• Degrees Offered
• Admission
• Admissions and Records Procedures for Graduate Level Studies
• Registration
• General Terms and Procedures
• Academic Procedures
• Admission to Candidacy for Graduate Studies
• Enrollment in Thesis or Dissertation Courses
• Doctoral Dissertation
• Master's Thesis
• Comprehensive Examination
• Second Master's Degree
• Grade System
• Academic Probation and Suspension
• Graduate Assistantships

• Newton Gresham Library
• Sam Houston Memorial Museum
• The University Center
• Computer Services
• Human Resources Department
• Institutional Research
• Department of Residence Life
• Student Financial Aid
• University Safety Office
• Financial Information
• Tuition and Fee Refund Policy
• Registration Expenses
• Student Services and Programs
• Division of University Advancement

UNIVERSITY MISSION

Sam Houston State University is a multicultural institution whose mission is to provide excellence by continually improving quality education, scholarship, and service to its students and to appropriate regional, state, national, and international constituencies.

UNIVERSITY GOALS

• Promote students' intellectual, social, and leadership growth.
• Recruit and retain qualified, dedicated faculty and support staff.
• Recruit and retain qualified, motivated students.
• Provide the necessary library and other facilities to support quality instruction, research, and public service.
• Provide an educational environment that encourages systematic inquiry and research.
• Promote and support diversity and provide for equitable opportunities for minorities.
• Offer a wide range of academic studies in preprofessional, baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral programs.
• Collaborate with other universities, institutions, and constituencies.
• Provide instructional research and public service through distance learning and technology.

GENERAL INFORMATION

The principal objective of Graduate Studies is to offer education beyond the baccalaureate level to those who aspire to become intellectual leaders in the professions and in various fields of teaching and research. These studies are designed to assist graduate students in developing and pursuing individual educational programs requiring superior accomplishment through carefully directed intellectual activity.

Purpose. The purpose of this catalogue is to provide information about the graduate programs of Sam Houston State University to students, prospective students, the faculty, and staff of the University. Included is information concerning requirements for admission to Graduate Studies at Sam Houston State University, services available to students, graduate course offerings, and listings of the administrative officers and the graduate faculty of the University.

Although every effort has been made to make this catalogue as complete and accurate as possible, changes may occur at any time in requirements, deadlines, fees, courses, etc., listed herein.

This catalogue was prepared well in advance of its effective date; therefore the course descriptions may vary somewhat from actual course content because of advancements in the discipline, interests of individual professors, or decisions to change the scope of a course. Thus, the descriptions that follow are not provided in the nature of a contractual obligation.

Graduate Faculty. The faculty of Graduate Studies consists of those members of the University academic administration and faculty who have been appointed to graduate faculty membership in accord with established procedures. These members will be actively engaged in recognized scholarly activities, fundamental research, or professional activities.

The Vice President for Academic Affairs is responsible for the academic programs of all graduate students. The dean of each college serves as the official representative of the graduate faculty of the college and as the official channel of communication between the graduate students of the college and the University administration.
Graduate Council. The Graduate Council is a standing committee. It is an advisory body to the Coordinator of Graduate Studies. This Council is responsible for making recommendations regarding general policies pertaining to graduate study at the University.

Graduate Courses. A graduate course is an advanced course requiring critical analysis and study. Such courses normally require frequent use of the library for reference to papers reporting original research. To provide a greater range of academic course offerings, some graduate programs allow students to a limited number of 400-level courses for graduate credit. In order to receive graduate credit for an undergraduate level course, the student must receive prior written approval from the department chair and the dean of the college. Please see the specific degree program in this catalogue for more details on taking 400-level courses for graduate credit.

DEGREES OFFERED

The following advanced degrees are offered:

Master of Arts (M.A.)
Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)
Master of Library Science (M.L.S.)
Master of Music (M.M.)
Master of Science (M.S.)
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

CURRENT GRADUATE DEGREE OFFERINGS BY ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS

*Subject to action by the Board of Regents, The Texas State University System, and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

ADMISSION

Admission to Graduate Studies at Sam Houston State University and any of its sponsored programs is open to qualified individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or age.

Admission to Graduate Studies requires an applicant (1) to hold a baccalaureate degree from a college or university of recognized standing; (2) to show promise of ability to satisfactorily pursue advanced study and research; (3) to have had adequate preparation to enter graduate study in the chosen field; and (4) submit with the application acceptable scores on the appropriate entrance exam for each individual college and department.

Application Fee for Admission to Graduate Studies. A nonrefundable, one-time application fee must accompany the application form. Checks drawn on U.S. bank or US money orders must be payable to Sam Houston State University. DO NOT SEND CASH OR BANK DRAFTS.

Admission Examinations. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), Miller Analogies Test (MAT) and Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) are given at various centers throughout the United States and in other countries. To determine the most convenient locations, prospective applicants should write to Educational Testing Service, Rosedale Road, Princeton, New Jersey 08541. Information also may be obtained through the office of the appropriate academic dean.

Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT).
This test is required for admission to graduate study in the College of Business Administration at Sam Houston State University. Registration for each test may be arranged by calling 1-800-GMAT-NOW or www.gmac.com.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
This test is required for admission to most programs of graduate study at Sam Houston State University. Registration for the computer-based examination may be scheduled by calling 1-800-GRE-CALL or www.gre.org.

