PhD Handbook

This handbook augments the Bulletin and other University publications and contains program specific policies, procedures, and degree requirements. Further information and resources are available from the Director of Graduate Studies, student services staff, and can be found on the other pages of the graduate student resources section of our website. It is the responsibility of each student to familiarize themselves with this information and to seek clarification as needed. The department reserves the right to make changes to this handbook at any time without prior notice.

The names, positions, and contact information for relevant program staff and faculty have been provided below for your convenience. 

<Insert staff and faculty contact information here>

Current degree requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy in <insert program name> are provided in the Stanford Bulletin <insert link to program’s bulletin page>. The following sections provide a timeline of when specific degree requirements must be completed over the course of the program.

<Programs that have different grade policies should detail them here. Otherwise we recommend using our language.> 

All courses required to complete the degree must be taken for a letter grade. Students must receive a grade of at least a B+ in each required course in order to receive credit for the course requirement. Should a student receive a grade lower than a B+ in a required course, the student may be required to revise and resubmit work associated with the course, retake the course, or take a different course to fulfill the requirement. The appropriate option of correcting the lower than required grade will be discussed in conjunction with the program’s Director of Graduate Study, the student's advisor, and the program’s SSO.

In addition to completing required courses with a grade of a B+ or better, students are also required to maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 throughout the PhD program.

<Programs that have different incomplete policies should detail them here. Otherwise we recommend using our language.>

Students should request an Incomplete as early as possible and prior to the end of the class. Incompletes are not automatically granted and are restricted to cases in which a substantial portion of the coursework has been satisfactorily completed. Except in extraordinary circumstances, students should complete the course by the last day of examinations of the subsequent quarter. 

Accrual of multiple incompletes or failure to complete incomplete classes by the last day of examinations of the subsequent quarter is cause for significant concern and may signal unsatisfactory academic progress.

<This is recommended text if program's have deadlines by which a student must add an additional degree program. Edit the following text as needed to align with program policy.>

Students wishing to complete a PhD minor or concurrent master’s degree in another field must submit a request to their advisor and home department no later than the end of the first year of study. This ensures that adding a concurrent degree will not delay completion of the PhD. As part of this request students must submit the following:

• a 5-year plan outlining the timeline to degree that includes specific dates for the completion of each departmental milestone
• a justification for completing the supplemental degree track that explains its relevance for the PhD

The <program/department name> requires students who have completed graduate study at another institution to transfer residency in the Winter quarter of the first year. Students who are considering pursuing a concurrent master’s degree should notify the student services manager in Winter quarter, and wait to transfer residency until their request is reviewed by the department. 

The <program/department name> will not consider requests to add a PhD minor or master’s degree in another field after the first year of study.

<If programs have a more detailed review process that can be included here. Otherwise, please use the language below.>

Graduate students are expected to make steady and successful progress toward their degree throughout their enrollment at Stanford. “Satisfactory academic progress” means that a student is meeting the academic expectations set by both the university and the program, including completing required coursework on schedule, meeting program milestones (such as qualifying exams, advancing to candidacy, and dissertation requirements), maintaining continuous, full-time enrollment , and engaging consistently with their advisor on their academic and research goals.

Programs review progress regularly, often through annual or semiannual check-ins with the advisor or Graduate Studies Committee. These reviews consider whether students are completing requirements in a timely manner, demonstrating appropriate development of research skills, and making meaningful progress toward their dissertation or final project. Students are expected to communicate proactively with their advisor, attend required meetings, and seek guidance if they encounter academic or personal challenges that may affect their progress.

If a student is not meeting expected milestones or requirements, the program will provide written feedback describing the concerns and outlining specific expectations for returning to satisfactory standing. This may include a timeline for completing overdue work, expectations for improving research engagement, or steps needed to advance to candidacy. Clear written communication ensures that students understand what is required and have the opportunity to make improvements with appropriate support.

Failure to make satisfactory academic progress may affect a student’s academic standing, eligibility for funding, or ability to continue in the program. Students who have questions or who believe they may be at risk of falling behind should speak with their advisor or student services as early as possible. The program and university is here to help students understand expectations, access resources, and navigate challenges so they can continue toward successful completion of their degree.