MS Graduate Handbook

Table of Contents

Welcome

Welcome to Purdue University and the School of Engineering Technology! The graduate faculty are delighted that you will be joining our program.  The graduate faculty are excited to be a part of your professional journey. The purpose of the handbook is to acquaint you with the graduate policies (for which you are accountable) and the School of Engineering Technology at Purdue University.

All graduate programs at Purdue University are under the jurisdiction of the Graduate School. As a student of the Graduate School, you are held accountable to standards maintained across the university. These standards include grade point average, course credit, plan of study format, advisory committee structure, graduate staff vacation policy, registration, and registration requirements and behavior.  Under University Graduate School guidelines, the School of Engineering Technology (SoET) has a Graduate Committee and Chair that reviews programs and establishes SoET guidelines and policies which are presented in this handbook.

The SoET graduate committee believes you will find your journey meaningful and intellectually challenging. The SoET graduate faculty encourage you to take advantage of the vast resources and opportunities available to you at Purdue University as you strive to reach your professional and personal goals. If you have any questions or need further information, please contact Senior Graduate Program Administrative Assistant Niedra McLeland at nmclelan@purdue.edu.

School of Engineering Technology Contact Information

Dr. Kenneth A. Burbank
Head, SoET
Email: kburbank@purdue.edu

Dr. Duane D. Dunlap
Chair, SoET Graduate Education Programs
Email: ddunlap@purdue.edu

Ms. Niedra McLeland
Graduate Program Administrative Assistant
Email: nmclelan@purdue.edu
Phone: 765-494-7484

 

1.    Master’s Degrees

All applicants are required by the Graduate School to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university of recognized standing prior to registration. The applicant is required to have achieved a grade point average of 3.0 or higher for admission to a degree program without conditions for continued enrollment.

Master of Science (MS) programs are directed by professors who work in close association with the graduate student. Your MS plan of study is composed of required and formal courses and guided individual study in a chosen field or discipline. Additionally, study in related subjects as required by the candidate’s major professor and/or advisory committee. Your creation of original research serves as the basis of a scholarly thesis or capstone directed research project. Master of Science applicants for on campus programs require the following materials:

• Transcripts from all universities or post-secondary institutions attended
• GRE scores are currently optional at time of handbook publication (November 2022)
• Statement of purpose (why graduate school, why Purdue SoET, how are you qualified, SoET faculty with whom you have communicated and want to work with, research topic you want to pursue, and what you want to do with the degree after graduation)
• Diversity Statement (optional)
• Resume
• Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can independently evaluate the applicant’s ability to write effectively, demonstrate proficiency to work independently, conduct research, and follow directions.  

A thesis-based MS degree requires 21 credit hours of coursework and minimum of (9) credit hours of thesis research (ECET/IET/MET 69800). The student’s work culminates in a written thesis. Student’s pursuing a MS thesis-based are required to complete the following courses in the preferred sequence: ENGT 50100 (Research Seminar), MET 50300 (Applied Optimization), graduate-level statistics course, MET 52700 (Technology from a Global Perspective), and TECH 64600 (Analysis of Research Methods and Writing Selective).

A non-thesis, capstone directed research project is an MS degree requiring 30 credits of coursework with a minimum of 6 credit hours of research (ECET/IET/MET 59800). The capstone directed project was originally defined as an applied research project that was more extensive and sophisticated than a graduate-level independent study and less formal than a master’s thesis. However, the format of the capstone directed research project follows the same SoET thesis checklist (formatted just like a thesis and with a scheduled final oral defense presentation). The overall objective of the requirement is to engage each graduate student in a study, typically industry or business focused, which was sufficiently involved as to require more than one semester to conceive, conduct, and report. The focus of the project is typically a problem with practical implications rather than original, basic research. Students are required to complete the following courses having the following preferred sequence: ENGT 50100 (Research Seminar), MET 50300 (Applied Optimization), a graduate-level statistics course (see list of recommended statistics courses in Appendix H, MET 52700 (Technology from a Global Perspective) and then TECH 64600 (Analysis of Research in Industry and Technology).

A non-thesis coursework-only MS degree requires 30 credit hours. Students are required to complete the following courses: ENGT 50100 (Research Seminar), MET 50300 (Applied Optimization), graduate-level statistics course, and MET 52700 (Technology from a Global Perspective).  Of important note is students cannot include credit for more than one of the following courses: IET 50700, STAT 50100 or STAT 51100 for a core requirement. One of these three courses can serve as an initial statistic course.

Admission to the Graduate Program at the master’s level is restricted to those with an admirable undergraduate record who demonstrate potential for graduate education success through writing and research.

Online Master’s Degree

The Online Master’s in Engineering Technology is designed for full-time working professionals having an undergraduate degree in engineering, engineering technology, science, information technology or business. The program is uniquely equipped to prepare the full-time working professional for a variety of upwardly mobile engineering, technology, and science-based careers. Of important note, the online degree program, for example, is not to prepare the student to be a theoretical engineer and shouldn’t be confused with a graduate degree in engineering science. The online degree program requires a total of 30 credit hours to complete the plan of study requirements.  Six credit hours within the plan of study require a capstone directed research project written by the student. The capstone directed research project (CDRP) is written and formatted like a thesis, but having a focus to solve a business, industry, or governmental problem or challenge. The CDRP answers a given workplace or technology problem in five written chapters as a thesis to contribute knowledge or a solution. The CDRP must also demonstrate a return on investment tied to the research problem statement of the study. Applicants are required to submit the following materials:

• Transcripts from all universities or post-secondary institutions attended
• Statement of purpose (why graduate school, why Purdue SoET, how are you qualified, how does the presented graduate program related to your current and future full-time employment, research topic you want to investigate, measure, and academically write up, and what you want to do with the degree after graduation)
• Diversity statement (optional)
• Resume
• Three letters of recommendations (individuals who can judge your ability to be successful in graduate course expectations, perform timely and deliver professional results, work independently to conduct research and write an entire five-chapter CDRP)

For more information regarding the program visit, https://online.purdue.edu/programs/engineering/polytechnic-masters-in-engineering-technology/courses

A graduate of the Engineering Technology program will be able to solve business and industry challenges using existing sciences and technologies and merge knowledge, art and skill to develop and impact the deployment of solutions to complex, real-world problems in manufacturing, technology and many other fields or professions. The degree program builds an excellent foundation to move up and expand your responsibilities in your current organization or next career move.

