All entering doctoral students are required to take a Diagnostic Entrance Examination consisting of three parts: music theory, music history and literature, and expository writing.

The purposes of this examination are:
(1) to determine if the student has foundation-level deficiencies that need to be addressed in order for him/her to be successful in doctoral level courses, on the qualifying examinations, and on the comprehensive examinations;
(2) to provide information that will guide the student and his/her advisor in selecting useful and appropriate academic courses.

All students complete a Qualifying Examination consisting of three written components (music theory, music history, and the student’s major area) and an interview with the student’s advisory committee. This examination must be completed during the student’s second semester of full-time doctoral study. Part-time students must complete this examination at the end of the third semester of enrollment.

The purpose of the Qualifying Examination is to determine if, after a year of doctoral course work (which may include review courses) and of independent study, the student is academically qualified to proceed with doctoral study. The exam will also guide the Advisory Committee in planning the student’s program. The interview will occur after the written portions of the examination are completed and may include questions about the written portions of the exam, about material not covered on the written portions, and about the student’s background and future plans.

At the completion of all course work and examinations, the doctoral student is required to take a written Comprehensive Examination in the student’s area of specialization, Music Theory, and Music History. The Comprehensive Examination consists of three parts:

(1) Area of specialization
(2) Music history
(3) Music theory

Doctoral students should consult their major professor and the Coordinator of Graduate Studies regarding Comprehensive Examination policies beyond those listed in the Bulletin. See School of Music Comprehensive Examination Requirements and Policies available from the Academic Advising Office, Fine Arts Building.

1. The dissertation topic must be approved by the student’s major professor and Advisory Committee and must be an original and significant contribution to knowledge in the chosen field. The Human Subjects Protection Review Committee must also approve the topic.

2. Once a topic has been approved, the student must enroll in MUS 797, MED 797, MUS 898, or MED 898 in each semester/term until the degree is completed.

3. A separate bulletin outlining University requirements concerning the preparation of dissertations is available in the Graduate Office, McCain Library room 205,  (601) 266-4369.

4. Additionally, instructions specific to the development of an approved topic in Music or Music Education must be followed.  See required pamphlet, “Prospectus Guide for the Doctor of Music Arts Degree,” available from the School of Music.