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8. STRENGTHEN GRADUATE EDUCATION.

Stony Brook will further develop its excellent doctoral programs by promoting interdisciplinary graduate education and expanding initiatives that prepare students for success in a variety of careers. The expansion of interdisciplinary educational opportunities will complement the increase in interdisciplinary research and prepare students for 21st century careers. These opportunities take various forms, ranging from undertaking an interdisciplinary project under the guidance of faculty in multiple departments, to working in an interdisciplinary center, to obtaining a Ph.D. in an interdisciplinary program.

The further development of graduate and research programs in the humanities and social sciences is a priority. Addressing the social, political, economic, and environmental issues of the 21st century requires people trained in languages and transnational perspectives on philosophy, history, culture, and social structure.

Stony Brook will also focus on preparing doctoral students for professional success by providing training and certification in areas such as teaching, mentoring, leadership, and communication skills. Recognizing the varied careers graduates pursue, these programs will prepare students for success outside the academy as well as within it. Master’s and certificate programs will continue to provide excellent professional education in a variety of fields.

To recruit additional graduate students and maintain high-quality programs, Stony Brook will provide graduate stipends at the cost-adjusted median level for peer schools and address the shortage of graduate housing. The number of teaching assistantships will be increased to support undergraduate enrollment growth and expand opportunities for small class meetings.

ACTIONS:

1. Stony Brook will increase the enrollment of exceptionally talented doctoral students.
2. Stony Brook will smooth students’ progression through doctoral programs to increase completion rates and reduce time to degree.
3. Stony Brook will further develop its graduate programs in the humanities and social sciences.
4. Stony Brook will continue to develop interdisciplinary graduate programs to complement interdisciplinary research and prepare students for professional work in the 21st century.
5. Stony Brook will emphasize writing and speaking skills in graduate courses.  
6. Stony Brook will prepare graduate students for professional success in a variety of careers by developing their teaching, mentoring, leadership, and communication skills, as well as their research skills.
7. Stony Brook will enable doctoral students to complement their scholarly work with professional certification in areas such as teaching, journalism/communication, business, or science administration.           
8. Stony Brook will create a Graduate Career Center to serve the unique and complex career needs of graduate students, providing professional development opportunities, skills training, and access to employment outside the academy.     
9. Stony Brook will increase graduate student support with the goal of increasing TA/GA stipends to at least the cost-adjusted median level of public AAU universities.            
10. Stony Brook will develop and begin implementing a plan to provide additional affordable, appropriately configured graduate housing.

 

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