THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

History and Organization
Graduate Student Association
Teaching and Research Assistantships and Scholarships
Graduate School Policies
Academic Requirements
The Master's Degree
Specialist in Education Degree

THE GRADUATE SCHOOL

Peggy Snyder, Interim Dean
Room 112 Russ Hall
Telephone: 620-235-4223
Fax: 620-235-4219
http:www.pittstate.edu/cgs
e-mail: psnyder@pittstate.edu

History and Organization

Pittsburg State University was originally organized as the Auxiliary Manual Training Normal School in 1903. It became a four-year institution in 1913 and was renamed Kansas State Teachers College of Pittsburg. The Graduate Division was organized in 1929 to confer the Master of Science degree. In 1958 the College was authorized to grant the Specialist in Education degree. One year later the name was changed to Kansas State College of Pittsburg, and the Graduate Division was then authorized by the Board of Regents to confer the Master of Arts degree in history, English, and mathematics in addition to the other degrees. Art and communication have been added as options under the Master of Arts degree. The Master of Music was approved in 1968, and the Master of Business Administration in 1974. In 1977 the name of the institution was changed to Pittsburg State University and in 1984, the name of the Graduate Division was changed to the Graduate School.

The Graduate School grants degrees on two levels: the master's degree and the Specialist in Education for study beyond the master's degree. Information concerning these degrees is given in the catalog material which follows.

Graduate study is under the general supervision of the graduate faculty, who are appointed by the president of the university. The majority of graduate faculty members have Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Education degrees, although non-doctoral faculty members especially qualified in specific content fields may be appointed to the graduate faculty.

General administration of the Graduate School is under the direction of the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research and the Graduate Council. Members of the Graduate Council are elected by those departments that offer graduate degree programs.

Graduate Student Association

The PSU Graduate Student Association is an organization designed to further the development of the graduate community.

The purpose of the GSA is threefold. First, the Association serves as a forum for the interchange of ideas within the graduate community. Secondly, the Association promotes student-faculty interaction which leads to the type of flexibility which is essential to an ongoing graduate program. Finally, the Association works to strengthen the Graduate School through programs aimed at publicizing and expanding the Graduate School.

All graduate students are encouraged to attend the events sponsored by the GSA.

Teaching and Research Assistantships and Scholarships

Pittsburg State University offers graduate assistantships in all degree program areas. Assistantships are granted on a competitive merit basis by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research upon the recommendation of the departments. An application form can be obtained from either the Office of Graduate Studies and Research or the respective departmental offices.

Teaching assistants are required to provide instructional assistance according to their qualifications and departmental needs. Administrative and research assistantships are available in some academic and support units.

The Graduate School also has private and governmental funded research grants, institutes and fellowship programs which assist graduate students. Inquiries should be directed to the Graduate School or to the department in which study is to be pursued.

GRADUATE SCHOOL POLICIES

Graduate Degrees and Graduate Study Options

The university offers programs of study leading to the Master of Science degree, the Master of Arts, the Master of Engineering Technology, the Master of Music, the Master of Business Administration, and the Specialist in Education. Click to see a list of Master's level programs offered.

The Specialist in Education degree is a professional degree providing advanced study for school personnel and for teachers. The fields in which this degree is offered are listed here.

In addition to degree programs, the university also provides an opportunity for those who wish to do graduate study for personal and professional reasons without study toward a degree.

Professional development opportunities to satisfy licensure/certification and Relicensure/Recertification requirements for nurses, teachers. social workers, public accountants, psychologists, and counselors and opportunities for intensive on-campus summer study in specialized topic areas are also available.

Information concerning graduate study in general as well as rules and regulations which pertain to both the master's degree and the Specialist in Education degree are given below. Rules and regulations which govern the masters' degree can be viewed here. Those for the Specialist in Education degree are here.

Graduate School Admission Requirements

All students admitted for graduate study at Pittsburg State University must meet admission standards prescribed by the graduate faculty, legislated by the Graduate Council, and administered by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research.

Students must submit a completed application form to the Office of Graduate Studies and Research at least three weeks prior to enrollment and no earlier than two semesters preceding the initiation of graduate study. Applicants will not be admitted to full standing unless all transcripts of previous work have been received from the registrar of the institutions granting the undergraduate degree and institutions granting previous graduate credit.

Candidates for admission must have completed a bachelor's degree at a regionally accredited college/ university. Exceptions may be made by special institutional agreements. Applicants must complete all admission examinations required by the college or department in which they intend to study.

Applicants who have not completed admission procedures prior to the date of their intended enrollment may enroll conditionally as special graduate students.

Admission to the Graduate School for graduate study is granted by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research. The Dean of Graduate Studies and research has the authority to refuse the applicant admission to graduate study.

Admission to a Degree Program

Students who wish to study for an advanced degree must identify a desired program of study at the time of application and must meet both the Graduate School requirements and the departmental entry requirements for the program of study.

