What are preliminary exams (prelims)?
The purpose of the preliminary examination process is to establish a student’s readiness to undertake dissertation research. Successful completion of prelims marks the end of formal training in content area, as the dissertation constitutes an independent and original contribution to the discipline’s body of knowledge. Hence, students must demonstrate that they are prepared to advance the understanding of developmental psychology and function as professionals within the field. Specifically, performance must provide evidence of the following skills and competencies.
