- An OILS Ph.D. candidate must complete an approved program of studies, exclusive of the dissertation, of no less than 78 graduate credit hours. All candidates complete the required core courses (18 credit hours), concentration courses (15 credit hours), interdisciplinary supporting area courses (30 credit hours) and research courses (15 credit hours).
- Candidates for the Ph.D. are required to demonstrate inquiry skills appropriate for conducting scholarly research. The identification and certification of the inquiry skills are completed by the student Program of Studies Committee on Studies prior to the candidate starting work on a dissertation.
- The dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy must demonstrate an ability to conduct independent research and competence in scholarly exposition. It should present original investigation at an advanced level, of a significant problem and should provide the basis for a publishable contribution to the research literature of the major field.