Time Limits for Completing the Master's Degree

Students pursuing a master’s degree in either a resident or DL program must complete all requirements for the degree, including any thesis work, within five years of starting the first quarter of enrollment in a master’s degree program at NPS. Students may request an extension beyond the five-year limit, but such extensions will only be granted in exceptional circumstances. Requests for an extension of candidacy beyond five years may be submitted concurrently with the request for thesis extension, including the same approvals and explanations detailed in paragraph 5.2.5 of the Academic Policy Manual. Approved extensions of candidacy will be for a maximum of one year per request.