Requirements listed by major include the following:

--Art: Evidence of artistic work (slides or products)

--Biology: Interview (in person, or by telephone, or by letter exchange)

--Communication: Letters of reference and statement of intent. A TOEFL score of 550/213 is required.

--Education: Evidence of state teacher certification for majors in school administration or teacher education.

Also must submit scores from either the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT).

--English: A SPEAK Test score of 240 for graduate assistants.

--History: A TOEFL of 550/213 is required.

--MBA: The GMAT entry test and a TOEFL score of 550/213 are required.

--Music: Evidence of musical ability (performance or tape of performance).

--Nursing: The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and a TOEFL score of 550/213 are required.

--Psychology and Counseling: The GRE test (verbal, quantitative, and analytical), three letters of recommendation, personal statement, a TOEFL score of 550/213, and an additional department application.

--Technology: Evidence of major in a technology field. Engineering Technology requires a TOEFL of 540/207.

Students should check with the department to obtain complete information on additional requirements.

The department determines whether the student qualifications are acceptable for a particular program of study; after admission, advisors and students plan the specific sequence and range of courses needed in each program of study.

Because many degree programs have unique admission requirements in addition to those of the Graduate School, applicants should consult with the department to which they are applying. In the event tests are required for admission, they may be scheduled in the Testing Center. Students are expected to assume the responsibility for scheduling their own test dates. An active schedule of test dates is maintained by the Center.

Admission will be granted to graduates of other accredited institutions whose requirements for undergraduate degrees are substantially equivalent to those of the university. Students may be refused admission to a graduate degree program if their previous college record indicates an inability to complete graduate study successfully.

Admission to a degree program may be conditional or full standing. Admission to full standing is granted to applicants whose undergraduate record meets all requirements, including a baccalaureate grade point average of 2.7000 or above. Admission to full standing means that the student may begin work toward the degree without conditions. However, inclusion of some deficiency work may be required.

Conditional admission to a degree program may be granted when the applicant's previous undergraduate record indicates any or all of the following conditions:

1. an overall undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.3000 but below 2.7000;
2. an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.3000 but below 2.7000 in the area of the proposed major;
3. less than C grades in freshman-sophomore composition and rhetoric;
4. an undergraduate general education background which is not satisfactory by the standards of the university; and/or
5. need to meet specific prerequisites (such as certification) or deficiencies in the proposed graduate major, either in the form of prerequisite courses and credits or low grades in prerequisite courses. Conditional admission may also be granted when certain application requirements are in process but not yet completed.

Exceptions may be made to any of the above requirements upon recommendation of the department and approval of conditional admission by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research. The applicant may also be required to present additional documentation of ability to be successful in graduate work.

The conditions and requirements to be satisfied prior to full admission to a degree shall be prescribed at the time of

conditional admission by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research upon the recommendation of the department.

Students wishing to change their program of study must apply for admission to a new program of study by submitting a change of program request through the Office of Graduate Studies and Research. The application for the new program of study must be approved by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research and the department in which the new program of study is housed. The application of credits earned in the initial program of study to the new program of study is determined by the department in which the new program of study is to be taken. Students are expected to meet all the entry requirements of the department in which the new program of study is housed.

Admission as a Special Non-Degree Student

Students may be designated special graduate students under two conditions:

1. if their applications for graduate study are not complete; or
2. if they wish to be admitted to graduate study without designating a degree objective.

A student may complete no more than twelve semester hours of graduate study as a special non-degree student. After the accumulation of twelve semester hours, the student must apply for conditional or full standing admission to the graduate program, or must apply for a continuation of special graduate status.

Special graduate students wishing to be admitted to graduate degree study must initiate admission procedures governed by degree program regulations. Up to twelve hours of course work taken in special graduate status may later apply to a graduate degree. The applicability of these courses to the graduate degree will be determined by the academic department housing the degree program.

Admission as a Senior-Graduate Student

Seniors at PSU may apply to take graduate work and receive graduate credit under two conditions:

1. if they are in their final semester of undergraduate work; or
2. if they are senior BSED or BME students who must enroll in a professional semester as the final semester at Pittsburg State University.

The following requirements must be met:

1. good academic standing;
2. completion of residency requirements of thirty hours for the baccalaureate degree;
3. qualified for graduate conditional admission. The planned academic program for the senior-graduate semester will not exceed sixteen semester hours including the graduate work. Upon application to the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, the student may be approved as a senior-graduate student and may register for no more than nine hours of graduate work. If the senior-graduate does not complete the undergraduate degree, graduate credit cannot be awarded for the courses taken. Graduate credit will not be awarded for 700 level courses taken by students who have not been admitted as senior-graduates.