Miller Analogies Test (MAT).
This test is accepted as an admission test by some programs of study. The MAT is administered by the Sam Houston State University Counseling Center and individuals may call for an appointment, (936) 294-1720. There is a fee for administration and scoring services.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of non-native speakers of English. The TOEFL is administered several times per year, and there is a fee for administration and scoring services. For further information, contact the English as a Second Language (ESL) Office, College of Education and Applied Science, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas 77341; TOEFL, P.O. Box 6155, Princeton, NJ 0845-6155; or www.toefl.org.

Inquiries regarding admission to Graduate Studies should be addressed to the office of the appropriate academic dean, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas 77341. Inquiries about facilities for advanced studies, research, and requirements for graduate work in specified fields should be addressed to the department in which the principal work is offered.

A formal application is required of all persons seeking admission to Graduate Studies. To allow time for processing, the application forms, which are available from the office of the appropriate academic dean or the Office of Graduate Studies should be filed at least 30 days (60 days for international students) prior to the beginning of the semester. Admission to Graduate Studies cannot be completed until all the credentials enumerated have been filed and evaluated [International Student please read this]:

1. Application for Admission to Graduate Studies with the one-time application fee.
2. Official transcripts of all college-level work, including the official transcript which shows the date the undergraduate degree was conferred. Electronically delivered transcripts transmitted to Sam Houston State University, via the University of Texas server, will be accepted as an official transcript by SHSU.
3. Copies of scores on the appropriate entrance exam required by each college and department as listed below:
   College of Arts and Sciences - GRE
   College of Business Administration - GMAT
   College of Criminal Justice - GRE
   College of Education and Applied Science - GRE
   (Agriculture - GRE or GMAT; Counseling, Health, Kinesiology, Psychology - GRE or MAT)
4. Other credentials, as indicated by the department or academic college, may be necessary for graduate study in a specific department or academic college.

Students who wish to pursue the doctoral program in Criminal Justice must complete the GRE and request the Doctoral Admission Form from the Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs, College of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas 77341.

Students who wish to make application to enter the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership degree program should contact the Director of the Center for Research and Doctoral Studies in Educational Leadership, Department of Educational Leadership, Box 2119, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas 77341.

Students who wish to pursue the doctoral program in Forensic Clinical Psychology should request materials directly from the Department of Psychology and Philosophy. See the Department of Psychology and Philosophy section of this catalogue for more complete information.

In addition to the records sent to the office of the appropriate dean, students should have in their possession a copy of their records for use in conference with members of the Graduate Faculty in planning their work.

Admission to Graduate Studies may not be approved in instances where the facilities and staff available in the particular field are not adequate to take care of the needs of the student.

Admission to Graduate Studies remains valid for one (1) long semester only, unless the student, during this period, engages in active graduate work. If a student does not attend consecutive fall and spring semester, a new application (no fee) must be submitted to the Office of Graduate Studies.

ADMISSIONS AND RECORDS PROCEDURES FOR GRADUATE LEVEL STUDIES

The responsibility for admissions and records for graduate level studies at Sam Houston State University resides with the appropriate college dean. The following provides general guidelines for the procedures for graduate level studies; however, variations in procedures may occur among the colleges.

1. Submit application form along with a one-time application fee to the Office of Graduate Studies.
2. The original copies of all completed graduate studies admissions forms and documents are submitted to the Office of Graduate Studies and filed in the office of the appropriate academic dean. Copies of pertinent forms and documents are maintained in the office of the appropriate department chair.
3. After all admissions forms and documents are gathered for an applicant, a graduate student folder containing the material is forwarded to the graduate advisor of the appropriate department for admission review. The graduate advisor initiates an admissions recommendation to the dean who sends an admissions acceptance or rejection letter to the applicant. Letters of acceptance are not issued to students seeking certification only. A copy of the letter from the dean is forwarded to the appropriate graduate advisor and another copy is placed in the graduate student folder which is maintained in the office of the dean together with the admissions review letter written by the graduate advisor.
4. The graduate student is responsible for the initiation of the graduate degree plan which is prepared by the appropriate graduate advisor. The original copy of each graduate degree plan is filed in the office of the dean with copies furnished to the appropriate department chair and the student.
5. After an applicant is admitted, all subsequent written communications concerning graduate records are forwarded to the appropriate graduate advisor. This includes forms for admission to candidacy and for completion of the comprehensive examination. Forms initiated at the department level are forwarded to the office of the dean.
6. When the graduate student applies for a degree, the office of the dean forwards a copy of the student's degree plan (graduate study plan) to the Registrar. The Registrar will check the degree plan and transcript of the degree candidate. The student is responsible for initiating counseling for any graduation requirement problems by the office of the dean.
7. The appropriate dean is responsible for the certification for graduation of graduate students.

Regular Admission. The applicant shall have:

1. Earned a minimum grade point average of 2.5 (4.0 scale) on all previous college studies or 2.8 on the last sixty semester hours of course work applicable to the baccalaureate degree. The minimum GPA of 2.5 may be waived in the College of Business Administration if supported with an appropriately high GMAT score.
2. Submitted the appropriate admission test required for the graduate program. Many programs require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) while the College of Business Administration requires the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Some programs will accept the Miller Analogies Test instead of the GRE. Please check with the individual program for specific test and minimum score required.
3. Fulfilled specific requirements as indicated by the department or college for the pursuit of graduate study. Meeting stated minimum admission requirements does not constitute automatic admission to a graduate program at Sam Houston State University.

The above listing represents minimum requirements for Regular Admission; refer to the appropriate section of this catalogue to determine the specified requirements.

