GRADUATE CATALOG
2011–2013
The Alma Mater
“Hail UTSA”
From our hills of oak and cedar
To the Alamo,
Voices raised will echo
As, in song, our praises flow.
Hail Alma Mater!
Through the years our loyalty will grow.
The University of Texas
San Antonio.
The Mascot
The roadrunner, a bird representative of the
Texas Hill Country and the Southwest,
was voted the UTSA mascot in 1977.
The School Colors
Official colors of The University of Texas System
are orange and white. Upon recommendation from
the UTSA Student Representative Assembly, the
Board of Regents approved the addition of blue to
the orange and white for UTSA’s school colors.
The University of Texas at San Antonio
May 2011
The provisions of this catalog do not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, between any applicant, student, or faculty
member and The University of Texas at San Antonio or The University of Texas System. This catalog is a general information
publication, and it does not contain all regulations that relate to students.
The University of Texas at San Antonio reserves the right to withdraw courses at any time and to change fees, tuition, rules,
calendar, curriculum, degree programs, degree requirements, graduation procedures, and any other requirement affecting
students. The policies, regulations, and procedures stated in this catalog are subject to change without prior notice, and changes
become effective whenever the appropriate authorities so determine and may apply to both prospective students and those
already enrolled. University policies are required to be consistent with policies adopted by the Board of Regents of The
University of Texas System and are in compliance with state and federal laws.
STUDENTS ARE HELD INDIVIDUALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR MEETING ALL REQUIREMENTS AS DETERMINED
BY THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO AND THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM. FAILURE TO
READ AND COMPLY WITH POLICIES, REGULATIONS, AND PROCEDURES WILL NOT EXEMPT A STUDENT
FROM WHATEVER PENALTIES HE OR SHE MAY INCUR.
No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any program or
activity sponsored or conducted by The University of Texas System or any of its component institutions, on any basis prohibited
by applicable law, including but not limited to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran
status, or disability.
Students should refer to UTSA Information Bulletin (http://utsa.edu/infoguide/) for additional policies, procedures, and
information directly related to their enrollment at UTSA.
The University of Texas at San Antonio is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges
and Schools to award baccalaureate, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern
Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of The University of Texas at
San Antonio.
Contents / iii
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Admission ................................................................................................................................................................................ 3
Philosophy .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Classifications and Requirements ...................................................................................................................................... 3
Application Deadlines and Fees ......................................................................................................................................... 8
Admission Procedures ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Readmission ..................................................................................................................................................................... 10
2. General Academic Regulations ........................................................................................................................................... 13
Registration Procedures .................................................................................................................................................... 13
Records and Classification of Students ............................................................................................................................. 17
Courses ............................................................................................................................................................................. 19
Grades ............................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Academic Standing........................................................................................................................................................... 23
Graduation ........................................................................................................................................................................ 24
Academic Honesty ........................................................................................................................................................... 25
3. Certificate Programs............................................................................................................................................................ 29
Admission Requirements ................................................................................................................................................. 29
Course Restrictions .......................................................................................................................................................... 29
Completion of Requirements for Certificate ..................................................................................................................... 31
4. Master’s Degree Regulations .............................................................................................................................................. 35
Degree Requirements ....................................................................................................................................................... 35
Transfer of Credit ............................................................................................................................................................. 37
5. Doctoral Degree Regulations............................................................................................................................................... 41
Degree Requirements ....................................................................................................................................................... 41
Transfer of Credit ............................................................................................................................................................. 43
Graduate Program Committee Requirements................................................................................................................... 44
Admission to Candidacy .................................................................................................................................................. 44
Completing the Degree ..................................................................................................................................................... 44
6. Graduate Program Requirements and Course Descriptions ............................................................................................ 48
College of Architecture .................................................................................................................................................... 53
Department of Architecture ......................................................................................................................................... 58
College of Business .......................................................................................................................................................... 73
Department of Accounting .......................................................................................................................................... 82
Department of Economics ........................................................................................................................................... 89
Department of Finance ................................................................................................................................................ 94
Department of Information Systems and Technology Management .......................................................................... 103
Department of Management ...................................................................................................................................... 116
Department of Management Science and Statistics ................................................................................................... 122
Department of Marketing .......................................................................................................................................... 134
College of Education and Human Development ............................................................................................................. 141
Department of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies ............................................................................................................... 141
Department of Counseling ......................................................................................................................................... 158
Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies ....................................................................................... 169
Department of Educational Psychology ..................................................................................................................... 181
Department of Health and Kinesiology ...................................................................................................................... 187
Department of Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching ............................................................................................ 193
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UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
College of Engineering ................................................................................................................................................... 225
Department of Biomedical Engineering ..................................................................................................................... 227
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering ................................................................................................ 243
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering ................................................................................................ 252
Department of Mechanical Engineering .................................................................................................................... 265
College of Liberal and Fine Arts .................................................................................................................................... 277
Department of Anthropology ..................................................................................................................................... 277
Department of Art and Art History ............................................................................................................................. 290
Department of Communication ................................................................................................................................. 296
Department of English ............................................................................................................................................... 300
Department of History ............................................................................................................................................... 308
Department of Modern Languages and Literatures .................................................................................................... 315
Department of Music ................................................................................................................................................. 322
Department of Political Science and Geography ........................................................................................................ 329
Department of Psychology ........................................................................................................................................ 342
Department of Sociology ........................................................................................................................................... 346
College of Public Policy ................................................................................................................................................. 355
Department of Criminal Justice ................................................................................................................................. 355
Department of Demography and Organization Studies .............................................................................................. 359
Department of Public Administration ......................................................................................................................... 367
Department of Social Work ....................................................................................................................................... 376
College of Sciences ........................................................................................................................................................ 385
Department of Biology .............................................................................................................................................. 385
Department of Chemistry .......................................................................................................................................... 407
Department of Computer Science .............................................................................................................................. 415
Department of Geological Sciences ........................................................................................................................... 424
Department of Mathematics ...................................................................................................................................... 432
Department of Physics and Astronomy ...................................................................................................................... 439
7. Graduate Faculty ............................................................................................................................................................... 451
Index ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 478
C H A P T E R1
admission
1C H A P T E R admission
CONTENTS
Philosophy........................................................................................................................................................ 3
Classifications and Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 3
Graduate Degree-Seeking Students ............................................................................................................. 3
Unconditional Admission ....................................................................................................................... 3
Conditional Admission ........................................................................................................................... 4
Conditional Admission on Academic Probation .................................................................................... 4
Denial of Admission as a Graduate Degree-Seeking Student ................................................................ 4
Special Graduate Students ........................................................................................................................... 4
Denial of Admission as a Special Graduate Student .............................................................................. 5
Non-Degree-Seeking Graduate Students ..................................................................................................... 5
International Students ................................................................................................................................. 6
Academic Fresh Start .................................................................................................................................. 7
Procedures for Teacher Certification (Standard or Supplemental) at the Graduate Level .......................... 7
Declaration of Previous College Work Attempted ...................................................................................... 8
Application Deadlines and Fees ........................................................................................................................ 8
Master’s Level ............................................................................................................................................ 8
Doctoral Level ............................................................................................................................................ 9
Admission Procedures ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Readmission ................................................................................................................................................... 10
Master’s Level .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Doctoral Level .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Military Service ........................................................................................................................................ 10
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ADMISSION
PHILOSOPHY
Admission requirements for graduate study at UTSA are designed so that admitted students will have a high probability of
success in graduate-level academic work. Graduate study is much more than a continuation of undergraduate work and should
be considered only by those students with the capacity for independent thought and investigation. Graduate programs at UTSA
use selective entrance requirements in their admission of students. In addition to the University-wide admission requirements
listed below, each graduate degree program specifies additional admission requirements, including scores on the Graduate
Record Examination (GRE) aptitude test, the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), other standardized examinations,
a portfolio, an audition, or other indicators of preparation for graduate study. Information on the GRE may be obtained from
the Educational Testing Service, P.O. Box 6000, Princeton, NJ 08541-6000 or by calling 1-866-473-4373. GMAT information
may be obtained from Graduate Management Admission Council by calling 1-800-717-GMAT. The institution code for UTSA
is 6919, for both the GRE and the GMAT. At the time the student enrolls, the test score must be less than five (5) years old.
UTSA Testing Services office also has information available on the GRE, GMAT, MAT, and other tests. Applicants should refer
to individual degree descriptions for additional admission requirements.
Consistent with Texas Education Code, Section 51.842(b), any degree program that uses an applicant’s performance on a
standardized test, other than scores obtained on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) required of international
applicants, to make decisions about admission or the award of competitive scholarships will compare the applicant’s test score
with those of other applicants from similar socioeconomic backgrounds, to the extent such information is available. If an
applicant’s performance on a standardized test is used for that purpose, it will be considered together with other criteria when
making an admission or competitive scholarship decision and will not be used as the sole criterion for consideration of the
applicant or as the primary criterion to end consideration of the applicant.
CLASSIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
Classifications of graduate admission require approval by the Dean of the Graduate School, the administrative officer responsible
for graduate education. The criteria for the various classifications of admission to UTSA are set forth below.
Graduate Degree- Seeking Students
A graduate degree-seeking student is one admitted to a graduate degree program. Admission as a graduate degree-seeking
student may be unconditional, conditional, or conditional on academic probation.
Unconditional Admission
In order to be eligible for unconditional admission as a graduate degree-seeking student, an applicant normally must:
1. Hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States or have proof of
equivalent training at a foreign institution.
2. Have a grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 60 semester credit hours of coursework taken.
3. Have completed at least 18 semester credit hours (12 of which must be at the upper-division level) in the area or areas in
which the graduate degree is sought or in related areas as determined by the Graduate Program Committee for the proposed
major.
4. Be in good standing at the last institution attended.
5. Be recommended for admission by the Graduate Program Committee in the proposed major. The committee may examine
a student on his or her previous preparation before a recommendation is made for the student to be admitted to the program.
