General Information

The Campus

Arkansas Tech University, with its spacious 518-acre campus, is located on the northern edge of the city of Russellville. This growing community, with a population of approximately 24,000, is ideally situated between the mountains of the Ozark National Forest on the north and those of the Ouachita National Forest on the south. It is midway between the state's two largest population centers: Fort Smith, 85 miles to the west, and Little Rock, 75 miles to the east. Interstate Highway 40 passes just north of the campus and connects these two cities.

In addition, Russellville is the crossroads of activity for State Highways 7, 22, 64, and 124. The historic natural crossing of the Arkansas River at Dardanelle is four miles to the south. The navigable river forms a 36,600-acre lake with 315 miles of shoreline behind a lock and dam located just southwest of the city. The Missouri Pacific Railroad passes through the city and parallels the river between Little Rock and Fort Smith.

Russellville is the county seat of Pope County. Historic Dwight Mission, established by the American Board of Foreign Missions among the Cherokee Indians in 1821, was located a short distance west of the campus of Arkansas Tech University on Illinois Bayou, where that stream is now crossed by Highway 64. Descendants of Cephas Washburn, the intrepid missionary who founded the mission and named it for Timothy Dwight of Yale, live in Russellville at the present time.

Arkansas Tech University is in the center of an area experiencing vigorous industrial development as evidenced by the growth of local industry and the number of national concerns locating plants in the area. Nuclear One, the first nuclear power plant completed in the Southwest, and a second nuclear power unit have been constructed near Russellville by Entergy, thus assuring continued industrial growth. Headquarters for District 9 of the Arkansas Highway Department and for the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests are located in Russellville. The McClellan-Kerr Navigation Project is having a significant effect upon the development of the area. The impoundment of the Arkansas River has formed Lake Dardanelle which borders the west edge of the campus. Poultry, cattle, soybeans, cotton, and lumber are the principal money crops in the area served by Arkansas Tech University.

History

Arkansas Tech University was created by an act of the Arkansas General Assembly in 1909. Under the provisions of this Act the state was divided into four Agricultural School Districts. Boards of Trustees were appointed by the Governor with the approval of the Senate, and appropriations were made for the erection of buildings and employment of a faculty for a district agricultural school in each of the four districts.

Twenty counties of northwestern Arkansas were designated as the Second District. Governor Donaghey appointed W. U. Balkman, J. R. Williams, H. S. Mobley, A. D. Shinn, and O. P. Nixon as a Board of Trustees for the Second District Agricultural School. Several towns made efforts to have the school location in their area. After considering all proposals, the Board of Trustees decided to locate it at Russellville, which had made an offer of a tract of 400 acres of land adjoining the city limits and a cash bonus of several thousand dollars.

The school opened its doors for students in the fall of 1910. The first class to graduate from the school was the high school class of 1912. In 1921-22, a freshman year of college was offered, in 1922-23 a second year, in 1923-24 a third year, and in 1924-25 a fourth year. The General Assembly in 1925 changed the name from the Second District Agricultural School to Arkansas Polytechnic College with power to grant degrees. The class of 1925 was graduated with the degree of bachelor of science, as was the class of 1926. The effort to maintain a four-year high school and a four-year college proved beyond the resources of the institution at that time, and it became a junior college in the fall of 1927. The four years of secondary work were dropped, one year at a time, and the last high school class was the class of 1929.

Changing and increased demands for college education in Arkansas caused the Board of Trustees in 1948 to convert the college from a junior college to a degree-granting institution. In 1948-49 the college offered the third year of college work, and in 1949-50 the fourth year, with the first baccalaureate degrees awarded at the end of the 1949-50 spring semester. A graduate program leading to the degree of master of education was established in 1976. Graduate courses were offered by Arkansas Tech in the summer of 1975. A master of education degree embraces the fields of instructional improvement, educational leadership, counseling and leadership, teaching, learning, and leadership, elementary education and seven areas of specialization in secondary education; the master of science in education degree is offered in gifted education. A master of liberal arts offers major concentrations in communications, fine arts, and social sciences. Master of arts degrees are offered in English, history, and multi-media journalism. Master of science degrees are offered in fisheries and wildlife biology and information technology.

In accordance with an act of the Arkansas General Assembly and by the authority of the State of Arkansas Board of Higher Education, the name of Arkansas Polytechnic College was changed to Arkansas Tech University, effective July 9, 1976.

Arkansas Tech has consistently adjusted its scope to accommodate immediate and future needs. In 1985 the institution reorganized its programs into the Schools of Business, Education, Liberal and Fine Arts, Physical and Life Sciences, and Systems Science.

Mission Statement (adopted March 17, 1994)

Arkansas Tech University, founded in 1909, is a multi-purpose, state-supported institution of higher education dedicated to providing an opportunity for higher education to the people of Arkansas and to serving the intellectual and cultural needs of the region in which it is located. The University offers a variety of programs committed to excellence in undergraduate and graduate studies. These programs are designed to prepare students to meet the demands of an increasingly competitive and intellectually challenging future by providing opportunities for intellectual growth, skill development, and career preparation. The institution monitors student mastery of general education and specialized studies, retention and graduation rates, and quality of teaching and academic programs to verify and facilitate demonstrable improvements in student knowledge and skills between entrance and graduation.

The basis for the student's intellectual growth and scholarly skill development is the general education program, which provides the context for more advanced and specialized studies and the foundation for life-long learning. The general education curriculum is designed to provide university-level experiences that engender capabilities in communication, abstract inquiry, critical thinking, analyzing data, and logical reasoning; an understanding of scientific inquiry, global issues, historical perspectives, literary and philosophical ideas, and social and governmental processes; the development of ethical perspectives; and an appreciation for fine and performing arts.

The University provides a range of specialized studies to prepare students to enter career fields or to continue their education at the post-graduate level. Specialized studies are offered within several areas of emphasis: business, professional education, liberal and fine arts, physical and life sciences, information technology, engineering, and applied sciences. Graduate work leading to the master's degree in selected disciplines provides advanced, specialized education which strengthens the academic and professional competence of students and enhances their capacities for scholarly inquiry and research.

The primary function of the University is teaching. Scholarly research and other professional activities of the faculty, continuing education, and community service are encouraged, promoted, and supported. In keeping with its focus on teaching, the University seeks to recruit, develop, and retain faculty who are dedicated to quality teaching and providing dynamic classroom learning experiences that integrate theory and practice. The institution values academic freedom and the concept of shared governance. Faculty and student organizations such as the Faculty Senate, Graduate Council, and the Student Government Association participate in university governance by making policy recommendations. Leadership and management of the University is the responsibility of the President. Governance of the institution is the responsibility of the Board of Trustees.

Purpose of Graduate Program

Arkansas Tech University offers eight master's degrees: Master of Arts in English, Master of Arts in History, Master of Arts in Multi-Media Journalism, Master of Education, Master of Liberal Arts, Master of Science in Education, Master of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology, and a Master of Science in Information Technology. The purpose of these master's degree programs is to provide graduate education opportunities in professional education, sciences, technology, and the liberal arts to anyone who seeks, and who is eligible for, admission to the University.

The University has an interest in meeting the professional growth and advancement needs of certified teachers and professionals in the service region. The Master of Education includes majors in instructional improvement; educational leadership; elementary education; school counseling and leadership; teaching, learning and leadership and in secondary education, with secondary education specializations in English, instructional technology, mathematics, physical education, and social studies. The Master of Science in Education specializes exclusively in gifted education.

The Master of Liberal Arts offers major concentrations in communications, fine arts, and social sciences. It is designed to serve the graduate education needs not only of certified teachers, but of anyone interested in the post-baccalaureate study of the liberal arts, including professionals with specialized undergraduate backgrounds.

The Master of Arts in English, History and Spanish provide for more specialized study for students interested in these areas. It will also prepare those students interested in pursuing the doctorate.

The Master of Arts in Multi-Media Journalism offers professionals the opportunity to study journalism as impacted by the growth of technology.

The Master of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology offers a research-based program for those interested in the areas. It also serves in preparation for those pursuing the doctorate.

The Master of Science in Information Technology provides for education in technology information management. This program has two options: (1) information technology in educational settings (2) information technology in business settings.

The Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership prepares school leaders for district level leadership positions and leads to building level licensure in Arkansas.

Philosophy of Graduate Program

Arkansas Tech University holds to the principle that graduate-level scholarship should be based on highly developed habits of critical judgment, independent thinking, creative initiative, and disciplined inquiry. Successful completion of the graduate program signifies that the student has acquired the research skills of an independent scholar, with expertise in a particular field of study.

The student admitted to graduate study at Arkansas Tech University should not expect to acquire these skills and to achieve this expertise through classroom and laboratory instruction alone; rather, the student should expect to draw upon independent resources to collect, organize, and synthesize research data and information in order to achieve scholarly expertise in the chosen field of study. Graduate study, then, aids the student to acquire the skills needed to identify important problems, to establish modes of inquiry, to formulate proposed solutions, and to communicate the interpretation of scholarly and research analysis.

Administration of Graduate Program

The graduate program is administered by the Dean of Graduate Studies who is directly responsible to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Policies governing the graduate program are developed by the Graduate Council; matters pertaining to the graduate teacher education program are reviewed and approved by the Teacher Education Council before being presented to the Graduate Council. Policies are then approved by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, President of the University, and the Board of Trustees.

While every effort will be made to conform to catalog announcements, the University reserves the right to adapt its program as may be necessary.

Physical Plant

The physical plant of Arkansas Tech University includes fifty buildings located on a tract of 516 acres near the northern boundary of the city of Russellville. Acreage provides space for varsity and intramural recreational activities, drill fields, and the University farm. The McClellan - Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System provides a freshwater lake which borders on the west edge of the campus.

All instructional programs are taught in buildings which have been specifically designed or modified to complement the projected instructional tasks. The Corley Building, completed in 1988, provides instructional space and state of the art laboratories for engineering, business, computer science, accounting and mathematics. The Center for Energy Studies, completed in the spring of 1994, supports courses and research in neutron science, nuclear engineering, materials science, and other areas related to energy and the environment. During the spring of 1993, Dean Hall renovation was completed to provide modern facilities for the instructional programs in agriculture, nursing, foreign languages, community education and emergency administration management. The Health and Wellness Center is also housed in Dean Hall.

