Graduate Student Handbook

Welcome to the School of Music at Texas A&M University-Commerce. The chief purpose of the Graduate Student Handbook is to inform graduate students of procedures, requirements, and opportunities available to you as you begin this exciting part of your music education. It is not intended to be a substitute for the TexasA&M University-Commerce Graduate Catalog, the definitive reference for course requirements and procedures.

MISSION STATEMENT

The School of Music of Texas A&M University-Commerce promotes excellence in music through the rigorous study of music history, literature, theory, composition, pedagogy, and the preparation of music performance in applied study and ensembles to meet the highest standards of aesthetic expression.

VISION

The School of Music

provides opportunities for all students to enhance their perception, comprehension, performance, and ultimately, appreciation of music;
prepares students to be leaders in music education, music performance, and other related fields of the performing arts;
fosters creative activities and the intellectual pursuit of knowledge about music;
enriches the lives of the students and faculty of A&M-Commerce and the communities ofthe state and nation with inspirational performances and stimulating educational opportunities.

VALUES

As a School of Music, we value

Actionable pursuit of excellence in scholarship, pedagogy and artistry;
Curriculum, repertoire, representation and ideas, that equip students to maneuver as engaged citizens in cultural leadership and global awareness;
Curiosity and creativity as individuals and as collaborative artists;
Professionalism and collegiality among students, faculty and staff, culminating in a culture of trust and mutual respect.

Graduate School and School of Music Enrollment

All graduate students at Texas A&M University-Commerce are enrolled in, and subject to the rules and regulations of the Office of Graduate Studies. All music programs, however, are offered under the supervision of the School of Music and the specific administration of graduate programs in musicis the responsibility of the School. In addition to university-wide regulations, music students must abide by the regulations of the School.

Graduate Student Orientation

The School of Music holds Orientation meetings each year for many groups of students, from performing ensembles to graduate and undergraduate students. The Graduate Coordinator, in conjunction with the head of the School of Music will present an orientation session for all new graduate students each fall semester. The agenda for the meeting will include information on advising, research expectations, and departmental operating policies and procedures.

Academic Advisement

The School of Music will assign each graduate student to a Program Advisor at the beginning of the course of study. The Program Advisor will be the primary faculty member in the area of focus (performance, pedagogy, or music education.) Additionally, the Graduate Coordinator will oversee procedures for all graduate students, focusing on program completion and other academic and personnel matters, as appropriate.

Each graduate student is expected to consult the Program and Graduate Coordinator prior to every registration. You must also consult with your advisors prior to dropping or adding a course. Although advisors strive to provide thebest possible assistance to each student, the ultimate responsibility for scheduling courses and in propersequence remains with the student.

When you enroll, you will declare a music major and a degree (e.g., Master ofMusic); then your course of study and progress are listed and reviewed on your degree evaluation. It is vital that your degree evaluation screen cites the correct graduate degree. If there is an error, consult with the Graduate Coordinator to make the necessary changes. Review the degree audit screen (MyLeo/DegreeWorks) on the A&M-Commerce website and refer to the relevant sections of the Graduate Catalog prior to registration.

Helpful Hints

Keep your Program Advisor and Graduate Coordinator informed of your progress and any changes in your schedule during the semester.
Pay attention to your degree plan as many graduate music courses are offered on alternating years or semesters.
Know the jury and recital requirements for your principal applied and minor applied instruments.
If you receive a music scholarship and/or assistantship, know the enrollment and grade point average (GPA) eligibility requirements.
Additional information is available on the School of Music website.
Students who wish to transfer credits from another institution must adhere to university rules.

Graduate Student Records

All graduate students' official records are maintained by the Office of Graduate Studies and available through DegreeWorks. An unofficial, student record file is maintained by the Graduate Coordinator. Official and unofficial transcripts from the university are available only through the registrar.