Comprehensive Exams
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.
When is the Comprehensive Exam administered?
This examination is offered each semester at the same time as the qualifying examination.
Dates:
Fall - the first full week in November
Spring - the first full week in April
Summer - three successive Saturdays following the Fourth of July holiday.
The exact dates of the examinations are determined by the Coordinator of Graduate Studies and are publicized as soon as the University’s Academic Calendar is available. Students must register for the exam two months (minimum) prior to taking the exam by calling 601.266.5543.
How is the test prepared and graded?
The examination in the student’s area of specialization will be prepared and graded by the student’s committee members from that area. The examinations in music theory and history will be prepared and graded by the appropriate area faculty. The candidate’s committee members representing music history and theory will deliver the recommendation of each of those areas to the full committee. The full committee will meet to discuss the examination and recommend a grade of “pass” or “fail” for each area (specialization, music theory, music history). This meeting will be held during (or before) the week of final examinations for the fall and spring semesters. In those instances where the Comprehensive Examination is taken during the summer semester, this
meeting will be held within the first three weeks of the fall semester.
Results:
The Academic Adviser must receive the results of the Comprehensive Examination in time to notify the University Registrar and the Graduate Office (i.e., no later than the last day for presenting signed dissertations to the Graduate Office).
What happens if the comprehensive exam is unsatisfactory?
When it is determined that the Comprehensive Examination is unsatisfactory, in whole or in part:
1) The student will be granted a second examination.
2) The test must be repeated within one year of the first Comprehensive Examination, but the student will be required to repeat only those sections of the examination judged unsatisfactory.
3) In those instances where a second examination is expected, the appropriate area faculty will inform the student, in writing, as to the specific or general areas which will be tested. The appropriate area faculty will grade the second test.
What happens with the second exam?
The Comprehensive Examination can be retaken once.
1) All parts failed must be repeated simultaneously.
2) If the second examination is judged unsatisfactory by the Advisory Committee, in whole or in part, the student cannot earn a doctoral degree in Music or Music Education at The University of Southern Mississippi.