Arkansas Tech University has several resources which lend themselves to serving the cultural and recreational needs of the University and surrounding community. The John E. Tucker Coliseum complements the instructional program by providing a modern setting for concerts, conventions, and sporting events. The Hull Physical Education building, renovated in 2001, has an Olympicstyle swimming pool which is used for physical education classes; for recreational swimming for students, faculty, and staff; and by the community swim club. The Witherspoon Arts and Humanities Building has a modern auditorium with a seating capacity of 742. The L.L. "Doc" Bryan Student Services Center and the Student Activities Building constitute the main facilities for student services, student government, publications, and indoor recreational activities. The Museum of Prehistory and History, located in Tucker Hall, contains exhibits on archeology and early history of western Arkansas; museum lectures and events address cultural needs on the campus and in the community, and offer opportunities for students in the Parks, Recreation and Hospitality Department to become involved in interpretive activities.

The Ross Pendergraft Library and Technology Center houses more than 1,080,000 items for use. Included in this number are 142,000 volumes; 810,000 microforms; 88,000 government documents; 40,000 ANO/NRC materials; and 1,245 periodical subscriptions. Among these holdings are extensive back files of journals and newspapers. Copiers and microform readerprinters are available using the VendaCard system. The library is a member of AMIGOS/OCLC, a regional broker of international bibliographic data and information services. Over eighty electronic databases covering most subjects are accessible from the library and over the Internet from the Library website at <http://library.atu.edu>. Assistance in the retrieval and use of materials is provided by seven professional librarians, seven paraprofessional staff, and a number of part-time employees. Librarian-mediated online searches are provided on request. Materials not available in the Library may be requested through our interlibrary loan system, normally at no charge. The Library is the publisher of the retrospective Arkansas Gazette Index.

The Pendergraft Library is open approximately 90 hours per week during fall and spring semesters. The state-of-the-art facility includes two open computer labs, two instructional computer labs, one special purpose lab, two distance learning classrooms, a large conference room, five breakout/meeting rooms, twelve group study rooms, satellite downlink, cable TV connections, 108 publicly accessible computers, 58 lab computers, and about 400 data drops for laptop computers.

Fees and Charges

(Subject to changes as necessary)

Tuition and Fees:
Resident -- per credit hour1	$125
Non-resident -- per credit hour1	250
(Information concerning residence status may be obtained from the Registrar's Office, Doc Bryan Student Services Center, Suite 153 (479) 968-0272.)
Activity fee (required fall and spring semesters)	5
(Entitles students to a picture student ID card and admission to all University-sponsored activities.)
Technology fee (required each semester or term)	50
Assessment fee (required each semester or term)	5
Transcript fee (required each semester or term)	5
International Student Service fee
Per semester (fall/spring)	30
Per summer term (five-week)	15
Per mini-term	10
Residence Hall Board Charges (students living in residence halls)
19 mealperweek plan3	796
15 meal-per-week + $100 Declining Balance Dollars	872
165 meals + $100 Declining Balance Dollars	824
145 meals + $130 Declining Balance Dollars	824
106 meals + $150 Declining Balance Dollars	795
Residence Hall Room Charges
Brown, Caraway, and Massie Halls	850
Jones, Roush, and Turner Halls	900
Paine and New Residence Hall	1,175
University Commons Apartments:
2 bedroom apartments	1,845
4 bedroom apartments	1,530
Graduation fee	25
Late registration fee -- chargeable after first class meeting	25
Adding/dropping courses	5
Returned check	10
Replacement of ID card	25
Post office box rent (required of all students living on campus)	10
Auto registration	10
Parking fees and fines (see "Traffic Regulations" on page20)2
1Up to $9.30 per credit hour (not to exceed twelve hours per semester) of the tuition fee for courses taken during the fall and spring semesters will be allocated to athletics. 2Students parking on campus between 8 am. And 5 p.m. Monday through Friday must have parking decal.

Food and Housing
(Subject to changes as necessary)

Graduate students are eligible to live in single-student residence halls. All students living in residence halls are required to take their meals in the University cafeteria; seven, fourteen, nineteen-meal-per-week and declining balance mean plans are available during the fall and spring semesters. The room and board charge for students living in residence halls includes basic telephone service.

All residence halls and the cafeteria are closed during spring holidays and between semesters. Students desiring to remain in campus housing during these times must have specific approval from the Student Services Office and will be charged a daily or weekly room rental, as appropriate.

Payment of Accounts

Tuition and all other fees and charges, including room and board charges for students in residence halls, are due and payable prior to the beginning of each term at the Student Accounts Office, in the Student Services Building, Office 133. Financial settlement, which consists of tuition, fees, and at least one-fourth of room and board may be made by personal payment or authorized financial aid (loans, scholarships, grants, third parties, etc.). Visa, MasterCard, and Discover credit cards are accepted for all charges. Registration is not complete until all financial obligations have been met satisfactorily. Failure to make financial settlement may result in cancellation of the class schedule.

The student identification number (social security number) is assigned as the student's account number for billing purposes. An alternate nine digit number will be assigned as the student's account number upon written request to the Registrar. Monthly billing statements are payable upon receipt. Invoices for preregistration are mailed approximately thirty days prior to the first day of class. All preregistered students must return the top portion of the preregistration invoice along with applicable payment by the due date to confirm enrollment.

Students with delinquent accounts are not eligible for food service, graduation, transcripts, recommendations, advance registration, or readmission to any term. Collection fees for outstanding debts owed to the University may be assessed to the student.

The University reserves the right to amend or add to the regulations of the institution, including those concerning fees and methods of payment, and to make such changes applicable to students enrolled in the University, as well as to new students.

Reduction of Fees and Charges
(Subject to change as necessary)

Reduction of Tuition for Official Withdrawal

Students officially withdrawing from the University by the end of the fifth day of the semester in a summer term, as listed in the "Academic Calendar" on page1, will receive an 80 percent reduction of tuition for courses which they are enrolled in at time of withdrawal. No reduction will be made after the fifth day of the summer semester. No reduction in fees will be made after the first day of the summer semester.

Students registering for the fall or spring semester but officially withdrawing from the University by the end of the second day of the semester, as listed in the "Academic Calendar" on page1, will receive a 100 percent reduction of tuition and fees. Room and Board will be reduced on a pro rata basis. Thereafter, students officially withdrawing by the end of the twenty-fifth day of the semester will receive an 80 percent reduction of tuition only for courses in which they are enrolled at time of withdrawal. No reduction will be made after the twenty-fifth day of the semester. No reduction in fees will be made after the second day of the semester.

In the event a student is receiving financial aid, any refund amount attributable to a loan, grant, or scholarship will be returned to the appropriate account and not to the student. Effective July 1, 2000, the amount returned to Federal programs will be the amount of unearned Federal aid based on the number of calendar days of attendance up to the sixty percent point of the semester. Aid accounts will be refunded in the following order up to the amount of the original disbursement: Federal Family Education Loan Programs, Federal Perkins Loan Program, Federal PLUS Loan Program, Federal Pell Grant Program, Federal SEOG Program, Arkansas Department of Higher Education Programs, Tech scholarships and private aid. Additionally, students who have received a cash payment of Federal aid money will receive a letter after their withdrawal informing them of any amount to be repaid. These repayments will be made through the Student Accounts Office.

The student will be ineligible for any further Federal financial aid until the required payments are made.

Traffic Regulations

Students parking on campus between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, must have parking decals. Vehicle registration cards for decals are available in the Student Accounts Office.

Financial Aid

Three aid programs are available to graduate students: the Federal Perkins Loan Program, which provides a five-percent loan to eligible students; the Federal Stafford Loan Program, which provides a loan to eligible students; and the Federal College Work-Study Program, which provides on-campus part-time jobs. In order to participate in these programs, the student should submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid. These applications and additional information about the programs may be obtained by writing to the Financial Aid Office, Arkansas Tech University, Russellville, Arkansas 72801-2222. Priority deadlines are April 1 for summer, April 15 for fall, and November 1 for spring.

Graduate students receiving federally funded financial aid must meet the below listed conditions in order to remain eligible for financial aid:

1. Complete the graduate hours in which they are enrolled each semester.

2. Maintain a 3.00 GPA each semester.

3. Complete the degree by the end of six full-time semesters

Scholarships

The scholarships listed below have been established by the alumni and friends of Arkansas Tech University in order to afford students the ability to pursue their goals of earning a degree in higher education. Applications for Private and Transfer Scholarships can be obtained from the Admissions Office or Financial Aid Office in the Doc Bryan Student Services Building. Applications should be submitted by March 15.

Lambert Resimont Scholarship

An endowed athletic scholarship to be awarded annually to a graduate assistant who excelled in basketball and academics. Students interested in applying should contact the Arkansas Tech Athletic Director.

John E. Tucker Scholarship

An endowed athletic scholarship awarded to a graduate assistant who excelled in football and academics. Applications should be made to the Arkansas Tech Athletic Director.

Tate C. "Piney" Page Memorial Scholarship

An endowed scholarship to assist a graduate assistant who excelled in football and academics has been established in memory of Dr. Page through contributions by the Russellville Kiwanis Club. Applications should be made to the Arkansas Tech Athletic Director.

Graduate Assistantships

The University offers a limited number of graduate assistantships through its academic departments and administrative offices. Inquiries regarding assistantships should be directed to the Dean of Graduate Studies. The Office of Graduate Studies will accept and forward all applications for assistantships to the appropriate department head or supervisor. To ensure timely consideration, please submit all material by April 1 of each academic year.

A graduate student holding an assistantship appointment does part-time work for the University as determined by the department or office involved. Eligibility requirements for graduate assistantships are as follows:

1. To be eligible for an appointment, an entering graduate student must qualify for unconditional admission to the graduate program.

2. A student conditionally admitted becomes eligible for an appointment upon completion of 12 hours of graduate course work with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.

3. A student receiving an assistantship may take a maximum of nine hours and a minimum of six hours of course work per semester. During each summer term, the student may take a maximum of six hours and a minimum of three hours. Exceptions may be made upon the approval of the appropriate department head or supervisor and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

A student may have a maximum appointment of 50% (20 hours a week) except in the summer when he/she can receive a 100% appointment.

