All Graduate Students FAQ
What is a Program of Study (POS)?
The Program of Study (POS) is essentially a contract between the student, the department, and the university.
The POS consists of the complete list of courses a student will take in order to satisfy the requirements for the
degree. It includes both required coursework and electives. The POS can only be submitted by students with
classified graduate standing. The graduate advisor and student consult about the Program of Study. Once an
agreement is reached, the advisor submits the POS to the Graduate Division electronically for review. If the
POS meets all university requirements it is given final approval by the Graduate Dean and becomes binding.
How do I change my Program of Study (POS) once it has been approved?
If you wish to alter an approved POS, a Petition for Adjustment of Academic Requirements
Download form here must be supported by the
graduate advisor and approved by the GRA. You must complete the Petition, obtain the signature of the
graduate advisor, and submit the Petition to the GRA. When approved, a copy will be mailed to you.
How many units of transfer, extension, or foreign university credit may be used on a Program of Study (POS)?
In most graduate programs the maximum transfer credit allowed is 9 units. This includes coursework taken
through the SDSU College of Extended Studies. (Refer to page 36 of the 2007-2008 Graduate Bulletin for
specific exceptions.) All transfer credit must have been taken at an appropriately accredited university, and
approved by the graduate advisor and the Graduate Dean.