BS/MS Combined Degree

The SoET’s Combined BS/MS Degree Programs are restricted to undergraduate students with a 3.0 or 3.2 (MFET) cumulative GPA or higher academic standing depending on the undergraduate program. Application and admission to the Graduate School are required, and the standard Graduate School application process is to be followed. The degree can be referred to as an early admission program. Students desiring admission into SoET’s Combined BS/MS Degree Program can apply to the Department’s Graduate Programs Committee as early as their junior year (Semester 5). However, potential applicants are expected to discuss details with their undergraduate academic advisor, first. If the student decides to move forward after discussing with their undergraduate academic advisor and potential MS committee chair, all applicants are required to submit the following materials:

• Transcripts from all universities attended
• Statement of purpose (why graduate school, why Purdue SoET, how are you qualified, SoET faculty with who you have spoken and want to work with, research topic you want to pursue, and what you want to do with the degree after graduation)
• GRE scores, optional at this point in time (December 2023) with publication
• Diversity statement (optional)
• Resume
• Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can independently evaluate the applicant’s ability to write effectively, demonstrate proficiency to work independently, conduct research, and follow high-level directions individually.

The primary purpose of admitting outstanding undergraduate students into the MS degree program is to provide the opportunity to make an early start on thesis research. Combined degree students are allowed to enroll in graduate courses and earn course and research credits towards their master’s degree while completing their bachelor’s. Before the baccalaureate degree is awarded, any course and/or research credits taken to satisfy the graduate degree requirements must be designated as undergraduate excess credits. Students can complete up to twelve credit hours while they are still completing their B.S. degree to count towards the MS degree. Dual counted credits must be B- or better. Students must meet all requirements for the baccalaureate degree, which must be awarded before the student is eligible to earn the graduate degree. All students are assigned, or will select, a faculty mentor/thesis advisor upon entering the program. Required graduate course work will follow either the thesis, directed project, or course work only sequence depending upon student’s professional objective. Note, ENGT 501 needs to be taken in the fall semester.

Combined degree BS/MS students can be eligible for teaching or research assistantships including fellowship support after admission to the Graduate School if they are planning to complete a thesis or directed project.

Q&A for Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Course Selection for Dual Degree

Question - If a student takes a 500-level course while in undergraduate status but that 500 level course is used to meet a specific undergraduate requirement such as an upper-level elective, can this 500 level course still be counted as a dual credit toward the masters? Additionally, does the 500 level courses that are taken while in undergraduate status have to be above and beyond the 120 credit hours necessary for the B.S. degree? 

Answer - if this student in in an approved combined degree program (would have a Form 27 on file with the master's application), they can take up to 12 credits of 500-600 level coursework during their time of dual BS/MS enrollment to be used toward both degrees. These combined counted credits must be B- or better. If the student is not in a combined program, s/he cannot dual count credits. However, they could take courses beyond the requirements of the undergrad degree with the expectation that these may be used only for a graduate degree in future. These are called Undergraduate Excess credits. Up to 12 credits of undergraduate excess and combined degree credits may be used toward a graduate degree provided that these requirements are met:

• The courses were 500-600 level
• The courses were taken while the student had junior or senior standing
• A B- or better was earned in the course
• The course was not used for the undergraduate degree

Question - If the student, when in graduate status takes a 400-level course, must they also take the corresponding 500 level course for the 400-level course to be counted toward the graduate degree?

Answer - No; up to 6 credits of 300-400 level courses taken while a graduate student may be used on a graduate plan of study (provided a B- or better is received). As long as the 400- level course is on the GR transcript and the minimum grade requirement is met, the student should be able to. Confirm with the SoET graduate education administrative assistant.

Students admitted to a combined degree program may share up to 12 credits of 500-600 level (B- or better) coursework taken in undergraduate registration between the BS and MS degrees. These courses remain on the undergrad transcript but can be listed on the graduate plan as combined (CO).  Up to 6 credits of 300-400 level coursework taken in graduate registration (i.e. listed on the graduate transcript) may be used on a graduate plan.

When students take courses to double count (while still enrolled as an undergraduate), these should be (safe bet) 500-level courses. Generally, using a 300- or 400- level required course taken while an undergraduate is discouraged. However, a maximum of 6 credit hours of 300- and 400- level course work can be applied to an MS degree.  

Students cannot use undergraduate level (100-400 level) taken in undergraduate registration on a graduate plan. Up to 6 credits of 300-400 level taken as a graduate student can be used, but not as an undergrad. There has been an incidence that a 400-level research course (such as MET 49900) has counted when followed by additional research/coursework in that area.

Question - If an EET student were to take ECET 33900 Digital Signal Processing (as an undergrad) and then ECET 43900 Advanced DSP (as an undergrad) and then ECET 58100 Advanced DSP (as a graduate student), could all three be counted to the student’s MS plan of study? 

Answer - No, only ECET 58100 could be used.

Question - If a student takes a required course/selective as an undergraduate (e.g. MET 41100 Intro to Finite Element Analysis or MET 31601 Mechanics of Machine Design) and follows this up with another course roughly in that area. Could MET 41100 be counted? How about MET 31601?”

Answer - No, since undergraduate level courses taken in undergrad registration cannot be used on a grad plan.

1.1. Transferring to SoET from another Purdue University graduate program

Requirements

The student must meet the Graduate School’s requirements in order to be considered by the SoET for a transfer from another Purdue department/school. SoET requires student’s to have at least a 3.0 GPA. The student needs to be from a discipline which closely aligns to work done in the SoET demonstrating knowledge of the field of engineering technology as well as explain how SoET is a good fit for them based on their research goals.

Materials needed to approve transfer

The student’s admissions application will be reviewed by the SoET Graduate Committee and/or Chair. Transfer materials can be delivered by the student, or by the student’s original department. The original department must approve the potential transfer, first. The following materials are required:

• completed Request for Transfer of Department form (GS-Form-17).  https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/documents/gpo/forms/GS-Form-17.pdf 
• an unofficial Purdue transcript submitted by the student.
• statement of purpose for transfer will be written by the student, explaining the justification for the transfer, and explaining why SoET is an appropriate fit for the student.
• three letters of recommendation from individuals who can independently evaluate the applicant’s ability to write effectively, demonstrate proficiency to work independently, conduct research, and follow directions.
• resume
• GRE scores optional as of November 2021
• TOEFL scores

Process of Assessment

Members of the SoET Graduate Committee and/or Chair will review the file and determine whether the transfer is appropriate for the student and for the department.

