Department of Dance
Advising - MFA Handbook
Students will be assigned an advisor for their first three semesters of graduate study, or until their initial Plan of Study form has been turned in to the Graduate School, whichever comes first. When students choose a committee chair for their culminating work—this occurs in the fourth semester—that person becomes the student’s academic advisor, as well.
Students and advisors should communicate regularly to develop and monitor the plan of study and to clarify University procedures and policies. Each student should maintain a Plan of Study form, starting no later than preregistration for the second semester at UNCG. The form will be kept in the student’s file in the Dance Office and should be updated each semester during preregistration as courses are completed. See PLAN OF STUDY in this document for forms. TO REGISTER FOR ANY COURSE WITHOUT THE ADVISOR´S APPROVAL IS TO TAKE THE RISK THAT THAT COURSE MIGHT NOT COUNT TOWARD THE DEGREE.
The Plan of Study must be filed with the Graduate School before completion of 50% of credits necessary for graduation and at the beginning of the final semester. All Plans of Study must include all courses required for graduation; that is, students who are only half way done in their programs must predict how they will finalize their entire program. All required hours must be accounted for.
If a productive student-advisor relationship does not develop, either the student or the faculty member may suggest a change. Requests to change advisors should be made in writing and submitted to the Graduate Coordinator. Dr. Sue Stinson will be the initial advisor for all students seeking a K-12 license.
All faculty post their office hours and are expected to keep them. Like students, however, faculty have to prioritize when faced with a variety of assignments. Faculty check their phone and email messages daily M-F, except when out of town. Some faculty also check messages evenings and weekends, although this is not expected. Students who have an urgent message should note it as such. For non-emergency messages, if you don’t receive a reply within a week, feel free to ask again. In cases of emergency, the Department Head may be able to help you.