Individual Research Option

For the Individual Research Option, the student will work with a merchandising faculty member to develop or assist with a research study. Student outcomes might include making a presentation at a professional conference, preparing a manuscript for publication, writing a comprehensive industry case analysis, or securing funding for an external grant. Students electing the Individual Research Option will also complete a comprehensive examination.

Comprehensive Examination

• A comprehensive written examination will be given if a student completes 24 graduate credit hours including SMHM 5300 or SMHM 5400.
• The exam will be scheduled by the Graduate Coordinator at least 21 days prior to the University graduation deadline, ordinarily in September and February.
• Three SMHM courses and Research Methods (SMHM 5300) or Research Applications (SMHM 5400) are to be taken.
• SMHM comprehensive exam courses will not include SMHM 5000 Study Tour, SMHM 5790 Field Experience, SMHM 5900-5910 Special Problems (independent study with faculty), or SMHM 5920. Only one dual numbered course can be included.
• When graduation is anticipated, the student is to notify the major professor, by the end of the previous semester, of the intent to take the examination. The major professor will assist with completing the paperwork and forward the request to the Graduate Coordinator.
• The Graduate Program Coordinator will solicit examination questions from faculty who will evaluate responses.
• The closed-book comprehensive examination will not exceed one day and will be evaluated on a grade scale.
• Students who earn a C can retake the exam in the same semester, but not during dead week or final exam week.
• Students who earn a D or F must retake the exam in the following regular semester (Spring or Fall). International students need to be enrolled at least one course (any level) if the semester they retake the comprehensive exam is their last semester.

Comprehensive Exam Plan Form