6. Have approval of the Dean of the Graduate School.
Admission is based on the last 60 hours attempted in all undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate coursework. Students must
list on the application for graduate admission all community colleges, colleges and universities attended and request an official
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UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
transcript from each institution attended be sent to the Graduate School. Official transcripts from the institution conferring
the last degree must be on file at the Graduate School prior to enrollment. UTSA graduates only need to order transcripts from
any institutions not listed on the UTSA transcript. The Graduate School will obtain the UTSA transcript from the Office of
the Registrar.
Conditional Admission
An applicant who has insufficient preparation in his or her intended graduate degree program, or who lacks certain supporting
documentation required for unconditional admission, may be admitted conditionally to the graduate degree program upon
recommendation of the Graduate Program Committee in the proposed major and approval by the Dean of the Graduate School.
Conditions placed on admission may include:
1. Holding a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States or have proof of
equivalent training at a foreign institution.
2. Submission of test scores or other indicators of preparation for graduate study that are unavoidably lacking at the time of
admission.
3. Completion of additional coursework or other study to remove deficiencies, with such makeup work to be in addition to the
regular degree requirements; any undergraduate courses in addition to coursework to remove deficiencies must not exceed
18 hours and must be completed with a grade point average of “B” (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or better.
4. Completion of a given number of semester credit hours and the achievement of a minimum grade point average, in no case
lower than that required for a student to remain in the University as a graduate degree-seeking or special graduate student,
if the student’s grade point average is less than that specified for unconditional admission. (See section on Academic
Standing in Chapter 2, General Academic Regulations.)
Any conditions placed on the student’s admission are included in the notification of admission. If conditions placed on admission
are not met within the time specified by the Graduate Program Committee as stated in the admission notice, the Dean will direct
the Registrar to withdraw the student from the University. The student may petition for reinstatement under the provisions listed
in this catalog. (See Graduate Reinstatement in Chapter 2, General Academic Regulations.)
Conditional Admission on Academic Probation
An applicant who fails to meet the requirements for unconditional admission and is admitted on a conditional basis may be
admitted on academic probation, upon recommendation of the appropriate Graduate Program Committee and approval by the
Dean of the Graduate School. Such admission requires that coursework taken during the first semester be completed with a
grade point average of “B” (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or better. Failure to earn this average may result in academic dismissal.
Denial of Admission as a Graduate Degree-Seeking Student
If an applicant is not eligible for either unconditional admission or conditional admission, the applicant is denied admission as a
graduate degree-seeking student. In such cases, the appropriate Graduate Program Committee may recommend the applicant’s
admission or denial of admission as a special graduate student.
Special Graduate Students
A special graduate student is one admitted to UTSA for the purpose of enrolling in master’s-level and/or undergraduate courses
without currently entering a degree program. An applicant who elects to enroll as a special graduate student normally must:
1. Hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States or have proof of an
equivalent degree from a foreign institution.
2. Have a grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 30 semester credit hours of coursework for the
baccalaureate degree as well as in all graduate-level coursework previously taken.
3. Be in good standing at the last institution attended.
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UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
4. Be recommended for admission as a special graduate student by the authorized representative of the discipline offering
the graduate course or courses desired. The authorized representative of the discipline offering the course is the discipline
Graduate Program Committee acting through its chair or through its graduate advisor of record. If there is no Graduate
Program Committee for the discipline, the chair of the department offering the discipline is the authorized representative.
If the program is interdisciplinary, the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research of the appropriate college is the
authorized representative.
Admission is based on the last 30 hours attempted in all undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate coursework. Students must
list on the application for graduate admission all community colleges, colleges and universities attended and request an official
transcript from each institution attended be sent to the Graduate School. Official transcripts from the institution conferring the
last degree must be on file at the Graduate School. UTSA graduates only need to order transcripts from any institutions not
listed on the UTSA transcript. The Graduate School will obtain the UTSA transcript from the Office of the Registrar.
Special graduate students are eligible to take any master’s-level or undergraduate courses for which they have the necessary
prerequisites, provided that space is available, and that students have the approval of the course instructor. Students who wish
to take a graduate course in a discipline other than that for which they have been authorized upon admission must obtain the
approval of the authorized representative (as defined above) of the discipline offering the course.
Special graduate students are advised that:
1. A maximum of 12 semester credit hours earned as a special graduate student may be applied toward a graduate degree, and
then only when the student has been admitted as a graduate degree-seeking student and the credits earned for these courses
have been evaluated and approved for this purpose by the appropriate Graduate Program Committee.
2. When teacher certification is involved, approval of the director of the College of Education and Human Development
Advising and Certification Center is required before the student enrolls to ensure that credit earned as a special graduate
student can be applied to a graduate-level teacher certification program.
3. To continue at UTSA as a special graduate student in a subsequent semester, the student must meet the standards required
to remain at UTSA as indicated in the section on Academic Standing.
Denial of Admission as a Special Graduate Student
An applicant who is denied admission as both a graduate degree-seeking student and a special graduate student may be eligible
for admission as a special undergraduate student, if admission requirements for that classification have been met. The applicant
will need to submit an undergraduate application to be considered (see Special Students in Chapter 2, Admission, in the UTSA
Information Bulletin).
Students holding bachelor’s degrees who are admitted as special undergraduate students may enroll in undergraduate courses
only. If they wish to take courses at the graduate level, they must obtain permission from the course instructor and the department
chair on the form provided for this purpose. Students may not have active applications at the graduate and undergraduate levels
for the same term and year.
Non-Degree- Seeking Graduate Students
An applicant who wishes to enroll in courses without pursuing a degree at UTSA should apply for admission as a non-degree-seeking
graduate student. In order to qualify as a non-degree-seeking graduate student the applicant must:
1. Hold at least a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States or have proof
of an equivalent degree from a foreign institution.
2. Have a grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 30 semester credit hours of coursework for the
baccalaureate degree as well as on all graduate-level coursework taken.
3. Be in good standing at the last institution attended.
4. Be recommended for admission as a non-degree-seeking graduate student by the authorized representative of the discipline
offering the graduate course or courses desired. The authorized representative of the discipline offering the graduate course
is the discipline Graduate Program Committee, acting through its chair or through its graduate advisor of record. If there
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is no Graduate Program Committee for the discipline, the chair of the department offering the discipline is the authorized
representative. If the program is interdisciplinary, the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research of the appropriate
college is the authorized representative.
Admission is based on the last 30 hours attempted in all undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate coursework. Students must
list on the application for graduate admission all community colleges, colleges and universities attended and request an official
transcript from each institution attended be sent to the Graduate School. Official transcripts from the institution conferring the
last degree must be on file at the Graduate School. UTSA graduates only need to order transcripts from any institutions not
listed on the UTSA transcript. The Graduate School will obtain the UTSA transcript from the Office of the Registrar.
Non-degree-seeking graduate students may register for any master’s-level or undergraduate course for which they have the
necessary prerequisites, provided that space is available and that they have the approval of the course instructor. Students who
wish to take a graduate course in a discipline other than that for which they have been authorized upon admission must obtain
the approval of the authorized representative (as defined above) of the discipline offering the course.
Non-degree-seeking graduate students are advised that:
1. Credit earned as a non-degree-seeking graduate student will not count toward a degree at UTSA.
2. If the student plans to obtain a graduate degree at UTSA, an application for admission should be made as either a graduate
degree-seeking student or a special graduate student.
3. When teacher certification is involved, approval of the director of the College of Education and Human Development
Advising and Certification Center is required before the student enrolls to ensure that credit earned as a non-degree-seeking
graduate student can be applied to a graduate-level teacher certification program.
International Students
Applications from non-U.S. citizens or nonpermanent residents will be processed as international.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Meet the graduate admission requirements as a degree-seeking applicant.
2. Prove proficiency in the English Language by taking either the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS
(International English Language Testing System) examinations. For qualifying minimum IELTS scores, refer to the
Graduate School Web site (www.graduateschool.utsa.edu). Scores must be sent directly to the Graduate School. At the
time the student enrolls, the test score must be less than two (2) years old. Our institution code is 6919.
TOEFL Internet TOEFL Paper
English Language Assessment Program (ELAP) Exempt 100 600
Master’s Admission Qualification* 61 500
Doctoral Admission Qualification 79 550
*The minimum score required on the TOEFL. Individual degree programs may have higher TOEFL or IELTS requirements
for their various programs. Consult the individual department Web sites for more information.
Participation in UTSA’s English Language Assessment Program (ELAP), before registration, is required of students with
TOEFL scores below 600 (paper version) or 100 (Internet based) or an IELTS score below 7. Based on this assessment,
students needing additional instruction in English are required to enroll in appropriate English for International Students
(EIS) courses.
TOEFL scores may be waived for international students from countries where English is the primary language of instruction
and the principal language spoken in the home; or for noncitizens of the United States earning a bachelor’s degree or higher
in the United States or other English-speaking countries.
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UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
Applicants from the following countries are exempt from submitting the TOEFL or IELTS score:
American Samoa Guyana
Australia Ireland
Bahamas Jamaica
Barbados Liberia
Belize New Zealand
Canada (except Quebec) Sierra Leone
Dominica Trinidad/Tobago
Grand Cayman United Kingdom
Grenada U.S. Pacific Trust
IELTS is jointly managed by University of Cambridge English for Speakers of Other Languages (Cambridge ESOL)
Examinations, British Council, and IDP Education Australia: IELTS Australia. For more information visit www.ielts.org.
TOEFL is an examination written by The Educational Testing Service for The College Board. For more information visit
www.ets.org/toefl.
3. Submit a financial statement guaranteeing the ability to pay all expenses while a student at UTSA, if attendance under the
F-1 (student) visa is anticipated. The statement may be sent from a parent or guardian when endorsed by a bank or other
reliable institution, or from a U.S. citizen who will accept responsibility for the student’s financial needs.
4. The application, nonrefundable application fee ($80 online), and official supporting credentials should be on file in
the Graduate School by the appropriate application deadline. The nonrefundable application fee is also charged upon
reapplication for admission following academic dismissal. See Application Deadlines and Fees below.
