Doctor of Philosophy
The Ph.D. degree is a research degree and students normally begin research during the first year in graduate school. As soon as the entering student has selected a research adviser, an advisory committee is established to develop an appropriate course of study designed to meet individual needs. The Ph.D. degree consists of completion of a suitable program of study, a preliminary doctoral oral exam, a written comprehensive examination that is satisfied by cumulative examinations, an original research project culminating in a dissertation, and a final oral examination.

Master of Science (non-thesis)
The Master of Science (non-thesis) degree requires a minimum of thirty semester hours. The candidate must earn at least twenty-four hours of graduate credit in fundamental and applied science courses from across the university. Courses from Duke or North Carolina State will count towards the degree upon approval of the Director of Graduate Studies and the Graduate School. The student's program of study is determined by the student's advisory committee. A written report submitted to the student's research director describing work done and a written examination that may be satisfied by cumulative examinations are also required. Admission to the Ph.D. program after completing the M.S. degree in the department requires approval a Graduate Studies Committee.