- Meet with your Advisor at least once a semester, but ideally more frequently, to keep her informed of your progress and to discuss any concerns you may
- Use DegreeWorks to track your progress toward your degree and keep up to date on what classes you still need. There's a tutorial video here.
- Set up an appointment with your Advisor during registration period each semester to discuss coursework options and degree Because the History Department cannot offer a large number of graduate courses in any one semester, it is very important that you plan coursework carefully to ensure timely fulfillment of program requirements.\
- If you decide not to enroll in courses during a particular semester, you MUST enroll in GRD 500 (Graduate Continuing Enrollment) Section 001. This is a no-credit, no cost “course” that simply informs the College that you intend to resume your graduate studies, but will not be enrolling in coursework for the current semester. Enrolling in GRD 500 maintains your enrollment as an Active Student in good Failure to do so will hinder your registration for courses in future semesters and may impede progress toward your graduate degree.
- As you approach degree completion, you should discuss with your advisor options for HIS 687: Culminating Activity, however, it is never too early to have this You have two options: writing a thesis (recommended for those students wishing to pursue the Ph.D.) or completing a comprehensive examination. (Both options and procedures are outlined elsewhere in this manual). You may not enroll in HIS 687 until you have successfully completed at least 24 credit hours, have earned a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, and have no incomplete courses.
- The Graduate Faculty Executive Committee has two grant programs with funds dedicated to support graduate student research and There is often more money available than requests, and History students very rarely take advantage of this opportunity. If you intend to pursue a Ph.D., you should seriously consider accessing funds to support a research and writing project or a presentation at a local, state, or national conference. This takes planning and you will need advisor/faculty endorsement, so plan accordingly. Descriptions of the grant programs can be found here: https://www2.cortland.edu/academics/curriculum/committees/GFEC.dot
- As much as your schedule allows, take advantage of opportunities offered by the department and Get to know the department and faculty. Your faculty can be important resources and can provide letters of recommendation for employment or Ph.D. applications, but only if they know you.