321 [email protected] web.cornell.edu/Ombudsman/

42

University Ombudsman The Ombudsman’s office seeks the just and equitable resolution of conflicts within the university. The office is independent of the university administration and all other groups on campus. That independence— combined with immediate access to information and total confidentiality—enables the office to deal with a wide variety of problems in a manner separate from any factions within the university. The office can provide information on university policies and practices, find proper authorities to resolve a situation, or otherwise seek a resolution itself. The office will advocate an equitable solution when a complaint has merit. The staff in the Ombudsman’s office will discuss any grievance a graduate student may have. The office is in 118 Stimson Hall, 255-4321.

Other Cornell University Policies • Alcohol and other drugs: www.policy.cornell.edu/vol4_8.cfm • Copyright: www.policy.cornell.edu/cm_images/uploads/pol/copyright.html • Patents: www.policy.cornell.edu/cm_images/uploads/pol/Patent.html • Responsible use of electronic communications: www.policy.cornell.edu/vol5_1.cfm

Graduate School Organization and Programs How do I reach someone in the Graduate School? What is the graduate faculty? What is the General Committee? How are students represented at the Graduate School? Can I spend some time at other universities? Where do graduate students go to relax on campus? Where can I get help finding a job after graduation? I’ve just been appointed a teaching assistantship. Where can I get help figuring out how to teach other students? Cornell Online Graduate School contacts www.gradschool.cornell.edu/contact

How do I reach someone in the Graduate School? If you have questions, contact the Graduate Student Service Representative (GSSR) assigned to your field (a listing is available under “contact” on the Graduate School web site.) You may visit during office hours, which are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The phone number is 607 255-4884. GSSRs can help explain degree requirements or special procedures for circumstances such as traveling abroad, taking a leave of absence, or applying for fellowships and research grants. If the staff cannot help, you will be referred to an appropriate dean. You should feel free to contact the Graduate School staff with problems that members of your special committee are unable or unwilling to help you solve. If you feel you have a special problem, please make an appointment to see an associate dean as soon as possible.

43

The following is a list of the senior staff of the Graduate School. • Dean: Alison G. Power • Associate Dean: J. Ellen Gainor • Associate Dean for Academic Affairs: Terry D. Plater • Assistant Dean of Student Services: Sarah Hale • Director of Student Life and Career Development: Victoria Blodgett The dean is responsible for promoting the quality of graduate education and the well-being of graduate students. Associate deans of the Graduate School are academic administrative officers who assist the dean and act as the principal administrative officers of the Graduate School in the dean’s absence.

What is the graduate faculty? The graduate faculty is not an administrative unit, but rather a group of individuals drawn together by a shared interest in graduate education.

What is the General Committee? The General Committee is the administrative, legislative, and judicial board of the Graduate School. Its members have continuing responsibility for the school. They have jurisdiction over all graduate work and over all degrees beyond the first degree offered by any school or college of Cornell University with a few exceptions, which are explained in the Academic Code. The General Committee approves revisions to the Code of Legislation, approves appointments to the graduate faculty, and makes recommendations to establish new advanced degrees. The Graduate Faculty also acts upon petitions and provides general policy guidance. Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GPSA) 165 Day Hall 607 255-3715 www.assembly.cornell.edu/GPSA/Home

44

How are students represented at the Graduate School? The Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GPSA) is the official representative organization for graduate and professional students. Students in each graduate field and professional school elect one or two members to form the GPSA’s Council of Representatives (COR). In turn, the Council elects 15 of its members to form the GPSA, a voting body. Beyond its representative roles, the GPSA appoints members to university committees and sets the graduate student activity fee, which funds graduate student organizations and programs. For information, contact the Office of Assemblies, 165 Day Hall, 607 255-3715 or www.assembly. cornell.edu/GPSA/Home.

