GPAS offers a program leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Atmospheric Science. This program is designed to furnish the student with the education and research background necessary to carry out independent and original scientific research. To earn the Ph.D., the student must complete a course work requirement, pass the Candidacy Examination, and prepare and defend a dissertation. The Candidacy Examination is divided into two parts: the Qualifying Examination and the Proposal Evaluation. The Qualifying Examination for Ph.D. candidates tests the breadth and understanding of the student in the core courses. The Proposal Evaluation tests the preparation of the student for writing a dissertation. Students who have a Master's Degree must also pass the Candidacy Examination to achieve Ph.D. candidacy.