Jim Ed McGee Graduate Honors Award

The Jim Ed McGee Graduate Honors Award was instituted to recognize one Arkansas Tech University graduate student each year as the outstanding graduate student of the year.

A graduate student who has recently completed a graduate degree and wishes to be considered for the Jim Ed McGee Graduate Honors Award may submit a letter of application with two faculty recommendations to his/her department head by February 1 of the year in which the honors award is to be presented. If the advisor is someone other than the department head, one of the two faculty recommendations must come from the student's advisor. The award will be presented at the annual Arkansas Tech University Honors and Awards Convocation that is held in April of each year.

Persons who graduated in May or December of one year are eligible to apply for the award which will be presented in April of the following year. The student's department head will review the application materials on the basis of graduate school performance in such areas as grades, research project, academic papers, leadership in graduate program activities, and faculty recommendations.

The department head will forward the application materials of recommended outstanding graduate students to the Dean of Graduate Studies by February 15.

A panel of evaluators, consisting of the Dean of Graduate Studies and four other graduate faculty members, will review nominations of candidates for the Graduate Honors Award. The panel will rate the applicants based on the following: (1) evaluation of documentation submitted by the applicant, graduate transcripts and faculty recommendations; (2) work submitted by the applicant, abstracts, prospectus or project summary, and advisor recommendations; (3) leadership and involvement in graduate program activities; and (4) a personal interview.

The person selected as the recipient of the Jim Ed McGee Graduate Honors Award will receive a personal plaque and have his/her name inscribed on the Jim Ed McGee Graduate Honors Award Plaque that will be on permanent display in the Graduate Office.

Health and Wellness Center

The University provides a health center for use by all students. The mission of the Health and Wellness Center is to assist in the educational process of the University by modifying or removing health-related barriers to personal development and learning. It also provides educational services by serving as a health and medical resource for the University community. Most of these services are done free of charge.

The Center is staffed by a registered nurse and a licensed counselor Monday through Friday. They provide outpatient mental and physical health services in a strictly confidential manner and make appropriate referrals when necessary. The Center also has educational materials (i.e. brochures, books, CD's, and videos) available to the University community.

The registered nurse does physical assessments, treats minor injuries and illnesses, and provides health education to all within her scope of practice. The counselor provides brief mental health counseling for individuals, couples, and groups. The counselor also provides consultation and outreach programming on mental health conditions.

Disability Services for Students

Arkansas Tech University is committed to providing equal opportunities for higher education to academically qualified individuals who are disabled. Students with disabilities attending Tech will be integrated as completely as possible into the university community. Tech does not offer a specialized curriculum for students with disabilities nor does it assume the role of a rehabilitation center, but does assume responsibility for modifying campus facilities and procedures to accommodate individual needs where feasible.

Through the established advising procedures, students with disabilities are assisted with academic program planning which includes selection of appropriate courses, registration, consideration of classroom and building accessibility, and planning for adequate travel time between classes. The Affirmative Action Officer will serve as a liaison in arranging for interpreters, note taking assistance, alternative testing, and similar types of accommodations. Per individual needs, students who may require academic support are encouraged to utilize tutoring and study skills assistance available to all students through the Learning Assistance and Testing Center and within certain discipline areas.

Tech is subject to and endorses both the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Disabilities Coordinator serves as the coordinator for these federal programs. The Disabilities Coordinator's Office is located in the Office of Community Education, Dean Hall, Room 110, Arkansas Tech University, Russellville, AR 72801-2222, and can be contacted by calling (479) 968-0698, for TDD call (479) 964-0536, or by E-mail: judy.robinson@mail.atu.edu.

Learning Assistance and Testing Center

Academic assistance services include academic counseling, arranging for tutorial services, and instruction in study skills development, taking notes, time management, and preparing for exams.

The Learning Assistance and Testing Center facilities include a computer lab and a study lab/testing lab. The Center is staffed with a director and academic counselor. Arkansas Tech University students may use these services for free (excluding tests). The Learning Assistance and Testing Center is located in room 103 of Bryan Hall and may be reached via phone (479) 9680302, fax (479) 968-0375 or e-mail LATC@mail.atu.edu. For additional information, students may visit the center's web site at http://latc.atu.edu.

Norman Career Services Center

The Norman Career Services Center provides online registration for students, alumni, and employers, as well as established web links to ethical employment boards. Registrants may access and provide information through http://techncs.erecruiting.com, including cover letters, resumes, company materials, campus recruiting schedules, information sessions, etc. The center hosts and maintains a computerized career interest inventory, called "Discover," located in residential housing, the Learning Assistance and Testing Center, and its 211 Suite in the Doc Bryan Student Services Center. Services provided to ALL classifications of students and alumni include an extensive career library, company videos, career counseling, and resume critiquing. It also provides career workshops to classes, student groups and community organizations to ensure that Arkansas Tech University graduates are well informed, prepared for the job search, and availed of every opportunity to choose from professional alternatives. Career and part-time employment opportunities through business, industry, government, the health field and education are posted through the recruiting web site, as well as the electronic kiosk located in the entry way of the Doc Bryan Student Services Center.

The Arkansas Tech University Norman Career Services Center hosts recruiters from non-discriminatory employing agencies who conduct a variety of interviews each semester. Current contacts are maintained with local, national, and international employers seeking career professionals from every major. Career fairs are hosted each fall and spring for all students.

Additional information concerning Career Services may be obtained by calling (479) 968-0278, or writing to ATU, Norman Career Services Center, Doc Bryan Student Services Center, Suite 211, Russellville, AR, 72801.

Academic Information

Admission to
Graduate Study

An application for admission to graduate study may be obtained by contacting the Dean of Graduate Studies. Priority deadline date for fall admission is March 1 and spring admission is October 1. This will ensure consideration for admissions and assistantships. Students who do not meet this deadline, may submit necessary credentials for admission up to two weeks in advance of the initial date of enrollment. Applicants must meet the admission requirements established for a particular degree program. Approved applicants will be notified in writing of their eligibility for admission to graduate study. Application for admission will be valid for one year; applicants who do not enroll during the year in which they applied will be required to reapply for admission. Admission to graduate study does not imply admission to candidacy for a degree.

Any student requiring special accommodations in order to complete a course or program of study should contact the Disabilities Coordinator, Dean Hall, Room 110, or call (479) 968-0698. The Disabilities Coordinator administers programs and services associated with the Americans with Disabilities Act and serves as a liaison for students with disabilities.

Persons born after January 1, 1957, must furnish proof of immunity against measles and rubella to the Tech Health and Wellness Center prior to enrollment in classes.

Unconditional Admission

For unconditional admission applicants must:

1. Hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college.

2. Have a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or a 3.00 on the last 30 hours of undergraduate work or hold a graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

3. Meet additional admission requirements specified by programs in the graduate catalog (GRE, writing samples, etc.).

Conditional Admission

Applicants may be admitted conditionally if they:

1. Do not meet the grade point requirements.

2. Hold a degree from an unaccredited institution.

3. Have not met additional requirements of particular programs.

4. Have not submitted all necessary documentation prior to initial enrollment.

Non-Degree Admission

Applicants not pursuing a graduate degree may be admitted as non-degree graduate students upon submitting a completed application for admission to graduate study and an official transcript from an accredited college or university showing that a baccalaureate or higher degree has been earned at that institution. Applicants requesting non-degree admission must meet the same grade point admission criteria as outlined for degree admission. A maximum of twelve graduate hours earned while in non-degree status may apply to a degree program. Students desiring to change from a non-degree admission status to a degree admission status must apply for degree admission.

Transient Admission

Applicants who are pursuing a graduate degree at another institution may be admitted as transient graduate students upon submission of a completed application for admission to graduate study and an official statement from their institution verifying that they have been admitted to its graduate program and are in good standing.

Undergraduate Senior Admission

An undergraduate senior, registering the semester prior to graduation in a baccalaureate degree program at Arkansas Tech University, who does not need a full load of undergraduate courses to complete requirements for graduation, may request special permission to enroll in no more than six hours of graduate course work. The student's course load is not to exceed a total of 15 semester hours of graduate and undergraduate work combined during a fall or spring semester. The combined course load for a summer term is six semester hours. Graduate work taken by the undergraduate senior may be used to satisfy requirements of the baccalaureate degree; however, graduate work used to satisfy baccalaureate degree requirements cannot be applied to the graduate degree. The student must have a 3.00 cumulative grade point average to be eligible for admission as an undergraduate senior. Failure of a student to complete the bachelor's degree during the semester/term in which the graduate courses are taken will preclude the student from enrolling in additional graduate classes in subsequent semesters until the bachelor's degree is awarded. An application for admission to graduate study and a form requesting approval to enroll as an undergraduate senior can be obtained at the Office of Graduate Studies.

International Student Admissions

Any student who is not a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the United States is considered an international student. A brief description of the information required to apply for admission to graduate study at Arkansas Tech University is listed below.

1. Application - an application for international student admission form, properly completed.

2. Application fee - a non-refundable application fee of $30 (U.S.).

3. Academic records - MUST be originals or school-certified copies of originals of all academic records with official English translations. Notarized copies will not be accepted. A list of approved credential evaluation services can be obtained from the Registrar's Office if needed.

4. English Proficiency - demonstrate English proficiency. Must meet one of the following:

a. A minimum score of 500 on the paper-based test or 173 on the computerized test on the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). Scores MUST be received directly from the Educational Testing Service (school code 6010). Students may also take any similar test of English proficiency approved by Arkansas Tech University at a site authorized by Arkansas Tech University.

b. Successful completion of an English as a Second Language (ESL) program at a site approved by Arkansas Tech University.

5. Evidence of sufficient financial support - approximately $14,136 (U.S.) is needed for 12 months of study, approximately $10,284 is needed for nine months (2 semesters); certified evidence of the source and amount of support must accompany the application. All international students will pay outofstate tuition and will be assessed an international student services fee each semester. In addition, international students are required to purchase a health insurance policy prescribed by Tech prior to enrollment.

All International students are required to purchase a medical insurance plan that satisfies the requirements of the Office of International Student Services.

The application for admission and all documentation should be submitted by May 1 for the fall semester, October 1 for the spring semester, and March 1 for the summer sessions for priority consideration. Admission will not be granted until all documents have been received and evaluated.