2.  Major Professor

When admitted to Purdue, SoET graduate students need to have already chosen a major professor. If not, a volunteer Mentor Team, will be formed. The members of the Mentor Team will function as an Initial Advisor (IA) and will work with unpaired students or any other student that needs mentorship.  Some important information about the MentorTeam is listed below:

• Volunteers submit their name to Niedra McLeland, Graduate Progam Administrative Assistant, who will keep a list of eligible mentors
• At the start of every semester, faculty wishing to opt-out must contact Ms. McLeland to be removed from the list. Niedra can send an email to all faculty on the list with “vote” buttons to stay on the list or to opt-out.
• Ms. McLeland will provide the list to all unpaired students. Students will then select an Initial Advisor from this list.
• Students may work with an IA for a maximum of one semester.  If the student wishes, they may separate from their IA after one semester and select a different IA from the list (two maximum).
• Recommended responsibilities of the IA:
  
  • Help the student align with a MP
  • Help the student develop a plan of study
• Recommended responsibilities of students pursuing an MS Thesis Option:
  
  • Develop research questions
  • Develop research products
  • Actively seek a MP
• The IA may become the MP if both the student and IA agree to this arrangement. If not, the students will be initially assigned to one in a temporary capacity. The initial assignment is based on expressed research interest, the research programs of the faculty member, and the availability of research funding.

3. Coursework and Plan of Study

3.1  Course Requirements

Master’s Degree

Minimum requirements for the thesis-based program are 21 credit hours of graduate coursework beyond the BS level, and a minimum of nine hours of thesis research credits that contributes to knowledge in the field of research specialization. The non-thesis MS requires 30 semester hours of graduate work beyond the BS. For either the thesis or non-thesis option, courses taken in preferred order must include:

• Research Seminar (ENGT 50100)
• Three credit hour graduate level statistics course (see listing of statistic courses in Appendix K).
• Applied Optimization (MET 50300)
• Technology from a Global Perspective (MET 52700), then
• Analysis of Research in Industry and Technology (TECH 64600)

Coursework-only option students are NOT required to take TECH 64600, all other courses listed above are required. The plan of study must provide a well-balanced and integrated research program in support of the student’s concentration or area of professional interest.

3.2   Plan of Study

Each graduate student admitted to the degree program MUST file a plan of study through the myPurdue portal before the end of the second semester of graduate work. The plan of study includes the specific courses the student is expected to complete. No courses that have S/U grades, such as research credits (59800 or 69800), shall appear on the plan of study. Thesis students must have at least 21 credit hours on their plan of study; non-thesis students must have a total of 30 credit hours. SoET requires all students to have a B or better in SoET required courses. Per SoET, only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B- or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer. Other courses used to fill the requirements of the plan of study require a C- or better. As a graduate student, you must maintain an overall 3.0 GPA in the SoET graduate program to maintain enrollment in the program. Committee chairs and students need to meet on a regular basis (every other week) throughout the semester to review, and plan for success. Course credits earned by a student whose graduate study and/or professional activity have been inactive for five years or more cannot be used in a plan of study for an advanced degree. A plan of study approved prior to such a period of inactivity is invalid.

Filing the Plan of Study

The plan of study is filed electronically and must be completed by the student after his or her major professor has approved. The plan of study includes a primary area and related area(s) that are chosen on the basis of the student’s interests and needs. The plan of study includes the specific courses the student is expected to complete and other requirements of the degree being sought. Research credits either for the thesis for directed project) (ECET/IET/MET 59800 or 69800) do NOT appear on the plan. Courses taken as pass/fail  may be included in the plan, in a category distinct from those which are used to satisfy plans of study requirements. All students are required to have a B- or better in the required core courses. The other courses used to fill the requirements of the plan of study require a C- or better. SoET requires a 3.0 GPA  be maintained in the program to graduate. The initial Plan of Study must be finalized and submitted for approvals before the end of the second semester in a graduate degree program.

Credits from Another University

Credits earned at other universities may be applied toward an advanced degree at Purdue, but only if it can be proven that the specific credits were not used to meet requirements for another awarded degree. Please refer to the Graduate School’s Policies and Procedures for Administering Graduate Student Programs (https://catalog.purdue.edu/content.php?catoid=9&navoid=10510) All transfer credits are subject to approval by the major professor and SoET or chair of the graduate committee. For a course to be considered, the student must provide a copy of the course syllabus to the graduate education administrative assistant. The committee or chair will review to determine appropriateness and validity for use in a given Plan of Study.

3.3  Course Recommendations

Recommended graduate (500-600) courses and course offerings for each area of interest in SoET can be found in the Purdue course catalog (https://selfservice.mypurdue.purdue.edu/prod/bwlkffcs.p_disp_dyn_ctlg). The SoET MS program allows flexibility in the course’s students take, depending on their research area and interests. Students can take courses outside the SoET school relevant to their research interests and with the approval of the major professor. When creating a plan of study and registering for coursework, students are expected to work with their major professor to ensure all degree requirements and research expectations are met.

3.4  Undergraduate Credit

A related area may include undergraduate courses (300- or 400-level) only when in “grad status” and followed by appropriate 500 or 600 level courses. A student must have the approval of the student's advisory committee and chair. Undergraduate courses listed in the related area must be in excess of the baccalaureate degree requirements. Graduate School policy stipulates that 100- and 200-level courses may not appear on a plan of study, no more than six (6) semester hours of 300- and 400-level courses may be applied to graduate work and a grade of “B” or better is required. If an undergraduate course is taken while the students is in non-degree status you will not be able to count the course on your plan of study.

3.5  Course Registration

For a degree to be granted by the Purdue University Graduate School, it is important for a significant component of that degree to be directed by Purdue graduate faculty; therefore, the following registration requirements exist. Registration is defined as formal enrollment in courses offered by Purdue University, including courses offered via distance learning technologies.  Courses include all Purdue University graduate courses approved by the student’s graduate committee, including formal coursework and research credits.

Registration for all students need to reflect the student’s activity as accurately as possible. Any student must be registered for research during each semester or summer session when performing faculty-directed research or consultation, and/or requiring the use of University facilities. Research includes literature reviews and thesis writing. Departmental policy requires that each graduate student supported by an assistantship (teaching or research) must be registered as a full-time student each semester. 

The minimum registration for full-time status is 8 credits per semester, or 6 credits in the summer. Students funded on a half-time research assistantship are required to be enrolled in a minimum of 6 credit hours during the fall or spring semester, and 3 credit hours in the summer. International students funded on a quarter-time assistantship must be enrolled for at least 8 credit hours to meet registration requirements. 

