The doctoral preliminary examination includes two components, both of which include written and oral presentations. The clinical case study is an in-depth reflection on a single counseling case, and serves as an exemplar of clinical competencies in the role of counselor. The dissertation proposal includes a literature review and method section for a proposed dissertation project, and serves as an exemplar of academic and scientific proficiency.
The Doctoral Training Committee has created a rubric for scheduling administrations of the clinical case study (Preliminary Examination Part 1).
Preliminary Exam 1 will typically be administered on Monday of final exams week during the spring and fall semester, unless changed by faculty vote. The following is the exam schedule through Spring 2029.
| Semester | Clinical Prelim Exam | Spring/Fall Commencement Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Monday, Dec 14 | Sunday, Dec 13 | |
| Spring 2027 | Monday, May 3 | Friday, May 7 | |
| Fall 2027 | Monday, Dec 13 | Sunday, Dec 19 | |
| Spring 2028 | Monday, May 8 | Friday, May 12 | |
| Fall 2028 | Monday, Dec 18 | Sunday, Dec 17 | |
| Spring 2029 | Monday, May 7 | Friday, May 11 |
Dissertation proposal meetings are scheduled on an individual basis. At least 4 weeks before your planned proposal date, contact the department’s Graduate Program Manager (GPM), and complete the Dissertation Proposal Defense Request Form. This form requires your advisor’s signature, certifying their approval of your proposal document. This form provides the GPM with the information needed to obtain your Preliminary Warrant from the Graduate School. In addition, it provides a list of committee members and possible proposal dates, which the GPM will use to coordinate your proposal meeting.