The above criteria serve as guidelines for admission for international students. The credentials of each applicant are examined
on an individual basis by the Graduate School and the appropriate Graduate Program Committee, with admission granted only
to those who show promise of success in graduate study at UTSA.
Academic Fresh Start
An applicant who has earned a baccalaureate degree under the Academic Fresh Start statute, Texas Education Code § 51.931,
will be evaluated on only the grade point average of the coursework completed for that baccalaureate degree and the other
criteria stated herein.
Procedures for Teacher Certification (Standard or Supplemental) at the Graduate Level
An applicant who desires to work on teacher certification in EC–6, Special Education, or Secondary Mathematics and Science,
and who holds a bachelor’s degree should apply as a graduate degree-seeking student to the Graduate Program Committee
for the M.A. in Education for teacher certification. Those interested in teaching at the grades 4–8 level should apply to the
Accelerated Teacher Education Program (ATEP) in the College of Education and Human Development. Applicants who desire
to work on certificates in Bilingual Education and English as a Second Language should apply for admission as either a
graduate degree-seeking student or special graduate student to the Graduate Program Committee for the M.A. in Bicultural-
Bilingual Studies (for Bilingual Education certification), or the M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language (for English
as a Second Language certification). A student who is simultaneously seeking a master’s degree in education should apply
for admission to the M.A. in Education Program, the M.A. in Bicultural-Bilingual Studies Program, or the M.A. in Teaching
English as a Second Language Program.
Students interested in graduate teacher certification programs in EC–6, Special Education, or Secondary Mathematics and
Science must complete an application to the Graduate School in the COEHD, and an application packet for admission to the
teacher certification program. Admission to graduate school does not automatically admit a candidate to teacher certification,
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nor does the completion of degree requirements guarantee completion of Texas certification requirements. However, students
must be accepted to graduate school before they can be accepted to the teacher certification program. Students must meet
the requirements for graduation for the M.A. in Education, and also meet the TExES state requirements for certification to
complete their program.
Information and application materials for graduate teacher certification are located on the COEHD Web page and are submitted
to the Graduate Certification Program Coordinator (GCPC) in the Department of Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching.
These programs follow a cohort model with new cohorts accepted once a year in the Spring Semester. Upon review of the
application information for teacher certification by the GCPC, potential candidates will be notified of their status with regard
to admission to the Teacher Certification Program.
Any student seeking a teaching certificate in the state of Texas must meet the basic state requirements for admission to the
Teacher Certification Program as well as the UTSA admission requirements. This includes passing scores on either the Texas
Higher Education Assessment (THEA), ACCUPLACER, COMPASS, or ASSET. For further information on these and other
requirements, please review the application materials located on the COEHD Web page.
UTSA students must submit to a criminal history background check every semester they interact directly with any minor(s)
or legal adult(s) of diminished capacity as a requirement for course completion. UTSA is no longer allowed by state law to
conduct criminal background checks. This is now the sole responsibility of the school districts. Students who are unable to
meet the criminal background check standards for the school districts may not be able to complete a course or the Teacher
Certification Program. If a student is rejected twice by districts in one semester because of criminal history, students will not
be able to continue in the program until such time as the criminal background check is cleared. In accordance with Sec. 53.021,
Texas Occupation Code, the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) may suspend or revoke a teacher certificate or
refuse to issue a teacher certificate for a person who has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor for a crime that directly
relates to the duties and responsibilities of the teaching profession.
Recommendations for teacher certification (to the Texas Education Agency) are made by the College of Education and Human
Development Certification Officer only after all requirements have been met and the student has officially requested such
recommendation.
A brochure summarizing education certificate and endorsement requirements is available from the College of Education and
Human Development Advising and Certification Center.
Programs are subject to change without notice due to changes in the state’s certification and/or program approval requirements.
Declaration of Previous College Work Attempted
Students are not at liberty to disregard previous college work attempted. All students applying to UTSA must list all colleges
attended on their UTSA application for admission. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of the application, withdrawal
of any offer of acceptance, cancellation of enrollment, permanent dismissal from the University, or other appropriate
disciplinary action.
APPLICATION DEADLINES AND FEES
Master’s Level
Applicants for admission as master’s degree-seeking, special, or non-degree-seeking students may apply for admission as early
as nine months before the beginning of the semester in which they wish to begin graduate study. Because of the time needed
to prepare graduate summaries, applicants are encouraged to have their admission file completed at least one month before the
application deadline. Application forms and instructions are available on the Graduate School Web site at www.graduateschool.
utsa.edu or from the Graduate School. The completed application form, a nonrefundable application fee, and all required
supporting documents must be on file with the Graduate School by the appropriate application deadline. Application fees are
assessed as follows:
Admission / 9
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
UTSA Graduate Nonrefundable Application Fees
Online Application
UTSA graduates or degree candidates $30
Non-UTSA graduates $45
International applicants $80
UTSA Graduate (Master’s level) Application Deadlines*
Master’s Domestic Master’s International
Semester Deadline Semester Deadline
Fall July 1 Fall April 1
Spring November 1 Spring September 1
Summer (Mini-mester) April 1 Summer March 1
Summer (first term and 10-week term) May 1
Summer (second term) June 1
*Some master’s programs may have priority application deadlines. Please contact the appropriate academic program or visit
the Graduate School Web site at www.graduateschool.utsa.edu for more information.
Doctoral Level
The deadline for doctoral applications is February 1, for Fall Semester admission. Some doctoral programs offer Spring
Semester admission, for which the application deadline is October 1; consult the appropriate academic program regarding
Spring Semester admission. Students enrolling in cooperative or joint programs between UTSA and other institutions must
satisfy admission dates (and procedures) of the other institutions as well as those of UTSA. Applicants failing to submit
all required admission documents by the doctoral admission deadline will be required to submit a new application with a
nonrefundable fee (see application fee table) for the following available semester.
UTSA Doctoral Application Deadlines
Semester Deadline
Fall February 1
Spring October 1
ADMISSION PROCEDURES
Each applicant for admission is responsible for ensuring that all required official application materials (completed application
form, nonrefundable application fee, test results, required transcripts, etc.) are on file in the Graduate School by the admission
deadlines. Admission is not granted until the applicant’s file is complete. Documents submitted in support of an application
become the property of UTSA and will not be returned.
Students granted admission to a master’s program at UTSA who do not register for courses the semester of admittance or for
the following long semester must reapply for admission.
Doctoral students who are admitted but do not register for courses the semester of admittance must reapply for the next
available term. Any subsequent application for admission must be in accordance with current admission requirements. New
transcripts, test scores, and other supporting documents are required after one academic year, since files for admitted students
who do not register for courses are not retained after that period. (See program descriptions in Chapter 6, Graduate Program
Requirements and Course Descriptions, for specific program admission requirements.)
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READMISSION
Master’s and doctoral level students returning to UTSA who have attended other institutions of higher education since they
were last enrolled at UTSA must submit an official transcript from each institution. Eligibility for readmission of any former
student depends on the student’s academic status at the conclusion of the last UTSA semester of enrollment and performance
on any subsequent college or university work attempted. Readmission must be recommended by the appropriate Graduate
Program Committee.
Master’s Level
UTSA master’s students who have attended a semester but have not been in attendance for two full years are required to reapply
and submit an application for graduate admission, along with a nonrefundable application fee (see application fee table), by the
application deadline.
Doctoral Level
UTSA doctoral students who have not been in attendance for one long semester must submit an application for graduate
admission, along with a nonrefundable application fee (see application fee table), by the application deadline.
Military Service
Students who withdrew from the University to perform military service (not including Texas National Guard training exercises)
will not have to requalify for admission and will be reactivated upon request made within one year of being released from active
military service. A returning student may be eligible for the same financial assistance provided before the student’s withdrawal.
C H A P T E R2
general academic
regulations
2C H A P T E R
general academic
regulations
CONTENTS
Registration Procedures ................................................................................................................................. 13
Academic Advising ................................................................................................................................... 13
Registration for Classes ............................................................................................................................. 13
Late Registration ....................................................................................................................................... 13
Adding Courses After Late Registration ................................................................................................... 13
Maximum Hours of Enrollment in Summer Terms ................................................................................... 14
Dropping Courses ..................................................................................................................................... 14
Auditing Courses ...................................................................................................................................... 14
Cancellation of Enrollment ........................................................................................................................ 15
Withdrawal from the University ................................................................................................................ 15
Withdrawal for Military Service .......................................................................................................... 15
Medical and/or Mental Health Withdrawal from the University ......................................................... 16
English Language Assessment Procedure ................................................................................................ 17
Records and Classification of Students ........................................................................................................... 17
Classification Terms ................................................................................................................................. 17
Time Status Terms .................................................................................................................................... 17
Verification of Enrollment and Degree ...................................................................................................... 18
Transcripts ................................................................................................................................................ 18
Release of Academic Records ................................................................................................................... 18
Catalog of Graduation ............................................................................................................................... 18
Change of Major, Degree, or Classification .............................................................................................. 19
Change of Name ....................................................................................................................................... 19
Change of Address .................................................................................................................................... 19
Courses ........................................................................................................................................................... 19
Course Numbering System ........................................................................................................................ 19
Prerequisites .............................................................................................................................................. 19
Extended Education Courses ..................................................................................................................... 20
Distance Learning Courses ........................................................................................................................ 20
Independent Study Courses ....................................................................................................................... 20
Grades ............................................................................................................................................................ 20
Explanation of Credit, Grading System, and Symbols .............................................................................. 20
Repeating Courses ................................................................................................................................... 21
Administrative Procedures ........................................................................................................................ 21
Reporting of Grades by Faculty ........................................................................................................... 21
Grade Reports ...................................................................................................................................... 22
Change of Grades ................................................................................................................................ 22
Class Participation Policy ..................................................................................................................... 22
Academic and Grade Grievance Procedure ......................................................................................... 23
Student Study Days .................................................................................................................................. 23
Academic Standing ........................................................................................................................................ 23
Good Standing .......................................................................................................................................... 23
Academic Probation ................................................................................................................................. 23
Academic Dismissal ................................................................................................................................. 24
Graduate Reinstatement ............................................................................................................................ 24
Graduation ...................................................................................................................................................... 24
Graduation Dates ...................................................................................................................................... 24
Applying for the Degree ............................................................................................................................ 24
Applying for a Graduate Certificate ......................................................................................................... 25
Academic Honesty ......................................................................................................................................... 25
Ethical Standards ...................................................................................................................................... 25
Fraudulent Degrees ................................................................................................................................... 26
General Academic Regulations / 13
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
GENERAL ACADEMIC REGULATIONS
REGISTRATION PROCEDURES
Academic Advising
UTSA views sound academic advising as a significant responsibility in educating its students. Academic advisors assist students
in developing intellectual potential and exploring educational opportunities and life goals. Many individuals within the UTSA
community contribute to the advising process, including faculty and staff academic advisors. Students also are encouraged to
develop mentoring relationships with faculty for additional information and support.