Can I spend some time at other universities? If you’re a doctoral candidate, you may participate in a variety of exchange programs with the recommendation of your advisors. These include one or two semesters in residence at another major research university participating in the Exchange Scholar Program (Berkeley, Brown, Chicago, Columbia, Harvard, M.I.T., Princeton, Stanford, University of Pennsylvania, or Yale). To be eligible, you should have completed at least two registration units. Applications must be submitted to the Graduate School a minimum of two months before your intended period of study. You may also attend a course or two at a nearby college or university to fulfill an academic requirement that cannot be met at Cornell. For information on these programs, contact the Graduate Student Services Office in Caldwell Hall. The Big Red Barn 607 254-GRAD brb.gradschool.cornell.edu

Where do graduate students go to relax on campus?

Graduate Career Development Office 350 Caldwell Hall 607 255-5184 [email protected] www.gradschool.cornell.edu/careers

Where can I get help finding a job after graduation?

Center for Learning and Teaching 420 CCC 607 255-3493 www.clt.cornell.edu

I’ve just been appointed to a teaching assistantship. Where can I get help figuring out how to teach other students?

The Big Red Barn Graduate and Professional Student Center is the campus center for graduate students, a casual gathering spot offering a dining facility and meeting space. The Barn hosts regular social programming throughout the academic year, including poetry readings, open-mike nights, swing dance lessons, international coffee hours, and a fireside seminar series. For more information, phone 607 254-GRAD or check out brb.gradschool.cornell.edu. The Graduate Career Development Office helps graduate students seeking non-academic careers. Services include confidential individual career counseling, career development workshops, and access to a variety of career development resources. For information, contact the Graduate Career Development Office, 350B Caldwell Hall, 607 255-5184. Call to make an appointment or find out about walk-in hours. Additional services are available at Cornell Career Services, 103 Barnes Hall, and at the career centers of the various colleges.

The university offers training programs for teaching assistants (TAs) through the Center for Learning and Teaching (CLT). An all-day “Graduate Teaching Development” workshop is offered on a Saturday at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. This is open to all graduate TAs. For more information, contact CLT at 420 Computing and Communications Center, telephone 607 255-3493, or visit www.clt.cornell.edu.

45

Cornell Online • Big Red Barn Graduate Student Center brb.gradschool.cornell.edu Schedules and other information for the Graduate Student Center, which is located in the Big Red Barn. • Code of Legislation of the Graduate Faculty www.gradschool.cornell.edu/code This is the link to the Code of Legislation, which covers a wide variety of issues and policy important to graduate students including exams, leaves of absence, conflict resolution, and academic integrity. • Cornell Information Technologies www.cit.cornell.edu An extensive online information source for using on-campus information systems, including computers, e-mail, web pages, computer labs, telephones, multimedia equipment, and the networks that connect them. • Course Catalog cuinfo.cornell.edu/academics/courses.cfm • CUInfo cuinfo.cornell.edu A link to almost every web site of interest to Cornellians, including student life, academics, news, events, directories, campus information, computing at Cornell, administration, faculty, and Ithaca and the surrounding community. • Graduate School www.gradschool.cornell.edu Admissions, academics, financial aid, student services, and more information about the Graduate School. • Housing Office housing.cornell.edu Learn about housing options and opportunities on-campus and around Ithaca.

46

• International Students and Scholars Office www.isso.cornell.edu Assistance for international students, faculty, and their families, including issues concerning federal immigration, tax and labor regulations, and counseling on personal, academic, and cultural matters. • Mario Einaudi Center For International Studies www.einaudi.cornell.edu A gateway to many resources that can aid students in their overseas research or employment interests. • Student Activities Office www.sao.cornell.edu Information about the more than 700 political, artistic, recreational, and professional organizations for students at Cornell. • Thesis and dissertation requirements thesis.gradschool.cornell.edu Provides details on how to format and submit your thesis or dissertation. • Transportation Services www.transportation.cornell.edu Information about commuter and parking services, Cornell mail services, Red Runner courier services, and CU Transit buses and vans. • Uportal uportal.cornell.edu Online access for students to e-mail, grades, campus service, and more. • Web Mail webmail.cornell.edu This site lets you access your campus e-mail from anywhere.

