Graduate - Advisors

Academic Advisor
Academic advisors are assigned to incoming students based on the interests they express in their applications and availability. You will need to meet with your academic advisor before The Fall and Spring semester of the first year to register for courses.

Thesis Advisor
Thesis Advisors are assigned after a candidate completes their second qualifying review successfully. This is a mutual agreement between the student and faculty member. Finding the right thesis advisor is critical to your completion of your graduate degree. Therefore, it is essential for all graduate students to get to know the faculty.

Student Responsibilities

• To know your advisor’s office hours and advising schedule
• To make an appointment and prepare for registration advising by reviewing the Catalog and Class Hour Schedule
• To formulate questions regarding curriculum, course selections, career options, etc
• To be aware of academic and personal needs and to seek assistance when needed

Advisor Responsibilities

• To be accessible to students throughout the year at posted office hours.
• To set aside designated times for registration advising and individual discussions.
• To be knowledgeable about curriculum requirements, academic policies and procedures, referrals and resources on campus.
• To guide students through academic programs that will complement their personal, educational and professional interests.

Committee Selection

An MFA Thesis committee is made up of 4 members:
Thesis Advisor, also acts as chair of defense
2 Faculty members from the Arts Department
1 Outside member, may be outside department, university or arts organization

Committee selection should be discussed and approved by the student’s thesis advisor. Verbal or written requests should be made well in advance.