Graduation

College of Fine Arts Policy

Graduation

Degrees are awarded in August, January, and May. Commencement exercises are held in May only. Students planning to receive their degrees at the May Commencement must submit diploma applications by September 30. Students must submit diploma applications by March 30 for August graduation and by September 30 for January graduation. The diploma application is valid only for the graduation date specified; a new application must be filed if the student does not graduate as planned.

The graduation application can be found on the CFA website.

Graduation Standards

Bachelor’s students must earn a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.00 in the set of courses used to satisfy the program requirements for the degree.

Master’s students must complete all degree program requirements and earn a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00 in the set of courses used to satisfy the program requirements for the degree.

Doctoral students must complete all degree program requirements and earn a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00 to be awarded a degree.

The cumulative grade point average includes all coursework taken after matriculation and all courses completed prior to matriculation submitted in fulfillment of degree requirements.

Participation in Graduation

Bachelor’s students may petition to walk in the May Convocation exercises only if they are graduating the following August, have applied for August graduation, are registered for their summer courses, and have a maximum of 8 credits remaining to complete the degree. Petitions to walk in the graduation ceremony will be reviewed by the School (of Music, Theatre, or Visual Arts) and approved by the Associate Dean of Enrollment & Academic Programs; petitions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Master’s and doctoral degree candidates must complete all degree requirements before participating in Commencement exercises.