Students completing a thesis or directed project (non-thesis) must be enrolled in a minimum of 9 credit hours of research ECET/IET/MET 69800 for thesis or a minimum of 6 credit hours of ECET/IET/MET 59800 for a directed project to complete the MS degree.

A maximum of 6 credit hours of independent study (ECET/IET/MET 59000) may be included in a plan of study. Independent study courses require the student and major professor to complete the independent study authorization form that can be found on our webpage (https://polytechnic.purdue.edu/sites/default/files/files/Independent-Study-Authorization-Form.docx). The completed form with major professor approval should be sent to the SoET Graduate Programs Administrator. Instructions on how to register for an independent study course can be found below.  

Early registration is recommended. Late registration will result in additional fees.

Completing the Research Deliverables for Registration

The Graduate School requires that each student complete deliverables for each semester of research credit registration. The deliverables include general expectations agreed upon by the student and their major professor for the semester in question.

Within SoET, the research deliverables form can be found on our graduate webpage (https://polytechnic.purdue.edu/sites/default/files/files/Agreement-of-Deliverables.docx). The students’ will work with their major professor to get the form completed and approved. The said research credit registration must be completed BEFORE the end of the second week of Class for a given semester. Students will register for the credits through the electronic registration system.

After they register, the student must email the approved form to the Graduate Program Administrator from their @purdue.edu email account, copying their Major Professor, and requesting they respond with approval or edits.

Between the first day of classes and the end of the second week of each semester, faculty supervising research MUST login to myPurdue and complete the agreement for each of their students that are registered for research credits. Instructions on the process can be found at, (https://polytechnic.purdue.edu/sites/default/files/files/Faculty-Instructions-for-Agreement-on-Deliverables.pdf).

Registration for Independent Study Course Credits

Using an independent study course (ie, ECET/IET/MET) constitutes an agreement between a graduate faculty member and a student/group of students for individual/small group study of a special problem in a selected area. The number 59000 is used for independent study equivalent to an academic course and IS NOT TO BE used for core plan of study requirements. The independent study contract must be submitted to the SoET Graduate Program Administrator at least two weeks prior to the first day of classes of the semester in which the course is to appear. The contract is then sent to the Chair of the Graduate Committee for approval, which must be secured prior to registration. Approved copies will be distributed to the Academic Advisor and the 59000 Instructor.

How to request a Variable Title course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TL_P6UQuWdg

How to confirm the creation of a Variable Title course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJSZoI_fDio

Degree Registration and Billing Requirements

When registration is completed, fees and payment schedules will be posted on the myPurdue portal. As a Purdue graduate student, one of your responsibilities is to provide the correct mailing address for billing purposes to the Office of the Registrar, Bursar’s Office, and SoET Graduate Administrator. Additionally, you MUST abide by all Graduate School deadlines.

Students employed through an assistantship or fellowship receive tuition remission, which is processed by the SoET Graduate Office and the Bursar’s Office. Refer to the Graduate Staff Employment Manual to see if your assistantship is eligible for benefits. Please note that some fees are NOT covered by tuition remission. For example, the Polytechnic Institute charges a differential fee, and the university charges a student health and wellness fee. For more information regarding fees paid by the students, and for information regarding payment plan options, please visit the Bursar’s Office website. Tuition and fees can be estimated using the Tuition Calculator.

Registration and Holds

Registration will be prevented if you have outstanding holds on your account will prevent registration. To check a hold on your account, login to your myPurdue, and click on the Registration Tab. Within the orange “Register for Classes” box, click on the first link - “Do I have any holds?”. Common examples of holds that will prevent you from being able to register or obtain official transcripts are:

• Immunizations – All Purdue students must have their immunization records on file with Purdue University Student Health (often called PUSH). For office information, see Appendix J.
• Financial Responsibility – The Division of Financial Aid requires all Purdue students to acknowledge and accept their responsibility for incurred charges. A Hold is placed on every student account before spring registration opens each year. For office information, see Appendix J.
• Emergency Contact – Purdue University requires each student list an Emergency Contact. The hold is also placed on every student’s account before spring registration opens each year.
• Outstanding Admission Conditions (such as missing official transcripts or official diploma) – Having the Hold could appear in the first semester. Graduate students who fail to provide official transcripts or certificates to the Graduate School upon their arrival to Purdue will have said conditions. The Hold means it is necessary to contact the Graduate School Admissions Office to fulfill an admission condition.

3.6 Grade Requirements for SoET Graduate Students

Graduate students are expected to perform at a B level or higher. Only grades of C- or better are acceptable in fulfilling graduate school requirements on the plan of study. No more than six credits of “C” grades will be accepted toward graduation. SoET requires an overall, of B- or better in the required plan of study required courses. Only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer.

Please note: Pass/no pass grades are not acceptable in fulfilling degree requirements.

All graduate degree candidates are required to have a minimum of 3.0 overall (out of 4.0) grade point average (GPA) to graduate. The GPA is computed from all courses listed/taken on the plan of study.  The student’s progress is reviewed each semester by both the Graduate School and the SoET. If a student fails to perform on a level satisfactory to the major professor and student’s graduate committee, or to the Dean of the Graduate School, he or she can be asked to discontinue graduate study. The same scholastic requirements are in effect during the regular university year also apply to graduate study during the summer session and/or in course work taken at the university’s regional campuses.

A student who falls below the GPA requirements will be notified, in writing, by the Graduate Education Program Chair. The student will have one semester in which to raise his/her overall GPA above 3.0. If the GPA falls below 3.0, the student’s grade report will be marked as "less than good standing" by the Graduate School. SoET students must raise their semester GPA above 3.0 the following semester or be dismissed from the program.

 

Graduate students who receive an incomplete grade in any course will have one year from the date the Incomplete was given to receive a completion grade. If that is not done, the Registrar’s Office will convert the grade to failing (noted as IF on the official transcript).  NOTE: A student cannot enroll in additional research credit hours until the incomplete research credit hours are satisfactory completed. 

3.7 Registration Study Requirements

The Graduate School has registration requirements that are intended to ensure each student has ample opportunity for close association with other scholars in the intellectual environment of Purdue University.

