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Directors of Graduate Studies (DGS)

The DGS Role

The director of graduate studies (DGS) serves as the administrative supervisor and coordinator of graduate studies within a program, overseeing all components of graduate education and promoting academic quality and integrity. The DGS functions as the primary liaison among graduate faculty, graduate students, and The Graduate School (TGS). As such, the DGS should be aware of programs developments that affect graduate faculty, be available, present, and responsive to students, and be familiar with TGS policies and procedures.

The DGS is responsible for fostering the academic strength of the program and supporting the educational and professional success of its graduate students. This charge must be carried out within the guidelines and regulations established by the program, graduate faculty, TGS, and the collective bargaining agreement with graduate students. While the work of a DGS differs across programs depending on the size and any unique administrative practices, the DGS Position Description describes the duties and responsibilities that most DGSes at Northwestern fulfill.

Resources

The Graduate School (TGS) provides various resources for directors of graduate studies (DGS), including:

Quick Links

Contact List Updates

New to the DGS role or stepping down? Please complete the TGS Contact Form to notify relevant TGS units of the change.

TGS Contact Form