What are comprehensive exams?

Comprehensive exams (Comps) are taken near the end of a student’s MA studies. Comps cover subject matter in the student’s major concentration, and are an opportunity for the student to demonstrate mastery of that material. The format of the examinations differs somewhat between the departments, although the function is the same. The examinations are scheduled two to five weeks before the end of the term.  See the Academic Calendar for specific dates. Students that choose to write a thesis do not take comprehensive exams.