Junior Qualifying Examinations

The University Catalog states “All music majors must qualify for admission to Upper Division (junior-level) study leading to the specific degree by successfully completing the Junior Qualifying Examination at the end of their sophomore year.” Students may not be approved to enroll in 300 or 400 level music courses until the Junior Qualifying Examination is successfully completed. The Junior Qualifying Exam is taken in lieu of the regular Jury examination for the given semester, and is graded Pass/Fail. This exam may also serve as the entrance examination for transfer students.

Requirements

• A minimum of 60 semester hours successfully completed by the end of the semester
• All 100-200 level music courses in the degree plan successfully completed (grade of “C” or better) by the end of the semester, taken in the appropriate order in regards to pre-requisites
• Theory/Aural Skills sequence successfully completed (grade of “C” or better)
• Part One of the Piano Proficiency Exam successfully completed as certified by the Piano Faculty
• 100-200 level applied repertoire successfully completed as certified by the Applied Instructor
• Acceptable attendance record and demonstrated work ethic as certified by the Music Faculty
• Regular and successful compliance with ensemble requirements as certified by the Music Faculty

Procedures

• Students must indicate their intention in writing to take the Junior Qualifying Exam by completing and signing the appropriate form (available in the Music Office) by the following deadlines: Fall semester – October 1, Spring semester, March 1
• The Music Faculty will review candidates for Junior status according to the above criteria.
• A schedule for Junior Qualifying Exams will be posted by October 15 (Fall) and March 15 (Spring). Those students who have been approved by the Music Faculty will be allowed to schedule the exam.
• The Junior Qualifying Exam will be held each semester during Final Exam week. A panel from the Music Faculty will be selected to adjudicate the Exams.
• The Junior Qualifying Exam will consist of the following (not necessarily in this order):
  1. A brief oral comprehensive exam covering courses taken in music
  2. Performance of appropriate repertoire as assigned by the applied instructor
  3. Sight-singing
  4. Major/minor scales and arpeggios
  5. Sight-reading
  6. Appropriate musical terms

NOTE: This does not represent a catalog change, but rather a clarification of an existing catalog requirement. Students may, under certain circumstances not within their control that prevent them from completing the above requirements, request approval to enroll in 300 or 400 level courses prior to successful completion of the Junior Qualifying Exam. Such a request must be communicated in writing to the Department Chair by the abovementioned deadlines and subsequently approved by the Music Faculty. These will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.