47

Graduate School Contacts at a Glance The Graduate School Graduate School Deans Graduate Student Service Representatives (GSSRs) Graduate Loans Office Thesis Advisor Publications and Graduate School web site Big Red Barn

The Graduate School Caldwell Hall Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853-2602 Phone: 607 255-5820 Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (unless otherwise indicated)

Graduate School Deans Office of the Dean 350 Caldwell Hall Phone: 607 255-7374 Fax: 607 255-5822 [email protected] or [email protected] Alison Power, Dean J. Ellen Gainor, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Terry Plater, Associate Dean Sarah Hale, Assistant Dean for Student Services (143 Caldwell Hall)

Graduate Student Service Representatives (GSSRs) 143 Caldwell Hall Phone: 607 255-5820 Fax: 607 255-1816

48

The GSSRs are organized by field and are your primary point of contact in the Graduate School • Biological Sciences: Diane Yates (607 255-1894; [email protected]) • Engineering (field names A–E): Barbara Edinger (607 255-5817; [email protected]) • Engineering (field names G–T): Anne Haessner (607 255-5826; [email protected]) • Humanities and Physical Sciences: Shirley Weaver (607 255-5819; [email protected]) • Social Sciences (field names A–K): Janine Brace (607 255-5832; [email protected]) • Social Sciences (field names L–Z): Anne Haessner (607 255-5826; [email protected])

Graduate Loans Office 190 Caldwell Hall Phone: 607 255-0441 Fax: 607 255-1816 [email protected] Linda Frady, Financial Aid Counselor

Thesis Advisor 125 Caldwell Hall Office Hours: 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday; 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday No appointments; walk-in basis only Phone: 607 255-5828 Fax: 607 255-1816 [email protected] Minnie Empson, Thesis Advisor

Publications and Graduate School web site 325 Caldwell Hall Phone: 607 255-1935 Fax: 607 255-1816 [email protected] John Tonello, Director of Communications

Big Red Barn Phone: 607 254-4723 Kris Corda, Manager 49

INDEX A

G

P

A Exam, 14, 15, 16 Academic integrity, 35 Audit, 9

General Committee, 44 Grades, 9, 21 Graduate Career Development Office, 45 Graduation, 27 Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GPSA), 44 Graduate faculty, 44 Graduate Research Assistantships, (GRA), 19 Grievance procedure, 36, 37, 38

Part time, 6 Petitioning, 22 PhD, 15, 26 Policies and procedures, 35–42 Professional masters, 10 Provisional status, 6

B B Exam, 14, 15, 16 Big Red Barn, 45

C Child care, 35 Course enrollment, 9, 20 Conference travel assistance, 34

D Defer, 22 Degree exams, 14, 15, 16 Degree requirements, 17, 18, 26 Director of Graduate Studies (DGS), 5 Dissertation, 17, 18

E Employee Degree Program, 6 Employment, 8 Environmental health and safety, 19

F Fees, 29 Fellowships, 32, 34 Financial aid, 32, 33 Field, 5 Field change, 22

50

H Health insurance, 31

I In absentia, 13, 14, 24, 28 Incomplete, 21 International students, 33 Ithaca area residents program, 6

L Leave of absence, 24 Loans, 33

M Major and minor requirements, 5 Masters, 14

N Non-degree students, 6, 29

O Office of Workforce Diversity, Equity and Life Quality, 41 Open Hearts, Open Doors, Open Minds, 42

R R.O.T.C. military personnel, 6 Registering, 8, 24 Registration units, 7, 12, 13 Research on human subjects and live vertebrates, 19 Research travel assistance, 34

S Sexual harassment, 39, 40 Special Committee,10, 11, 23 Student status, 6 Summer registration, 8

T Taxes, 30, 31 Teaching Assistant (TA), 35, 45 Thesis, 17, 18, 26 Tuition, 28

W Withdrawal, 25

NOTES

51

NOTES

52