International Student Admission

International students from countries in which English is not their language of instruction must submit scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) of 520/190 or above for all programs except the Master of Business Administration program, the Master of Accounting, the master or education specialist in psychology and counseling, the Master of Science in Nursing, and the Master of Arts in history or communication, which require a score of 550/213 for full admission. If scores are below those requirements, students will be required to take one or more courses in the Intensive English Program. Resident Aliens may be required to submit TOEFL scores if the department in which they are applying requires it.

International students must also present evidence of financial resources adequate to support the necessary period for graduate study and must have in their possession the proper credentials as defined by the U.S. Office of Immigration and Naturalization. International students must meet all test or other entry requirements of their specific degree program.

Departments may require international students to take other tests prior to admission to graduate study. It is the student's responsibility to determine what the departmental admission examination requirements are and make arrangements to sit for those examinations.

All international students are required by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) to be full-time students. Graduate students must complete at least 9 hours per semester to maintain their student status. Students may be less than full-time their final (graduating) semester. Failure to maintain INS status can result in many lost benefits for the student.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

Academic Advising

Students in special non-degree graduate status are assigned an advisor and should consult the advisor before each course enrollment.

Students admitted to a degree program are assigned a departmental advisor at the time of admission. It is essential that students meet early with their advisor to plan their program of study.

The departmental advisor usually serves as a member of the student's thesis committee if the student elects the thesis option, and usually participates on all other committees concerning the advisee's graduate program.

Typical Graduate Academic Loads

The typical load for full-time graduate students is fifteen semester hours. For full-time students who are full-time graduate assistants, the typical load is twelve semester hours and no less than nine semester hours. Full-time students may also hold part-time graduate assistantships.

Students enrolling for six semester hours or less are considered part-time graduate students. For part-time students who are part-time graduate assistants, the maximum load is no more than six semester hours nor less than four semester hours. Part-time students may not be full-time graduate assistants.

Enrollment in Courses

Courses numbered 500-699 will apply on a master's degree program if:

1. permission has been obtained from both the departmental graduate advisor and the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research; and
2. the number of these credits to be applied to the degree not exceed six semester hours.

Departments may include such hours in the total graduate hours required by the degree or may require those hours in addition to degree credit requirements. No courses below 500 may apply to a master's degree. No 500-699 courses may apply to a Specialist in Education degree.

With the exception of research and independent study, graduate work is taken on the same class schedule as undergraduate study. Courses may be taken during the regular academic year, in summer sessions, in night and Saturday classes, and by extension.

Off-Campus Study

Off-campus study from PSU may be counted toward graduate degrees. Each off-campus course must be approved for inclusion in a degree program by the student's departmental advisor. In order to determine whether a specific course will fit within a degree program, the student should obtain prior approval before enrollment. All regulations of the Graduate School apply to special graduate students taking off-campus study.

Correspondence study may not be counted toward graduate degrees.

Transfer and Waiver of Credit

Any transfer or waiver of graduate credit that applies to a degree must have the recommendation of the student's departmental advisor and the approval of the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research.

A maximum of nine semester hours of courses may be transferred from another accredited graduate school.

A maximum of nine semester credits from a completed graduate degree may be used as evidence for waiver of requirements in another graduate degree program. Decisions that requirements may be waived are based on evidence of past course work and/or experience. Waivers are of two types: 1) a requirement may be waived but total degree credit required may be the same; or 2) a requirement may be waived and the number of credits required may be reduced by that credit amount.

For Specialist in Education degree programs, transfer or waiver credit may be applied only from an institution offering post-master degree study.

Enrollment in Research Courses

Research courses are of three types: theses, research problems, and research seminars. These courses carry variable credit. Theses and independent research courses proceed at a pace agreed upon by the student and the advisor. At the time of enrollment the terminal date, the course plan, and the final product should be determined. Grades for research courses are not awarded until all research assignments are completed and approved by the individual faculty member or by a faculty committee.

Application of Course Grades to Graduate Degrees

Only grades of A, B, and C are acceptable on a degree program. A cumulative grade point average of (3.0000) is required for grades earned in:

1. All graduate coursework at the 700, 800 or 900 level;
2. Senior-graduate coursework (500 or 600 level) applied to a graduate degree.

A maximum of six hours of C or pass work may be applied to a student's degree program. If the student receives any grade of C, status in the Graduate School will be reviewed by the advisor and the dean. An extension of no more than six hours credit may be made to the approved degree program in order to achieve the minimum 3.0000 and offset C grade credit.

Courses taken for pass/fail credit may not be applied to the degree program unless the specific pass/fail course has been

approved as a degree component by the department which offers the degree program and by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research.

Incomplete Work

Except for research, incomplete work on the graduate level is subject to the rule that it must be completed in the next enrollment period or, with instructor permission, no later than one year after receiving the incomplete. An incomplete not removed within one year shall be regarded as a failure and the IN grade will be changed to F and included in the computation of the student's GPA.