Upon acceptance, notification will be sent to the student along with an I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility). Full payment of tuition and fees must be paid at registration each semester.

Detailed information regarding international student admissions may be obtained by contacting: International Student Services, Doc Bryan Student Services Building 163, Arkansas Tech University, Russellville, Arkansas 728012222, USA; telephone (479) 9640832; FAX (479) 9680683; email: maria.chandler@mail.atu.edu.

Catalog Privilege

Candidates for a master's degree may choose to complete requirements under the regulations published in the Tech graduate catalog for the year of initial enrollment in the graduate program at Arkansas Tech University or a subsequent year, provided they were enrolled in the graduate program at the University during the year the catalog was in effect. The catalog chosen must not be over six years old when requirements for the degree are completed.

Academic Advising

Upon entering the graduate program, the student should develop a planned program of studies (including determined prerequisites) under the supervision of their designated faculty advisor. Subsequent modifications must be approved by the advisor and department head.

Graduate Student Load

Graduate students may enroll for a maximum of twelve hours of credit per semester during the academic year and six hours of credit during each of the two summer terms. A one-credit-hour overload may be authorized by the head of the student's major department. A graduate student will be considered full time if enrolled for nine or more hours of credit during a regular semester or four hours during a summer term. Permission to take more than the maximum loads stated above requires the written approval of the students advisor, program director, and graduate dean.

Adding and Dropping Courses

Changes in the class schedule must be made on official forms available at the Registrar's Office, Room 153, Doc Bryan Student Services Building. Failure to follow the correct procedure for making changes in the class schedule may result in the grade of "F" being recorded for the courses involved. The deadlines for adding courses, dropping courses, or changing sections are listed in the graduate calendar in this catalog.

Grading and Credit Point System

The letters A, B, C, D, F, are used in grading to indicate the quality of a student's work: A - Excellent, B - Good, C - Fair, D - Unsatisfactory, and F - Failure. The letters AU, W, I, and R are also used: "AU" indicates that the student was enrolled in the course as an "auditor"; "W" is used to indicate that a course was dropped without penalty; "I" indicates that a portion of a course, such as a term paper or final examination, has not been completed; and the letter "R" indicates that the student registered for the master's thesis. The mark "R" gives neither credit nor grade points toward a graduate degree.

If a student needs to repeat a course or a significant portion of a course, a "W" or "F" will be assigned according to regulations governing the assignments of such grades.

Assessment Program

Assessment is conducted university-wide to measure student progress toward educational goals, to improve teaching and learning, and to evaluate institutional effectiveness. A number of instruments and techniques are used in the assessment process. In addition to the normal procedures for grading, graduate students may be asked to complete surveys, participate in focus groups, or participate in other assessment activities designed to ensure the continued improvement of the quality of learning. Additional details concerning the University's assessment efforts can be obtained by contacting the Director of Institutional Research and Assessment.

Withdrawing

To withdraw officially, the student must report to the Office of Graduate Studies and the Office of the Registrar to complete a "Withdrawal Application." Failure to follow this procedure may result in a grade of "F" being recorded.

The deadline for officially withdrawing from the University with grades of "W" is the same as the last day for dropping courses. Withdrawing after this date, which is listed in the graduate calendar in this catalog, will result in grades of "F" being recorded for the semester/term. If circumstances justify special consideration, appeals should be directed to the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Removal of "I" Grades

An "I" grade must be removed by the end of the succeeding regular semester of enrollment after the "I" is received. Beginning the first summer term, 1990, and thereafter, a grade of "I" will not be computed in the grade point average for the semester recorded; however, the "I" will automatically change to a grade of "F" and be computed in the grade point average at the end of the next regular semester (fall or spring), unless course requirements are completed and the final grade is reported before the end of the semester. A grade of "I" recorded prior to the first summer term, 1990, will be computed as an "F" in the grade point average until the "I" is removed.

An extension of the time limit or other necessary arrangements to remove an "I" will be made only if a written request for such extension is approved by the department head, graduate dean, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Repeating a Course

No graduate student may repeat a course for graduate credit except with the written permission of the advisor. The grade from such a repetition as well as the original grade will be counted in computing the grade point average.

Courses for Audit

Enrollment in courses for audit requires admission to graduate study at the University, approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and the instructor involved, and payment of the regular fee for the course. Audit will be on a "space-available" basis. Students auditing courses are subject to the same regulations as other students with regard to registration, but they do not take examinations nor receive credit for the course. Students may change from taking a course for credit to audit by following the procedure for adding and dropping courses.

Independent Study Courses

Independent study courses are intended for graduate students who have the interest and the ability to investigate in-depth a topic not covered in the graduate courses available in their major field of study. The topic, format, and specific requirements of each independent study project must be approved in writing by the supervising instructor, graduate advisor, department head, and dean prior to enrollment for independent study credit. The original copy of the independent study approval form will be kept on file in the Office of Graduate Studies as part of the student's official graduate record. A student may not enroll in an independent study course before completing twelve hours of graduate credit.

Students pursuing the Master of Education degree or the Master of Science in Education degree are advised to take EDFD 6003, Educational Research, or another approved research course before enrolling for independent study.

Limit on Workshop and Independent Study Credit

No more than six semester hours of graduate course work completed in workshops and/or independent study may be applied to the master's degree.

Incompletion of Capstone Projects

Students enrolling in capstone projects such as the action research project, the liberal arts project, or thesis will be given a grade of "R" if requirements are not completed by the end of the semester. The grade of "R" does not affect hours or grade point. Students receiving the grade of "R" will be required to enroll in the course the following semester(s) until the requirements are completed.

Academic Probation and Dismissal

A student admitted unconditionally or a student who has been admitted to candidacy will be considered on probation for the following semester if the cumulative grade point average drops below 3.00. If the semester grade point average for the following semester is 3.00 or greater and the cumulative grade point average is 3.00 or greater, the student will be removed from probation. If the cumulative grade point average remains below 3.00, the student will be continued on probation. A student on probation having a semester grade point average below 3.00 for the following semester will be subject to suspension from Graduate Studies.

A student who is admitted conditionally or on a non-degree basis will be subject to suspension from Graduate Studies after attempting 12 semester hours with less than a 3.00 grade point average.

A student who has been admitted to candidacy but does not have a 3.00 grade point average at the time of completing the minimum number of hours required by the degree program may submit no more than six additional hours in an attempt to attain a grade point average of 3.00. A maximum of six hours of courses with grades of "C" may be applied to degree requirements. Grades below "C" will not be counted toward meeting degree requirements. A student may not submit more than six hours above the total number of hours required for the program to reach the 3.00 grade point average. All graduate courses taken will be considered in the computation of the grade point average.

A student suspended from Graduate Studies may apply for readmission after one year. Reinstatement to graduate studies will not necessarily mean reinstatement to a particular graduate program.

Appeals Procedures

Appeal procedures of academic grades or academic program dismissal are found in the Student Handbook. In the case of graduate students, the school dean will be the graduate dean. Other types of appeals not solved at the instructor or departmental level should be referred to the graduate dean.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 assures confidentiality of education records containing information directly related to a presently enrolled student, a former student, or alumni.

The institution, according to the Act, may make public "directory information" about a student, e.g., name, address, e-mail address, date and place of birth, telephone listings, attendance, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, and the previous educational agency or institution attended.

A request to suppress from public distribution the above mentioned information must be made in writing annually, to the Vice President for Student Services, no later than September 15 of the academic year for which the information is being made public. Further information may be obtained from the Student Services Office.

Graduation Requirements

Candidacy

Graduate students admitted unconditionally shall apply for candidacy to the selected degree program upon completion of twelve credit hours. Students admitted conditionally cannot apply for candidacy until all conditions assigned at the time of admission to graduate study have been removed. Failure to apply for candidacy will result in a hold being placed upon the student's records. A petition to remove a hold must be addressed to the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Application for Graduation

In addition to satisfying all degree requirements, a candidate for a degree must file an "Application for Graduation" at the Registrar's Office. THIS MUST BE DONE THE FIRST WEEK OF THE SEMESTER/TERM IN WHICH THE DEGREE WORK IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED OR YOU WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO GRADUATE THAT SEMESTER. If a student applies for graduation but fails to satisfy graduation requirements, the student must reapply and pay an additional diploma fee.

Commencement

The University confers degrees at commencement, which is held in May and December of each year. No degree is conferred except at these times. The candidate is expected to be present at commencement for the conferral of the degree unless written authorization to graduate in absentia is granted by the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Absentia Graduation

Requests to graduate in absentia must be in writing and should be forwarded to the Dean of Graduate Studies at least two weeks prior to the scheduled graduation date. Graduate students who have been approved to graduate in absentia will receive their diplomas by mail after the actual conferral of the degrees.

Master's Thesis

Candidates who prepare a thesis in partial fulfillment of the requirement for a master's degree must exhibit the capabilities of gathering, organizing, evaluating, and reporting data which are pertinent to the topic of investigation.

All theses must be written in accordance with the guidelines set forth in the thesis writing guide "Instructions for the Preparation of the Master's Thesis." This guide may be obtained at the Office of Graduate Studies or the candidate's major department.

The candidate's thesis committee will be appointed by the program director in consultation with the student's department head. Once the general area of research is determined through conference with the advisor(s), the student begins the process necessary for preparation of the thesis. Under the direction of the committee, the student prepares and submits a thesis plan for approval to the Dean of Graduate Studies via the program director.

The thesis may be completed at any time after the student has been admitted to candidacy for the degree. However, the thesis committee must receive the thesis at least six weeks before the degree is to be conferred. The final copies of the thesis and abstract, in acceptable form, along with a report of the oral examination, must be filed with the Dean of Graduate Studies by the close of the work day but no later than two weeks prior to the date of graduation.

Two copies of the thesis are required. The first copy is for the library; the second copy is for the major department. Additionally, a third copy may be submitted if the student would like a bound copy for personal retention. The cost of thesis binding will be borne by the student. Authentic signatures (not photocopies) by each member of the student's advisory committee are required on each approval sheet submitted with the thesis.

Each candidate shall prepare a thesis abstract of not more than 350 words. Three copies of the abstract will be submitted with the two copies of the thesis. If three copies of the thesis are submitted, an additional copy of the abstract will be needed.

