After the student has enrolled in the M.S. (thesis) program, a major professor should be selected by the student. The ECE Graduate Program Officer (GPO) serves as the major professor until the student identifies another ECE faculty member.

Together, the student and major professor must select additional members to complete a thesis advisory committee. The advisory committee is responsible for developing the student's plan of study and conducting the final examination. It should consist of at least three members of the faculty. At least two, including the major professor, must be members of the Graduate Faculty. The formal appointment of the advisory committee occurs when a Committee Selection Form is submitted and approved by the Graduate School.

A plan of study is a list of courses and activities that satisfy requirements of the M.S. degree, and is intended to help the student's professional development. A plan should be reviewed each term, as the student and/or advisors often discover that changes may be warranted, as driven by student needs, research interests, and course availability.

Master degree students are encouraged to regularly review the Graduate School's recommended Master's Completion Checklist. Note on the checklist that the Committee Selection Form and Graduation Application Form must be submitted one term before graduation.