Prospectus

The Prospectus is a detailed and methodologically sophisticated statement of the proposed dissertation.  It is typically 40-50 double-spaced pages in length. 

Prospectus Defense

The Prospectus defense for J.S.D. students is a comprehensive exam given by the student’s Special Committee to test his/her preparedness for writing the dissertation.  It is designed to determine the student’s ability to continue research.   

The Prospectus defense must be held on the Ithaca campus, and all members of your committee must be present either physically or remotely, unless otherwise instructed by the Graduate School. 

Prospectus presentations typically are planned for one hour (30-minute presentation with Q/A to follow), but timing is flexible.  It is appropriate and useful to discuss examination expectations with your Committee members well in advance of the exam.  Each exam is unique.  Therefore, others’ experiences only represent what can happen, not what will happen. 

In this Field, the Prospectus and defense should be completed at the end of the first year/second semester, but no later than the middle of the third semester. 

Prospectus Scheduling Requirements

• At least two (2) weeks prior to the prospectus defense, the student must complete and deliver a J.S.D. Exam Scheduling Form to the GFA. Note: Students are responsible for confirming the availability of committee members before scheduling the prospectus. 
• The student’s Committee Chair must email the GFA to inform the Dean of Students’ office of successful completion of the prospectus as soon as possible, but no more than three (3) business days after the prospectus.