Repeated Courses

Graduate courses in which a C or lower grade has been earned may be repeated for the purpose of raising the grade.

A total of six hours may be repeated with no course repeated more than once.

When a repeated course is allowed, the grade earned on the second attempt will be used in computing the GPA. The original grade will remain on the transcript but will be marked as repeated.

Students whose grade point average falls below B and who do not raise their grade point averages during the next two terms will be required to withdraw from the program of study.

Academic Standing

A graduate student in good academic standing is a student who has not been academically dismissed and who has maintained a grade point average of 3.0000 in all course work applied to a graduate degree.

Validation of Previous Work

Usually credits earned more than six years before the date for granting the degree can be counted to meet requirements for the degree when they are validated by special examination. Required courses more than six years old may be repeated or validated. Examinations and grades for validated courses are given by the course instructor or departmental faculty and must be filed in the Graduate Office.

Usually courses are eligible for validation if they have been taken within a ten year period from when the candidate's degree will be completed. Courses from other institutions may not be validated; therefore, transferable courses should usually be no more than six years old at the time of granting the degree.

Academic Dismissal and Appeal Process

The Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, after consultation with the departmental advisor, may terminate a student's graduate status because of unsatisfactory academic performance. This dismissal may be appealed to the Graduate Council. Students who have grievances concerning a course grade, admission to a program, thesis examination, or other academic decision, may file requests with the Graduate Dean to have the grievance reviewed by an independent committee of graduate faculty and graduate students. The Grievance Committee will review the case and make a recommendation.

General Graduate Degree Requirements

The master's degree requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate study for degrees requiring a thesis and a minimum of 32 to 33 semester hours of graduate study for degrees not requiring a thesis. At least fifteen semester hours must be earned in 800-900 level courses open only to graduate students.

The specialist degree requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate study beyond the master's degree, of which 21 or more semester hours shall be earned in courses open only to graduate students (800-900 numbers), with at least nine hours in 900-level courses.

Planning the Degree Requirements

At the time of admission into a degree program, students should meet with their advisors to make a tentative plan for their entire degree program. Agreement upon courses to be transferred, waived, or validated should be made at that time. Specific courses and number of credit hours of graduate work taken in special graduate student status that are applicable to the degree should also be determined. Typically, no more than 12 credits taken in special graduate status will apply to a degree.

Admission to Candidacy

Students must apply for candidacy to the degree they are seeking after completing at least nine but not more than eighteen semester hours of the degree program. If the students are in a program of more than 32 hours, the application for admission to candidacy should be completed at least one term before the planned graduation term. Students will not be permitted to graduate during the same term in which they filed for candidacy unless the department has determined that program requirements mandate a different time schedule for all students. In order to be admitted to candidacy, students must have:

1. passed the preliminary and/or other qualifying examinations required by the university or the major departments;
2. removed all deficiencies for admission to graduate study;
3. earned a B average in nine to eighteen credits of course work taken as part of the degree program; and
4. planned the remainder of the degree program with their departmental advisor's approval.

Meeting the deadlines for application for admission to candidacy is the responsibility of the graduate student. Admission to candidacy must be obtained at least one term before students can apply for their graduate degree. Students

who do not apply for candidacy at the appropriate time in

their program may be required to take additional courses prior to being permitted to apply.

Comprehensive Examinations

Candidates for a graduate degree in fall or spring semester must satisfactorily pass a comprehensive examination in the field of their major graduate work not later than four weeks prior to the date on which the degree is to be conferred. For summer term candidates, the examination must be passed not later than two weeks prior to the degree conferment date. This examination may be either oral or written or both. The format is at the discretion of the department which prepares, administers, and evaluates the examination.

Application for Graduate Degree

Each candidate for a graduate degree must file an application for the degree with the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research not later than four weeks prior to the date which the degree will be conferred.

If the application is not filed at that time, the student will not be on the list of degree candidates to be approved by the Graduate Council. Thus his/her graduation date may be delayed until the following term.

Awarding of Degrees

Graduate degrees are dated and awarded at the end of fall, spring, and summer terms. Commencement is held in May for students receiving degrees at the end of the spring semester and summer term. A December commencement is held for students graduating at the end of the fall semester.

Scholastic and Academic Honors

Graduate students who have earned a cumulative grade point average of 4.0000 at the time of graduation will graduate with the designation Graduate Dean Scholastic Honors.

The Graduate Dean Scholastic Honors designation will appear on the student's transcript.

THE MASTER'S DEGREE

The major graduate degree offered by the university is the master's degree. It is designed to introduce the student to advanced study and research, with emphasis upon specialized, in-depth, and independent study. In the education professions, graduate study at the master's degree level is designed to increase the competence of teachers and other school personnel. For professionals in fields other than education, the degree objective is to provide additional preparation for careers in the arts and the humanities, science, business and industry, technology management, and/or governmental service. The degree is also designed for those who wish to gain opportunities for cultural advancement in the field of general education.

