After completion of fixed in-class coursework, the notion of “credits” becomes meaningless. One credit or twelve, I’m still doing the same research.

I am beginning to notice artificial impediment in my progress towards the Ph. D., since I am meeting no impediment inherent in the work. I have crossed the halfway mark on my dissertation, but now I’m running into issues with the department itself. I’m not sure to what extent I’ll tolerate this, but if I’m forced to stay here for more than one additional year (through whatever means used, such as putting me on a 4 credit schedule), I’ll likely drop out of the program immediately. It would be very easy; I have about 15 recruiters waiting to hear back from me. My service was given freely in exchange for scientific training. My dissertation is being written in exchange for a degree. If the terms are changed halfway, it is not I who have reneged.