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After the research for a degree has been completed, it must be written and published as a thesis or
dissertation. Normally the research leads to one or more published articles in well-known physics or
astronomy journals as well.
Allowed formats of the dissertation are defined by the Graduate Division in the Format Manual, which must
be followed very closely. Several formats have been programmed for various word-processing languages, and
are available through the research groups. It is also good practice for students to familiarize themselves
with the AIP Style Manual, which provides information on the preparation of figures, including sizes of
lettering, which meet the standards of most scientific journals. It may be followed in thesis preparation
to the extent that it is compatible with ASU’s Format Manual. A thesis must be written in good
English.
Upon completing all requirements, the student should apply for a formal Final Examination. This Examination
has two parts: (i) Committee members will read and approve the thesis (or, in many cases, ask for
modifications), and (ii) a final oral examination. A minimum of ten working days (usually two weeks) is
required between submission of the thesis to the Graduate Division for format approval and the date of the
Final Examination. The Examination must also be announced in Insight and within the Department.
The Final Examination normally consists of a public seminar in which the student presents the thesis
material and during which the audience may ask questions for clarification. After this initial discussion,
the committee may excuse the public audience and proceed to a thorough examination of the details of the
thesis. The Committee may also examine the student’s general knowledge of science. The Committee will
then excuse the candidate and deliberate on its findings.
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