well American programs are generally longer than other English system.
generally its 2 yr worth of classes... one need to pass those class with a min of B or 80% and sit of qualifying exam. passing the exams from those classes does not automatically get U there.
oral exam in most case is just a formality even its done for most parts of the world.
in most case submit thesis and be done.
better uni expects thesis to be publish on a big international platform, then one can submit thesis.. in this case the submission is more formality. others is submit and prof felt its publishable quality then get it publish very optional.
depending on Prof there maybe a expectation on publication b4 submitting a thesis too, its very complex.. really depends on Prof in the states.
yes diff countries has very diff req. our Queen system generally easier and shorter.
then again when a student is done, does it look good with a thesis or someone with a couple or dozen of publications.
So, you have your PhD as well? If you have, which system did you finish up with? Just wondering...