Students are responsible for seeking adequate academic advice, for knowing and meeting degree requirements, and for enrolling
in appropriate courses to ensure orderly and timely completion of their degree programs. Frequent advisor contact provides
students with current academic information and promotes progress toward educational goals.
For more information on academic advising in their departments, graduate students should contact the Graduate Advisor
of Record.
Registration for Classes
Students who attend classes at UTSA must be officially registered or approved to audit a course. Registration instructions are
online each semester in ASAP at https://asap.utsa.edu. Questions regarding registration should be directed to the Enrollment
Services Center or the Office of the Registrar.
UTSA does not guarantee the availability of particular courses or sections, and admission to classes is permitted only until
the maximum number of students allowable in any section has been reached. UTSA reserves the right to cancel any course or
section in which the number of registrants does not warrant its continuation.
A student is not permitted to register for classes offered in two consecutive time periods on different campuses, one at the Main
Campus and the other at the Downtown Campus, unless there is at least a 40 minute period of time between the end of the first
class and the beginning of the second class or the student has received special permission from the Dean of the college of his
or her major to register for the two consecutive classes.
Late Registration
Late registration permits students who have been admitted to UTSA to register for classes during an allotted time just
prior to and at the beginning of the semester as indicated each semester in the online registration calendar in ASAP at
https://asap.utsa.edu. Since many courses will have been closed at capacity, late registrants may need to select their courses from
a reduced schedule. Students are not permitted to register after the close of the late registration period, except in extenuating
circumstances. See the section Adding Courses After Late Registration.
Adding Courses After Late Registration
Adding a course after the late registration period requires the approval of the course instructor and the chair of the department
offering the course. After the Census Date in any semester, students may not add courses except in extremely rare and
extenuating circumstances as approved by the Dean of the college offering the course and by the Dean of the Graduate School.
For information on Census Date and deadlines for adding classes, students should refer to the University Calendar or the online
registration calendar for each semester.
Undergraduates seeking to register for or to add a graduate course in any of these time periods must obtain the special
approvals specified in the section Enrollment in Graduate Courses in Chapter 1, Bachelor’s Degree Regulations, of the UTSA
Undergraduate Catalog.
14 / General Academic Regulations
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
Maximum Hours of Enrollment in Summer Terms
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board sets limits on the number of semester credit hours in which a student may
enroll during a semester where the courses are offered in a shortened format. Therefore, students may enroll in no more than 3
semester credit hours in a three-week summer term, no more than 4 semester credit hours in a four-week summer term, no more
than 6 semester credit hours in a five-week summer term, and no more than 12 semester credit hours in a ten-week summer
term. In particular, a student may enroll in no more than 3 semester credit hours in the May Mini-mester.
A student may enroll in no more than 15 semester credit hours during an entire Summer Semester, regardless of the combination
of terms.
Dropping Courses
Students may drop courses from their schedules for a limited time each semester. The online registration calendar for each
semester indicates the deadlines for students to drop courses each term.
Courses officially dropped before the Census Date do not appear on a student’s transcript. See the online registration calendar
each semester for Census Dates.
Students who drop courses between the Census Date and the Automatic “W” Date have a record of the courses on their
transcripts with an automatic grade of “W.” See the online registration calendar for the Automatic “W” Date. The change
becomes official after it is processed by the Office of the Registrar.
The Automatic “W” Date for graduate students is the end of the ninth week of classes for Fall and Spring semesters, the end of
the third week of classes for a five-week Summer term, and the end of the sixth week of classes for a ten-week Summer term.
Appropriate adjustments are made for the Automatic “W” Date for shorter Summer terms (see the online registration calendar).
It is the student’s responsibility to drop a course by the appropriate deadline. If a student fails to drop a course, even if the
student does not attend the course, he or she will receive a grade of “F” in the class.
Faculty and staff will not drop a student from a course automatically for nonattendance; the student must initiate the process
and complete any necessary steps to ensure that the class is dropped.
Under certain circumstances, students may be dropped from courses administratively by college deans. Students who do not
meet course prerequisites or who fail to attend a course prior to Census Date may be dropped from courses. If a dean determines
that a student should be dropped from a course for these or other documented circumstances, the student will be notified by
the college overseeing the course. Students cannot assume that they will be automatically dropped from any class for failure to
attend or failure to pay tuition and fees. Students are still responsible for dropping courses by the official deadline or they will
receive a grade of “F” in the class. Students are responsible for checking their schedules on ASAP and for checking their official
UTSA email accounts to determine if they have been dropped from a class.
After the Automatic “W” Date, a student may not drop a course except with the approval of the Dean of the college in which
the course is offered and then only for urgent and substantiated, nonacademic reasons. Students who want to drop all classes
after the semester begins should refer to the section Withdrawal from the University in this chapter.
Auditing Courses
UTSA students and nonstudents who wish to audit a course may do so with the approval of the instructor and the chair of
the department in which the course is offered, provided there is space in the classroom after all registered students have been
accommodated. The minimum enrollment in a course must be reached without auditors.
Auditing entitles a student to listen and observe. Participation of an auditor in class is at the discretion of the instructor. No
UTSA credit is granted for courses that are audited; no official record is made of enrollment in classes on an audit basis. Due to
General Academic Regulations / 15
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
the format of studio/laboratory use, auditors are not approved for art courses. Students not enrolled in courses at the University
are not allowed to audit courses that require the use of the University computing system.
All auditors must submit an Audit Course Form to the Enrollment Services Center. A UTSA student pays an auditing fee of $25
per course. Auditors who are not registered UTSA students must pay an auditing fee of $50 per course. Persons over 65 years
of age are permitted to audit without paying an auditing fee.
Permission to audit must be obtained and fees paid beginning the first day of class through the Census Date. Students who
register for a course and later want to change the course to an audit must officially drop that course before submitting an Audit
Course Form.
Nonstudent auditors who want library privileges may receive them by completing a Friends of the UTSA Library application
at the circulation desk in the UTSA Library and paying a nonrefundable fee. There are limits on the services offered to Friends
of the UTSA Library cardholders; further details are available from the library circulation desk.
Nonstudent auditors who want UTSA parking privileges must register their vehicles and purchase a parking permit. To purchase
a parking permit, the nonstudent auditor should go to the University Parking and Transportation Services Office with their
validated Audit Course Form.
Cancellation of Enrollment
Students who fail to fulfill admission, registration, or financial requirements, or who otherwise fail to adhere to academic
regulations may have their enrollment for the semester cancelled. Students may apply for readmission for a subsequent semester
provided they have resolved the cause of cancellation.
Withdrawal from the University
Continuing students who wish to withdraw (drop all courses for which they are enrolled during a specific semester) from the
University before the first class day of the Fall or Spring Semester may do so via ASAP. Students who wish to withdraw from
the University before the start of Summer classes may withdraw via ASAP through the Friday prior to the start of the May Mini-mester.
All other Summer withdrawals must be completed as stated in the following paragraph.
Students who find it necessary to withdraw (drop all courses for which they are enrolled during a specific term) must submit a
completed Withdrawal Form at the Enrollment Services Center. The Withdrawal Form must have all required signatures for the
withdrawal to be processed. The Withdrawal Form is available online on the Office of the Registrar’s Web site.
Students may not withdraw from the University later than the third class day preceding final examinations in the Spring and
Fall Semesters. Students who officially withdraw from the University after Census Date receive grades of “W” in all classes.
Students who withdraw from all classes are subject to the University’s academic probation and dismissal regulations. Students
withdrawing should refer to the regulations on refunds of tuition and fees, readmission policies, and requirements for maintaining
registration.
Withdrawals for international graduate students also require the consent of the Office of International Programs.
Academic appointments (Teaching Assistant and Graduate Assistant positions) may not extend beyond the effective date of a
student’s withdrawal.
Withdrawal for Military Service
A student who withdraws as a result of being called to active military service may choose (1) to receive a refund of tuition and
fees for the semester; (2) if eligible, to be assigned an incomplete (IN) in each course (refer to section Explanation of Credit,
Grading System, and Symbols in this chapter); or (3) at the instructor’s discretion, to receive a final grade in courses where
he or she has completed a substantial amount of coursework and has demonstrated sufficient mastery of the course material.
16 / General Academic Regulations
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
Medical and/or Mental Health Withdrawal from the University
Students experiencing a significant and unforeseeable medical or mental health challenge, compromising the student’s ability
to effectively participate in their educational program, may request withdrawal from classes or, in rare circumstances, reduce
their course loads at the University without unnecessary academic penalty. A Medical or Mental Health (M/MH) Withdrawal
from the University should be considered only when all other options are exhausted by the student. Such withdrawals can be
granted only for the current or immediately preceding semester. No other “retroactive” withdrawals shall be approved beyond
the eligibility period.
Students should refer to the Academic Calendar for the established withdrawal and drop dates. A student granted M/MH
Withdrawal or course load reduction will be assigned a grade of “W” for the affected courses. If the effective date of the
withdrawal or course load reduction is on or before the Census Date, no record of the courses will appear on the student’s
transcript.