Master of Science Degree

1. 1. At least one-half of the total credit hours used to satisfy degree requirements must be earned while registered at Purdue University.
2. 2. More than 50 percent of the Purdue credits must be earned through the campus where the degree is conferred.
3. 3. At least 30 total credit hours are required.
4. 4. Note the exception of doctoral students who are re-classified as master’s students and leave the Graduate School with the master’s degree, 69900 credits may not be used towards the fulfillment of master’s degree requirements.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree

The Graduate School requires that one-half of the total credits for the master’s degree and one-third of the total credits for the Ph.D. degree be earned while registered at the Purdue University. The SoET/PPI requires that one-half of the total credits for each degree be earned at Purdue University.

• At least one-third of the total credit hours used to satisfy degree requirements must be earned while registered for doctoral study at Purdue University.
• At least 90 total credit hours are required
• A master’s degree or professional doctoral degree from any accredited institution may be considered to contribute up to 30 credit hours toward satisfying this requirement at the discretion of the student’s graduate program. (The intent of this policy is to provide colleges/schools, departments, and a student’s advisory committee with flexibility in determining what credits, [up to a maximum of 30 and earned from the master’s or professional doctoral degree] may be applied toward the Ph.D. degree. These credit hours are not subject to the “Five-Year Rule” that prohibits the use of out-of-date coursework on plans of study. See Section VII-B-1-a.).
• Under no circumstances may 69800 credits, other than as part of the 30 credits which may be used from a master’s degree, contribute toward the 90 credits required for a Doctor of Philosophy degree

3.8   Reduced Course Loads for International Students

To maintain VISA status, international students are expected maintain a full-time load. Purdue’s Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS) provides information about this requirement and offers a pathway for international students to request permission to take a reduced course load.  Graduate students desiring a reduced course load must work with ISS to request this before their course load is reduced below that required by U.S. Immigration rules.  See the ISS web site for more information: http://www.iss.purdue.edu/.

3.9   Dropping and Adding Courses

To drop or add a course, use the scheduling assistant from the registration tab in myPurdue. When the request is completed, the system will notify the instructor and advisor for approval. During the first two weeks of the semester, students can drop a course via the scheduling assistant with no authorizations required. Courses dropped during the first two weeks of the semester, courses will not appear on the permanent record. Courses dropped during weeks three and four will be recorded as a “W” grade on the permanent record (withdraw) and require the advisor approval. Courses dropped during weeks five through nine require the approval of both the instructor and advisor. For such a case, the instructor must assign a grade of “W,” “WF,” or “WN.” The end of this period is the final deadline for withdrawing from a class. Courses may be added during weeks five through nine, but only under extraordinary circumstances. Courses added after the fourth week require the approval of the instructor, advisor, and School/Department Head (where the course is offered for non-Polytechnic courses). Drop and add dates can be found at the Office of the Registrar.

4.    Graduate Research

4.1   Advisory Committee

Each student completing a SoET Master’s Plan of Study must select an advisory committee. The exception is if you are in the online program. The advisory committee needs to be selected by the end of the second semester of enrollment. The major professor will help identify faculty members who have expertise in the area of research or professional interest. The chair of your committee must be an SoET graduate faculty member. Co-advisors are required to be an SoET graduate faculty member. Committee members can come from another academic School/Department within the PPI or from any other School/Department from across campus. Depending upon the research methodology topic (Chapter Three), don’t hesitate to include a faculty member from the Department of Statistics to be on your committee.  A co-advisor may be designated when its advantageous to the student and where the faculty member can build faculty experience. The advisory committee will advise on courses selected for the plan of study, and as needed during the progression of graduate studies. The students’ advisory committee must approve plans of study, research project outlines, and thesis. Students are responsible for keeping all committee members informed of their progress. Failure to meet the filing deadlines may result in loss of a student’s graduate assistantship, until the process has been satisfactorily completed.

The advisory committee for a master’s degree consists of the major professor and a minimum of two other members of the graduate faculty. For a MS degree, all committee members can be SoET faculty, or one member can be from outside of the School. Having at least one outside committee member to serve on the committee adds significant value to the overall credibility, and merit of the thesis and/or capstone directed research project. You must notify the SoET graduate administrative assistant to start the process for getting the committee member on a “special” appointment which would allow him/her to serve on your committee.

4.2   Integrity in Research

Integrity in research is an essential part of Purdue University’s intellectual and social structure, and adherence to its spirit and principles must be maintained. These principles include commitment to truth, objectivity, fairness, honesty, and free inquiry. Violations of integrity may result in dismissal from the university.

Serious violations of integrity in research are rare. However, those that do occur strike at the very heart of scholarship and the concept of the university. Advances in scientific knowledge depend on reliable data and honestly reported conclusions. For any academic institution, scholars, researchers, and artists have a special obligation to exemplify the best qualities and highest standards of personal and professional conduct.

All SoET graduate students are required to complete the online training course on Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) by the end of the first semester of enrollment. The RCR was developed by the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) available at https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/research/rcr/. Students must also be familiar with policies on responsible conduct of research at the above website. Purdue expects each graduate student to uphold the Purdue Honor Pledge, https://www.purdue.edu/odos/osrr/honor-pledge/about.html and the Protect Purdue policy https://protect.purdue.edu/. All students must adhere to said guidelines and/or policies noted. A violation of either will be turned over the Dean of Students for appropriate action.

4.3   The Research Proposal

A research proposal is required for students completing a thesis or capstone directed research project (CDRP). The research proposal must follow a format as guided and approved by the student’s major professor and advisory committee (typically a mini/condensed report containing research problem statement, hypothesizes, and chapters one through three). The proposal including the first three chapters of the thesis, or CDRP (Introduction including four sentence research problem statement initially derived or revised after MET 52700), Review of Literature, and Research Methodology). Specific expectations for the format (APA/ARWE), length, and content of the research proposal are set by the major professor and communicated to the student. The research proposal needs to be submitted to the examining/thesis advisory committee at least two weeks prior to the oral examination. The proposal defense and the final defense of either the thesis or directed project CANNOT occur in the same semester. The proposal defense meeting must be scheduled two (2) weeks in advance of the date of the proposal defense. After successfully completing your proposal defense, be sure the “SoET Proposal Form” is completed by your committee chair and submitted electronically to the SoET MS Administrative Assistant. Please view https://polytechnic.purdue.edu/sites/default/files/files/Soet-Proposal-Form-9-20-19.docx.

4.4   APA and Formatting Requirements for Thesis and Directed Project

Students are required to follow the SoET template found on the Graduate School webpage (https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/research/thesis/templates.html)

Students shall adhere to the SOET Thesis/Directed Project Checklist, APA Handbook 7^th edition including writing style and format learned in MET 52700, abiding by the Academic Research Writing Expectations (ARWE) document. Abstract follows APA format.

