You are in the official 2009-2010 General Catalog for California State University, Fresno.
Division of Graduate Studies
Limitation of Graduate Enrollment
Admission to postbaccalaureate/graduate studies must be restricted to the number of students for whom an effective education can be provided by staff, facilities, and funding available at California State University, Fresno. The university may limit postbaccalaureate/graduate enrollment on the basis of the academic field and the relative aptitude of the applicant, based on approved admissions criteria.
Graduate and postbaccalaureate applicants may apply for a degree objective, a credential, or certificate objective. Depending on the objective, the CSU will consider an application for admission as follows:
General Requirements - The minimum university requirements for admission to graduate and postbaccalaureate studies at a California State University campus are in accordance with university regulations as well as Title 5, chapter 1, subchapter 3 of the California Code of Regulations. Specifically, at the time of enrollment, a student shall (1) have completed a four-year college course of study and hold an acceptable baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association, or have completed equivalent academic preparation as determined by appropriate campus authorities; (2) be in good academic standing at the last college or university attended; (3) have attained a grade point average of at least 2.5 (A=4.0) in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted; and (4) satisfactorily meet the professional, personal, scholastic, and other standards for graduate study, including qualifying examinations, as appropriate campus authorities may prescribe. In unusual circumstances, a campus may make exceptions to these criteria.
Students who meet the minimum requirements for graduate and postbaccalaureate studies may be considered for admission in one of the following categories:
Postbaccalaureate Classified. Persons wishing to enroll in a credential or certificate program, will be required to satisfy additional professional, personal, scholastic, and other standards, including qualifying examinations as prescribed by the campus; or
Graduate Conditionally Classified Standing - Students may be admitted to a graduate degree program in this category if, in the opinion of the appropriate campus authority, the student can remedy deficiencies by additional preparation, including the completion of prerequisite requirements.
Note: Graduate degree students who have been granted conditionally classified admission to a graduate program are required to complete all conditions for achieving classified standing (full admission) to the program by the semester in which a maximum of one-third of the units to be used toward the graduate degree is completed. (Exception: Rehabilitation Counseling requires classification by the completion of 10 program units.) Failure to attain classified graduate standing in a timely manner as outlined in this catalog may result in the loss of units to be applied toward the degree since excess units may not be listed on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy.
A graduate student is expected to attain classified graduate standing either at admission or during the first semester of studies. Candidates for classification are expected to possess a minimum 3.0 postbaccalaureate cumulative grade point average.
Doctoral students should consult the appropriate doctoral program guidelines for information regarding obtaining classified standing.
Graduate Classified Standing. This category is granted to those students who fully meet all admission requirements of the Division of Graduate Studies and the program. It enables the student to pursue a graduate degree and fulfill all of the professional, personal, scholastic, and other standards -- including qualifying examinations -- prescribed by the campus.
(These and other CSU admissions requirements are subject to change as policies are revised and laws are amended. The CSU Web site www.calstate.edu and the CSU admissions portal www.csumentor.edu are good sources of the most up-to-date information.)
Only those applicants who show promise of success in and fitness for the profession will be admitted to Classified Graduate Standing, and only those who continue to demonstrate a satisfactory level of scholastic competence and fitness shall be eligible to continue in the graduate program. (See also Grade Requirements.)
Standardized Test Requirements
Applicants to graduate degree and advanced certificate programs may be required to submit appropriate admission test scores with the university application to Graduate/Postbaccalaureate Studies. Please see program admission information to determine if a standardized test is required. This information is also available at http://www.fresnostate.edu/gradstudies
Applications and information concerning the GRE as well as the MAT and GMAT are available through the Testing Services office in the Family Food Sciences Building, Room 110. GMAT information is available in the Craig School of Business Graduate Office in the Peters Building, Room 183.
It should be noted that an applicant's standardized test scores will not constitute the sole criterion according to which an admissions decision will be rendered. However, some departments, particularly in the sciences and engineering, may give more importance to standardized test scores than departments in other fields.
Change of Graduate Degree Objective
Postbaccalaureate/graduate students who intend to change their major or degree objective or add a second objective must complete and file an Add or Change Graduate Degree Objective, which includes a fee payable at the cashier's window in the Joyal Administration Building. These students must meet the admissions requirements of the new program. The application for Add or Change Graduate Degree or Certificate of Advanced Study objective is available in the Division of Graduate Studies, Thomas Administration Building, Room 132 or on the Web site at http://www.fresnostate.edu/gradstudies..
Second graduate degree
Students planning to engage in study toward a second graduate degree must obtain prior approval from the graduate dean. Students may not earn a second graduate degree in the same field. Coursework used to satisfy the requirements of one degree may not be used to satisfy the requirements of the second degree.