Students will be limited to one M/MH Withdrawal during their academic career at UTSA, unless given special permission
by the Dean of the Graduate School. Challenges identified by the student as a result of their issues will be evaluated by the
appropriate Service Director (Director of Operations, Student Health Services for a medical issue or Director of Counseling
Services for a mental health issue or their respective designees). During the withdrawal process, recommendations will be
provided to the Dean of the Graduate School on the student’s behalf in an effort to ensure the student is able to continue their
academic pursuits without hindrance once they decide and are permitted to return to the University.
Medical/Mental Health Withdrawal Request Procedures
M/MH Withdrawal requests must be submitted in writing to the appropriate service office (medical withdrawals to Student
Health Services; mental health withdrawals to Counseling Services). Such requests must be accompanied by recent evaluation
supported through documentation from a licensed doctor, physician, medical provider, or mental health professional.
Hospitalization records from a recent admission, if relevant, should also accompany any application. All documents and any
other requirements made by the Service Director (or their designee) must be provided or completed within one month of the
initial request. If the application is not completed within one month, the file will be closed and no further action will be taken
unless a new application is initiated before the end of the eligibility period.
The appropriate Service Director or their respective designee will review the request and any supporting documentation to
determine whether the medical or mental health issues adversely affecting the student’s ability to function academically were
substantial enough to warrant the student’s withdrawal under this policy. Upon that review, the appropriate Service Director
or their respective designee will provide a written recommendation to the Dean of the Graduate School communicating their
assessment. The Dean will have one month to process their decision and make the final determination regarding the status of
each application. The student will be notified of the final determination in writing in a manner consistent with the policies and
procedures established by the Dean of the Graduate School.
Any refund of tuition and/or fees will follow the University’s Refund Policy for Withdrawal or Dropped Courses (see Chapter 3
of the UTSA Information Bulletin) at the time of the effective date of the withdrawal. The effective date of the withdrawal will
be determined by the Dean of the Graduate School. Appeals may be submitted in writing to the Executive Director of Student
Health and Counseling Services. All appeal recommendations will go back to the Dean for review. The Dean’s decision based
on the appeal recommendation shall be final.
Request to Return Following a Medical/Mental Health Withdrawal
Students who are granted M/MH Withdrawals and wish to return to UTSA must submit their request for re-enrollment in
writing to the appropriate Service Director or their respective designee. Such requests must be supported by a current release of
information form from the licensed doctor, physician, medical provider, or mental health professional providing their care. The
respective Service Director or their designee has the authority to require a current and comprehensive assessment of the student
prior to recommendation. The respective Service Director or their designee will evaluate the information provided by the
primary provider to ensure that it supports the student’s re-enrollment, and will forward a written recommendation to the Dean.
The Dean will inform the student, in writing, of the decision as to whether the student’s return is appropriate. In addition, before
General Academic Regulations / 17
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
being allowed to re-enroll, students must correspond with the Director of the respective service and/or the Director of Disability
Services in order to forecast any possible needs and to facilitate maximizing the student’s potential for a successful return.
Confidentiality of Medical/Mental Health Withdrawal Requests
The student’s written request for the withdrawal as well as the Service Director’s recommendation will remain the responsibility
of the respective service involved to maintain, while only the Dean’s decision will become part of the Student’s Education
Record. Medical and mental health background information is not shared with the Dean unless a special request has been made
by the Dean with the student’s approval in writing. The Dean will keep all shared medical and mental health related information
confidential. Any supporting medical or mental health documentation will be maintained confidentially in compliance with
policies and ethical standards applicable to Student Health Services and Counseling Services.
English Language Assessment Procedure
The English Language Assessment Procedure (ELAP) is a mandatory UTSA assessment for incoming international students
whose Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores are between 500 and 600 (paper version) or 61 and 100 (Internet
version). ELAP tests academic language skills in the areas of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The test is administered
during orientation week at no charge to the student. A registration hold is placed on students until the test is successfully
completed.
Students who are required to take English for International Students (EIS) classes and do not register for them or drop them
before they are successfully completed will be withdrawn from the University and will jeopardize their visa status. Once
students successfully complete the EIS classes, the registration hold is removed from their record.
RECORDS AND CLASSIFICATION OF STUDENTS
Classification Terms
Graduate Degree- Seeking Student. A student who is admitted to a graduate degree program, unconditionally, conditionally, or
conditionally on academic probation.
Special Graduate Student. A student who is admitted to UTSA for the purpose of enrolling in graduate and/or undergraduate
courses in one or more colleges of the University without entering a degree program.
Non-Degree- Seeking Graduate Student. A student who registers for courses but does not intend to work toward a degree
at UTSA.
Note: A graduate student who wishes to work on a program to meet the requirements for teacher certification or for a certificate
endorsement must be admitted as a graduate degree-seeking student or special graduate student (not a special undergraduate
student). He or she must apply to the College of Education and Human Development Advising and Certification Center for an
official analysis of the requirements that must be met before he or she can be recommended for certification.
Time Status Terms
Number of Credit Hours Enrolled
Fall/Spring Summer
Full time Nine or more semester credit hours Five or more semester credit hours
Three-quarter time Six to eight semester credit hours Not applicable
Half time Four to five semester credit hours Three to four semester credit hours
Less than half time Fewer than four semester credit hours One to two semester credit hours
18 / General Academic Regulations
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
Verification of Enrollment and Degree
UTSA student enrollment and degree verifications are reported by the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC). For students on
financial aid this means that UTSA electronically submits enrollment verification statuses to the NSC at several key periods
during the semester to keep their enrollment status up to date with loan guarantors, services, or lenders. The NSC also provides
enrollment status and deferment information to the Department of Education’s National Student Loan Data System. This
service provides for more efficient processing of enrollment information for financial aid loans.
The NSC also provides enrollment and degree verification for nonlending institutions, such as travel agencies, health care
companies, and prospective employers. Students who do not want to have their directory information, such as enrollment
and degree status, verified in this manner should contact the Office of the Registrar to request that this information be kept
confidential.
Transcripts
Official transcripts of all coursework taken at UTSA may be requested at the Enrollment Services Center or online. See the
UTSA Web site at http://utsa.edu/registrar/transcripts.cfm for details on how to request a transcript.
While enrolled at UTSA, students who attend other colleges or universities are required to submit official academic transcripts
to Graduate Admissions from every college or university attended at the end of the semester during which coursework was
undertaken, even if courses have been withdrawn. This includes concurrent enrollment while attending UTSA. Failure to do
so may result in the rejection of the transcript request, cancellation of enrollment, permanent dismissal from UTSA, or other
appropriate disciplinary action. Transcripts from other institutions submitted to UTSA become the property of the University
and are not reproduced or mailed to other institutions, agencies, or individuals as an official transcript.
Official transcripts will not be issued for students who have a financial obligation or other commitment outstanding to the
University until the obligation is cleared.
Release of Academic Records
All official certifications with regard to the academic performance or status of a student or former student of UTSA are made
by the Office of the Registrar.
UTSA transcripts and other information from a student’s academic record are released by the Office of the Registrar only
upon written request from the student or other person authorized by law under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
(FERPA) of 1974. Exceptions may be made in response to a subpoena or court order, under other circumstances as allowed
under FERPA, or as provided in the policy on releasing directory information set forth in Chapter 5, Administrative Policies
and Procedures, of the UTSA Information Bulletin.
Catalog of Graduation
Graduate students have six years from their term of original registration as degree seeking to complete a graduate degree
program under the catalog in effect at the time of initial registration at UTSA, provided they are continuously enrolled at
UTSA. If a student drops out for one or more long semester (Spring or Fall), he or she has the option of reenrolling under a
subsequent catalog. These students will have six years to complete degree requirements under the new catalog. In the event that
certain required courses are discontinued, substitutions may be authorized or required by the appropriate Graduate Program
Committee.
Degree requirements may be changed from one catalog to the next. The student is normally bound by the requirements of the
catalog in force at the time of his or her first registration; the student may choose, however, to fulfill the requirements of a
subsequent catalog, with approval of the Graduate School.
General Academic Regulations / 19
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
Change of Major, Degree, or Classification
Students who wish to change their majors, degree objectives, or classifications can access the required forms on ASAP. The
change is not official until the student is admitted to the new degree program or certification program. Classification changes
(e.g., special graduate to degree-seeking) requested during any semester will not be effective until the following semester. A fee
of $5 is assessed each student changing their major to defray administrative processing costs.
Change of Name
A student’s name on official records at UTSA is the name under which the student applied for admission, unless a Name and
ID Number Change Form has been processed through the Office of the Registrar. The official University transcript will carry
the current name and the most immediate previous name, if any. Name and ID Number Change Forms should be supported by
appropriate legal documentation.
Change of Address
Currently enrolled students who have changed their address must notify the Graduate School on the appropriate form or on the
UTSA Web site in ASAP at https://asap.utsa.edu. Official notification of change of address is necessary for proper identification
of student records and for accurate mailing of correspondence and information pertaining to graduation requirements. Students
who are applying for graduation will specify on the Application for Graduation the address where their diploma is to be mailed.
This does not change the official mailing address with the University.
COURSES
Course Numbering System
All courses are designated by four-digit numbers following a two- or three-letter abbreviation of the subject of the course.
The first digit indicates the level of the course. Courses beginning with “0” are developmental education courses and may not
be counted toward a degree. Courses beginning with “1” or “2” are lower-division (freshman and sophomore level). Courses
beginning with “3” or “4” are upper-division (junior and senior level). Courses beginning with a “5” or higher are graduate-level
courses.
The second and third digits in the course numbers are used within the colleges by each department to distinguish individual
courses. The fourth digit indicates the semester-credit-hour value of each course.
The number of lecture and laboratory contact hours per week are provided in parentheses in the course description sections of
the UTSA Graduate Catalog immediately following the course number and title. For example, (3-0) indicates three hours of
lecture and zero hours of laboratory per week.
Prerequisites
Prerequisites are stated for many courses listed in this catalog. Prerequisites advise students of the background expected of all
students in the course. It is the student’s responsibility to be sure that all prerequisites are met before enrolling in any course.
When a student has not met the specific prerequisites listed, he or she may, under special conditions, obtain permission to
register from the instructor of the course. Some colleges may also require the permission of the Department Chair and the
Associate Dean. Students who do not meet prerequisites for a course and do not have the appropriate permissions to register
may be dropped from the course.