Departmental Entrance Requirements. Applicants to all Graduate Programs must fulfill the minimum graduate studies requirements specified under Regular Admission (above). However, all applicants should note that these are absolutely minimum standards and that most departments and programs have significantly higher requirements. These specific requirements are listed under individual departmental sections of this catalogue. Any inquiries regarding these requirements should be directed to the individual department or to the Dean of the appropriate College in which the department is listed.

Conditional Admission. A US citizen or US resident applicant who is seeking a graduate degree but who has not submitted all of the application materials required by the University for Regular Admission may be granted Conditional Admission. Under the terms of Conditional Admission, a student may enroll for one semester. The college dean will determine maximum number of hours that a student may take under Conditional Admission. The student admitted under Conditional Admission status will be required to complete all requirements for Regular Admission prior to registering for a second semester. Some departments do not allow Conditional Admission.

International students cannot be granted Conditional Admission. According to the regulations of the US Office of Immigration and Naturalization Service: "The issuance of a conditional or provisional Form I-20 is not permitted because the regulations authorize issuance only after all admission standards have been met."

Post-baccalaureate Admission. A US citizen or US resident who is seeking a graduate degree and who has submitted all required admission documents, but does not qualify for Regular Admission may petition for Post-baccalaureate Admission. Admission to Post-baccalaureate status is subject to individual college and departmental policy. No student may be admitted in Post-baccalaureate status without the prior written approval of the appropriate academic dean. In Post-baccalaureate status, a student who failed to initially qualify for admission to advanced degree programs may be provided the opportunity to demonstrate the ability to do graduate work, if the college and department so recommend. A student may complete a maximum of 15 semester hours on Post-baccalaureate status. After the completion of 15 hours with a "B" or better grade in each course, the student may petition the college dean for Regular Admission. A maximum of 15 credit hours completed in Post-baccalaureate status may be applied to a graduate program, but the department concerned may choose to not accept some credit hours taken prior to Regular Admission. International students cannot be granted Post-baccalaureate Admission.

Nondegree Admission. Applicants who do not intend to pursue a graduate degree but who wish to take courses for professional advancement, licensure, certification, or self-edification purposes, and who hold a baccalaureate degree or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution, should apply for Nondegree Admission. Applicants for Nondegree Admission must submit the following documents to the Office of Graduate Studies: the general application for admission, an application-processing fee, an official copy of the transcript from the school which awarded the highest degree, and a statement of purpose. If the native language of the applicant is not English, official TOEFL scores must also be submitted. Nondegree students who later apply for Regular Admission to seek a graduate degree may apply a maximum of fifteen credit hours of course work taken in Nondegree status toward a graduate program at the discretion of the department concerned. International students cannot be granted Nondegree Admission.

Graduate Transient Admission. Transient Admission may be granted to students who are accepted in good standing at regionally accredited graduate schools and who wish to enroll for one semester at Sam Houston State University. Applicants requesting this status must submit the following to the Office of Graduate Studies: the general application for admission, an application-processing fee, and certification of graduate standing in a regionally accredited institution. Some departments may require additional information for admission to this classification; therefore, applicants should contact the appropriate academic department. Students admitted in this category who later wish to enroll as prospective candidate for a degree at Sam Houston State University must submit a formal application for Regular Admission. A maximum of 15 credit hours taken as a Graduate Transient may be applied to a graduate degree program at the discretion of the department concerned.

Personal Standards. Sam Houston State University requires the same personal standards and applies the same criteria in considering applications for admission as it uses in the retention of students who are enrolled. To be consistent with this policy, the University reserves the right to refuse acceptance to prospective or former students who have criminal records including conviction of a felony, offenses involving moral turpitude, or other serious offenses. The personal standards of conduct expected of students who enroll at Sam Houston State University are provided in the student affairs handbook, Student Guidelines.

Scholastic Record. The normal requirement for admission to Graduate Studies is a record during at least the last two years of full-time academic study which gives evidence of ability to do successful graduate level work.

A student whose academic record is not satisfactory for this purpose or who is changing fields of study may be required to take additional work to strengthen his or her background and to prepare for graduate study. Such work will normally be arranged in conference with the graduate advisor or the chair of the student's major department.

Before accepting a student for graduate study, the department in which he or she expects to take work may require that the student pass a comprehensive examination covering the basic undergraduate work in that field.

International Students. A student from another country who seeks admission to Graduate Studies must meet the same requirements for admission and candidacy as students from the United States, including the submission of scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT).

According to the regulations of the US Office of Immigration and Naturalization Service: "The issuance of a conditional or provisional Form I-20 A-B is not permitted because the regulations authorize issuance only after all admission standards have been met."

In addition, prospective students from other countries must demonstrate the ability to speak, write, and understand the English language. Prospective students whose native language is not English must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which is administered by the Educational Testing Service in over 200 centers around the world. A registration form and a "Bulletin of Information for Candidates" may be obtained by writing to TOEFL, Educational Testing Service, Princeton, New Jersey 08541, U.S.A. or by contacting their web site at www.toefl.org.

All applicants for admission from non-English-speaking countries must present a score of at least 550 (paper-based) or 213 (computer-based) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

Sam Houston State University has an English as a Second Language Program for non-English-speaking international students. Information about this program may be obtained by contacting the English as a Second Language (ESL) Office, College of Education and Applied Science, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas 77341.