Double Major Objectives
Those graduate/postbaccalaureate students pursuing more than one objective (i.e., two graduate degrees) must notify the Division of Graduate Studies so that appropriate student standing may be noted with departments concerned.
Certificate of Advanced Study
A Certificate of Advanced Study may be earned in a limited number of approved, nondegree programs. Such programs provide useful coursework and professional experiences that emphasize the acquisition of advanced technical skills of a practical, applied nature. For a current list of such programs, consult the Division of Graduate Studies, 559.278.2448. Applicants to a Certificate of Advanced Study program must meet the specific admission requirements of the individual program and the university. These include admission to postbaccalaureate standing and the submission of relevant test scores.
A Proposed Program for the Certificate of Advanced Study form must be on file in the Division of Graduate Studies office immediately following completion of the first semester/term of certificate coursework. The submission of the proposed program is important because it gives a student permission to proceed toward qualifying for the advanced certificate, and approval of the program is required for a student to remain in good standing. Proposed program forms are available in the Division of Graduate Studies Office, Thomas Administration Building, Room 132.
With prior approval, those pursuing study toward a graduate degree may also pursue study toward a Certificate of Advanced Study. Double-counting of units on the certificate and on the graduate program, though limited, is possible. Those whose sole objective is the earning of the Certificate of Advanced Study are ineligible to receive graduate assistantships, fellowships, and other awards designed for those pursuing a graduate degree. The Application for the Award of the Certificate of Advanced Study form must be on file in the Division of Graduate Studies within the first two weeks of the term in which all courses and requirements are expected to be completed. The applications for the awarding of the certificate are available in the Division of Graduate Studies, Thomas Administration Building, Room 132. Upon clearance of the advanced certificate, a notation that the certificate has been awarded will be posted to the student’s official transcript.
For more detailed information regarding advanced certificate program eligibility, course guidelines/limitations, required grades, etc., contact the Division of Graduate Studies or the appropriate certificate program coordinator for the Guidelines for the Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) form.
Prohibition Against Double Counting of Coursework
No units used to fulfill the requirements of one degree may be used to fulfill the requirements of another degree. For example, 100-series courses used toward a bachelor's degree may not be subsequently used toward a graduate degree.
A postbaccalaureate student pursuing a graduate degree or certificate of advanced study may repeat a course for academic credit (subject to limitations in some degree curricula) regardless of what grade was originally earned in the course. However, such a student is not eligible to petition for grade substitution. All coursework taken is considered in the calculation of the student's postbaccalaureate cumulative grade point average.
International Student Admissions
The Division of Graduate Studies seeks to bring students from all parts
of the world to the campus. Since English is the language of instruction
at the university, students should be prepared to write their theses, examinations,
and seminar papers in English. Applicants whose native language is not English
must have acquired competence in the English language prior to enrolling
in a graduate program or prerequisite courses in order to avoid any delay
or difficulty in pursuing their studies.
Graduate English Competency
Graduate and Postbaccalaureate TOEFL/TELTS Requirement. All graduate and postbaccalaureate applicants, regardless of citizenship, whose native language is not English and whose preparatory education was principally in a language other than English must demonstrate competence in English. Applicants who do not possess a bachelor's or graduate degree from a postsecondary institution where English is the principal language of instruction must pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing (TELTS). Such applicants must receive a minimum score of 213 on the TOEFL or minimum score of 6.5 on the TELTS. Some graduate programs may require a higher score.
Some CSU campuses may use alternative methods for assessing fluency in English.
It is highly recommended that TOEFL or TELTS scores, Graduate Record Examination General Test scores, or GMAT or MAT scores, application, and official academic documents reach the university International Admissions Office at least six months before the semester for which admission is desired. See program information for specific test scores that may be required.
The TOEFL and TELTS are administered at various centers throughout the world. For locations and dates, check the TOEFL Web site ets.org/toefl or the TELTS Web site ielts.org.
You may also contact the Office of Testing Services at www.csufresno.edu/testing.
Applications for international postbaccalaureate/graduate admission are found online at www.csumentor.edu.
Questions about the international application procedures should be directed to the following:
International Student Services
and Programs
California State University, Fresno
5150 North Maple Avenue M/S JA56
Fresno, CA 93740-8026
U.S.A.
intladm@listserv.csufresno.edu
During the first semester at California State University, Fresno, foreign graduate students whose native language is not English may be required to enroll in special courses in English to help improve writing skills and to provide the greatest possibility of success in graduate studies.