20 / General Academic Regulations
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
Extended Education Courses
The Office of Extended Education develops and presents seminars, online courses, conferences, and programs for the general
public, professionals, governmental agencies, and businesses. It also provides specialized training to businesses, government
agencies, and nonprofit organizations needing customized programs for their employees. These courses are not offered for
academic credit. For information, contact the Office of Extended Education.
Distance Learning Courses
UTSA participates in the UT Online Consortium (UTOC). Degree-seeking graduate students taking courses through this
system, that are not hosted by UTSA, must still meet all UTSA residence requirements. For information on the UT Online
Consortium, see Chapter 6, Academic Resources and Student Services, of the UTSA Information Bulletin or the UTOC Web
site at www.utcoursesonline.org.
Independent Study Courses
No more than six hours of independent study courses or directed research, regardless of discipline, will apply toward a degree.
GRADES
Explanation of Credit, Grading System, and Symbols
Hours Attempted. The number of hours attempted is the total number of semester credit hours for which a student has enrolled
and received grades of “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” “F,” “W,” or “CR” except as provided for repeated courses.
Hours Earned. The hours earned by a student are the number of semester credit hours in which grades of “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,”
or “CR” have been received.
Grade Point Average. The UTSA grade point average is determined by dividing the number of grade points earned at UTSA by
the number of for-credit semester credit hours attempted at UTSA. Credits and grades for work completed at other institutions
or credits earned by examination are not included in the UTSA grade point average.
Students who are in a UTSA-hosted degree program through the UT Online Consortium (UTOC) and declare UTSA as their
home institution will have the courses taken at other institutions through the UTOC listed on their UTSA transcript and counted
in their UTSA grade point average. Other credit courses taken through the UTOC count as transfer credit and apply to a UTSA
degree as determined by the student’s academic advisor.
The following table explains UTSA grade symbols.
Grade Symbol Grade Points Meaning of Grade Symbol
A 4 Outstanding
B 3 Above Average
C 2 Average
D 1 Below Average (see Academic Probation)
F 0 Failure (see Academic Dismissal)
CR 0 Credit. Indicates successful credit by examination (see Credit by Examination) or
through faculty evaluation of selected internships and practica.
NC 0 No Credit. Indicates unsatisfactory progress.
W 0 Withdrawal. Indicates that the student was passing at the time of withdrawal or drop.
General Academic Regulations / 21
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
Grade Symbol Grade Points Meaning of Grade Symbol
IN 0 Incomplete. Assigned at the discretion of the instructor; see details below.
NR 0 No Report. Assigned only by the Registrar when unusual circumstances do not allow a
student’s grade to be entered by the deadline for processing grades. It is replaced with
the official grade as soon as possible.
EX 0 Expelled
RP 0 Research in Progress. Used to denote research in progress only for MUS 6903,
MUS 6913, and Master’s Thesis and Doctoral Dissertation courses. When the project,
thesis, or dissertation is complete, the “RP” grades will be changed to letter grades up
to the maximum number of semester credit hours approved for the specific degree.
Credit/No -Credit. Students may earn “CR” or “NC” grades only for specific courses listed in this catalog as graded on a credit/
no-credit basis.
Incomplete. The grade “IN” is given by an instructor to indicate that some part of the work of a student in a course has, for good
reason, not been completed, while the rest of the student’s work in the course was satisfactorily completed. The Incomplete
allows a student to complete the course without repeating it. A grade of Incomplete may not be assigned when a definite grade
can be given for the work done. The student must have been in attendance at least three-fourths of the term to receive a grade
of “IN.”
Whenever a grade of Incomplete is assigned, the instructor is required to submit requirements for removal of the Incomplete.
During the regular grading period this is done electronically. After the grade submission deadline, a Requirements for Removal
of Incomplete form must be submitted to the Dean’s office. The Dean’s office will then submit the form to the Office of the
Registrar.
Incomplete work must be made up no later than the end of the final examination period one year from the semester the
Incomplete was received and before the student’s graduation. If the work is not completed within this time, the “IN” remains
on the student’s record, and credit may be earned only when the student reenrolls in the course and completes the entire
course satisfactorily. The time limit does not apply to graduate-level thesis, internship, or dissertation courses, except that an
“IN” cannot be removed after a degree is awarded. The time limit does apply to all other graduate courses, including special
problems and independent study courses.
IN NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL GRADES BE CHANGED AFTER ONE CALENDAR YEAR.
Repeating Courses
Courses designated “may be repeated for credit” in the catalog may be repeated with both semester credit hours and grade
points earned being counted. Otherwise, students at the graduate level may not elect to repeat courses for the purpose of raising
a grade. However, when a course was taken more than six years ago, or upon the recommendation of the appropriate Graduate
Program Committee, the course may be repeated; in such cases, both grades in the course appear on the transcript and both are
counted in the student’s grade point average. Only semester credit hours for the repeated course may be counted toward the
degree.
Administrative Procedures
Reporting of Grades by Faculty
Final grades are reported by course instructors every term and are due 48 hours after the final examination. Final grades cannot
be withheld nor can reporting of them be deferred.
22 / General Academic Regulations
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
Grade Reports
The Office of the Registrar compiles final grades after the close of each semester and each summer term. Grades are available
in ASAP at https://asap.utsa.edu. Students who are removed from, placed on, or continued on academic probation and students
who are dismissed from UTSA will receive notification from the Office of the Registrar.
Transcripts may be withheld from any student who owes tuition and fees to the University.
Change of Grades
Individual faculty members retain primary responsibility for assigning grades and evaluations. The faculty member’s judgment is
final unless compelling evidence shows discrimination, differential treatment, or factual mistake. Under unusual circumstances,
however, grades may be assigned or changed by someone other than the faculty member. Grades may be changed or assigned
through administrative channels in the following procedure:
1. Circumstances when an assigned grade of “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” or “F” might be changed. In this case, the formal appeals
process stated in the catalog must be initiated by the student. Because a grade change of this type is related directly to issues
of academic freedom, a committee composed of qualified faculty should be appointed by the appropriate Graduate Program
Committee to assess the academic merits of the appeal. The committee report should weigh heavily in the subsequent
administrative review by the Department Chair, College Dean, and Graduate School Dean. Grades may be changed only if
compelling evidence demonstrates discrimination, differential treatment, or factual mistake.
2. Circumstances when an assigned grade of “IN” or “NC” might be changed. Under unusual circumstances, a faculty
member of record may be unable to assign grades in a timely manner. Examples include death or incapacitation of a faculty
member; a faculty member who permanently leaves the University and refuses or fails to respond; and a faculty member
who is on leave and cannot be reached.
Additional work performed by a student may not be used to raise a grade that has been reported to the Office of the Registrar.
IN NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL GRADES BE CHANGED AFTER ONE CALENDAR YEAR.
Class Participation Policy
Students are expected to regularly attend and participate in all meetings of courses for which they are registered. The instructor
is responsible for communicating the participation requirements for each course to students. With the exception of UTSA
policies on class absences related to observance of religious holy days, active military service, or attendance at an official
University sanctioned student activity, the instructor determines classroom participation requirements and policies on making
up work missed during an absence.
Students may be excused from attending classes or other required activities, including examinations, to attend an official
University sanctioned student activity (as defined in the Handbook of Operating Procedures) or for the observance of a religious
holy day, including travel for that purpose. A religious holy day is a day observed by a religion whose places of worship are
exempt from property taxation under § 11.20, Tax Code. A student whose absence is excused for attending an official University
sanctioned student activity or for religious holy day reasons may not be penalized for the absence and shall be allowed by the
instructor to take an examination or complete an assignment from which the student is excused within a reasonable time after
the absence.
Students may be excused from attending classes or engaging in other required activities, including examinations, in order for
the student to participate in active military service to which the student is called, including travel associated with the service.
A student whose absence is excused under the Texas Education Code, § 51.9111, may not be penalized for the absence and
shall be allowed by the instructor to complete an assignment or take an examination from which the student is excused within
reasonable time after the absence. The excused absence is permitted only if the student will not miss more than twenty-five
percent of the total number of class meetings or the contact hour equivalent (not including the final examination period) for the
specific course or courses in which the student is enrolled at the beginning of the period of active military service (19 Texas
Administrative Code, § 4.9).
General Academic Regulations / 23
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
If a student has to miss class excessively due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, it is his or her responsibility to notify
the instructor as soon as possible. A student who enrolls in a course and does not attend is considered absent from class until
they officially drop the course. A student who does not attend class and fails to drop the course by the specified deadline listed
in the online registration calendar will receive a grade of “F.”
Academic and Grade Grievance Procedure
In resolving any student grievance regarding grades, evaluations or other academically-related concern or incident regarding
a faculty member, the student must first make a serious effort to resolve the matter with the faculty member with whom
the grievance originated. It is University policy that individual faculty members retain primary responsibility for assigning
grades and evaluations. The faculty member’s judgment regarding grades and evaluations is final unless compelling evidence
shows discrimination, differential treatment, factual mistake, or violation of a relevant University policy. In resolving a student
grievance regarding other academically-related issues involving a faculty member, the student must follow the same process as
used when grieving a grade or evaluation. If the matter is not resolved, the student may file a formal grievance, in writing, with
the Department Chair. The student must file the grievance with the Department Chair within 90 calendar days from the end of
the semester in which the grade was assigned or the other concern or incident occurred.
The Department Chair will communicate his or her decision to the student and forward a copy to the Dean of the College. The
student may appeal the decision to the Dean of the College and then, if an undergraduate student, to the Dean of Undergraduate
Studies, and if a graduate student, to the Dean of the Graduate School. Appeals must be submitted on the Student Academic
and Grade Grievance Form. The decisions of the Deans of Undergraduate Studies and the Graduate School are final. The
administrator handling the appeal at each level will notify individuals involved, including those who have already ruled on the
appeal, once a decision has been rendered.
IN NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL GRADES BE CHANGED AFTER ONE CALENDAR YEAR.