Each graduate student is responsible for becoming familiar with the rules and regulations pertaining to graduate study and the requirements for advanced degrees.

REGISTRATION

Before the initial registration the student should consult the graduate advisor representing the field of his or her major interest.

The normal load for a full-time graduate student is nine (9) to twelve (12) hours per semester. To be classified as a full-time graduate student, a student must be enrolled in a minimum of nine (9) graduate hours per semester (Fall or Spring) or nine (9) graduate hours over the combined summer sessions. Any exception to this guideline must be approved in advance by the dean of the college in which the student is seeking a degree. Six (6) hours is the maximum load per summer session. The maximum load for assistant instructors on one-half time employment is nine (9) graduate hours per fall or spring semester. The required load for assistant instructors one-half time employment is nine (9) graduate hours per summer. Assistant instructors on less than a half-time assistantship may have their maximum course load authorization increased proportionately by the appropriate department chair. Recipients of assistantships are normally required to register for the course loads specified above.

Dual Registration. Undergraduates at Sam Houston State University who at the beginning of a given fall or spring semester are within twelve (12) hours of graduation or at the beginning of a summer school are within six (6) hours of graduation may apply for admission to Graduate Studies provided they meet the appropriate entrance examination requirements and have a B average or better for the last three semesters of course work. Such students must complete their undergraduate work and obtain the bachelor's degree during the first semester or summer session following their admission to Graduate Studies. The maximum total credit hour load for dual-registered students is fifteen (15) hours in the regular semester or six (6) hours in a summer session.

An undergraduate student may enroll in a graduate course for graduate credit only if he/she files a written petition for approval with the appropriate college dean stating that the student is reserving the graduate course for graduate credit and is not including it for credit on his/her undergraduate degree program. Such petitions must be approved by the chair of the student's major (undergraduate) department and the student's academic dean. The combined undergraduate and graduate course load shall not exceed fifteen (15) semester hours in a semester or six (6) semester hours in a summer session.

Requirements for Registration of International Students

1. Each student must provide evidence of his/her ability for financial support while studying in this country.
2. All international students are required to purchase the group Hospitalization, Medical Evacuation, and Repatriation Insurance available to all eligible SHSU students. Proof of this insurance must be presented to designated university officials each semester before the registration process can be completed. Purchase of this insurance is coordinated through the University Health Center.
3. Immediately upon arrival on campus, international students should make contact with the University Coordinator of Graduate Studies to ensure that all admission and immigration papers are in order.
4. Certified English translations are required for documents prepared in a language other than English. All transcripts (credentials) must be evaluated before admission decision can be made.

Graduate Advisors. A graduate student entering the University for the first time is required to consult with the advisor in his or her particular field of interest regarding courses and various programs of study. Academic advisement is required prior to each registration. Graduate advisors will be available for consultation several days prior to registration.

RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS

The awarding of residence credit is predicated upon the utilization of facilities on the campus of Sam Houston State University or The University Center. Accrediting agencies expect the University to indicate that students and faculty loads are so constructed that facilities and laboratories can be effectively utilized.

Residence credit may be awarded for work off campus at the discretion of Sam Houston State University under especially approved conditions and in accordance with the terms of Section 4.3 of criteria for Accreditation, Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of College and Schools. At least one-third of the semester hours required for the degree program for any student enrolling in any of the proposed courses will be completed in course work on the campus. Additionally, a student is subject to the residency requirements as stated for each degree program.

Sam Houston State University has approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to offer various degree programs at The University Center located in The Woodlands, Texas. Courses completed as part of these programs carry residence credit and will not be denoted OC on the transcript.

Transferred Credit. The number of semester hours of transfer credit allowed varies among the several academic departments of the University. Each student should inquire of the appropriate dean concerning transfer credit allowed for a specific degree. Credit toward a graduate degree may not be obtained by correspondence course study.

RESIDENCY FOR TUITION PURPOSES

The Texas Legislature and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board have established guidelines for determining residence classification. Texas residency for tuition purposes is generally obtained by an individual's residing and being gainfully employed within the state for a period of 12 consecutive months prior to enrolling in an institution of higher education, by being a dependent of a Texas resident (individual who is claimed as a dependent for federal income tax purposes by the individual's parent or legal guardian at the time of registration and for the tax year preceding the year in which the individual registers), or by being classified as a Texas resident for the first five of the six years immediately preceding registration (not living out of the state for more than 12 months).

The following nonresidents may qualify for a waiver of the nonresident fees, regardless of their length of stay in the state:

1. members of the armed forces stationed in Texas, their spouse and/or dependent children;
2. teachers or professors employed at least half time on a regular monthly salary basis (not as hourly employees) by any Texas public institution of higher education, their spouse and/or dependent children, if their effective date of employment is on or prior to the official census date of the relevant term(s);
3. teaching or research assistants employed at least half time by any Texas public institution of higher education in a degree program-related position with an effective date of employment on or before the official census date of the relevant term(s), their spouse and/or their dependent children;
4. students holding a competitive scholarship awarded by the university of at least $1,000 for the academic year or summer for which they are enrolled; or
5. students or their spouses or parents who have located in Texas as employees of a business or organization that became established in this state as part of the program of state economic development and diversification authorized by the constitution and laws of this state and if the individual files with the Texas institution of higher education at which he/she registers a letter of intent to establish residency in Texas.

By state law, the student has the responsibility for registering under the proper residence classification. If a student has knowledge of an error in his/her residence classification for tuition purposes, it is the student's responsibility to notify the Residence Classification Officer immediately.