Advancement to Candidacy: Eligibility
Advancement to candidacy gives a student permission to proceed toward qualifying for the degree and provides the student with a program of study that has been officially reviewed and approved by both the student's faculty and by the graduate dean. This important step confers on the student the status of candidate for the degree and represents a commitment both on the part of the student and the degree program to complete the degree within a specified time limit according to requirements published in a specific university catalog year. Advancement to candidacy is essential to the student in planning for registration in courses. The student should, therefore, meet with his/her graduate program coordinator/director soon after attaining classified graduate standing to discuss advancement to candidacy. Eligibility criteria for advancement to candidacy are as follows:
Deadline. Advancement to candidacy must be attained no later than the semester preceding the semester in which the student applies for the graduate degree to be granted and/or begins the culminating experience. Campus policy requires students to petition for advancement to candidacy as soon as they are eligible to do so. Normally this should occur within one semester of having attained classified graduate standing. Compliance with this policy is necessary for a student to remain in good standing.
Academic/Professional Standards. All students in graduate standing must demonstrate a satisfactory level of scholastic achievement as revealed by grades and performance on examinations, as well as professional and personal standards and ethical competence as determined by program faculty. This standard must be maintained in order for a student to be eligible to continue in a graduate program and be recommended for candidacy by the department.
Classified Graduate Standing. Classified graduate standing gives a student permission to work toward qualifying for advancement to candidacy. A student should be classified by the semester in which a maximum of one-third of the units to be used toward the graduate degree are completed. (Exception: Rehabilitation Counseling requires classification by the completion of 10 program units.) Not more than one-third of the program (including transfer and postbaccalaureate credit) completed before achieving full classified graduate standing at California State University, Fresno may be listed on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy. Courses taken during the semester in which the student is classified may also be listed on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy.
Prerequisites. Any prerequisites prescribed by the student's graduate program coordinator/director and specified in writing must be completed prior to advancement. Prerequisite coursework may not be listed on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy for use toward the degree.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Subject Test. Satisfactory completion of the GRE Subject Test is required of students working toward the Master of Science in Physics.
Departmental Qualifying Examination (DQE). Satisfactory completion of the DQE is required in art, civil engineering, kinesiology, linguistics, mathematics, plant science, Spanish, and viticulture and enology.
Foreign Language Requirement. Demonstration of competence, usually equivalent to that achieved through two years of collegiate study of one foreign language, is required in specified graduate degree programs in which upper-division and graduate courses demand such competence. Competence in the use of a foreign language is required for the Master of Arts in English, History, and Music (vocal performance and choral conducting emphases only), and the Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing. The foreign language requirement for the Master of Arts in International Relations is a prerequisite for graduation rather than advancement to candidacy. Ordinarily, the requirement calls for demonstration of the ability to read materials of the graduate program in one appropriate foreign language. Students who are conducting research in a foreign country for the Master of Science in Geology must be proficient in the language in which source materials are published. Students should consult their graduate adviser or the chair of the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department for information about placement tests.
Grade Point Average. A minimum program grade point average of 3.0 in all courses listed on the advancement petition is required. (See also Grade Requirements.) Those enrolling in coursework not related to the graduate degree are encouraged to request CR/NC grading.
Units Completed. Graduate degree students are required to complete at least 9 units of the proposed graduate degree program while in graduate standing at California State University, Fresno, with a minimum 3.0 grade point average on all completed work appearing on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy.
Graduate Writing Requirement. All graduate degree students must demonstrate their competence in written English prior to advancement to candidacy. Early completion of this requirement is recommended. The date the student met the writing skills requirement must be noted on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy and verified by the graduate coordinator/director. See approved program requirements.
Submission of the Advancement Petition. Submission to the Division of Graduate Studies of the properly signed Petition of Advancement to Candidacy is required before advancement status may be achieved. Students are responsible for ensuring that their advisers have sufficient information other than grades and scores on which to make a recommendation for candidacy. Advancement petitions specific to each degree program can be downloaded and printed from the Division of Graduate Studies Web site at http://www.fresnostate.edu/gradstudies under the "Forms" link. On the advancement petition, the student, in consultation with his or her adviser, lists a coherent set of courses which, when approved, will constitute his or her degree program. Students are responsible for adhering to deadlines established by the Graduate Division for the submission of advancement petitions. Approximate deadlines are October 1 (for spring graduation) and March 1 (for summer or fall graduation). Petitions received after the deadline are considered late and will be processed as time allows. Students cannot be advanced to candidacy and graduate in the same semester.
Doctoral students should consult their appropriate program guidelines for information regarding advancement to candidacy.
Advancement to Candidacy: Policies for Graduate
Degrees
The approved degree program for the graduate degree is a coherent pattern
of specific requirements for the program and additional courses selected
to meet the student's particular needs. It consists of at least 30
units that must be completed within five years, beginning with the earliest
course taken toward the degree. Only graduate courses (200-series)
and such upper-division courses (100-series) as are recommended by the colleges,
schools, or departments and approved by the University Graduate Committee
are acceptable for use toward a graduate degree. Other courses are
counted in calculating the student's study load but cannot be counted toward
the unit requirement for the degree. Courses that were used to satisfy
the requirements of a previous degree cannot be double-counted toward another
degree. The approved program must be consistent with the following
policies:
Residence Credit. At least 21 units of a 30-unit program must be residence credit (courses taken through regular enrollment at California State University, Fresno). No more than 9 units of transfer and/or California State University, Fresno Extension credit may be included in the 30-unit program, or no more than 18 units in the 60-unit program.
