The Interdisciplinary Ph.D. program allows qualified individuals to pursue doctoral study in areas that the University offers no formal degree program but has significant resources and expertise. Students pursue the Interdisciplinary Ph.D. under the direction of a five-member academic advisory committee: Four committee members are graduate faculty of the University of Maine, two of whom must hold Full Graduate Faculty status (inclusive of the chair) and who should represent multiple distinct disciplines or interdisciplinary academic areas reflective of the program of study. The fifth committee member holds an appointment as an External Graduate Faculty Member of the University of Maine. The student may designate a particular field as the major field of study. In pursuing the degree, students follow a Program of Study approved by the academic advisory committee. The Program includes coursework, applicable language and/or methodological requirements as determined by the committee, a comprehensive examination, a dissertation, and a final oral examination. Prior to submitting an application for the Interdisciplinary Ph.D. program, each prospective candidate must meet with a representative of the Graduate School to discuss his/her educational goals. In order to be considered for admission to the program, applicants will normally hold a master's degree in a relevant discipline from an accredited institution of higher learning.