Office of Graduate Studies
The Office of Graduate Studies supports current CMU graduate students and graduate faculty and staff to promote excellence in graduate education at CMU. Working in partnership with CMU academic colleges, Graduate Studies promotes the highest academic quality in graduate programs and supports graduate student research and creative endeavors to enhance the academic mission of Central Michigan University. The office also offers professional development opportunities and social events to promote a sense of belonging among graduate students across campus.
We’re here to help
There are several offices at CMU that assist graduate students. Below are common questions with links where you can find answers. You can also review a full FAQ on our orientation page.
Getting started
What is the status of my admission application? Domestic students contact Applications Processing at apply@cmich.edu. International students contact International Admissions at isr@cmich.edu.
Who is my advisor? Find out who your advisor is in the degree progress system or you can contact your department.
How do I register? Register though the course search/registration system. Questions or issues are handled by the Registrars Office.
Financial questions? OneCentral can answer your billing questions or contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid for funding assistance questions.
How do I transfer in previous credits to CMU? Contact your graduate advisor to discuss possible transfer credit.
Working toward the degree
How do I get a Graduate Assistantship (GA)? Contact your program about how to apply for a GA position.
Is there funding available for research or creative activities? Graduate Studies has several student grants available.
How do I begin my research for a thesis/dissertation? Resources available on the Thesis/Dissertation page.
Completing the degree
How do I apply to graduate? Graduation applications are submitted through the degree progress system.
What do I need to know about thesis/dissertation requirements? Resources and thesis/dissertation workshop available on the Thesis/Dissertation page.
Where can I find OPT info? International Student & Scholar Services can assist with OPT questions.
Is there help as I prepare to start my career? Check out the services offered by the Career Development Center
Faculty and staff resources
- How do I get assistance with Slate (access, application, forms, queries, training, etc)? Faculty/staff can submit a Slate service ticket.
- Who can I contact to find out Graduate Faculty Status (GFS) expiration dates? Patty Esch (esch1pa@cmich.edu, 989-774-3873). The GFS application form is available on the GFS webpage.
- Who can I contact about Graduate Committee questions? Kara Owens (beery1kl@cmich.edu, 989-774-1318)
- Who can I contact about iThenticate? Patty Esch (esch1pa@cmich.edu, 989-774-3873). Information on how to run iThenticate reports is available on the thesis/dissertation webpage.
Contact Us
Events
A Year with Frog and Toad
Shivaree
19th Annual Grandparents U
Graduate student highlight stories
Mother and daughter graduate together
(1 Minute Read)
CMU celebrates Spring 2026 graduates
(10 Minute Read)
New masters program advances graduates in early childhood field
(1 Minute Read)
MSIS students design real-world solutions through systems thinking
(4 Minute Read)