Transfer Credit. Transfer credit may be used toward a California State University, Fresno graduate degree only if the institution offering the work is accredited (A-rated) and would accept it for a comparable graduate degree program. The off-campus institution must also have listed the units as postbaccalaureate graduate units on the student's transcript. Credit at California State University, Fresno will be granted if it is judged by appropriate university authorities to be particularly relevant to the individual student's program. The student must present appropriate documentation, including official transcripts of work completed and xerographic copies from the catalog of the institution where the transfer work was taken, as follows: the relevant course description(s); evidence that the course(s) may be used toward a graduate degree at that institution; the course numbering and grading systems; and information clarifying whether the institution used the semester or quarter system. Coursework from an institution outside of the USA is not permitted for use toward a graduate degree unless it is part of the International Studies Abroad program.
Extension Credit. Courses taken through Continuing and Global Education (Extension and/or Open University) are not normally used to fulfill the requirements toward a graduate degree. Students intending to take a course through the Division of Continuing and Global Education must request special permission from their graduate program coordinator/director to use the course toward their graduate degree. If approved, a maximum of 9 transfer (including California State University, Fresno Extension and/or Open University) units may be used toward a 30-unit program. Students may not enroll through Open University in order to bypass the university fee structure.
Postbaccalaureate/Graduate Credit. With approval of the graduate program coordinator, postbaccalaureate/graduate credit allowed for work taken prior to the granting of the baccalaureate degree may be applied toward a graduate degree. However, the amount of postbaccalaureate credit used toward the graduate degree may not exceed one-third of the student's entire approved program. (See Postbaccalaureate Credit section under Degree Requirements.)
Student Teaching Credit. Student teaching credit is not ordinarily used on graduate degree programs. In unusual circumstances, if student teaching is demonstrably appropriate to a program, up to 3 units of such work may be approved by the University Graduate Committee.
Credit by Examination. Credit by examination for coursework may be used to fulfill prerequisites, but may not be applied toward the graduate degree program.
CR/NC Grading. Graduate students may not elect to take a course for a CR grade to fulfill either prerequisite or major program requirements unless the course is only available for CR/NC grading as indicated by classnote 14 in the Class Schedule. A maximum of 6 units of CR-graded coursework may be applied to a 30-unit graduate degree program and a maximum of 12 units of CR-graded coursework may be applied to a 60-unit program. Some programs allow no CR-graded courses to be counted toward fulfillment of their degree requirements.
Prohibited Coursework. Courses used to fulfill General Education curriculum (Capstone, Integration or Multicultural/International), undergraduate writing "W" courses, lower-division courses, professional (300-level) courses, and courses used to fulfill the requirements for another degree may not be used in fulfillment of the program requirements for the graduate degree.
Outdated Courses. Courses older than five years may not be included on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy and used to fulfill requirements toward the master's degree.
Independent Study Courses. A maximum of 6 (one-fifth of the total program units) independent study (190 or 290) units may be approved for use toward a 30-unit master's degree. (See Independent Study section under Academic Placement.)
Graduate-Level Courses. A minimum of 70 percent of the courses listed on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy for use toward the graduate degree must be graduate-level courses numbered in the 200-series. Most programs require more than the minimum.
Substitutions. Substitutions for required program courses or for other departmental requirements must be approved by the student's graduate program coordinator/director and listed on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy. Substitutions might require additional written justification.
Program Adjustments
It is the student's responsibility to complete the specific courses listed on his or her Petition of Advancement to Candidacy (master's program) or the Proposed Program for the Certificate of Advanced Study (advanced certificate program). Once a program has been approved by the University Graduate Committee, it may be changed only on the written request of the student and his or her graduate program adviser (if required) and coordinator/director, and with the approval of the dean, Division of Graduate Studies. Program Adjustment Request forms for degree and certificate programs are available in the Division of Graduate Studies, Thomas Administration Building, Room 132.
Doctoral students should consult the appropriate program for information regarding advancement to candidacy policies.
A culminating experience is required for each graduate degree. Acceptable culminating experiences include thesis (299), project (298), or comprehensive examination. Individual departments permit one or more culminating experiences described in this section. Students who have enrolled in thesis or project units will not be permitted to change to another culminating experience after the initial semester of such enrollment.