An oral defense of the thesis is required. It will be conducted by the thesis committee. The Dean of Graduate Studies will be notified by the committee, in writing, when the student has passed the oral defense. The oral defense of the thesis must be passed at least three weeks before the degree is conferred.

Degree Completion Requirements

1. Obtain from the University an official statement of admittance to graduate study.

2. Develop a planned program of studies (including determined prerequisites) under supervision of designated faculty advisor, with any subsequent modifications approved by advisor and department head.

3. Apply for admission to candidacy after completion of 12 hours.

4. Complete course work for the degree.

5. Successfully complete a thesis, portfolio, comprehensive exam, or research project as set forth in this catalog.

6. Submit an "Application for Graduation" form accompanied by the payment of graduation fee. This must be done during the first week of the semester or term in which the degree work is to be completed.

7. Complete the degree within six years from the time unconditional or conditional admission to the program was granted.

8. See specific degree programs for special requirements.

Master of Education and
Master of Science in Education

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission to the Master of Education or Master of Science in Education degree program must submit a completed application form and request each college which they have attended to send complete official transcripts (undergraduate and graduate) directly to the Graduate Studies Office.

Unconditional Admission

Applicants must meet the admission requirements of Graduate Studies.

Conditional Admission

Applicants who fail to meet the grade point criteria specified for unconditional admission may be admitted to earn a maximum of twelve semester hours. To remove this condition, the student must earn a "B" average on the first twelve hours of graduate work attempted at Arkansas Tech University. Applicants who have satisfactory academic records at unaccredited colleges are also eligible for admission under these conditions, although in some instances transcripts might be declared deficient. In such cases the applicants would be assessed a maximum of thirty hours to be completed before being admitted to graduate study.

Academic Advisors

The academic advising process for degree students begins at the time that the student is admitted to graduate study. When the student is admitted, the student's department head invites him/her to come for an advising and orientation session at the student's earliest convenience. When the student meets with the department head, he/she is given an orientation, a master's degree program check-off list (outlines all major steps in completing the degree), and a degree plan outline (list of courses to be completed). This initial advising session ensures that the student is informed of all degree requirements, policies, and procedures; is familiar with the department and the department head; and is assigned to an advisor (usually the department head). Subsequently, the academic advisor and the Office of Graduate Studies monitor the student's progress as they progress through the program.

The graduate academic advisor is responsible for:

1. Helping the student plan a balanced program of graduate work adapted to the student's particular interests, needs, and abilities;

2. Advising and assisting the student during the completion of the requirements for the degree;

3. Assisting the student in preparing a thesis or action research project;

4. Ensuring that the student is aware of assistance and services provided for graduate students by the various University offices.

Admission to Candidacy

Students who have been granted conditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy for the degree upon the completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average and completion of all deficiencies. Students who have been granted unconditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy upon completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average. Students who do not submit an "Application for Admission to Candidacy" prior to the end of the semester in which the student becomes eligible will not be allowed to register for subsequent graduate classes.

General Requirements

1. Thirty-six semester hours must be completed, 18 of which must be at the 6000 level.

2. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller's Analogy Test (MAT) must be completed and official scores on file in the Office of Graduate Studies.

3. A core requirement in professional education (at least 18 semester hours) must be completed.

4. An approved thesis or action research project must be successfully completed.

5. A cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00 must be achieved in all graduate work attempted at Arkansas Tech University, with a maximum of 6 hours of "C" grades. A student receiving 6 hours of "C" grades or 3 hours of "F" grades is subject to dismissal from the graduate program. Grades lower than "C" will not be counted toward degree requirements.

6. Twenty-seven hours of graduate work must be taken while in residence at Arkansas Tech University. Full-time residence is not required.

7. The master's degree program must be completed within six years from the time of unconditional or conditional admission to the graduate program.

8. For the Master of Education degree, work counting toward the requirements for one master's degree may not be applied toward requirements for another master's degree. For the Master of Science in Education in gifted education, a maximum of six semester hours from another master's degree may be transferred, provided that the course(s) is an appropriate substitute for a course(s) offered by Arkansas Tech University.

Special Conditions of Graduate Credit
Graduate Credit Taken Prior to Admission to Arkansas Tech University

A maximum of nine semester hours of graduate credit with a grade point average of "B" or better may be transferred from an accredited graduate school if deemed appropriate to the graduate program by the head of the student's major department and the Dean of Graduate Studies. Students must send a written request to the head of their major department to petition an acceptance of the transfer credit prior to requesting admission to candidacy to the graduate program. Graduate credit earned six years prior to the completion date of all degree requirements may not be applied toward the degree without the approval of the appropriate department head and the Dean of Graduate Studies. Credits earned by correspondence courses or for remedial purposes will not apply toward the graduate degree. No undergraduate course may be repeated for graduate credit.

Graduate Credit Taken After Admission to Arkansas Tech University

If after admission to graduate study at Arkansas Tech, a student wishes to take a course at another institution to count toward degree requirements at Arkansas Tech, the student must (in advance of enrollment) obtain written approval from the head of the student's major department and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Action Research Project

All candidates for a M.ED. or M.S.E. degree must complete an action research project related to their major/specialization. Under unusual circumstances, a written comprehensive exam may be used to replace the action research project. Any request for this substitution should be made to the program director.

Master of Education
Elementary Education

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the Master of Education degree with a major in elementary education must complete the 36-semester-hour degree program which includes an 18-semester-hour professional education core curriculum, 12 semester hours in elementary education, and 6 semester hours of electives.

Professional Education Core Requirements
RESEARCH AND STATISTICS EDFD 6003 Educational Research	3 hours
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN EDFD 6313 Principles of Curriculum Development	3 hours
HUMAN RELATIONS AND MANAGEMENT EDFD 6203 Supervision of Instruction OR EDFD 6503 Classroom and Behavioral Management	3 hours
INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES EDFD 6053 The At-Risk Child in the School Environment	3 hours
FOUNDATIONS/INSTRUCTIONAL ISSUES/GLOBAL STUDIES EDFD 6043 Current Issues in Human Learning EDFD 6403 Social and Historical Factors in Education ELED 6996 Thesis Research (for students selecting thesis option)	6 hours
Elementary Education Core Requirements
ELED 6523 Survey of Research in Elementary Education	3 hours
Selected courses in elementary education	9 hours
Electives	6 hours
Total	36 hours

Master of Education
Secondary Education

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the Master of Education degree with a major in secondary education must complete the 36-semester-hour degree program which includes an 18-semester-hour core curriculum and 18 semester hours in an area of specialization.

Professional Education Core Requirements
The professional knowledge core is designed to provide the teacher with graduate work in five areas of professional knowledge: research and statistics, curriculum and instructional design, human relations and management, individual differences, and foundations/instructional issues/global studies. The student must take one course from each area with the exception of the instructional issues and foundations area, from which two courses are required. The secondary education major electing to write a thesis will complete SEED 6993 as one of the two courses required for instructional issues and foundations.
RESEARCH AND STATISTICS EDFD 6003 Educational Research	3 hours
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN EDFD 6313 Principles of Curriculum Development	3 hours
HUMAN RELATIONS AND MANAGEMENT EDFD 6203 Supervision of Instruction OR EDFD 6503 Classroom and Behavioral Management	3 hours
INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES EDFD 6053 The At-Risk Child in the School Environment	3 hours
FOUNDATIONS/INSTRUCTIONAL ISSUES/GLOBAL STUDIES EDFD 6043 Current Issues in Human Learning EDFD 6403 Social and Historical Factors in Education SEED 6993 Thesis Research (for students selecting thesis option)	6 hours
Total	18 hours

Secondary Education English

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the Master of Education degree with a specialization in English must complete 18 semester hours in English and 18 semester hours in education.

English Core Requirements
ENGL 6013 Structure of the English Language
ENGL 6033 Rhetoric
ENGL 6993 Thesis Research1
English Electives - 6 - 12 semester hours

Professional Education Core Requirements
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDFD 6313 Principles of Curriculum Development
EDFD 6203 Supervision of Instruction OR
EDFD 6503 Classroom and Behavioral Management
EDFD 6053 The At-Risk Child in the School Environment
EDFD 6043 Current Issues in Human Learning
EDFD 6403 Social and Historical Factors in Education
SEED 6993 Thesis Research2

1Thesis option only.

2For thesis option only. If thesis option is selected, EDFD 6043 or 6403 would not be required.

Secondary Education Instructional Technology

The Master of Education degree with a specialization in instructional technology is designed for candidates working toward a degree in the general field of instructional technology or for candidates with valid Arkansas teacher certification seeking Arkansas certification as School Library Media Specialists (Ten-Year Certificate). Entrance into the instructional technology program does not require teacher certification.

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the Master of Education degree with a specialization in instructional technology must complete 36 hours of graduate-level course work that includes 24 semester hours in approved educational media, library media, or computer science courses, and a minimum of 6 hours of professional education core requirements. Candidates electing to write a thesis are required to take EDMD 6993 and SEED 6993. Candidates may select a concentration for library media licensure (requires Arkansas teacher licensure), a concentration in instructional design and technology, or a general program in instructional technology. To be certified as a Library Media Specialist, after completing the master's degree, one must attain the minimum score as established by the Arkansas Department of Education on the Media Specialist-Library and Audio Visual Services specialty area section of the Praxis Programs.

Degree requirements for the Library Media specialty area:
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDFD 6993 Project in Action Research
EDMD 5033 Introduction to Instructional Technology
EDMD 6133 Production of Instructional Materials
EDMD 6233 Administration of Media Programs
EDMD 6313 Instructional Design and Product Development
EDMD 6433-6 Practicum in Educational Media 1
EDMD 6883 Workshop: Preservation of Instructional Materials OR
EDMD 6163 Internet Resources
LBMD 6003 Selection of Instructional Materials
LBMD 6013 Reference Materials in the School Library Media Center
LBMD 6023 Classification and Cataloging
LBMD 6403 Literature for Children and Adolescents

Degree requirements for Instructional Design and Technology concentration:
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDFD 6993 Action Research
EDMD 5033 Introduction to Instructional Technology
EDMD 6113 Microcomputers for Education and Training
EDMD 6133 Production of Instructional materials
EDMD 6163 Internet Resources
EDMD 6303 Survey of Instructional Media
EDMD 6313 Instructional Design and Product Development
EDMD 6513 Computer-Based Instruction
Electives: Additional instructional technology electives to meet the 36-hour degree requirement.