Student Study Days
At the end of each Fall and Spring Semester, two days prior to the beginning of the final examination period are designated as
Student Study Days. Classes do not meet during Student Study Days. Furthermore, Student Study Days are not to be used as
dates on which papers are to be turned in, examinations are to be given, quizzes are to be scheduled, review sessions are to be
held, or for any other class-related activities, other than office hours.
ACADEMIC STANDING
A student’s academic standing, whether the student is a doctoral student, a graduate degree-seeking student, a special graduate
student, or a non-degree-seeking graduate student, is defined as good standing, academic probation, or academic dismissal.
Good Standing
Good standing is the absence of any contingency that would result in the student’s being on academic probation or academic
dismissal.
Academic Probation
Academic probation describes the standing of a student at the graduate level who is in one of the following categories:
1. A student who fails to achieve a grade point average in any term at UTSA of 3.0 or higher, irrespective of level of courses
taken.
2. A student who received a grade of “D” in any course in a term.
3. A student who does not meet all requirements for unconditional or regular admission and who, by special action, is
admitted on academic probation.
24 / General Academic Regulations
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
4. A student who has been reinstated following academic dismissal.
5. To graduate, all graduate students must have a grade point average of at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
Academic probation is cleared only when none of the above criteria apply and when the student achieves an overall grade point
average of 3.0 as a graduate student at UTSA. Students on academic probation are encouraged to discuss their status with their
academic advisors.
Academic Dismissal
Academic dismissal occurs:
1. When a student at the graduate level earns a grade point average of less than 2.0 in any term.
2. When a student at the graduate level earns a grade of “F” in any course.
3. When a student at the graduate level is admitted on probation with conditions and fails to meet a condition.
4. When a student at the graduate level who is on academic probation during a term would again be placed on academic
probation under the provisions of academic probation set forth above. If, however, the student’s UTSA grade point average
for the term is at least 3.0, he or she will continue on academic probation.
Graduate Reinstatement
A student who has been dismissed academically may petition for reinstatement after one long semester (Fall or Spring) has
elapsed from the date of dismissal. Under exceptional circumstances, a petition may be considered earlier. Students are required
to complete a reinstatement packet along with a letter containing all explanations, recommendations, or doctors’ statements in
support of the student’s request for reinstatement and submit them to the Dean of the Graduate School on or before June 15 for
Fall Semesters, October 15 for Spring Semesters, or March 15 for Summer Semesters.
The Graduate School prepares the petition for reinstatement and submits it to the Department’s Graduate Program Committee.
The Graduate Program Committee will review the petitioner’s letter and academic record and make a recommendation
concerning reinstatement to the Dean of the Graduate School. If the Petition for Reinstatement is disapproved, the student may
not file another petition until the following semester.
GRADUATION
Graduation Dates
Degrees are awarded at the end of each Fall, Spring, and Summer semester. Commencement ceremonies are held in December
and May at the end of the Fall and Spring semesters. With the exception of doctoral students, students who graduate at the end
of the Summer Semester may participate in either the May or the December Commencement ceremony. Doctoral students may
participate in the December Commencement ceremony.
Doctoral students may participate in commencement ceremonies only after completing all requirements for graduation,
including the successful defense of the dissertation and subsequent acknowledgement by the Graduate School of all required
documentation. Specifically, a doctoral student intending to graduate in the Summer Term and who has not completed the
successful defense of the dissertation and filed the appropriate documentation with the Graduate School may not participate in
the Spring Commencement ceremony. Summer Term graduates are welcome to participate in the December Commencement
ceremony following their Summer Term graduation.
Information regarding Graduation and Commencement is available at http://utsa.edu/registrar/graduation.cfm.
Applying for the Degree
It is the student’s responsibility to officially apply for his or her degree by submitting an Application for Graduation online
through ASAP. Students must read and follow instructions carefully to ensure the application is accurate and successfully
General Academic Regulations / 25
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
submitted. When the application has been accepted, students receive a confirmation number. Students having problems
submitting the application should contact Graduation Coordination at graduationcoordination@utsa.edu.
While enrolled at UTSA, students who attend other colleges or universities are required to submit official academic transcripts
to Graduate Admissions from every college or university attended at the end of the semester during which coursework was
undertaken, even if courses have been withdrawn. This includes concurrent enrollment while attending UTSA. Failure to do so
may result in the rejection of the graduation application, cancellation of enrollment, permanent dismissal from UTSA, or other
appropriate disciplinary action.
The following are deadlines for submitting an application for graduation. Dates are for the semester in which the student
expects to graduate:
• September 15 for the Fall Semester
• February 15 for the Spring Semester
• June 15 for the Summer Semester
◦ Summer candidates wishing to participate in the May ceremony must apply by February 15.
Students who apply for the degree in a given semester but do not fulfill all requirements must file a new Application for
Graduation online through ASAP on or before the appropriate deadline for the next semester in which they intend to graduate.
A student who completes all degree requirements but fails to apply for the degree may obtain a Letter of Degree Awarded from
Graduation Coordination after the close of the semester in which all degree requirements are met.
Students who receive services from the University, including faculty supervision, during the semester in which they have
applied to graduate must be enrolled for that semester.
Applying for a Graduate Certificate
It is the student’s responsibility to apply for his or her certificate by submitting a completed Application for Graduate Certificate
to the Enrollment Services Center no later than September 15 for the Fall Semester, February 15 for the Spring Semester, or
June 15 for the Summer Semester (see Chapter 3, Graduate Certificates, in this catalog). The application of any student applying
for a certificate after the established deadlines will be processed the following semester. The application form is located at
http://utsa.edu/registrar/forms.html. Students with questions about the application should contact Graduation Coordination at
graduationcoordination@utsa.edu.
ACADEMIC HONESTY
Ethical Standards
The University can best function and accomplish its objectives in an atmosphere of high ethical standards. All students are
expected and encouraged to contribute to such an atmosphere in every way possible, especially by observing all accepted
principles of academic honesty. It is recognized, however, that a large university will include a few students who do not
understand, appreciate, or practice these principles. Consequently, alleged cases of academic dishonesty involving UTSA
students will inevitably occur.
Academic or scholastic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, collusion, the submission for credit of
any work or materials that are attributable in whole or in part to another person, taking an examination for another person, any
act designed to give unfair advantage to a student, or the attempt to commit such acts. Academic dishonesty is a violation of the
Student Code of Conduct and is addressed in the UTSA Information Bulletin, Appendix B, Sec. 203.
Students are not at liberty to disregard previous college work attempted. All students transferring to UTSA must list all colleges
and universities attended on their UTSA application for admission. While enrolled at UTSA, students who attend other colleges
or universities are required to submit official academic transcripts to Graduate Admissions from every college or university
26 / General Academic Regulations
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
attended at the end of the semester during which coursework was undertaken, even if coursework has been withdrawn. This
includes concurrent enrollment while attending UTSA. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of the admission application,
withdrawal of any offer of acceptance, cancellation of enrollment, permanent dismissal from UTSA, or other appropriate
disciplinary action.
Fraudulent Degrees
Under Chapter 61, Subchapter G, of the Texas Education Code, it is illegal to use a fraudulent or substandard degree for gaining
admission into an educational program, presenting oneself to the public as an expert, gaining employment or promotion, or
gaining a governmental position with authority over others. Violation of this subchapter is a misdemeanor and falls under the
Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
C H A P T E R3
certificate
programs
3C H A P T E R certificate programs
CONTENTS
Admission Requirements ............................................................................................................................... 29
Course Restrictions ........................................................................................................................................ 29
Certificate of Professional Development in Geographic Information Science ......................................... 29
Graduate Certificate in Bilingual Reading Specialist ................................................................................ 30
Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing ................................................................................................... 30
Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Administration ........................................................................ 30
Graduate Certificate in Historic Preservation ............................................................................................ 30
Graduate Certificate in Keyboard Pedagogy ............................................................................................. 30
Graduate Certificate in Keyboard Performance ........................................................................................ 30
Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Administration and Leadership ........................................................... 30
Graduate Certificate in Security Studies ................................................................................................... 31
Graduate Certificate in Spanish Translation Studies ................................................................................. 31
Graduate Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language ............................................................. 31
Graduate Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning .............................................................................. 31
Completion of Requirements for Certificate ................................................................................................... 31
Certifi cate Programs / 29
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
Certificate programs provide opportunities for postgraduate training to those with undergraduate degrees. Certificate programs
are narrower in scope and shorter in duration than master’s degrees. Certificate programs are not “degree” programs.
Admission Requirements
Applicants who are currently enrolled in a graduate degree program at UTSA have already met University requirements for
admission. In this case, no formal application process is necessary. The applicant should contact the Certificate Program
Advisor and complete a form requesting permission to enter and complete the certificate program. If the request is approved,
this form will be signed by the Certificate Program Advisor and the Dean of the College or Director of the Center in which
the certificate program is housed. A copy of this form will be sent to the Graduate Advisor of Record for the student’s degree
program, the department in which the applicant’s program is housed, and the Graduate School.
Applicants who are not currently enrolled in a graduate degree program at UTSA will be required to apply for admission
to UTSA as a special (non-degree-seeking) graduate student and to indicate their intent to seek admission into a certificate
program. Applicants will be required to meet University admission requirements for special graduate students. If admitted
as a special graduate student, the applicant should contact the Certificate Program Advisor and complete a form requesting
permission to enter and complete the certificate program. The form will be signed by the Certificate Program Advisor and the
Dean of the College or Director of the Center in which the certificate program is housed. A copy of this form will be sent to the
Graduate School.
If it is determined by the Certificate Program Advisor that an applicant requires prerequisite background courses to adequately
prepare for the courses included in the certificate program, this will be noted in the applicant’s file. The applicant will be
notified that the prerequisite courses must be taken before enrolling in certificate program coursework.
Any applicant who is admitted into a certificate program without being currently enrolled in a graduate degree program is
considered to be a special graduate student. If the applicant wishes to be admitted into a degree program, they will be required
to apply to that program as a degree-seeking student. Admittance into or completion of a certificate program is not considered
to be qualification for entry into a graduate degree program.