- A thesis is the written product of the systematic study of a significant problem. It clearly identifies the problem, states the major assumptions, explains the significance of the undertaking, sets forth the sources for and methods of gathering information, analyzes the data, and offers a conclusion or recommendation. The finished product must evidence originality, critical and independent thinking, appropriate organization and format, clarity of purpose, and accurate and thorough documentation. Normally, an oral defense of the thesis will be required.
- A project is a significant undertaking of a pursuit appropriate to the fine and applied arts or to professional fields. It must evidence originality and independent thinking, appropriate form and organization, and a rationale. It must be described and summarized in a written abstract that includes the project's significance, objectives, methodology, and a conclusion or recommendation. An oral defense of the project may be required.
- A comprehensive examination is an assessment of the student's ability to integrate the knowledge of the area, show critical and independent thinking, and demonstrate mastery of the subject matter. The results of the examination must evidence independent thinking, appropriate organization, critical analysis, and accuracy of documentation. A record of the examination questions and responses shall be maintained.
Doctoral students should obtain information on the culminating experience(s) from the appropriate doctoral program.
Criteria for Thesis and Project
No academic distinction is made between a thesis and a project. Either one is equally acceptable as a means of fulfilling the requirements for the graduate degree. Specific departmental instructions or requirements should, however, be ascertained by the candidate before enrollment in courses 298 or 299. The instructor of record for thesis or project must issue a letter grade on the graduate degree Clearance form through the Division of Graduate Studies.
Whether a student is preparing a thesis or a project, it should be noted that quality of work accomplished is a major consideration in judging acceptability. The finished project must evidence originality, appropriate organization, clarity of purpose, critical analysis, and accuracy and completeness of documentation where needed.
Critical and independent thinking should characterize every project. Mere description, cataloging, compilation, and other superficial procedures are not adequate.
The quality of writing, format, and documentation must meet standards
appropriate for publication in the scholarly journals of the field, or be
consistent with the dictates of an authorized stylebook.
- To be eligible to enroll for thesis or project, students must have ( a) been advanced to candidacy for the graduate degree; (b) maintained a B (3.0) program grade point average; ( c) completed at least 9 units of their approved program on the Fresno campus; (d) completed any course in research techniques required by their major department; (e) for the thesis, secured a committee (a chair and at least two other members); for the project, met individual departmental requirements; and (f) for the thesis, secured approval of their thesis plan from the division or department graduate committee and filed an official thesis committee assignment form with the Division of Graduate Studies.
- Enrollment in thesis units may be processed any semester after the requirements listed in [1a] through [1f] have been met or special permission for exceptions has been granted. If, however, a student fails to enroll within one semester (excluding summer sessions) after his or her official acceptance by a thesis committee, the committee chair has the option of dissolving the committee, in which case a new committee must be appointed and new forms filed before registration can be processed. A student planning to register for thesis after a break in regular session attendance must be readmitted to the university. Parallel rules apply to project enrollment.
- Students who plan to extend their thesis work over more than the semester in which they first enroll may select one of the following options (with the approval of their graduate adviser): (a) register in 299 each term they are working on the thesis with the number of units for each registration reduced so that the total number of units accumulated in 299 does not exceed the limit set by the department; (b) register for the total number of units of 299 in one semester and complete work in subsequent semesters under Graduate Studies Continuation, or GS 299C (regular enrollment) a zero-unit course required for enrollment purposes; (c) option "a" supplemented by GS Continuation or GS 299C when the maximum number of units is attained with the thesis still incomplete. (See Continuous Enrollment.) Note that students enrolled in regular session coursework for a letter grade are not required to enroll in Graduate Studies Continuation. Parallel rules apply to project students.
- If work in 299 is not completed at the end of the term of registration, but is progressing satisfactorily, an RP (Report in Progress) grade is recorded. If the RP grade is not replaced within two years by a letter grade, the department may require the student to re-register for the course.
- The student and the thesis chair should set a deadline for completion of the final draft. This date should be early enough that the chair and the other members of the committee can clear the draft before the student must meet the thesis submission deadline established by the dean of the Division of Graduate Studies. The latter deadlines are approximately late October (fall), mid March (spring), and late June (summer).
- 6. Before a thesis is officially accepted by the Graduate Division, it must meet Graduate Division criteria on matters of format, documentation, and quality of writing. The final draft, signed by the thesis committee members as acceptable in content and form, should be submitted to the office of the Division of Graduate Studies by the established deadline (see item 5 above). This deadline has been set as late as possible in the semester to accommodate the student. Students are urged to follow meticulously the Guidelines for Thesis Preparation available online at the Thesis Office Web site, www.csufresno.edu/gradstudies/thesis.
