Can I list a second advisor on Student Center for my special committee?

Date: November 2016

Question

Dear Deans of the Graduate School,

I’m a second year Ph.D. student. I’ve found a major advisor and two minor advisors, but I still need a second statistics advisor. I remember I read from somewhere that the deadline to choose committee members is the end of the semester, right? I chose a potential second advisor but only with 70% probability that I will follow him all the way. May I select his name on Student Center temporarily and maybe change later? If so, what is the deadline for change of committee member?

Thank you,

Second Year Ph.D. Student


Response

Dear Second Year Ph.D. Student,

You are correct that Ph.D. students are required to have a valid special committee by the end of their third semester. The Graduate School requires that the committee includes a chair and two minor members. Since you’ve already met this requirement you are in good shape! You can make changes or additions to your committee until shortly before your A exam so it’s fine to either add the additional member you are considering or to wait until you are more certain. 

More information about committees and deadlines can be found on the Special Committees page.

Sincerely,

Jason

Jason Kahabka
Associate Dean for Administration