Degree requirements for a general program in Instructional Technology:
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDFD 6993 Action Research
EDMD 5033 Introduction to Instructional Technology
EDMD 6053 Computer Literacy
EDMD 6163 Internet Resources
EDMD 6303 Survey of Instructional Media
EDMD 6313 Instructional Design and Product Development
EDMD 6513 Computer-Based Instruction
Electives: Additional instructional technology electives to meet the 36-hour degree requirement.

Secondary Education Mathematics

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the Master of Education degree with a specialization in mathematics must complete 18 semester hours in mathematics and 18 semester hours in education.

Mathematics Core Requirements
MATH 6123 Modern Geometry
MATH 6143 Number Theory
MATH 6183 Introduction to Real Analysis
MATH 6993 Thesis Research1
Mathematics electives 6-9 semester hours2

Professional Education Core Requirements
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDFD 6313 Principles of Curriculum Development
EDFD 6203 Supervision of Instruction OR
EDFD 6503 Classroom and Behavioral Management
EDFD 6053 The At-Risk Child in the School Environment
EDFD 6043 Current Issues in Human Learning
EDFD 6403 Social and Historical Factors in Education
SEED 6993 Thesis Research3

1Thesis option only.

2If the candidate has not completed a course in the history of mathematics, MATH 5113 must be elected.

3For thesis option only. If thesis option is selected, EDFD 6043 or 6403 would not be required.

Secondary Education Physical Education

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the Master of Education degree with a specialization in physical education must complete 18 semester hours in physical education and 18 semester hours in education. Each student must complete the 9 semester hours that comprise the core requirements and complete additional physical education electives to meet the 18 semester hour requirement in physical education.

Physical Education Core Requirements
PE 6013 Principles of Physical Education
PE 6023 Curriculum Development in Physical Education
PE 6083 Research Design and Statistics in Physical Education
PE 6993 Thesis Research1

Electives:

Scientific Foundations (area of interest)
PE 6033 Exercise Physiology
PE 6053 Biomechanics
PE 6073 Exercise and Sport Behavior

Developmental Learning (area of interest)
PE 6043 Psychology of Motor Learning

Wellness Science (area of interest)
WS 6013 Wellness Concepts and Applications
WS 6023 Wellness and Fitness Program Management

Professional Education Core Requirements
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDFD 6313 Principles of Curriculum Development
EDFD 6203 Supervision of Instruction OR
EDFD 6503 Classroom and Behavioral Management
EDFD 6053 The At-Risk Child in the School Environment
EDFD 6043 Current Issues in Human Learning
EDFD 6403 Social and Historical Factors in Education
SEED 6993 Thesis Research2

1For thesis option only.

2For thesis option only. If thesis option is selected, EDFD 6043 or 6403 would not be required.

3 Prerequisites for individual courses may be found in the course description section of this catalog.

Secondary Education Social Studies

Degree Requirements1

Candidates for the Master of Education degree with a specialization in social studies must complete 18 semester hours in social studies and 18 semester hours in education.

Social Studies Core Requirements
GEOG 6003 Political Geography
HIST 6023 Seminar in American History since 1877
HIST 6423 Seminar in European History since 1660
HIST 6993 Thesis Research2
Social Studies Electives 3-9 semester hours

Professional Education Core Requirements
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDFD 6313 Principles of Curriculum Development
EDFD 6203 Supervision of Instruction OR
EDFD 6503 Classroom and Behavioral Management
EDFD 6053 The At-Risk Child in the School Environment
EDFD 6043 Current Issues in Human Learning
EDFD 6403 Social and Historical Factors in Education
SEED 6993 Thesis Research3

1In addition to having certification in social studies and a bachelor's degree, a candidate for the Master of Education degree must meet the following undergraduate prerequisites to take graduate courses in each of the following disciplines:

American History courses - 9 semester hours in undergraduate American history

European History courses - 9 semester hours in undergraduate European history (including Western or World Civilization)

Economics courses - 6 semester hours in undergraduate economics

Geography courses - 6 semester hours in undergraduate geography

Political Science courses - 6 semester hours in undergraduate political science

Psychology courses - 6 semester hours in undergraduate psychology

Sociology courses - 6 semester hours in undergraduate sociology

2Thesis option only.

3For thesis option only. If thesis option is selected, EDFD 6043 or 6403 would not be required.

Master of Education
School Counseling and Leadership

The M.Ed. in School Counseling and Leadership is designed to prepare candidates for licensure as school counselors. The program consists of 15 hours of Leadership Core courses and 27 hours of school counseling specialty courses. Practical activities representative of situations school personnel face on a daily basis have been integrated into the coursework. The program will provide opportunities for outstanding teachers to earn Arkansas school counselor licensure.

Degree Requirements

1. A minimum of 42 semester hours must be completed, all courses must be at the 6000 level, including the following courses:

Level One Coursework -Core Courses (15 hours)
COUN 6003 School Leadership and Organization
COUN 6143 Organizational Change and the Role of School Counseling
COUN 6011 Instructional Leadership/Counseling
COUN 6152 Professional Portfolio
COUN 6133 Principles of Curriculum Development
COUN 6113 Action Research and Data Analysis for High Performing Schools

Level Two Coursework - School Counseling and Leadership (20)
COUN 6213 Developmental Counseling: Theory and Application
COUN 6233 School Counseling Programs
COUN 6254 Assessment and Career/Academic Advising
COUN 6243 Group Counseling Strategies in the Schools
COUN 6263 Teaming, Collaboration, and Advocacy
COUN 6224 Counseling Skill Development (I); Theory and Application of School Interventions

Level Three Courses - Supervised Field Experiences
COUN 6303 Counseling Skill Development II
COUN 6302/4 Internship

2. A portfolio must be successfully completed and approved by a portfolio review committee.

3. Three years of teaching experience is required for admission.

4. A written assessment followed by an interview for program admissions will be required.

5. Successful completion of a Technology Assessment within the first semester of admission to the program is required. Students will be required to take EDLD 6112 Technology Applications to meet any technology deficiencies identified through the technology assessment.

6. Students will be entered into the program as cohorts.

Master of Education
Educational Leadership

Degree Requirements

1. A minimum of thirty-eight semester hours (all at the 6000 level) must be completed, including completion of the following courses:
EDLD 6113 Action Research
EDFD 6313 Curriculum Development
EDLD 6002 Administrative Law
EDLD 6013 School Organization and Leadership
EDLD 6023 Organizational Change
EDLD 6102 School Finance
EDLD 6153 Communication With School and Community
EDLD 6203 Education and Society: Continuities and Discontinuities
EDLD 6253 Instructional Leadership
EDLD 6303 Technology as an Administrative Tool
EDLD 6352 Physical Environment of Schools
EDLD 6402 Working with the Marginal Performer
EDLD 6552/4 Administrative Internship
EDLD 6992 Independent Study

2. A portfolio must be successfully completed and approved by a portfolio review committee.

3. Course work from other institutions of higher education will only be transferred from institutions that have received program approval for a program of study reflective of the Arkansas Standards of Licensure for Building Level Principals.

4. Three years of teaching experience is required for admission.

5. Students will be entered into the program as cohorts.

Technology Requirement:
Successful completion of the technology assessment or the course
EDLD 6112 Technology Applications for the Administrator.

Portfolio

Each candidate is required to submit a portfolio for completion of requirements for the Master's Degree in Educational Leadership demonstrating evidence of a candidate's competencies required by the Arkansas Standards for Licensure for Building Administrators and the Interstate School Leaders Standards. A satisfactory portfolio is a requirement for completion of the program.

The candidate must enroll in two hours of portfolio study after completion of twenty-eight hours of course work. The portfolio is to be completed at the end of course work during the last semester of enrollment.

One copy of the portfolio is required. This copy is for the Educational Leadership Department. An oral review of the portfolio is required. The oral review will be in compliance with Arkansas licensure requirements for building principals.

Master of Education
Instructional Improvement

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the Instructional Improvement degree must complete a core of 12 hours with a minimum of two courses in each of the areas of reading, inclusion and limited English proficiency.

Professional Education Core
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDFD 6063 Educational Assessment
EDFD 6053 The At-Risk Child in the School Environment
EDFD 6313 Principles of Curriculum Development

Reading
ELED 5333 Teaching Reading and Study Strategies In the Content Area
ELED 6323 Survey of Teaching Reading OR
ELED 6343 Literacy Assessment and Intervention Inclusion
ELED 6803 Teaching the Exceptional Child
ELED 6823 Introduction to Learning Disabilities

Limited English Proficiency
ENGL 5023 Second Language Acquisition
ENGL 5703 Teaching English as a Second Language
Electives: 6 hours

Master of Education
Teaching, Learning, and Leadership

The Master of Education in Teaching, Learning and Leadership will facilitate teachers (who have completed at least three years of teaching) in engaging ongoing dialogue and study based on the integration of research, theory, and best practices. In addition to promoting the professionalization of teaching and improved professional practice, the completion of this degree will prepare teachers to be teacher leaders who have the knowledge, skills and dispositions to be mentors for new teacher inductees and colleagues, as well as marginal teachers.

Degree Requirements

1. A minimum of 36 semester hours (all at the 6000 level) must be completed, including the completion of the following courses:

Common Core Courses (17 hours)
MTLL 6003 School Organization and Leadership for Teacher Leaders
MTLL 6113 Action Research and Data Analysis for School and Classroom Use
MTLL 6123Instructional Leadership for the Master Teacher
MTLL 6133 Basic Elements of Curriculum
MTLL 6143 Organizational Change and the Role of the Master Teacher
MTLL 6152Professional Portfolio for the Master Teacher

Additional Coursework (19 hours)
MTLL 6202 Professionalization of Teaching for the Master Teacher
MTLL 6212 Communication, Advocacy, and Policy Development for the Master
Teacher
MTLL 6223 Teaching and Learning for the Master Teacher
MTLL 6232 Reflective Practice: Analysis of Teaching and Learning for the
Master Teacher
MTLL 6242 Cognitive Coaching and Mentoring for the Master Teacher
MTLL 6253 Advanced Curriculum Design Practicum for the Master Teacher
MTLL 6262 Action Research Practicum for the Master Teacher
MTLL 6271 Resource Acquisition for the Master Teacher
MTLL 6282 Evaluation of Classroom Learning for the Master Teacher

2. A portfolio must be successfully completed and approved by a portfolio review committee.

3. Three years of teaching experience are required for admission.

4. A written assessment followed by an interview for program admissions will be required.

5. Successful completion of a Technology Assessment within the first semester of admission to the program is required. Students will be required to take EDLD 6112 Technology Applications to meet any technology deficiencies identified through the technology assessment.