- The publication copy of the thesis (an original for microfilming and two photocopies), signed by the thesis committee and ready for binding, together with a receipt for the binding and microfilming fee must be submitted to the Division of Graduate Studies before the last day assigned by the thesis consultant. If printed on acid-free laser paper and with payment of the required fee, the original copy may be bound with the other copies ordered for the student's personal use.
- Doctoral students should obtain dissertation guidelines from the degree program office.
Dissertation, Thesis, or Project Research
Involving Human Subjects and Animal Subjects
Students conducting thesis research involving human subjects should not
begin use of human subjects until written approval has been received from
the departmental Human Subjects Committee and, where review demands, the
University Committee on Protection of Human Subjects (CPHS). Guidelines
and forms for protocols can be obtained from the departmental office or
the Office of the Vice President for Administration. Students should allow
at least two weeks for a required CPHS review.
Students planning to conduct research involving live animals housed on campus
must receive approval of the research from the Animal Care and Use Committee.
Forms may be obtained from the office of the dean, College of Science and
Mathematics.
Appeals and Petitions
Graduate degree students wishing to request substitutions or modifications in a department's degree requirements should initiate their request through the department's graduate committee. Requests for exceptions to established university policies governing graduate study may be addressed to the dean, Division of Graduate Studies and also to the Graduate Petitions Committee. Grade protests must be submitted to the Student Academic Petitions Committee through the director of advising services according to university policy. Information concerning grade protest procedures and dispute resolution is available in the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs.
Enrollment in Graduate-level (200-297) Courses. Enrollment in graduate-level (200-297) courses is limited to those who have been officially admitted to a graduate degree, advanced certificate, or credential program. However, there is a special program for last-semester undergraduate seniors who want to enroll in 200-level courses. All criteria listed on the Undergraduate Petition to Enroll in Graduate (200-level) Courses must be met. This petition, available from the Division of Graduate Studies, should be filed prior to the semester in which the student desires enrollment in 200-level course(s).
Doctoral students should consult with the appropriate program for policies on appeals and petitions.
Application for the Graduate Degree to be Granted
An application for the graduate degree to be granted (which includes the graduation fee payable at the Cashier's Window in Joyal Administration Building) must be filed within the first two weeks of the semester in which the work is to be completed. In addition, applicants must be enrolled (see Continuous Enrollment). During the summer, the application should be filed before the end of the third week of the first summer session. (See Academic Calendar and Fees and Expenses in this catalog and the Class Schedule.) Graduation application forms are available in the Division of Graduate Studies office. Prior to filing a request for the graduate degree to be granted, the student should check with the graduate adviser of the graduate program concerned in order to ensure that all program requirements have been, or will soon be, completed.
Once all requirements for the degree to be granted have been met, it is the student's responsibility to ensure that all necessary paperwork, including the Graduate Degree Clearance form, is submitted to the Division of Graduate Studies by the published deadlines. Diplomas for those completing degree requirements will be awarded approximately four to six months after the end of the semester or final summer session.
Failure to complete requirements for the degree during the semester (or summer) of the application necessitates the filing of a new application, including a reapplication fee, for the term of actual completion. Such reapplication is subject to the same time schedule as the original application.
Doctoral students should consult with the appropriate program for policies
on applying for the degree to be granted.
University policy requires graduate students to be continuously enrolled at the university every fall and spring semester until the awarding of the degree. If students have applied for graduation during the summer, they must maintain continuous enrollment in that term as well. This policy does not apply to students who have been granted an official leave of absence. (See Planned Educational Leave of Absence for more detailed information.) To maintain the required enrollment, students must enroll in Graduate Studies Continuation through Continuing and Global Education (Extension) or in GS 299C (Regular University Enrollment).
Students who choose to enroll through the Extension option and who later wish to return to regular enrollment at California State University, Fresno will be required to reapply for admission to the university. Those who have been out of regular enrollment for more than one semester and wish to return will be required to pay an application fee, in addition to reapplying for admission. For additional information and deadlines, consult the Division of Graduate Studies. Students unable to register in person may provide a letter of permission to a "proxy," allowing the proxy to register on their behalf.
GS Continuation (Extension). Students who choose to enroll in GS Continuation should go to the Division of Graduate Studies office by the second week of the semester or summer term to have their enrollment eligibility verified. If determined eligible by the Graduate Division, students will be given the appropriate paperwork and will be directed to the Continuing and Global Education Office, Education Building, Room 130, to pay registration fees. Checks for GS Continuation are made payable to California State University, Fresno in the amount of $227 (amount subject to change.)
GS 299C (Regular University Enrollment). Students enrolling in GS 299C through regular university enrollment should follow the instructions for registration in the Class Schedule. GS 299C enrollees must go to the Division of Graduate Studies to obtain the class and permission numbers and have their eligibility verified prior to their assigned registration date and time.
The International Students Services and Programs Office has indicated that international students may fulfill the continuous enrollment requirement only through GS 299C registration (regular university enrollment).
