Ph.D. Preliminary Examination Requirements
The purpose of the prelim requirements is to ensure that students have competence in several fields of EECS, not just one specialization. Previously, the department preliminary exam covered multiple areas to require breadth. In the current version of the preliminary examination requirement, the breadth course requirement is used in combination with a narrower exam to ensure adequate subject matter depth and breadth. You will have fulfilled the Prelim Requirement only after you pass the exam and meet the course breadth requirements. All Ph.D. students are expected to complete the preliminary breadth requirements by the end of their fourth semester. The Qualifying Examination may not be taken until the “pass” for the Preliminary Requirement is issued.
EE and CS students, visit the Prelim Exam Preparation web page for application deadlines, exam areas, sample questions, syllabi, and sign-up sheets.