As a Ph.D. student in the Department of Entomology at UC Riverside, I need to understand the process for 'Advancement to Candidacy'. Please outline the steps required for advancement, including the timing, committee involvement, and any specific exams or proposals. Additionally, identify the next logical step for a student after advancing to candidacy.
Navigate to 'https://entomology.ucr.edu/graduate-studies-program'. Click on the 'Advancement to Candidacy' link. Identify the required steps for Ph.D. students to advance to candidacy. Note the timing or deadlines associated with these steps. Identify the role of the Guidance Committee and any specific examinations (e.g., Qualifying Exam) or proposals (e.g., Dissertation Proposal). Determine what the website indicates is the next major milestone or step for a student after successfully advancing to candidacy. Synthesize all gathered information into a concise answer.
The agent successfully navigates to the 'Advancement to Candidacy' page. The agent identifies that the primary requirement for advancement is passing the Qualifying Examination. The agent states that the Qualifying Examination is administered by the student's Guidance Committee. The agent notes that the Qualifying Examination must be completed by the end of the 6th quarter (for students entering with a B.S.) or the end of the 3rd quarter (for students entering with an M.S.). The agent identifies that the next logical step after advancement to candidacy is the 'Final Defense'.