Please refer to the following chart for a simplified outline of the thesis timetable:

Proposal Timeline

 

What	When
Confirm that the plan of study has been approved by the Graduate School.	Must be filed and approved by the end of your second semester.
Discuss the schedule and format for the research proposal with your major professor.	Near the beginning of the semester in which you plan to take your proposal/defense.
Complete the Research Proposal	Proposal must be done the semester before the plan defense is scheduled.
Proposal Form	After your proposal is approved, have chair and committee sign form and send to Ms.McLeland electronically.
Submit electronic Form 8 via myPurdue.	The semester following the completion the proposal. The Form must be approved by all committee members in 14 days prior to exam.
Schedule the format check/reserve conference room	After the date of the exam is established, work with Ms.McLeland to schedule a format check with Dr. Dunlap.
Submit the document to your committee.	At least 2 weeks after submitting GS Form 8, but before the published semester deadline.
iThenticate Check – Completed by committee chair.	Make all final corrections and have your major professor complete the iThenticate check on your document. Send results to Ms.McLeland.
Format Check	On the day of your format check, send Niedra a copy of document in PDF format for approval.
Submit final document to Graduate School	After you have completed the format check.
SoET exit questionnaire	Ms.McLeland will email a survey to take after all MS requirements are completed.

For information regarding how to submit an electronic Form 8, visit https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/downloads/ExamForms_Guidelines.pdf

5.  Thesis and Defense

5.1 Declaring Candidacy for Graduation

Graduate students must declare candidacy during the semester in which they intend to defend their thesis and have their degree awarded. The Graduate School Deadlines Calendar provides the dates by which requirements must be completed, normally 1-2 weeks before the end of the semester. The student has the responsibility to communicate their graduation intentions to their major professor and the Graduate Program Administrative Assistant during the registration period for any given semester. A thesis or CDRP MUST be distributed to the committee at least two weeks prior to the final defense, and evaluated by each committee member. A thesis/CDRP MUST be completed and physically present for the Final Oral Defense. One of the responsibilities of the committee chair, is to compile feedback from each committee member, and direct the graduate student to make said changes to the document after the final oral defense. A final oral defense must have the students final work available and evaluated by each committee member. Each committee member is expected to provide oral/written feedback on the thesis/CDRP to the student. The chair is responsible to ensure that all edits or corrections are made. Students registered for candidacy for three consecutive semesters or more will be assessed a $200 fee by the Graduate School. A “CAND” course, either 99100, 99200, or 99300 will appear on the student’s registration for the appropriate semester of their graduation. To complete the process, it is the student’s responsibility to confirm that the coursework on their plan of study matches the coursework actually taken at Purdue.

Appropriate CAND course registrations:

 

CAND 99100                    (General Candidacy)	CAND 99200                             (Degree only)	CAND 99300                           (Exam only)
Students plan to fulfill all requirements during the semester. (See Graduate School Deadlines Calendar for due dates.) Students must be enrolled in at least one credit hour of research.	Students must have met all degree requirements, except for depositing their thesis/directed project. Satisfactory research is required in the previous session, and students must meet a mid-semester deadline. Students cannot be registered for courses.	Students must have met all degree requirements, except for defending and depositing. Satisfactory research is required in the previous session, and students must meet a mid-semester deadline. Students cannot be registered for any courses.

*If assistance is needed in deciding which CAND course is correct, contact the SoET Grad Program Administrator.

CAND 99200 and CAND 99300 are considered a “privileged registration” status which results in lower fees, but not in full-time student status. 

5.2 Thesis

The final product of the graduate research programs is a thesis or CDRP. The document represents the diligent and original work of the student. Due diligence must be taken to ensure the document is valid, original work, and free of plagiarism. The thesis or capstone directed research project must be distributed to the advisory committee at least two weeks before the final oral exam is given. Please visit the Thesis/Dissertation Office’s website for instructions regarding deposit requirements, templates, and other submission questions. 

The major professor, after review of the final edit document, MUST, confirm the student has followed the SoET Thesis/Checklist, ARWE document and completed the iThenticate verification. Once these three noted actions are completed, the major professor shall send the PDF document to the SoET graduate education administrative assistant for further action. Any concerns or issues of the submitted document will be returned to the chair copied to the School Head.

The Graduate School requires a specific format for all theses and dissertations. Detailed information on formatting the thesis or dissertation can be found at the Graduate School’s Thesis/Dissertation Office Website: http://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/research/thesis/ The student is responsible for completing all deposit requirements.   

5.3   Final Exams

A final oral examination is taken after the completion of all course work and the thesis or directed project. The exam can cover any material in the candidate's program, but typically is a defense of the thesis or directed project research and written document. The thesis or directed project MUST BE distributed to the committee chair first, for approval, before submitting to other committee members. The thesis or direct project must be made available at least one week prior to the oral defense. The thesis or directed project Must be physically completed and physically present for the oral defense. Students completing a thesis must initiate the exam Form 8 prior to the exam. The form must be approved by all committee members 14 days prior to exam. Once you have passed the final examination for your degree, your chair and examining committee members will electronically sign the Graduate School Examination Report (GS Form 7) AFTER all corrections to the thesis are made. Once the other required signatures are secured, the report is finalized in the Graduate School. Note, your final copy of your thesis or directed project must be submitted by your chair to the SoET graduate education administrative assistant so the graduate education committee chair can approve the document as to the required and prescribed format guidelines. Failure to comply with format guidelines will lead to delayed graduation. 

5.4   The Deposit Process

Students are required to submit their Master of Science thesis electronically to the Purdue Graduate School for review after approval from the chair of the SoET Graduate Committee. Filename for a thesis shall be, Firstname_Lastname_MSET-Thesis_August-2024.PDF. Filename convention for Capstone Directed Research Project shall be Firstname_Lastname_MSET-CDRP_August-2024.PDF.  Note: Month and Year shall be the month and year of final oral defense. Your electronic PDF file of your thesis will be uploaded to the Hammer Research Repository (HammerRR) unless IP is noted and recognized formally by the student and major professor. A final copy of the thesis/dissertation needs to be delivered to the major professor and committee members, if they desire one. Please visit the Thesis/Dissertation Office’s Deposit Process website for more information: https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/research/thesis/requirements.html.

The Graduate School has a Directed Research Project channel in Hammer: https://hammer.purdue.edu/Directed_Research_Projects. The graduate student and major professor must follow the same procedures as those who submit a thesis.

