By University policy, all master's degree candidates must complete a comprehensive examination during the final semester of studies. Our department offers the exam three times each year:

Fall Semester - Usually in October
Spring Semester - Usually in February
Summer 1 Term - Usually Mid-June

There are four ways students can demonstrate their learning through the comprehensive exam process:  written exam, oral exam, professional portfolio, or a combination of the three.  Each master's program determines the kind of comprehensive exam their students will take.  It is important that students communicate with their advisors about the comprehensive exam well in advance of when the exams are taken.  Below are some general guidelines.

Students In Campus-Based Master's Programs

1. Apply no later than the first week of your final semester.
2. Receive email confirmation along with study guide information.
3. You will receive a letter with the results 4 to 6 weeks from exam date.  Grading is Pass/Fail.
4. For further information contact Nicole Askew

Students in Cohort-Based Programs Master's Programs
If you are in a cohort-based program in Mesquite ISD, or ISD's in the Corsicana area, please check with your advisor for information about the comprehensive exam requirements for that program.

Exam Results
Regardless of the program, you will be notified of the results in a letter from the department head 4 to 6 weeks after the exam is taken.  Exams are graded Pass or Fail.  Results are also forwarded to the Office of Graduate Studies and Research. According to policy as stated in the Graduate Catalog, "  A candidate who fails the comprehensive examination may be required by the advisory committee or the major department to complete further courses or additional study to correct the weaknesses or deficiencies revealed by the examination. The candidate who fails the comprehensive examination on the first attempt may retake the comprehensive examination when the department head or equivalent deems it appropriate. Should the candidate fail the comprehensive examination upon the second attempt, a third and final attempt may be taken only with the recommendation of the  major department head or equivalent and approval of the Dean of the Graduate School in accordance with University Procedure 11.99.99.R0.13 Examinations for Graduate Degrees.  Successful completion of the Comprehensive Exam is required of all students to receive a master's/specialist degree.  A student who attempts the comprehensive examinations for a third and final time and is unsuccessful is not eligible to receive his/her master's/specialist degree.

 Question about applying for the comprehensive exam can be addressed to Nicole Askew or call her at 903-886-5496

More Info About Masters Comprehensive Exams

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