6. Students will be entered into the program as cohorts.

Master of Science in Education
Gifted Education

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the Master of Science in Education degree in gifted education must complete a 36-semester-hour degree program consisting of 9-12 semester hours of gifted education core requirements (which must include GTED 6893, 6896-6, Practicum in Gifted Education), 18 semester hours of professional education core requirements, and 6-9 semester hours in subject matter areas.

Gifted Education Core Requirements (9-12 hours)
Selected from graduate courses in gifted education

Professional Education Core Requirements
GTED 6993-6 Action Research
GTED 5003 Understanding the Gifted in Home, School and Community
GTED 6883 Workshop: Current Issues in Gifted Education
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDFD 6203 Supervision of Instruction

Subject Matter Requirements
Six to nine semester hours at the 6000 level to be selected from graduate courses in subject matter areas:
Language Arts/Reading/Literature
Social Studies
Natural and Physical Sciences
Mathematics and Computers
Fine and Performing Arts

Master of Science
Fisheries and Wildlife Biology

The Master of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology is offered for those who wish to pursue careers in various areas of fisheries or wildlife biology, and for those who wish to obtain a graduate degree before continuing their education at the doctoral level. The Department of Biological Sciences offers the M.S. degree with the option of selecting a concentration of study in either fisheries or wildlife science.

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission to the M.S. degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology must submit the following to the Office of Graduate Studies:

1. A completed application form and official transcripts from all colleges attended.

2. Official scores for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

3. A letter of intent that addresses the applicant's interests, goals, and reasons for applying to the degree program.

4. Two letters of recommendation, using the form provided by the Office of Graduate Studies, from professors familiar with the applicant's academic ability.

Applications should be received before October 1 for enrollment the following spring semester and March 1 for enrollment the following fall semester to ensure full consideration for teaching and research assistantships. Applications for graduate assistantships are available through the Office of Graduate Studies.

Unconditional Admission

Students are eligible to apply for unconditional admission to the M.S. degree program in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology provided they:

1. Meet all general requirements for admission to graduate studies. See "Academic Information" on page24.

2. Hold a bachelor's degree in a biological science from an accredited university.

3. Have completed courses in fisheries management or wildlife management, ecology, and statistics with a minimum grade of "C".

Conditional Admission

Qualified students without the courses listed above may be accepted provided the deficiencies are made up without graduate credit. In the case of undergraduate grade point average, conditionally admitted students will be subject to the standards for graduate grade point average as listed under "Degree Requirements for the Master of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology" below.

Academic Advisors

A major advisor within the Fisheries and Wildlife Program is required. Submission of a letter to the program director by a faculty member that acknowledges willingness to serve as a student's major advisor, constitutes formal acceptance into the program. The advisor and student will select two or more qualified personnel (at least one from the Fisheries and Wildlife Program) to serve as members of the student's advisory committee.

The advisor and student should develop a program of study and have it approved by the student's advisory committee and program director within the first semester. The advisory committee will be responsible for identifying critical deficiencies in undergraduate preparation and adding courses to the program of study to compensate for these deficiencies. A proposal of thesis research developed by the student and the advisor and approved by the advisory committee and program director also is expected by the end of the first semester. The advisory committee will determine acceptability of the thesis and oral defense.

Admission to Candidacy

Students are eligible for admission to candidacy for the degree upon the completion of twelve hours of graduate work with a 3.00 grade point average and completion of all deficiencies with a minimum grade of "B". It is the student's responsibility to complete the "Application for Admission to Candidacy" form and to submit it to the director of the program.

Degree Requirements

1. A minimum of 30 semester credit hours of coursework at the graduate level must be completed, including completion of:
FW 6001. Graduate Seminar in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology
FW 6002. Research Methods I.
FW 6012. Research Methods II.
FW 6013. Population Dynamics.
An approved statistics class - 3 hours.
FW 6991-6 - 6 hours.
Approved 5000 or 6000 level elective courses - 13 hours.

2. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 must be achieved in all graduate work attempted at Arkansas Tech University. A maximum of 6 hours of "C" can be counted toward degree requirements, and a student receiving more that 6 hours of "C" or 3 hours of "D" or "F" is subject to dismissal from the program.

3. A written thesis and an oral defense of the research thesis must be approved by the advisory committee, the program director, and the graduate dean. Students must be enrolled for a minimum of 3 graduate hours during the term of the thesis defense.

4. Completion of all requirements of the degree must be accomplished within six years from the time of admission to the program.

Special Conditions of Graduate Credit
Graduate Credit Taken Prior to Admission to Arkansas Tech University

Students who are admitted to the M.S. degree program may apply up to six transfer graduate credits toward the satisfaction of degree requirements, subject to the following conditions.

1. The graduate credits must have been earned at a regionally accredited college or university.

2. Only courses with grades of "B" or "A" are eligible for transfer.

3. The transfer must be approved by the student's advisory committee, the program director, and the graduate dean.

4. Graduate credit earned six years prior to the completion date of all degree requirements may not be applied toward the degree without the approval of the program director and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Graduate Credit Taken After Admission to Arkansas Tech University

If after admission to graduate study, a student wishes to take a course at another institution to count toward degree requirements at Arkansas Tech University, the student must secure (in advance of enrollment) a letter from the Dean of Graduate Studies approving the course for use in the Arkansas Tech University program.

Master of Science
Information Technology

The Master of Science in Information Technology is a study of the hardware and software mechanisms used to implement modern information systems. It includes coverage of local-area networks, databases, operating systems, the Internet, and the web. Particular emphasis is placed on use of information systems in business and education.

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission to the Master of Science degree in Information Technology must submit a completed application form and request each college which they have attended to send complete official transcripts (undergraduate and graduate) directly to the Graduate Studies Office.

Unconditional Admission

Students are eligible to apply for unconditional admission to the Master of Science degree program in Information Technology if they meet the following requirements:

1. Applicants must meet the general requirements to Graduate Studies.

2. Applicants must have a background comparable to COMS 1403 and COMS 1203, which includes familiarity with terminology and concepts related to programming, word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. This background may be demonstrated by previous coursework, work experience, or by taking a test administered by the department of Computer and Information Science.

Conditional Admission

Applicants who fail to meet the grade point criteria for unconditional admission may be admitted to earn a maximum of twelve graduate credit hours. To remove this condition, the student must have a 3.00 grade point average after completing twelve graduate credit hours. Applicants who are lacking background in computing, computer usage, or programming must meet with an assigned advisor and determine a plan for completing deficiencies and follow that plan in completing the degree.

Academic Advisors

The MSIT Coordinator will assign a faculty advisor to each student admitted to the MSIT degree program. The advisor will assist the student in the design of a curriculum of study that leads to the fulfillment of degree requirements. Additionally, the academic advisor and the Office of Graduate Studies will monitor the student's progress. It remains, however, the student's responsibility to understand and to satisfy all degree requirements.

Admission to Candidacy

Students who have been granted conditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy for the degree upon the completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average and completion of all deficiencies. Students who have been granted unconditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy upon completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average. The student must complete the "Application for Admission to Candidacy" form and submit it to the MSIT Coordinator.

Degree Requirements

1. The completion of 36 hours of graduate work; a minimum of 18 of these hours must be at the 6000 level.

2. The satisfactory completion of the following core curriculum:
INFT 5013 Decision Support Systems
INFT 5053 Information Systems Resource Management
INFT 5123 Laws of Communications
INFT 5203 Database Systems
INFT 5303 Developing and Administering Web Sites
INFT 5703 Computer Networks

3. The satisfactory completion of one application area:
Students who wish to complete the Information Science option must take:
INFT 6203 Database Development and Administration
INFT 6303 Design of Web-Based Information Systems
INFT 6503 The UNIX Operating System
INFT 6703 Heterogeneous Networks
INFT 6993 Internship

Students who wish to complete the Instructional Technology option must take:
EDFD 6003 Educational Research
EDMD 6133 Production of Instructional Materials
EDMD 6313 Instructional Design and Product Development
EDFD 6313 Principles of Curriculum Development
EDMD 6513 Computer Based Instruction
INFT Elective

4. A cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00 in all graduate courses completed at Arkansas Tech University with a maximum of 6 hours of "C" grades.

5. A minimum of 27 hours of graduate course work completed at Arkansas Tech University.

6. Completion of all degree requirements within six years of admission into the program.

In completing the degree program the student is offered two options, one in Instructional Technology and one in Information Science. The two options share a common core of courses in Information Technology. The Instructional Technology option enables the students to complete the degree through coursework directed to showing the application of technology to instruction. The Information Science option enables the students to complete the degree through coursework that shows how to apply technology to information systems.

Special Conditions of Graduate Credit
Graduate Credit Taken Prior to Admission to Arkansas Tech University

Students who are admitted to the MSIT degree program may transfer up to nine graduate credits toward the satisfaction of degree requirements, subject to the following conditions.

1. The graduate credits must have been earned at a regionally accredited college or university.

2. Only courses with grades of "B" or "A" are eligible for transfer.

3. Certification courses are not eligible for transfer.

Graduate Credit Taken After Admission to Arkansas Tech University

If after admission to graduate study, a student wishes to take a course at another institution to count toward degree requirements at Arkansas Tech University, the student must secure approval from the MSIT Coordinator and the Dean of Graduate Studies, in advance of enrollment at another institution.

Master of Arts
English

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission to the Master of Arts in English degree program must submit a completed application form and must arrange for complete and official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work to be sent directly to the Arkansas Tech University Graduate Office.

Unconditional Admission

Students are eligible to apply for unconditional admission to the Master of Arts degree program if they meet the requirements for admission to Graduate Studies.