The master's degree is not a terminal degree. In addition to opening the way to general professional and personal advancement, it may be considered a step toward the Specialist in Education degree or toward the achievement of a doctoral degree. The master's degrees offered are described below and in the departmental sections of the catalog. All degrees have common and unique requirements. Students should read both the general regulations and the particular requirements for each degree.

MASTER'S DEGREES OFFERED

Master of Arts

Art

Communication

English

History

Master of Business Administration

Master of Engineering Technology

Engineering Technology

Master of Music

Music

Master of Science

Biology

Chemistry

Counseling

Educational Leadership

Educational Technology

Human Resource Development

Justice Studies and Justice Administration

Mathematics

Physical Education

Physics

Psychology

Reading

Special Education Teaching

Teaching

Technical Teacher Education

Technology

Technology Education

Master of Science in Nursing

Nursing

MASTER OF ARTS DEGREE

The university is authorized to offer the Master of Arts degree in Art, Communication, English, and History. All regulations for the master's degree apply to the Master of Arts. Research options I, II, and III are generally available for the Master of Arts degree. Students should check with their major departments concerning the recommended option.

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION DEGREE

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree is a one to one and one-half year graduate professional program which emphasizes breadth of preparation for careers in management. Limited concentrations are offered in accounting and general administration. A maximum of 64 semester hours and a minimum of 34 semester hours of graduate courses are required depending upon the undergraduate background of the student. Only seminar Option III is available to the graduate student in the Master of Business Administration program.

MASTER OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY DEGREE

The Department of Engineering Technology offers courses leading to a Master of Engineering Technology degree with a specialization in research, construction, electronics, manufacturing, mechanical or plastics. This graduate program is a professional multi-disciplinary team and project oriented approach to graduate education. Emphasis is placed on "real-world" activities, projects and interactions.

MASTER OF MUSIC DEGREE

The university is authorized to offer the Master of Music degree. A number of emphases are available within the program. Only research Option I is available to the graduate student in music.

MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREE

The university is authorized to offer the Master of Science degree in the following areas: biology, chemistry, counseling, educational leadership, educational technology, human resource development, mathematics, physical education, physics, psychology, reading, social science, special education teaching, teaching, technical teacher education, technology, and technology education. Research options and degree requirements are specified for each major.

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING

The Master of Science in Nursing degree is offered with a major in nursing. A number of emphases are available within the program.

ADMISSION TO STUDY FOR THE MASTER'S DEGREE

Application for Admission

All students who wish to obtain a master's degree must apply for admission and meet admission standards prescribed by the Graduate School. Applicants for admission to a graduate degree program must file the following documents in the Office of Graduate Studies and Research:

1. An application form filed at least two weeks before enrollment, and no earlier than the semester preceding entrance into the Graduate School.
2. An official transcript showing all work previously taken and degrees received prior to application for admission. Transcripts must be sent by the registrar's directly to the Office Of Graduate Studies and Research.
3. Completion of any required admission tests.

A temporary permit to enroll conditionally as a special graduate student may be granted by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research if the student's application for admission and official transcript of prior study are not on file at the time of first enrollment. However, temporary permission to enroll does not grant or imply admission to a graduate degree program. If the transcript is not filed within three weeks of the first enrollment, permission to continue in the class or classes may be withdrawn and graduate status terminated.

Requirements for Admission

General admission to a degree program is granted by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research. Admission to a specific master's degree program is granted by the major department and is subject to their specific requirements, which includes adequate academic preparation in that particular discipline.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER'S DEGREE

Major/Minor Programs

Upon acceptance to a degree program, students are assigned a major advisor by the department. The advisor assists the student in planning the program of study, reviews graduate credit work taken previously and determines applicability for the degree program.

Students may also choose a minor field of study logically related to the major. The selection of courses for the minor and enrollment in elective courses outside the major must have the approval of the student's major advisor.

Student's Individualized Course of Study Option

The Graduate School recognizes that each graduate student comes to Pittsburg State University to pursue advanced studies that further their personal and career goals. The Graduate School also recognizes that existing majors are structured to meet the needs of most students, but do not always fit the requirements for students wanting a Student's Individualized Course of Study Option that combines courses from two programs. To meet the special needs of students requesting a course of study that is different from the existing program majors, the Graduate Dean suggests that the student and their advisor prepare a Student's Individualized Course of Study Option that includes the courses desired in the Lead Program (one of the existing Graduate Studies Programs) and to petition the Lead Program to include other course substitutions in the Student's Individualized Course of Study. The Dean of Graduate Studies and Research may approve a Student's Individualized Course of Study Option that is requested by a student and approved by the two advisors, two cooperating department chairs, and their respective deans.