6.  Other Policies

6.1   Graduate Students’ Right to Appeal

Student Conduct

Graduate students, like all students officially enrolled at Purdue University, are subject to all university regulations. At the same time, student rights as individuals and as students are duly protected. Graduate students who feel that their rights have been violated by a disciplinary decision may seek redress through the Community Standards Board, according to the procedures specified in Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings, and Appeals, Section C-8 of the University Regulations, Student Conduct Policy.

Academic Standards

Graduate students must be proactive in matters pertaining to their academic program, coursework, and research. Therefore, the SoET graduate faculty expect that all graduate students will meet with their advisor at the beginning of each semester, the mid-point of the semester, and in the later portion of the semester before final examinations. The purpose of the meetings is to be certain both the student and advisor, understand and agree upon expectations and deliverables, course registration, research and/or independent study credits, and other academic matters such as being an TA/RA. Meeting frequently with your major advisor will help avoid any major issues before they arise. The Graduate School, Dean of Students, and other university processes are in place if more guidance is needed.

Graduate students who wish to appeal decisions concerning matters of academic expectations/standards may seek direction according to procedures specified in the Student Conduct Policy, Regulations Governing Student Conduct, Disciplinary Proceedings, and Appeals, Section E-Grade Appeals System, of University Regulations and to the procedures detailed in Graduate Council Document 91-C which have been established in accordance with the authority thereby delegated to the Graduate Council. Further information regarding graduate student appeals concerning academic standards can be found in the Policies and Procedures for Administering Graduate Student Programs, section IX, A. Student Conduct and Rights of Appeal.

6.2   Nondiscrimination Policy Statement

Purdue University is committed to maintaining a community which recognizes and values the inherent worth and dignity of every person; fosters tolerance, sensitivity, understanding, and mutual respect among its members; and encourages each individual to strive to reach his or her own potential. In pursuit of its goal of academic excellence, the University seeks to develop and nuture diversity. The University believes that diversity among its many members strengthens the institution, stimulates creativity, promotes the exchange of ideas, and enriches campus life.

Purdue University views, evaluates, and treats all persons in any University related activity or circumstance in which they may be involved, solely as individuals on the basis of their own personal abilities, qualifications, and other relevant characteristics.

Purdue University prohibits discrimination against any member of the University community on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genteic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or status as a veteran. The University will conduct its programs, services and activities consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations and orders and in conformance with the procedures and limitations as set forth in Purdue’s Equal Opportunity, Equal Access and Affirmative Action policy which provides specific contractual rights and remedies. Additionally, the University promotes the full realization of equal employment opportunity for women, minorities, persons with disabilities and veterans through its affirmative action program. Any question of interpretation regarding this Nondiscrimination Policy Statement shall be referred to the Vice President for Ethics and Compliance for final determination.

7.  Professional Development

7.1 Professional Societies

The SoET expects all graduate students to become active members of professional societies and encourages attendance at professional meetings and conferences. Depending upon the situation, travel and lodging are the student’s personal responsibility, except in cases where project funds are available for this purpose. Professional and research associations have branches on campus. such as https://www.purdue.edu/sao/.

7.2   Graduate Student Awards

As part of both the Purdue Polytechnic Institute, (PPI) and the School of Engineering Technology (SoET), graduate students in the SoET may be eligible for annual awards. The Graduate Program Administrative Assistant sends email notifications to all graduate students of specific awards, application materials needed, and deadlines, which graduate students are responsible for meeting if they wish to be considered.

8.  Graduate Student Employment

8.1 Workloads of Students with Graduate Staff Appointments

All funded graduate assistantships are expected to contribute to the research enterprise of the SoET. A Thesis or at a minimum a Directed Project is expected if SoET is funding your assistantship. To maintain SoET funding as a TA Thesis/Directed Project deliverable is required.

Graduate students in the SoET can be supported by half-time research or teaching assistantships. Purdue, like many other major research universities, assumes that a half-time appointment constitutes a contract for 20 hours of service per week. If an assistant’s duties are independent of the student’s course work and research, the definition of the half-time work load is relatively straight forward: not more than 20 hours per week.

All graduate assistants need to realize that research relating to their degree is not included in the 20 hours, and must be done in addition to the 20 hours the half-time appointment involves.  More than 50% of all students will register for research course hours every semester to account for the time spent on research in the lab or desk each week beyond their work as a research or teaching assistant.  Research deliverable disputes between graduate assistants and major professors need to be discussed between the parties involved, and moderated by the School Head if necessary. See the Purdue University Graduate School Policies and Procedures for Administering Graduate Student Programs in the University Catalog: http://catalog.purdue.edu/ for additional information.

For rare cases if a graduate student is on a three-quarter or full-time assistantship, the time guidelines above will be modified to account for the reduced course load restrictions due to such appointments.

To be eligible to hold a graduate staff appointment during any session, SoET requires students must be enrolled as a degree-seeking graduate student and be registered full time for the duration of each semester during the entire appointment period. Graduate staff on a half time appointment during the summer are obligated to register for a minimum of 3 graduate hours during at least one of the summer modules.

8.2  Vacation and Sick Leave Policy

As staff of the department, students on a half-time (.50 FTE) or more assistantship are eligible for benefits. Sick days must be approved by your supervisor and department head. Any leave must be reported to the SoET graduate program contact and in Success Factors. Those graduate assistants employed only during the academic year are not paid during university breaks (AY graduate staff do not recieve vacation benefits). 

Graduate student fiscal-year staff who terminate their employment with the University forfeit any unused vacation allowance.This allowance will not be paid to the staff member, nor may their appointment be extended to cover any unused vacation. Official holidays are announced annually by Purdue’s president and provide for additional leave days.

Sick Leave: All Benefits-Eligible Graduate Student Staff are eligible for 10 working days of paid sick leave for employee illness within a 12-month period. Family Illness: All Benefits-Eligible Graduate Student Staff are eligible for three working days of paid leave per fiscal year for illness of Immediate Family. Benefits-eligible graduate staff are eligible for paid bereavement leave due to death in the immediate family. Up to five workdays over six consecutive calendar months are allowed. Up to one workday for the death of extended family members, or fellow employees.  For specific details regarding leave, bereavement, sick leave, etc. please see the Graduate Student Employment Manual, available at: http://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/documents/gpo/graduate-student-employment-manual.pdf and the Graduate Student Staff Benefits policy at https://www.purdue.edu/policies/human-resources/s3.html.

