Diagnostic Exams

These examinations are intended to aid the supervisory committee in determining the student's background in music history and aural skills so that the results may be used in making a study plan.

Entering graduate students take one examination in music history and literature and one exam in aural skills/ear training to show baccalaureate-level competence. The exam is typically scheduled on the Saturday preceding the beginning of the Fall semester. It is the responsibility of the student to arrive on campus in time to take the placement exam.

Students must demonstrate such competency in the subject area, either by passing the exams or being advised by their major professor to enroll in specified remedial courses, before enrollment in any 500-level course of that particular subject area. Students who do not take the exams (for any reason) may not enroll in any 500-level subject areas covered by the placement examinations until the exams have been completed.

Students are encouraged to use musictheory.net or teoria.com in order to prepare for the aural skills/ear training exam.