For additional information about residence classification, a student may contact the Residence Classification Officer by writing to: Residence Classification Officer, Undergraduate Admissions Office, Sam Houston State University, Box 2418, Huntsville, Texas 77341-2418; visiting the Estill Building, Suite 112 or calling (936) 294-1828.

ACADEMIC COMMON MARKET

Fifteen Southern states including Texas participate in the Academic Common Market, an interstate agreement for sharing uncommon academic programs. Residents of these states who are accepted for admission into selected out-of-state programs can enroll on an in-state tuition basis. There are only two requirements:

1. Acceptance in a program to which your state has made arrangements to send its students;
2. Proof that the student is a legal resident of that state.

Additional information regarding the Academic Common Market may be obtained from the Office of the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, Box 2087, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX 77341-2087; (936) 294-1006 or at the Academic Common Market web site.

GENERAL TERMS AND PROCEDURES

Students are encouraged to use the University web site at SHSU Be A Bearkat to accomplish many of their tasks listed below.

APPLICATION FOR A DEGREE

Prior to the semester or summer school in which the degree is to be conferred, a formal application and payment of the diploma fee must be made in the Registrar's Office. The Academic Calendar which is located in the current catalogue and in the Schedule of Classes indicates the deadline for making application for a degree. A student who is completing the last semester of course work at an institution other than the University must provide the Registrar with an official transcript of this course work no later than one day prior to the graduation date. Diplomas will not be released to students who have a financial indebtedness to the University.

ATTENDANCE AT COMMENCEMENT

Should a degree candidate be unable to attend commencement, a written request for the award of the degree in absentia should be directed to the Office of the President of the University. The degree candidate should indicate the address to which the diploma is to be mailed and should enclose $5.00 ($17.00 for diplomas to be sent to Mexico, $12.00 to be sent to Canada, $24.00 remaining foreign countries) in check or US money order to cover the mailing of the diploma. Checks should be made payable to Sam Houston State University.

CHANGE OF SCHEDULE (ADDING AND DROPPING COURSES)

1. Students may make schedule changes by accessing SamInfo at https://www.shsu.edu/saminfo. Hours of operation are stated in the Schedule of Classes.
2. No schedule changes may be made after the deadline specified in the Academic Calendar. A course dropped after the stated deadline is entered on the student's permanent record with a grade of F.

CORRECT ADDRESSES

It is necessary to have on file with the University a correct residence address. A student who changes an address after completing registration should immediately report this address to the Registrar's Office. The University assumes no obligation for failure of a student to receive communications.

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

Correspondence courses are not offered at the graduate level, nor can any correspondence course taken at any level or at any institution count toward a graduate degree at Sam Houston State University.

DEGREE PLAN

A Degree Plan is developed for each graduate student. All courses on the approved Degree Plan must be completed with a satisfactory grade to meet the requirements for the degree. Changes in an approved Degree Plan may be made by petition to the graduate advisor and approved by the appropriate academic dean.

NAME CHANGE

Appropriate documentation which substantiates a legal name change for a student must be submitted to the Registrar prior to the student's next registration. Registration under a name different from that used in the student's last enrollment cannot be accomplished without the above certification, which becomes a part of the student's permanent file. All grade reports and transcripts are issued under the student's legal name as recorded in the Registrar's Office.

OFF-CAMPUS COURSES

Courses taught at locations away from the main campus carry residence credit. Students may register for off-campus courses on the Sam Houston State University campus during the regular schedule of registration periods. Off-campus tuition, fees, and procedures for resignations, "Adds" or "Drops", are the same as for students attending classes on campus. See the current Schedule of Classes for a complete listing of courses and their locations.

Sam Houston State University has approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to offer various degree programs at The University Center in The Woodlands, Texas. Courses completed as part of these programs carry residence credit.

RESIGNATIONS

To resign (officially withdraw) from the University, a student must report to the Registrar's Office and process a Resignation Request. The Resignation Request must be in writing and becomes effective on the date received by the Registrar's Office. The effective date of the Resignation Request, as received by the Registrar's Office, is the date which is used for determining any refund. The student is responsible for clearing all debts owed to the University.

Students who resign after the first nine weeks of a regular semester or after the first two weeks of a summer session receive a mark of WP (withdrew passing) or WF (withdrew failing) for each course for which they are enrolled. Students who resign from the University while enrolled in a course whose duration is less than a normal term will receive a mark of WP or WF if they resign after one-half of that course time has been completed. The mark of WP or WF is the responsibility of the student's instructors.

STUDENT ABSENCES ON RELIGIOUS HOLY DAYS

Academic Policy Statement 861001
Section 51.911 of the Texas Education Code requires that an institution of higher education shall allow a student who is absent from class for the observance of a religious holy day to take an examination or complete an assignment scheduled for that day within a reasonable time after the absence. The student, not later than the 15th calendar day after the first day of the semester, or the 7th calendar day after the first day of a summer session, must notify the instructor of each scheduled class that he/she will be absent for a religious holy day. The student's notification shall be in writing and be delivered personally to the instructor of each class (who shall acknowledge and date the notification) or sent to each instructor by certified mail, return receipt requested. A student who is excused from class under this section may not be penalized for the absence but is responsible for satisfactorily completing the missed assignment or examination. Refer to the Academic Calendar for the deadline date for notification by students to the faculty members of the student's intent to be absent on religious holy days.

