The program can be completed in 12 months (September to August). All students begin the program in September; there is no option for starting in the spring semester. Students may elect to complete the program over 16, 21, or 24 months, and most do so. In some cases, exceptionally well-prepared students might be able complete their work in nine months.
Fifth-year masters students must complete the program in one year (September to August).
For students taking longer than 12 months, full-time status for visa purposes is two credits per semester (and only one credit in the final semester). For fifth-year master's students, full-time status is three credits per semester.