The doctor of philosophy degree is a research-oriented degree awarded upon the demonstration of scholarly competence. To obtain the Ph.D. degree in atmospheric science, each student must satisfy all requirements of the School of Graduate School as well as those of the Atmospheric Science Program. Admission to the Ph.D. program in Atmospheric Science is dependent upon satisfactory performance on the Preliminary Examination which is administered twice a year. Students entering UAH with an M.S. degree or previous graduate training in Atmospheric Science must pass the Preliminary Examination at an early opportunity. Students are only permitted two attempts to pass the Preliminary Examination. Students who complete their M.S. at The University of Alabama in Huntsville must pick a thesis or a non thesis option; complete all requirements for a M.S. before they are formally admitted to the PhD program. Ph.D. in Atmospheric Science – Policies