Doctoral students should consult the appropriate program for continuous enrollment policy information.
Time Limitations and Validation: Graduate Degree
Exclusive of prerequisite coursework, a period of five years is allowed for the completion of all requirements for the graduate degree. This time limit is indicated for each student on the approved Petition of Advancement to Candidacy. A student whose program has been interrupted by military service should consult the dean of the Division of Graduate Studies about provisions for military extensions. Outdated coursework will not be approved for inclusion on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy at the time formal approval of the petition is granted. Once a student has been advanced to candidacy, courses completed more than five years before the date for completion of all requirements for the graduate degree cannot be used to meet total unit requirements except through validation as follows:
Out-of-date coursework may be validated only if such work has been approved previously on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy. A maximum of one-third of required degree units may be validated by such means as are recommended by the department and approved by the graduate dean. Coursework from other institutions may not be validated.
The same time limitations and validation procedures noted above also apply to the completion of a Certificate of Advanced Study. The time limit for an advanced certificate is noted on the Proposed Program for the Certificate of Advanced Study form.
Doctoral students should consult with the appropriate program for policies on time limitations and related procedures.
Academic Standards for Graduate Degree Programs
All graduate students will be held to the scholarship standards listed under Academic Regulations. The following provisions also apply to graduate degree programs:
Conditionally Classified or Classified. Students admitted to graduate degree programs in conditionally classified or classified graduate standing are required to maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of B (3.0) in all postbaccalaureate work taken subsequent to admission to the program.
Advancement to Candidacy. To be eligible for advancement to candidacy, students must earn a minimum B average (3.0) on all coursework listed on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy. No course with a grade below C may be listed on the advancement petition and apply toward the graduate degree.
Once students have advanced to candidacy, they must maintain a minimum 3.0 program GPA, which includes only coursework listed on the advancement petition.
298 or 299 Enrollment. To be eligible for enrollment in the project (298) or thesis (299), students must have been advanced to candidacy and must have maintained a minimum program GPA of 3.0.
Graduation. To be eligible for the granting of the graduate degree, students must have been advanced to candidacy and have maintained a minimum program GPA of 3.0. In addition, grades must be posted in all courses taken, including those that are not part of the student's approved program, beginning with the earliest semester listed on the Petition of Advancement to Candidacy. Students may not graduate with an I, RD, or RP in any course on their records, beginning with the earliest semester listed on the advancement petition.
Distinction. To be eligible to receive the graduate degree with distinction, students must have earned a minimum 3.9 GPA on all program coursework (courses listed on the advancement petition).
Doctoral students should consult the appropriate program for information on academic standards.
Administrative Academic Probation (AAP)
Students enrolled in graduate degree programs may be placed on Administrative Academic Probation (AAP) for the following reasons: failure to maintain the minimum GPA of 3.0 required by the California State Education Code, Title 5; repeated failure to make progress toward the graduate degree; or failure to comply with an academic requirement or regulation that is routine for all students or for a defined group of students.
Students are required to maintain a minimum 3.0 postbaccalaureate cumulative GPA prior to advancement to candidacy, and a minimum 3.0 program GPA after advancement. Students who do not maintain the required GPA will be placed on AAP.
Doctoral students should consult the appropriate program for the program policy on administrative academic probation.
Academic Disqualification
A postbaccalaureate student whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 at any time will be disqualified from the university.
Graduate students may also be disqualified by the program for any of the following reasons: repeated withdrawal, failure to progress toward an educational objective, or noncompliance with an academic requirement. In addition, only those students who continue to show promise of success in and fitness for the profession, as determined by the graduate program faculty, will be permitted to continue in a graduate program.
Effective with the fall 2007 semester, students who are placed on AAP for any two semesters will be disqualified from the university.
Doctoral students should consult the appropriate program for the program
policy on academic disqualification.
Graduate Interdisciplinary Studies
- Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (M.A.)
- Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (M.S.)
The interdisciplinary studies program for the Master of Arts (M.A.) or Master of Science (M.S.) is available to qualified graduate students when there is a need for advanced study in subject matter that is interdisciplinary and that is not available through existing graduate programs. In such instances, proposals for an interdisciplinary program that may combine cohesive, interrelated coursework from two or more departments (at least two of which offer graduate courses (200-level), must be submitted for approval. Proposals that could be accommodated by an existing graduate degree or option at California State University, Fresno, as in the use of elective courses, are not approved.
The M.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies differs from the M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies by requiring breadth of technical knowledge and attainment of specific professional competencies in scientific research methodologies and data-driven analysis. For detailed policy, requirements, and application, see the Division Web site at www.csufresno.edu/gradstudies.