TRANSCRIPTS

A currently enrolled student or a former student of the University may obtain a transcript of his/her completed work from the Office of the Registrar. All requests for transcripts must be in writing and must be accompanied by the individual's signature. A fee which, according to state law must be paid in advance, will be charged for each copy. The fee for each transcript is $4. Transcripts will not be released to students who have a financial indebtedness to the University. Checks should be made payable to Sam Houston State University.

UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC POLICY MANUAL
AND STUDENT GUIDELINES

Sam Houston State University's Academic Policy Manual and Student Guidelines provide specific information pertaining to the educational mission of the University and student conduct. Copies of these publications may be viewed at the Reference Desk of the Newton Gresham Library and the web site www.shsu.edu/students/. Academic Policy Statements which may be of special interest to Sam Houston State University students include:

900823		Academic Grievance Procedures for Students
811006		Disabled Student Policy
861001		Student Absences on Religious Holy Days
810806		Student Educational Records

VETERANS ASSISTANCE OFFICE

Veterans may request assistance with filing for V.A. benefits, late payment inquiries, changes in dependency status, address changes or changes of academic status (course load) by contacting the Veterans Assistance staff of the Registrar's Office, telephone (936) 294-1046.

ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY FOR GRADUATE STUDIES

Students should recognize that admission to graduate work does not imply admission to candidacy for an advanced degree. The procedure for requesting admission to candidacy is as follows:

1. The student must have met all requirements for Regular Admission to Graduate Study (submitted all forms including official transcripts and required admissions test scores as appropriate) prior to being considered for admission to candidacy to a degree program.
2. The student may apply for admission to candidacy after completing nine hours of graduate work, but must apply for candidacy no later than the completion of fifteen hours of graduate work. Students who have completed fifteen or more graduate hours must present a copy of the final degree plan in order to register for additional course work. Students pursuing the MFA degree in the Department of Art should refer to "Admittance to Candidacy".
3. A student must complete all course stem work requirements prior to admission to candidacy.
4. The student must have a minimum graduate grade point average of 3.0.
5. The student must apply for admission to candidacy in one of the following ways:
   
   1. Apply to the chair of the major department.
   2. If seeking the Master of Education degree under Plan II, apply to the appropriate department chair for programs in Teacher Education, Agriculture Education, Home Economics Education, Vocational Education, Health, Industrial Education, and Kinesiology.
   3. If seeking a degree from the College of Business Administration, apply to Coordinator of Graduate Studies, College of Business Administration.
   4. If seeking a master's degree from the College of Criminal Justice, apply to the Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs for Criminal Justice.
   5. In all cases, the academic dean of the college is the final review authority.
6. The chair will certify in writing to the dean of the academic college that the applicant has demonstrated to the satisfaction of the department's graduate faculty that he/she has the ability to:
   1. Perform acceptably in graduate courses and seminars.
   2. Do intensive research and investigation with a high degree of resourcefulness and self-direction, where applicable.
   3. Complete satisfactorily the preliminary examinations, where required.
7. The chair will forward a copy of the student's final graduate degree plan with the certification of admission to candidacy to the appropriate dean.

ENROLLMENT IN THESIS OR DISSERTATION COURSES

Academic Policy Statement 930129

A graduate student at Sam Houston State University writing a thesis or dissertation in partial fulfillment of the degree requirements must enroll in the thesis courses 698 and 699 or in dissertation courses 896, 897, 898, and 899 or EDL 833, and may enroll for these courses concurrently.

Student enrollment in 699 or in 899 or EDL 833 must be for the semester or summer session in which the student expects to receive the degree. If the degree in question is not awarded at the end of that semester or summer session, re-enrollment in 699 or in 899 or EDL 833 will be required during a subsequent semester or summer session in which the degree is again expected to be awarded.

A student who enrolls for 699 or for 899 and does not complete the thesis or dissertation during the semester or summer session of enrollment will be awarded the mark of IP. That student must continue to enroll in 699 or 899 or EDL 833 during regular semesters and summer sessions until completion of the thesis or dissertation, and must be enrolled in 699 or 899 or EDL 833 during the semester or summer the degree is awarded.

A student who is unable to work on the thesis or dissertation for a period of time may present to the appropriate academic dean a written request for a leave of absence of up to one year. The dean's approval of such a request must also be in writing. Additional requests for leaves of absence may be approved but they must be resubmitted after the previous leave has lapsed.

A student is required to complete graduate work within a six-year period, measured from the date of initial enrollment for graduate credit in a particular degree program. The period of time a student is on an approved leave of absence will be counted as time accumulated towards that six-year deadline for completion of the degree. After the deadline, the mark of IP will become a mark of Q.

Any extension of the six-year deadline must be approved in writing by the appropriate academic dean. A student on a leave of absence will be considered an active student for purposes of official records, but will lose access to university services.

DOCTORAL DISSERTATION

Dissertation Committee. A committee will be appointed immediately following admission to candidacy. The committee is composed of at least three members: two graduate faculty members from the major field and one from the minor field, provided a minor is elected. The director will be selected by the student and with guidance from the director, the student will select the other two committee members. The committee must then be approved by the chair of the major department and the appropriate academic dean. Any change in the composition of the committee will be approved in the same manner.