Change of Major

If graduate students change their major, they must apply for admission to the new major through the Graduate Office. Courses previously taken will be evaluated as to appropriateness on the new program.

Credit Hours

Courses numbered 700 to 799 and 800 to 899 are master's level graduate courses. Courses numbered 900 or above are open only to students who have a master's degree, except for the second year MBA.

Upon the recommendation of the chairman of the major department and with the approval of the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, graduate students may enroll in certain courses numbered 500 to 699 provided such courses do not exceed a total of six semester hours of credit to apply toward the minimum 30 to 33 hours required for the master's degree.

The department may recommend additional work in courses numbered 500 to 699 above the minimum of 30 to 33 hours required for the degree.

Courses at 500, 600, or 700-level may not be applied toward a degree unless graduate fees have been paid.

Special Requirements

Students admitted as senior-graduates may begin work on the master's degree if they are accepted for that status. Such a combined program must not exceed 16 total semester hours. If the senior-graduate student does not complete the undergraduate degree, the graduate credit will not be counted toward the graduate degree.

A first-semester senior who has been officially scheduled for the professional semester in the second semester of the senior year may, with the explicit permission of the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, also enroll in graduate level courses. Such students must be admitted to graduate study, have approval of the proposed major department, and be eligible for admission in full standing. An overall grade point average of 3.0000 and 3.2000 or better in the proposed major is recommended for senior-graduate admission.

Students may be required by their department to pass an examination over portions of their undergraduate study in their major subject field. Such examination must precede admission to candidacy. The examination may be oral or written or both.

Master's Research Options

There are three alternative research experiences at the master's degree level. Not all departments offer all three alternatives. Students should consult their major department concerning the availability of options.

Option I: Thesis

The distinguishing feature of Option I is the thesis. Under this option each student must present a satisfactory thesis and defend it before a thesis committee of at least three members appointed by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research. Two members of the committee shall be appointed from the major department upon its recommendation to the graduate dean; the third member shall be from another department, or in special cases, from another institution.

The thesis subject should be selected by the student and approved by the thesis advisor who will direct the research and writing. The thesis committee shall give an oral examination over the thesis; the thesis advisor serves as chairperson of the examination session. The advisor shall assign the grade given for the thesis, and this grade shall be that for enrollment in Research and Thesis 890. Enrollment in Research and Thesis 890 may be for one to six hours. The first outline should be approved by the student's major department and filed with the Graduate Office not later than one semester before the degree is to be conferred.

Students must submit to their thesis advisor the first draft of the thesis in typewritten form not later than five weeks before the date on which the degree is to be conferred. Three typewritten copies (the original and two good quality photocopies) of the thesis in its final form approved by the thesis advisor must be submitted to the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research not later than two weeks before the date on which the degree is to be conferred. After review by the Office of Graduate Studies and Research and final publication, two copies will be deposited in the university library and one copy will be given to the department in which the major work was done.

Any graduate student who has met all requirements for the master's degree except for the thesis may apply to the Graduate Council for permission to complete the thesis in absentia, provided the period of completion does not exceed one year. To obtain such permission, students must submit an outline thesis of the proposed research as approved by the advisor and by the department faculty supervising graduate thesis work.

A minimum of 30 semester hours must be satisfactorily completed for Option I of the master's degree. The thesis, which will ordinarily require four to six semester hours credit, is included. Of the 30 hours, no fewer than 15 must be in courses numbered 800 to 899, and at least 24 must be in courses numbered 700 to 899.

Option II: Problem

The distinguishing feature of this option is the type of research, which differs from that for the thesis in Option I. A minimum of three hours shall be in Research Problem 891 or Methods of Research 891. Enrollment in Research Problem 891 may be for one to six hours with a maximum of six hours. Students must demonstrate in the form of research papers or other work ability to engage in independent study, to identify and use library and original resource materials, to organize thinking around problems, and to write a scholarly paper.

A minimum of 32 to 33 semester hours must be completed. Of these, no fewer than 15 must be in courses numbered 800 to 899, and no fewer than 26 must be in courses numbered 700 to 899.

Option III: Seminar

The distinguishing feature of this option is the type of research required. Instead of writing a thesis or a scholarly paper on a problem, the student shall complete at least six semester hours of research seminars, obtaining at least a 3.0000 average in the required research work.

A minimum of 32 semester hours must be completed. Of these, no fewer than 15 must be in courses numbered 800 to 899, and no fewer than 26 must be courses numbered 700-899.

Comprehensive Examination

Candidates must satisfactorily pass a comprehensive examination in the field of their graduate major not later than four weeks before the date on which the degree is to be conferred. This examination may be either oral or written or both. The major department shall prepare and give the examination over the formal and informal study required for the degree. The department will then certify on the petition for the degree to the Office of Graduate Studies and Research that the student has satisfactorily passed the examination.

