1. Graduate Plan of Work (GPOW or POW)
PLAN OF WORK’SHOP
Graduate Plan of Work
(GPOW or POW)

2. What is the POW?
The Graduate Plan of Work is a document that serves both as a guide to successful degree completion and a contract between students and their programs. It is especially helpful when it is evaluated on at least an annual basis by students with their advisor(s), and, where applicable, their advisory committees, with any needed modifications recorded at that time. It should be viewed as a “living document” that reflects changes that may occur as students continue to develop and refine their academic programs.

3. What’s in a POW? A list of the coursework to be undertaken
Accurate information about any transfer credits to be used for the degree.
The thesis or dissertation topic (except in non-thesis master’s programs) This is added in the ‘comment’ section of the POW.
The name of the student’s major professor
The members of the student’s advisory committee

4. How do I make a POW?
Your POW is developed in collaboration with your major professor and, where applicable, advisory committee
It must be approved by the committee and the Director of the Graduate Program (DGP) or department head prior to submission to the Graduate School for approval
Submitted online through MyPack Portal
Evaluated by the Graduate School, which will inform the program as to whether or not the Graduate Plan of Work meets the Graduate School requirements. The Graduate School will deny approval of any student’s Graduate Plan of Work until all documents necessary to complete that student’s permanent file are received (e.g., signed Patent Agreement, Transfer of Credit form, if applicable). If any materials are missing, the Graduate Plan of Work will be denied with the reason for the denial communicated to the DGP and the student.

5. Let’s make a POW!

6. Common Mistakes Transfer Credits listed on POW
Transfer Credits MUST be listed as ‘Other’ not ‘Major’
GSR vs. Outside Rep
Not proper committee numbers (ALWAYS REQUIRED TO HAVE 1 BI and 1 FG MEMBER)
Courses below 500-level used
Changes not made after POW has been submitted but before exams are taken
Multiple degrees or co-majors TEND to be more cumbersome-ask for help!

7. REMEMBER!!!
Your POW should be submitted before the end of your 3rd semester! This is not a random deadline. The longer you wait, or the closer you get to your oral exam dates, the harder it will be to fix any issues that may arise. Thanks and as always, stop by Ricks 304 or me if you have questions! -Dana