Prospectus. The candidate, in consultation with the chair of the committee, will select a subject of investigation and determine the availability of the required sources, facilities, materials, and equipment for the research and the writing of the dissertation. The student will prepare a prospectus which will specify the topic, detail the purpose of the proposed investigation, describe the proposed method(s) of investigation, indicate the relationship of study to relevant research and findings of scholars in the student's area of concentration, and provide a commentary on source materials and/or facilities available for the successful completion of the research.

The prospectus shall be submitted to the committee during the semester following admission to candidacy. After the committee has approved and signed the prospectus, it is submitted to the appropriate academic dean for final approval. Any subsequent changes in topic or the proposed method investigation must be approved in writing by the committee and submitted for approval to the appropriate academic dean.

Preparation. To facilitate the preparation of the dissertation, the candidate should procure a copy of the Directions on Form, Preparation, and Submission of The final Copies of Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. These guidelines are available from the appropriate academic dean's office of the University's Office of Graduate Studies.

Procedure. The candidate must submit the completed dissertation to his/her committee for final approval at least three weeks prior to the date on which he/she expects to graduate. The following steps are the order of procedure:

1. The chair of the committee will establish a time and location for administering an oral examination on, or verbal defense of, the dissertation. Members of the committee and all members of the graduate faculty in the candidate's major field will be invited to attend the oral examination and may question the candidate.
2. The academic dean shall be informed of the time and location for the examination. Each Graduate Advisor will submit a final report to the appointing dean providing an assessment of the thesis, dissertation, or oral examination committee's procedures and actions.
3. After the examination is passed and the dissertation is approved and signed by the committee, the typed original shall be submitted to the academic dean at least two weeks prior to the date on which the candidate expects to graduate.
4. Upon receipt of approval of the academic dean, the original and the required number of acceptable copies of the dissertation are taken to the Newton Gresham Library by the candidate. (reproduction of the dissertation is the responsibility of the candidate.) The candidate will pay the Newton Gresham Library for the binding costs. The original copy will remain in the library collection.
5. The student takes the signed Route Sheet to the Registrar.

MASTER'S THESIS

Thesis Committee. A thesis committee will be appointed immediately following admission to candidacy. The thesis committee is composed of at least three members: two graduate faculty members from the major field and one from the minor field, provided a minor is elected. The thesis director will be selected by the student and, with guidance from the thesis director, the student will select the other two committee members. The thesis committee must then be approved by the chair of the major department and the appropriate academic dean. Any change in the composition of the thesis committee will be approved in the same manner.

Prospectus. The candidate, in consultation with the chair of the thesis committee, will select a subject of investigation and determine the availability of the required sources, facilities, materials, and equipment for the research and the writing of the thesis. The student will prepare a thesis prospectus which will specify the thesis topic, detail the purpose of the proposed investigation, describe the proposed method(s) of investigation, indicate the relationship of study to relevant research and findings of scholars in the student's area of concentration, and provide a commentary on source materials and/or facilities available for the successful completion of the research.

The prospectus shall be submitted to the thesis committee during the semester following admission to candidacy. After the committee has approved and signed the prospectus, it is submitted to the appropriate academic dean for final approval. Any subsequent changes in topic or the proposed method of investigation must be approved in writing by the thesis committee and submitted for approval to the appropriate academic dean.

Thesis Preparation. To facilitate the preparation of the thesis, the candidate should procure a copy of the Directions on Form, Preparation, and Submission of The Final Copies of Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. These guidelines are available from the appropriate academic dean's office or the University's Office of Graduate Studies.

Thesis Procedure. The candidate must submit the completed thesis to his/her committee for final approval at least three weeks prior to the date on which he/she expects to graduate. The following steps are the order of procedure:

1. The chair of the thesis committee will establish a time and location for administering an oral examination on, or verbal defense of, the thesis. Members of the thesis committee and all members of the graduate faculty in the candidate's major field will be invited to attend the oral examination and may question the candidate.
2. The academic dean shall be informed of the time and location for the examination. Each Graduate Advisor will submit a final report to the appointing dean providing an assessment of the thesis, dissertation, or oral examination committee's procedures and actions.
3. After the examination is passed and the thesis is approved and signed by the committee, the typed original shall be submitted to the academic dean at least two weeks prior to the date on which the candidate expects to graduate.
4. Upon receipt of approval of the academic dean, the original and the required number of acceptable copies of the thesis are taken to the Newton Gresham Library by the candidate. (Reproduction of the thesis is the responsibility of the candidate.) The candidate will pay the Newton Gresham Library for the binding costs. The original copy of the thesis will remain in the library collection.
5. The student takes the signed Thesis Route Sheet to the Registrar.

COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION

All candidates for the graduate degree must pass a comprehensive examination based on all their graduate course work. The major department will establish whether the comprehensive examination is written, oral, or a combination of the two. In the College of Business Administration, a minimum grade of B in the capstone course, Management 567, is required to satisfy the comprehensive examination requirement for the MBA, while a minimum grade of B in the capstone course, Finance 536, is required to satisfy the comprehensive examination for the Master of Science in Finance. In the College of Criminal Justice, all students in the MA program are required to complete a thesis and all students in the MS program are required to complete a capstone course with a grade of B or better.

The department chair of the major field will organize a committee of at least one graduate faculty representative from each area of concentration for the administration of the examination. The grade "high pass," "pass," or "fail," must be filed by the department chair in the office of the appropriate dean. A re-examination shall be permitted on any part(s) of the examination which the candidate fails. A third examination may be permitted upon approval of the appropriate academic dean and the committee.

