Full-time staff members of the University or of closely affiliated organizations stationed at the campus at College Station may fulfill total residence requirements by completion of less-than-full course loads. Specific authorization for such programs must be granted in advance by the employing agency. Employees should submit verification of their employment at the time they submit their degree plan. See Registration.

Residence Requirements

A major purpose of the residence requirements for graduate degrees is to ensure that the student has an opportunity to benefit from the advantages of a university environment. These advantages include not only the accessibility of library, laboratory and other physical facilities, but also the opportunity to participate in seminars and a variety of cultural activities. Equally important to the graduate student are the advantages of becoming acquainted with the faculty and other students on both a personal and a professional basis.

A student "in residence" is expected to devote most of his or her time and energy to graduate studies under the direction of the student's major professor and the advisory committee.

Another major purpose of the residence requirements for graduate degrees is to ensure the faculty the opportunity to properly evaluate the student and his or her development in order to guide and direct his or her studies and to determine competency.

The minimum time required to qualify for an advanced degree varies with the ability and preparation of the student. Students may find it necessary to extend their studies beyond the minimum requirements. For specific minimum residence requirements, students are directed to check the degree program description for the degree which they are pursuing.