Applicants who are pursuing a certificate as special graduate students will not be eligible for financial aid.
Applicants who are admitted into a certificate program while also pursuing a graduate degree will be classified as degree-seeking
students.
Course Restrictions
All courses offered in a certificate program must be approved graduate-level courses. See individual certificate program
descriptions for program-specific requirements. The following graduate certificate programs are offered:
Certificate of Professional Development in Geographic Information Science
Department of Geological Sciences
The purpose of the Professional Certificate in Geographic Information Science is to train individuals from a broad range
of academic disciplines to be competent users of Geographic Information Science and the related tools of Remote Sensing
and Web-based GIS data publication and sharing. Although the program is generally oriented toward geological sciences
professionals, individuals with business, social science, medical, engineering, computer science, criminal science or education
backgrounds will benefit from this professional certificate. Individuals completing this certificate will gain a practical and
hands-on knowledge of Geospatial Science. See Department of Geological Sciences section in this catalog for more information.
30 / Certifi cate Programs
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
Graduate Certificate in Bilingual Reading Specialist
Department of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies
The Certificate in Bilingual Reading Specialist offers specialized training for those who possess a valid teaching license and
wish to become better prepared to provide appropriate reading instruction to students in bilingual programs in public schools.
See Department of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies section in this catalog for more information.
Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing
Department of English
The Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing adds interdisciplinary breadth to a student’s course of study while increasing the
depth and coherence of a student’s work in creative writing. Given the growing interest in creative writing in nontraditional
disciplines of medicine, sociology, and psychology as well as in liberal arts, many students find this formal recognition of their
work in creative writing to be a valuable credential in both academic and nonacademic job markets. This certificate demands an
active engagement in graduate-level creative writing classes. Students who are pursuing the Graduate Certificate also receive
first consideration for graduate workshop registration. See Department of English section in this catalog for more information.
Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Administration
Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
The Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Administration will provide an opportunity for higher education professionals
working or seeking to work in the myriad of higher education institutions in the region to develop their knowledge and skills in
higher education administration. With a large and expanding four-year university and community college student population,
this certificate program will enhance the professional preparation and development opportunities for current and prospective
higher education administrators. See Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies section in this catalog for more
information.
Graduate Certificate in Historic Preservation
Department of Architecture
Historic Preservation is a process of design for continuity and the management of change within an existing historic context.
The Graduate Certificate in Historic Preservation offers specialized education in historic preservation design, technology,
planning and management through graduate-level courses. See Department of Architecture section in this catalog for more
information.
Graduate Certificate in Keyboard Pedagogy
Department of Music
The Certificate in Keyboard Pedagogy is designed for the active pre-college piano teacher who is interested in continuing their
education through a program that is focused on practical courses in their field. See Department of Music section in this catalog
for more information.
Graduate Certificate in Keyboard Performance
Department of Music
The Certificate in Keyboard Performance is a graduate option that allows exclusive focus on the performance aspects of
musicianship. See Department of Music section in this catalog for more information.
Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Administration and Leadership
Department of Public Administration
The Certificate in Nonprofit Administration and Leadership provides students with the opportunity to develop essential
technical and analytical skills for leading and managing nonprofit organizations. These skills include: fundraising, grant writing,
financial management, strategic planning, collaboration, and advocacy. The Certificate prepares students in the business skills
Certifi cate Programs / 31
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
required to manage social and human service, arts, religious, advocacy, and educational nonprofit organizations. The program
also has a strong focus on the importance of leadership in preserving the unique role and purpose of the nonprofit sector
in American society. This focus emphasizes the role of the nonprofit sector as a mechanism for participation important to
preserving democracy. See Department of Public Administration section in this catalog for more information.
Graduate Certificate in Security Studies
Department of Political Science and Geography
The Graduate Certificate in Security Studies is a program that mainly serves the needs of San Antonio regional professionals,
such as leaders in military and civilian contract functions, who require advanced education short of full degree programs and in
areas directly connected with their work in homeland security and defense at national, state, and local levels. The Department
of Political Science and Geography is responsible for all coordination of students participating in the Certificate program. See
Department of Political Science and Geography section in this catalog for more information.
Graduate Certificate in Spanish Translation Studies
Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
The Certificate in Spanish Translation Studies focuses on the language skills necessary to perform translation. Translation is
defined as the rendering of a written text from a source language into another, while interpretation is the rendering of spoken
language from a source language into another. Although this program concentrates on the former rather than on the latter, both
draw on the same type of general linguistic skills as those gained by studies in literature, language, and culture. This certificate
focuses more closely on practical applications in modern day life than does the more comprehensive Master’s degree. See
Department of Modern Languages and Literatures section in this catalog for more information.
Graduate Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language
Department of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies
The Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language offers specialized training for people who would like to begin
working in the field of English language teaching (ELT), either as a first job or a mid-career change. Completion of the
certificate prepares individuals to work in areas including but not limited to community-based language schools for immigrants
and refugees, private language schools abroad, corporate training/consulting, missionary/aid work, or private tutoring. See
Department of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies section in this catalog for more information.
Graduate Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning
Department of Architecture
The Certificate in Urban and Regional Planning provides students with an introductory understanding of the historical,
social, international, and physical context of comprehensive land use planning and sustainable urbanism. See Department of
Architecture section in this catalog for more information.
Completion of Requirements for Certificate
Completion of a certificate program, with or without completion of a degree program, will be recorded on the student’s transcript
if the following conditions are met:
1. The student’s Certificate Program Advisor has prepared a Certificate Degree Plan, which will be sent to the Office of the
Registrar prior to the end of the semester in which the student completes the requirements of the certificate.
2. The student has applied officially, by submitting an Application for Graduate Certificate (application is available online at
http://utsa.edu/registrar/forms.html) to the Enrollment Services Center, no later than September 15 for the Fall Semester,
February 15 for the Spring Semester, or June 15 for the Summer Semester. The application of any student applying for a
certificate after the established deadlines will be processed the following semester.
It is the responsibility of the student to meet with the Certificate Program Advisor during the last semester of certificate
coursework in order to determine that all requirements of completion have been met. It is also the responsibility of the student
32 / Certifi cate Programs
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
to apply for the certificate by the established deadline by submitting a paper application to the Office of the Registrar, as
explained above.
If a student has graduated from one of UTSA’s approved graduate degree programs and then wishes to apply for a certificate
using hours previously earned, the student must apply for admission to UTSA as a special (non-degree-seeking) graduate
student and indicate their intent to seek admission into a certificate program. See admission policy for certificate programs.
The student’s completion of a certificate program, with or without completion of a degree program, will be recorded on the
student’s transcript.
C H A P T E R4
master’s degree
regulations
4C H A P T E R
master’s degree
regulations
CONTENTS
Degree Requirements ..................................................................................................................................... 35
University-wide Requirements .................................................................................................................. 35
Comprehensive Examination ..................................................................................................................... 35
Supervising Committee ............................................................................................................................. 35
Options for Master’s Degrees .................................................................................................................... 36
Thesis Option (Option I) ...................................................................................................................... 36
Nonthesis Option (Option II) ............................................................................................................... 36
Limitation on Repeating Courses for Credit .............................................................................................. 37
Catalog of Graduation ............................................................................................................................... 37
Additional Master’s Degrees ..................................................................................................................... 37
Transfer of Credit ........................................................................................................................................... 37
Limitations ................................................................................................................................................ 37
Quantity ............................................................................................................................................... 37
Time Limitation ................................................................................................................................... 37
Evaluation of Courses ............................................................................................................................... 38
Transfers within The University of Texas System ............................................................................... 38
Course Types and Acceptability ................................................................................................................ 38
Accepted on a Limited Basis ................................................................................................................ 38
Not Accepted ....................................................................................................................................... 38
Master’s Degree Regulations / 35
UTSA 2011–2013 Graduate Catalog
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
University-wide Requirements
In order to receive a master’s degree from UTSA, the following minimum requirements must be met:
1. The student must be admitted as a graduate degree-seeking student for the degree sought.
2. The student must remove all conditions of admission, if any were assigned at the time of admission.
3. Subject to the six-year time limitation, the student must satisfactorily complete all coursework as specified in his or her
discipline’s program of study, and, if Option I is selected, must satisfactorily complete the thesis as outlined in the Options
for Master’s Degrees section of this chapter.
4. The student must formally apply for the degree in the Office of the Registrar no later than the deadline for the semester in
which he or she intends to graduate (for deadlines, see the online registration calendar).
5. The student must satisfactorily complete the comprehensive examination, except as provided by the M.B.A. degree.
6. The student must meet the grade point average requirement of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) in all work counted as part of
the degree program.
7. No courses in which grades of less than “C” (below 2.0 on a 4.0 scale) were earned may be applied to a graduate degree,
nor may courses for which the grade of “CR” was earned by examination be applied to minimum degree requirements.
Credit for selected internships and practica in which a grade of “CR” was earned may be applied to minimum degree
requirements upon approval of the Graduate Program Committee.
8. To graduate, all graduate students must have a grade point average of at least a 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
9. The majority of graduate coursework for a master’s program must be completed at UTSA.
Detailed descriptions of each of the above requirements are included in this catalog.
Comprehensive Examination
A candidate for a master’s degree (other than candidates for the M.B.A. degree, who are required to complete MGT 5903 with
a grade of “B” or better) must, in addition to other requirements, pass (according to department standards) the comprehensive
examination, which may be oral, written, or both. Students must be registered during any semester or term in which they are
taking required examinations. If registered for no other courses, students must be enrolled in 6961, Comprehensive Examination.
Comprehensive examinations are given only to those students who have complied with the following requirements:
1. Completion of all conditions of admission, if any were assigned at the time of admission.
2. Completion of all special admission requirements for the degree program, if any.
3. Be in good standing.
4. Have an acceptable program of study in the discipline in which the degree is sought.
5. If a thesis is to be written, selection of supervising professor and thesis committee and acceptance of thesis topic.
6. Enrollment in 6961, Comprehensive Examination, in the semester the comprehensive examination is taken, if registered
for no other courses that semester.
Supervising Committee
Each comprehensive examination is developed, administered