Written Examination. The written examination usually will cover three areas of concentration: two areas in the major department and one area in the minor department. If all course work for the degree is within one department, the comprehensive examination will be determined by that department only.

Oral Examination. The oral examination is scheduled by the major department with committee members representing the major department and the minor department, if applicable.

SECOND MASTER'S DEGREE

Academic Policy Statement 801215

A student may seek a second master's degree at Sam Houston State University, provided his/her field of concentration for this degree will be different from the field of concentration for the first master's degree.

Upon the written recommendation of the appropriate department chair(s) and dean, the following maximum number of hours may be applied to the second master's degree:

1. A maximum of 6 semester credit hours may be applied to a master's degree program of 30-35 credit hours at Sam Houston State University.
2. A maximum of 9 semester credit hours may be applied to a master's degree program of 36-44 credit hours at Sam Houston State University.
3. A maximum of 12 semester credit hours may be applied to a master's degree program of 45-49 credit hours at Sam Houston State University.
4. A maximum of 15 semester credit hours may be applied to a master's degree program of 60 or more credit hours at Sam Houston State University.

GRADE SYSTEM

Four grades are given in graduate courses at the University: A denotes academic excellence; B denotes acceptable performance; C denotes insufficiency in achievement, although it is a passing grade; and the grade F denotes failure.

The mark IP denotes "in progress" and is given in theses and other courses which cannot be completed within one semester. The mark CR denotes "credit" and is given in one-hour workshops and may be given on transferred courses. The mark WP denotes "withdrew passing" and the mark WF denotes "withdrew failing." The mark X denotes an incomplete course. If the student meets the prescribed requirements of the course before the end of the next academic semester after the X is given, the student will receive the grade earned; otherwise, the mark X will be automatically changed to an F. The mark of Q will be given students who drop courses from the thirteenth class day, for a semester, or from the fifth class day, for a summer session, until the last day for dropping courses without grade of F as stated in the Academic Calendar. Courses with the mark of Q will not be counted as courses attempted, and will not be included in determining grade point averages.

The graduate student who elects to drop all courses, i.e., to resign from the University, must report to the Registrar's Office and process a Resignation Request.

SCHOLARSHIP

A minimum grade point average of 3.0 (B average on a 4.0 maximum) is required in all course work. All grades earned in courses listed for graduate credit on the student's official Degree Plan will be utilized in computing the grade point average.

When the grade of C is earned in any course, it must be balanced by a grade of A in a course of equivalent value taken in the same academic program. A grade of A earned at another institution may not be used to remove a grade deficiency earned in residence at this University. Semester hours of credit earned at another institution shall be recorded as received but not utilized in computing the student's Sam Houston State University overall grade point average. Only those transferred courses from accredited institutions in which a grade of A or B was earned and which are accepted toward an official degree program may be applied toward a degree.

ACADEMIC PROBATION AND SUSPENSION

A student who earns a total of two grades of C in any combination of courses will have his/her graduate status reviewed by a committee of the department or college Graduate Faculty. The committee will consider the advisability of his/her continued enrollment in a graduate program. A student who earns three grades of C or one grade of F will be terminated from graduate studies. Any appeal for a review of the termination of graduate status should be directed in writing to the appropriate academic dean.

If a student's cumulative grade point average falls below the minimum of 3.0, the student is automatically on scholastic probation. The probation must be removed in one semester or the student will be suspended.

In order to achieve and remain in academic good standing at Sam Houston State University, a graduate student must maintain an overall grade point average of at least 3.0 (B) on all graduate course work attempted. (See Scholarship, above.)

A 3.0 overall grade point average is the absolute minimum required for graduation. A graduate student who falls below a 3.0 overall grade point average at the close of any semester or summer school during which one or more semester hours are attempted will be placed on probation. Summer school (two sessions) is considered to be a unit equivalent to a semester. If an enrolled student on probation fails to achieve a minimum of 3.0 overall grade point average at the close of the next semester or summer school following the starting of the probation, the student will be suspended.

Academic actions are based on the total Sam Houston State University record and are implemented at the close of the fall semester, the spring semester, and the summer school.

The appropriate academic dean may place on probation or retain on probation or suspend any student deficient in grade points without regard to the regulations previously stated.

Any appeal for a review of the termination of graduate status should be directed in writing to the appropriate academic dean.

GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS

Academic Policy Statement 890303

Graduate assistantship positions are made available to a limited number of graduate students each year. Assistantships may be in the form of a teaching assistant or a research assistant. The purposes of the Assistant Instructor Program are to aid in financing the graduate studies of superior students and to provide experiences in the instructional program through the assignment of duties designed to support and improve the total instructional program of the University.

To be eligible for appointment as graduate assistant, the applicant must have met all requirements for Regular Admission to Graduate Studies.

Assistantships are usually for one academic year and may have the position renewed. In some circumstances a position of Assistant Instructor may be limited to a single semester. Retention of the assistantships is at all times conditional upon the continued good standing of the student in Graduate Studies and upon satisfactory performance of work assignments for which the stipend is provided. All such positions are subject to available funds.

A half-time assistant instructor normally is responsible for two courses, or four laboratories, or twenty clock hours of duty each week and is expected to be enrolled in six to nine semester hours of course work each semester. Such instructors generally may not hold other salaried positions from the University. Any exception to this rule may be made only upon written approval of the appropriate academic dean. A stipend is paid semi-monthly. All assistant instructors must pay tuition and fees as required of all resident students.

Applications for assistantships may be obtained from the office of the appropriate academic dean.