Typical Load

Fifteen semester hours is a typical load for those graduate students choosing Option I. Twelve hours is the typical graduate credit load for those students who hold full-time assistantships while studying toward the degree. Senior-graduate students will be limited to a total enrollment of sixteen semester hours. Nine semester hours of graduate credit is considered to be a minimum full-time load. There may be instances when the time required to complete the research work for a graduate degree may justify fewer than nine semester hours as a full-time load.

Fully employed persons should discuss with their advisor the demands of employment and the requirements of graduate study, and limit the credit hour load accordingly.

Admission to Master's Degree Candidacy

Admission to candidacy is a required step toward completion of a degree program. Students are usually admitted to candidacy when they have successfully completed at least nine hours and not more than eighteen hours of graduate study, and have planned the remainder of the program with the approval of their major department. The student is admitted to candidacy by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research.

Application for admission to master's degree candidacy is the responsibility of the graduate student. The Office of Graduate Studies and Research sends candidacy forms to advisors; student and advisor complete their final program plan, and the chairperson of the department approves the plan. Then the plan is approved by the graduate dean and filed as the official degree program. Changes in the planned program after admission to candidacy must be approved by the major advisor, the chairperson of the department certified in writing, and approved by the graduate dean.

In order to be admitted to master's degree candidacy, students must have:

1. taken any tests which are required by the department;
2. passed satisfactorily the preliminary or other qualifying examination if either is required by the major department;
3. removed all deficiencies for admission to the graduate degree program;
4. earned a B average in all graduate credit courses that are part of the degree program to that point;
5. selected the master's research option under which they will complete the degree program;
6. planned the remainder of the degree program with their major advisor.

Regular academic semester enrollment: if students plan to take their graduate study in regular academic semesters, they must be admitted to candidacy not later than nine weeks before the end of the second regular semester of study.

Enrollment in summer sessions and part-time study: if graduate students plan to complete a degree program through summer session study and part-time enrollment (night, Saturday, and Continuing Studies classes), they must apply for and be admitted to candidacy before enrolling for the last half of their degree program under any one of the options.

Students who have not been admitted to candidacy as stated above may be required to take additional courses before completing the degree program.

Application for the Master's Degree

Candidates for the master's degree must file an application (petition for the degree) with the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research not later than four weeks before the date for granting the degree. The form to be completed may be obtained from that office. The application must also have the approval of the major department.

SPECIALIST IN EDUCATION DEGREE

The degree of Specialist in Education, the highest degree offered by the university, requires approximately two years of study beyond the bachelor's degree and one year of advanced study beyond the master's degree. A minimum of 30 graduate semester hours beyond the master's degree is required, although frequently the specialist degree program may require more than this.

The specialist degree is a professional degree for educators at elementary, secondary, vocational, and higher education levels. The degree is normally earned in the discipline in which the master's degree has been awarded, but it may be earned in another major field if the student has adequate background and meets required admission standards.

The specialist degree program is especially designed to make effective use of students' professional experience, which is required as part of the admission standards, as well as to utilize previous academic study. Specialized and advanced professional competence beyond the master's degree is the main objective of study.

Graduate study at this level stresses research in all courses, including special research projects, seminars, practica, and internships, and the development of depth of knowledge of the work of scholars in the disciplines of study. Admission

to the program is reviewed in relation to the level of university resources in the areas in which students wish to specialize, previous academic achievement and professional experience relevant to the specialization, and to the development of an effective program that will result in that specialization.

The Specialist in Education degree program is designed to be a terminal degree, independent of further graduate study. However, some students may wish to apply portions of the degree to cooperative or independent doctoral programs. Applicability of this work toward a cooperative doctoral program is evaluated by faculty at Pittsburg State University and the cooperative doctoral institution at the time of acceptance into that program. Whether any part or all of the specialist program is acceptable on a doctorate independently offered at another institution is solely within the jurisdiction of the institutions offering the doctorate.

Specialist in Education Fields of Study

Community College and Higher Education

Counseling

General School Administration

Industrial Education

School Psychology

ADMISSION TO STUDY FOR THE SPECIALIST IN EDUCATION DEGREE

Application for Admission

The application for admission requires the following documents and data:

1. application form;
2. complete official transcripts of all courses and degrees;
3. required test data;
4. a personal interview (optional).

Admission to study is granted by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research and the chair of the proposed major department. The application should be filed 30 days before the first enrollment.

Provisional permission to enroll may be given in some cases by the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research when the application for admission is incomplete. However, provisional permission to enroll does not grant nor imply later admission to full standing, and provisional permission may be withdrawn if warranted by the complete application for admission.