Admission Eligibility
Those seeking admission to the M.A. or M.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies must adhere to university graduate admissions requirements, including submission of applications, official transcripts, and appropriate standardized test scores (e.g., GRE, TOEFL). Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA on previous graduate work and related prerequisites. Standards for admission to classified graduate standing as specified in this catalog for at least one of the principal departments must be met. All appropriate course prerequisites on the approved program must be completed. If eligible, students will be conditionally classified for admission until their proposed program of study is approved. Interdisciplinary Studies program applicants are initially advised in the Division of Graduate Studies. Applicants will not be considered for admission until they have consulted with the Division adviser.
Although interdisciplinary studies provides an opportunity for exceptional students to engage in a program outside the framework of existing majors,
all academic standards and graduation requirements must be met.
Procedures
Prior to or during the first term of study, students should seek the support of a preliminary faculty advisory committee to gain counsel and advice in forming an interdisciplinary graduate program. After consultation with the advisory committee, students should complete the Application to Pursue an Interdisciplinary Studies graduate degree Program, which includes a plan of study.
After approval by the sponsoring faculty and department, the application and supporting documents are formally presented to the graduate dean. The application will then be forwarded to the University Graduate Committee for final approval. A formal application and plan of study must be filed with the Division of Graduate Studies no later than mid-term of the first semester after admission to the program.. A maximum of 10 units may be applied toward the graduate degree prior to official university approval of the plan of study, at which time the student becomes classified. Students who do not meet the deadline for submission of the proposed program of study clearly stated in the conditions of admission, may be subject to academic disqualification from the program. Detailed instructions for proposing an interdisciplinary degree may be found on the Division Web site at www.csufresno.edu/gradstudies/forms
Additional Requirements for the Master of Science
At least 15 units for the M.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies must be from one of the campus colleges offering a broad range of instructional programs in science or technology-based disciplines. Typically this disciplinary range is found in colleges with three or more such programs of study. These colleges include the following: Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Engineering, Health and Human Services, Science and Mathematics, and Social Sciences. Coursework must be taken in at least three different subject areas or fields of study with no more than 12 units from any one field and not less than 6 units in each of the three areas. Two of the three fields may be from one department if the subject area content and/or professional requirements within these two fields are clearly recognized as being uniquely different.
COURSES
Graduate Studies Community College (GSCC)
GSCC 320. The Community Collegeas an Institution (2)
Emphasis will be on faculty responsibilities in the area of curriculum content
and institutional governance, including student support services and issues
of retention and matriculation methods. (Formerly GSCC 220)
GSCC 321. The Community College Student (2)
Explores the cultural, sociological, economic, and political factors that
affect learning and success in the community college classroom. Participants
learn to recognize the factors that affect student success and to implement
strategies to enhance cross-cultural understanding within classrooms. (Formerly
GSCC 221)
GSCC 323. Effective Community College Teaching and ClassroomCommunication
Strategies (2)
Examines various instructional techniques specific to the community college.
Also examines the unique characteristics of the classroom as a communication
context. Participants will apply theory to practice of effective lecture,
discussion, and collaborative lessons. (Formerly GSCC 223)
GSCC 324. Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment at the Community
College (3)
Introduces students to fundamental theories of curriculum, curriculum development
and approval processes, transfer course curriculum, and program review.
Participants will learn to use and adapt assessment instruments to meet
the needs of a diverse student population. (Formerly GSCC 224)
GSCC 325. Sponsored Experiences at the Community College (3)
The field experience promotes adherence to high standards of professional
conduct. It also promotes effective cooperation and professional development
through self-assessment and collegial interactions with other members of
the profession. Participants must complete all coursework prior to being
approved for field placement. (Formerly GSCC 225)
COURSES
Graduate Studies (GS)
GS 296.Interdisciplinary Colloquium (1-3)
Prerequisite: consent of coordinator. Seminar in interdisciplinary special
major issues, allowing discussion with a broad-based, cross-disciplinary
emphasis.
GS 298. lnterdisciplinary Project (2-6)
Prerequisite: see university Criteria for Thesis
and Project. Preparation, completion, submission, and/or demonstration
of an original project appropriate to the student's area of specialization.
Creativity is a prime factor. Written documentation and an abstract are
required. Approved for RP grading.
GS 299.Interdisciplinary Thesis (2-6; max total 6)
Prerequisite: See university Criteria for Thesis
and Project; consent of thesis chair. Preparation, completion, and submission
of an acceptable thesis for the interdisciplinary major graduate degree.
Approved for RP grading.
GS 299C.Graduate Program Continuation (0)
For continuous enrollment while completing the culminating experience.
GS 300T.Topics in Graduate Studies (1-3; max total 12)
Topics related to the nature of graduate education, to the purpose and
background of research and scholarly activity in the graduate enterprise,
including participation in aspects of ongoing research conducted by faculty.
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