2014-2015 Graduate Catalog

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Master’s Degree, Specific Requirements

Master's degrees (M.A., M.A.T., M.M., M.P.H., M.S.) are awarded for a level of academic accomplishment substantially beyond that required for the baccalaureate degree. Programs consist of a coherent pattern of courses, seminars, and supervised learning experiences that culminate in a comprehensive examination and, in some cases, a thesis. Master's programs require a minimum of 30 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate degree plus additional time in preparation for comprehensive examinations and/or thesis writing.

Master’s Admission

Each applicant to a master's degree program must possess a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university and have a grade point average of 3.00 or better [on a 4.00 point scale] on the most recent 60 semester hours.

If someone is recommended for admission who does not meet the Graduate School standard, a rationale must be provided stating the factors which were considered in recommending the student: GPA in the discipline, maturity, letters of recommendation, samples of their work, GRE scores or other compelling factors. All recommendations for admission below the 3.00 will be reviewed by the Graduate Dean or his/her designee.

Double Major

Only one degree will be awarded (e.g. M.A., M.A.T., M.M., M.P.H., M.S.) and only one degree will be reflected on the transcript, but both majors will be noted. The student must specify, therefore, which degree is to be used for degree purposes. Double majors must meet all requirements and must apply for, take, and pass the comprehensive examination or approved equivalent in each major. No degree will be awarded until all requirements for both majors are complete.

If a student is interested in obtaining two master's degrees, it is recommended that they complete one degree program completely before applying to the other. Students are commonly advised that it is most often to their advantage to seek a higher degree (specialist or doctorate) upon completion of a master's degree rather than obtaining two master's degrees. Additional consultation from the student's program advisor or the Graduate School regarding a decision to declare a double major or to seek two master's degrees should be pursued.