Requirements for Admission

Well qualified applicants receive admission in full standing. Conditional admission may be granted when evaluation of the applicant's record indicates that a trial period of limited enrollment may be desirable or if the applicant has deficiencies in his proposed area of specialization. The departments offering the specialist degree may require specific qualifications beyond those for general admission.

Applicants should read material printed under the departmental headings and if necessary consult the appropriate chairperson or dean of the college.

Applicants are expected to have adequate undergraduate and graduate (master's level) backgrounds to begin study for the specialist degree. If they do not have background in the proposed area of specialization, they must earn not less than ten graduate hours in such study before beginning the specialist degree program.

Admission usually is granted only to those who have a master's degree in the same area or one closely related to the proposed field of study. Exceptions may be made for able students whose academic record and experience so qualify them.

For consideration for admission, the applicant must present a graduate degree transcript with a grade point average of 3.2000 in credit hours taken for the degree. The successful applicant will usually present a record with no graduate grades lower than B and with A grades in the area of the proposed specialization for the Ed. S. degree.

Applicants must present test scores as the department may require, as part of their application for admission to study for the education specialist degree. These tests may have been taken as part of their master's degree study. If not so taken, the applicant must arrange to take them through the testing center of the university.

A significant teaching internship experience or equivalent teaching experience shall be completed prior to admission to candidacy for the degree Specialist in Education.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SPECIALIST IN EDUCATION DEGREE

Credit Hours and Residence

The Specialist in Education degree requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate study of which 21 or more semester hours shall be earned in courses open only to graduate students (800-900 numbers), with at least nine hours in 900-level courses. Other courses numbered below 800 may be taken subject to general graduate regulations, but the degree program must consist primarily of an 800 and above sequence of study and practice of research skills. Independent study in seminars and study and practice of practica are also required. No 500-600 courses will be applicable to the program. Usually a maximum of nine hours of graduate credit may be transferred from another institution, provided such credit is earned at an accredited institution that grants degrees above the master's level.

More than 30 hours maybe required for the degree.

Special Requirements

Pittsburg State University courses over ten years old may be validated by taking a comprehensive exam, or by re-enrollment if students have advisor, departmental, and Graduate School approval.

Specialist in Education Research Options

Each candidate for the degree shall select one of two options for the research experience.

Option I: Thesis

Option I requires the completion of from four to six hours in Special Research Project 990, in which students must conduct and report in written form the results of field studies or research projects in their discipline. The project is a major part of the degree program; all course work and other experiences are designed to contribute to the research. An advisory committee consisting of three members, with one member from outside the college, will be appointed to evaluate the final research project for each student.

Each member of the committee shall receive copies of the reading draft of the project at least five weeks before the date of the proposed graduation. The committee, along with the major advisor, will constitute the examining committee and will determine whether the format of the examination is oral or written or both. The advisory committee must receive final copies of the research project at least one week before conducting the examination. The major advisor will schedule such examination after consulting other members of the committee and will act as chairperson of the examination. Examination sessions of the research project are open to other members of the graduate faculty.

If the committee is not unanimous in its decision to approve the research and/or their grade recommendations, the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research shall have final authority to accept or reject the research project.

Option II: Problem

Option II places less emphasis upon formal research and correspondingly more emphasis upon activities related to the professional objectives of the student. Option II requires a three hour course in some aspect of research rather than the Special Research Project 990. The nature of the research course will be determined by the particular department involved. The student will be assigned a major advisor, who with the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research will formally approve the student's total degree program. Students under either option will be given a comprehensive examination; however, under Option II, there will be no

advisory committee conducting an oral examination. The comprehensive examinations are administered by the department involved.

Comprehensive Examination

Candidates for the degree must satisfactorily pass a written examination over their area of specialization. The examination shall be prepared and administered by the major department.

Admission to Candidacy Admission to candidacy means that the following conditions have been met:

1. all deficiencies have been successfully removed;
2. satisfactory study has been achieved in the first courses taken;
3. a research option has been selected; and
4. the degree program is planned and entered on the candidacy form along with the title of the research project for those on Option I.

Students must be recommended to the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research for admission to candidacy by their advisors and department chairpersons. The dean grants formal admission to candidacy.

Completion of Research

Candidates for the Specialist in Education degree on Option I must complete the research for the degree in final form not later than two weeks before the date on which the degree is to be conferred. The research project must be written in a scholarly form, conforming to thesis standards specified by the Graduate School. It must be approved by the advisor and then by the advisory committee at the time of the oral examination. If the committee is not unanimous in its approval of the research project, the dean shall have final authority to accept or reject it. Three signed copies (the original and two good quality photographed copies) must be filed in the Office of Graduate Studies and Research.

Application for the Specialist in
Education Degree

Each candidate must file an application (petition) for the degree with the Office of Graduate Studies and Research no later than four weeks before the date for conferring the degree. This application must have the approval of the student's advisor and shall be reviewed. The Graduate Council gives final approval for graduation.