8.3 Student Offices

Graduate students employed by the SoET can be assigned office space, as available, when they begin their graduate studies. The SoET Head, or designee, is in charge of assigning office space. Any requests for changes in the graduate student offices must be submitted to the SoET Head.

8.4 Keys

Graduate students can be granted access to use labs and/or offices throughtout Knoy Hall. The outside doors are typically open to the public Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Students can request key or card access by completing the key request form found on our webpage. You will be notified by email when your request has been approved. Before you submit a request for room access you must complete the safety training.This training should be completed annually. Students will be notified to contact the building deputy upon approval of the key request. ALL Keys must be returned and the assigned space clean before your departure at the end of the semester. 

8.5  Travel

Travel Requests and Reimbursement

All travel is centralized through West Lafayette’s Purdue Travel department. For more information regarding the expense report process, please visit Report Travel Expenses. Approval first, must be obtained by the major professor and the SoET Head. If approved, follow the guidelines on the Purdue Travel webpage. Reimbursements may not be made for trips for which prior approval was not requested and granted. Please inquire with the PPI Business office to help through this process.

University Vehicles

University vehicles are available for transportation on research or project work that require transportation. Students using these vehicles must possess a valid U.S. driver’s license. Be aware that you will need to allow approximately 5 business days for processing of Driver Authorization Requests, which must be secured PRIOR your first use of a University Vehicle. Please inquire through the Business Office on the process.

For trips which may take more than of a half day, cars and vans may be obtained from the University Transportation Department (https://www.purdue.edu/transportation/). The vehicle must be requested in advance by telephone or email, and the Vehicle Rental Form (Form 1) filled out and signed by the PPI Business Office. The form must be presented to the University Transportation Service when picking up the vehicle. Students using university vehicles must possess a valid driver’s license and be an approved driver through Risk Management.

8.6 Safety

All graduate students must complete the safety training annually. The training must be completed before you can teach and/or use any of the labs. Any questions or concerns regarding safety or hazard training can be directed Mr. Shawn Davis, Lab Supervisor at davis616@purdue.edu or phone 765-494-7501. Also, Purdue’s office Radiological and Environmental Management (REM) has a wealth of information your use at https://www.purdue.edu/ehps/rem or 765-494-6371.

9.    Resources for Graduate Student Research

9.1  Fabrication of Research Equipment

Research equipment is often constructed for specific projects. The SoET and university can provide students with help in the construction of this equipment. The SoET departmental Laboratory Supervisor can provide ideas, assistance, and advice for your specific research needs.

9.2  Printing and Photocopying

Use of the photocopiers for teaching and research must be approved by your major professor. If you are on an SoET assistantship you will be issued a copy code to use in KNOY 142. Contact Ms.McLeland to request a copy code. Duplicating services are also available at several locations on campus. Each student is expected to pay the cost of reproducing their thesis or directed project.  Physical copies of the thesis/directed project are not required for submission, but students need to ask their committee if they want a physical copy before printing.

9.3   Purchasing Supplies

Requisitions

If students need to make a purchase related to research or for a lab, electronically prepare a purchase request form 12. The purchase request must be filled out completely and your professor must sign for approval. On the form, a justification for the purchase is required. If you purchase request is for research this should be emailed to Niedra McLeland nmclelan@purdue.edu for department approval. Purchases for courses need to be sent to lab technicians for department approval. You will be notified by email when the order has been placed. If you want make a purchase by checking out a credit card, indicate that in the body of the email and on the purchase request. When the purchase request has been approved electronically, office staff will forward the approved email and form 12 to the Polytechnic Business Office Center. After you make the purchase, return the credit card to the BO Center with the receipt. The receipt can also be emailed to the BO Center

(knoy-creditcards@purdue.edu). Once the package arrives, take the packing slip to the BO Center. You will receive an email notification once the purchase has been made. Forms and procedures can be found here: https://polytechnic.purdue.edu/business-office/pboc-purchasing-center

10. Beyond Research: Taking Advantage of Life at Purdue

Purdue University, as one of the world’s great universities, provides valuable opportunities for learning beyond the classroom, laboratory, and industry research sites. While you have many responsibilities to fulfill as an SoET graduate student researcher, you are also encouraged to take advantage of the unique resources to which you have access.

• Getting to know other SoET graduate students is a great benefit of being at Purdue. The Purdue Graduate Student Government (PGSG) (https://purduegradstudents.com/) helps foster a sense of community among SoET and all graduate students through organized social activities, philanthropy events, mentoring, and professional development programs. All SoET graduate students are encouraged to participate. Purdue SoET graduate students come from around the world, and being part of such an international community is an opportunity to get to know and celebrate our diverse cultures.
• Extracurricular: The SoET graduate students are active in many extracurricular activities, including organized athletics, classes at the co-rec, activities at the LGBTQ center, religious activities, and cultural organizations of many nations and cultures. Purdue’s cultural centers are listed at https://www.purdue.edu/diversity-inclusion/about-us/departments.html, and clubs representing many interests can be found at https://boilerlink.purdue.edu/. These activities can provide balance and enrichment in your life while serving others, and graduate students are encouraged to get involved. Checkout the Graduate School website for additional student organizations (https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/student/organizations/general.html).
• Health and Wellness: Purdue provides a variety of health and wellness programs including general wellness, nutrition services, massage therapy, and more. For more information please visit https://www.purdue.edu/recwell/programs/wellnessPrograms/.

The Graduate School provides links to many other opportunities at https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/student/services/.

Graduate Program Administrator-Ms. McLeland, Knoy RM 150 nmclelan@purdue.edu Contact when you need help or do not know where to start Contact when you have questions about anything- departmentally, university-wide, West Lafayette/Lafayette area, or pretty much anything else Scheduling oral defense and related processes Support – academic Plans of Study Registration Room scheduling for defense other graduate student meetings	Administrative Assistant to the School Head – Ms. Federer, Knoy RM 150, federern@purdue.edu Items related to Dr. Burbank Faculty office assignment Purchasing and Mail questions Student Employment Forms Parking Passes
ECN - helpdesk@ecn.purdue.edu Computer account Installing software Computer issues Required software for research and instructional use	PPI Business Office – Knoy 445/447 Concur travel questions Filling out travel forms Purchasing Payroll Information regarding student insurance, time off for students on assistantships, etc.
Operations Director– Mr. Updike, Knoy RM 150 tubdike@purdue.edu  Manages lab technicians and operations Lab equipment and space questions	Radiological and Environmental Management Main Office (765) 494-6371 Home Landing Page https://www.purdue.edu/ehps/rem/index.html