Requirements for the Master of Arts
The University Graduate School Bulletin, which is republished annually, details your degree requirements.
The following requirements apply to the M.A.:
- A minimum of 30 credit hours, with at least 21 credit hours taken in The Media School.
- M503 — Media Theories or M504 — Media Theories with a grade of B (3.0) or above.
- No more than three credit hours of independent study (J804).
- A program of study listing all courses toward the degree, approved by the student’s advisory committee.
- Completion of either a master’s thesis or master’s comprehensive examination
- Thesis: Take up to six credit hours of M699, which can count toward the 30 required, after a thesis proposal is orally defended and approved by the advisory committee.
- Comprehensive examination: Take up to three credit hours of T540, which can count toward the 30 required, as you prepare for a written examination over what you have learned during your MA coursework. Students and their advisory committee select between two formats this exam can take.
- A successful oral examination of either the thesis or the comprehensive examination.
Critical steps for the M.A.
Students are responsible for meeting milestones at set times during their graduate program. Below are the expectations listed by semester. Processes and links to necessary Media School, College and University Graduate School forms are included in the sections below.
- Working with the director of graduate studies, select first semester courses (M503 required).
- Complete federal I-9 information, which will be emailed to you.
- Sign, scan and return SAA contract, if applicable.
- Attend orientation.
- Orientation: Bring passport or other ID to the graduate office to complete federal I-9 filing.
- Check with graduate office to make sure we have a final, official copy of your undergraduate transcript.
- Sign, scan, and return SAA contract, if applicable.
- Name a faculty advisor who will serve as the chair of your advisory committee. You should name a faculty advisor by February 15.
- Choose advisory committee and create program of study. Submit no later than April 15.
- Contact the graduate coordinator if you need to transfer credits.
- Enroll in courses noted for third semester on program of study.
- Sign, scan and return SAA contract, if applicable.
- Defend your thesis proposal or plan for your comprehensive exam.
- Enroll in appropriate course hours (M699 or T540). Apply for course permissions here.
- Initiate and submit your Master’s Application for Advanced Degree.
If you have taken an MA exam:
If you have written a thesis:
- Upon successful defense of your thesis, submit your Defense Signature Collection e-doc.
- Submit your thesis to the University Graduate School. Electronic submission through ProQuest5 is the preferred method.
Questions?
Contact Leah Wolfe, graduate studies administrative associate.