Conditional Admission

Applicants who fail to meet the grade point criteria specified for unconditional admission may be admitted to earn a maximum of twelve semester hours. To remove this condition, students must earn a cumulative 3.00 grade point average on the first twelve hours of graduate work attempted at Arkansas Tech University.

Applicants who have satisfactory academic records at unaccredited colleges are also eligible for admission under these conditions, although in some instances transcripts might be declared deficient. In such cases the applicants will be assessed a maximum of thirty hours to be completed before being admitted to graduate study.

Academic Advisors

The Head of the Department of English will assign a faculty advisor to each student admitted conditionally or unconditionally to the M.A. degree program. The advisor will assist the student in the design of a curriculum of study that leads to the fulfillment of degree requirements. Subsequently, the academic advisor and the Office of Graduate Studies monitor the student's progress. It remains, however, the student's responsibility to understand and to satisfy all degree requirements.

Admission to Candidacy

Students who have been granted conditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy for the degree upon the completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average and completion of all deficiencies. Students who have been granted unconditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy upon completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average. It is the student's responsibility to complete the "Application for Admission to Candidacy" form and to submit it to the director of the program. The form is to be submitted upon the completion of twelve hours of graduate work.

Degree Requirements

1. The completion of at least 30 semester hours of graduate course work, at least 15 semester hours at the 6000-level, including the following courses:
ENGL 6003 Introduction to English Graduate Study
English Electives 21-27 hours
Thesis option- at least 6 hours must be 6000 level
Non-Thesis option - at least 12 hours must be 6000 level
Master's Thesis
ENGL 6993 Thesis Research OR
ENGL 6996 Thesis Research 1-6 hours

2. The satisfactory completion of ENGL 6003 Introduction to English Graduate Study.

3. The satisfactory completion of 27 semester hours of graduate English electives (non-thesis option), or 21 semester hours and 6 hours of ENGL 6993 Thesis Research or ENGL 6996 Thesis Research (thesis option).

4. The satisfactory completion of a comprehensive examination based on the M.A. in English Examination Reading List.

5. The maintenance of a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00 in all graduate work attempted at Arkansas Tech University with a maximum of 6 hours of "C" grades.

6. The completion of a minimum of 24 semester hours of graduate course work in residence at Arkansas Tech University. Full-time residence is not required.

7. The completion of all degree requirements within six years of admission to the program.

Special Conditions of Graduate Credit
Graduate Credit Taken Prior to Admission to Arkansas Tech University

Students who are admitted to the M.A. degree program may apply up to six transfer graduate credits toward the satisfaction of degree requirements, subject to the following conditions.

1. The graduate credits must have been earned at a regionally accredited college or university.

2. Only courses with grades of "B" or "A" are eligible for transfer.

3. Graduate credit earned six years prior to the completion date of all degree requirements may not be applied toward the degree without the approval of the Head of the Department of English and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

4. A maximum of six hours from another master's degree may be applied toward M.A. degree requirements.

Graduate Credit Taken After Admission to Arkansas Tech University.

If after admission to graduate study, a student wishes to take a course at another institution to count toward degree requirements at Arkansas Tech University, the student must secure (in advance of enrollment) a letter from the Dean of Graduate Studies approving the course for use in the Arkansas Tech University program.

Master's Thesis Option

Students who elect the thesis option will work with a faculty advisor to prepare a thesis plan. After this thesis plan is approved by the Head of the Department of English and the Dean of Graduate Studies, the student may enroll for thesis credit. Students may complete their theses over two semesters by enrolling twice in ENGL 6993 Thesis Research or complete their theses in a single semester while enrolled in ENGL 6996.

Master of Arts
History

The Master of Arts in History is designed to provide advanced historical study for students who plan eventually to pursue the doctoral degree in history as well as for those who intend to pursue careers in teaching, law journalism, business, government, public service, or the private sector.

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission to the Master of Arts in History must complete and submit an application form and must arrange for complete and official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work to be sent directly to the Office of Graduate Studies.

Unconditional Admission

1. Applicants must meet the admission requirements for Graduate Studies.

2. Applicants must have a minimum of 24 semester hours in history at the undergraduate level.

3. Applicants must have a 3.00 grade point average on a 4.0 scale and acceptable scores on the GRE.

Conditional Admission

Applicants who meet either the grade point or the GRE requirement may be admitted conditionally by the Graduate Committee to earn a maximum of twelve semester hours. To remove this condition, the student must take and make an acceptable score on the GRE and must earn a "B" average on the first twelve hours of graduate work attempted a Arkansas Tech University with no grade lower than "C".

Applicants who have satisfactory academic records at unaccredited institutions or who have not completed 24 hours of undergraduate work in history are also eligible for admission under these conditions. In such cases, the applicants may be assessed appropriate hours to remove deficiencies to be completed before being admitted to graduate study.

Academic Advisors

An incoming graduate student will be assigned a faculty advisor who specializes in the general field of the student's interest to clarify degree requirements and to discuss long- and short-term goals. Eventually, the student will be encouraged to select an advisor in a specific concentration who will help the student prepare for comprehensive examinations or thesis. The four areas of concentration are Modern Europe (Renaissance to the Present), United States to 1865, United States Since 1865, and Regional Studies.

Admission to Candidacy

Students who have been granted conditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy for the degree upon submission of an acceptable score on the GRE, resolution of all deficiencies, and the completion of twelve hours with a minimum grade point average of 3.00 and no grade lower than "C". Students who have been granted unconditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy upon completion of twelve hours with a minimum grade point average of 3.00 and no grade lower than "C".

It is the student's responsibility to complete the "Application for Admission to Candidacy" form and to submit it to the director of the program. The form is to be submitted upon completion of twelve hours of graduate work.

Degree Requirements

1. A minimum of 30 graduate hours in history including the following courses:

HIST 6003 Historiography and Methods	3 hours
Readings	6 hours
Seminars	6 hours
Electives	9 hours
Thesis (Course work for non-thesis option)	6 hours

2. A cumulative grade point average of 3.00 on all graduate work with no grade lower than a "C".

3. Satisfactory completion of a thesis, or for the non-thesis option, satisfactory completion of written comprehensive examinations in three of four areas of concentration to include European history and two areas of U.S. History.

4. Completion of all degree requirements within six years of admission to the degree program.

Special Conditions of Graduate Credit
Graduate Credit Taken Prior to Admission to Arkansas Tech University

Students who are admitted to the M.A. degree program may apply up to six transfer graduate credits toward the satisfaction of degree requirements, subject to the following conditions.

1. The graduate credits must have been earned at a regionally accredited college or university.

2. Only courses with grades of "B" or "A" are eligible for transfer.

3. Graduate credit earned six years prior to the completion date of all degree requirements may not be applied toward the degree without the approval of the program director and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

4. A maximum of six hours from another master's degree may be applied toward M.A. degree requirements.

Graduate Credit Taken After Admission to Arkansas Tech University

If after admission to graduate study, a student wishes to take a course at another institution to count toward degree requirements at Arkansas Tech University, the student must secure (in advance of enrollment) a letter from the Dean of Graduate Studies approving the course for use in the Arkansas Tech University program.

Master of Arts
Multi-Media Journalism

The Master of Arts in Multi-Media Journalism is a program designed to prepare students for careers in media being transformed by developing new technologies. The program provides students with traditional journalistic writing skills adapted to the digital age. It also teaches the requisite theory and research methods to enable graduates to be ethical, informed users of online data bases for news gathering as well as video graphics and other technologies for electronic media delivery.

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission to the program must complete and submit an application form and arrange for complete and official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work to be sent directly to the Arkansas Tech University Office of Graduate Studies.

Unconditional Admission

1. Applicants must meet admission requirements for Graduate Studies.

2. Applicants must have completed the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) and have scores on file in the Office of Graduate Studies.

3. Applicants must present a 500 word writing sample to the Director of the Multi-Media Journalism Program.

Conditional Admission

Applicants who fail to meet the grade point requirement specified for unconditional admission may be admitted conditionally to enroll for a maximum of twelve semester hours. If a cumulative 3.00 grade point average is achieved at the completion of twelve hours, the student will be granted unconditional admission.

An applicant who satisfies the grade point requirements at an unaccredited college may also be granted conditional admission. In some instances, transcripts may be judged to be deficient and the student will be required to complete supplemental undergraduate or graduate hours in addition to graduate credits required for the degree.

Academic Advisors

The director of the program will assign a faculty advisor to each student admitted to the degree program. The advisor will assist the student in the design of a curriculum of study that leads to the fulfillment of degree requirements. Subsequently the academic advisor, the Department Graduate Committee, and the Office of Graduate Studies monitor the student's progress as they progress through the program. It remains, however, the student's responsibility to understand and to satisfy all degree requirements.

Admission to Candidacy

Students who have been granted conditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy for the degree upon the completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average and completion of all deficiencies. Students who have been granted unconditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy upon completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average. It is the student's responsibility to complete the "Application for Admission to Candidacy" form and to submit it to the director of the program. The form is to be submitted upon the completion of twelve hours of graduate work.

Degree Requirements

1. The completion of a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate work including the following courses:

SPH 5003 Human Communication Theory	3 hours
SPH 5153 Persuasive Theory & Audience Analysis	3 hours
JOUR 5163 Advanced Photography and Video	3 hours
JOUR 6053 Media and Society	3 hours
JOUR 6133 Multi-Media Publishing	3 hours
JOUR 6193Journalistic Writing for Multi-Media	3 hours
Electives1	6 hours
JOUR 6996 Professional Project	6 hours

1Electives may be chosen from the following Journalism or Information Technology courses.
JOUR 5083 New Communication Technology
JOUR 5123 Laws of Communication
JOUR 5193 Communication Research Methods
JOUR 5243 Journalism Writing Seminar
INFT 5203 Database Systems
INFT 5303 Developing and Administering Web Sites
INFT 5703 Computer Networks

2. A cumulative grade point average of 3.00 on all graduate work with no grade lower than a "C".

3. Satisfactory completion of the professional project.

4. Completion of all degree requirements within six years of admission to the degree program.

Special Conditions of Graduate Credit
Graduate Credit Taken Prior to Admission to Arkansas Tech University

Students who are admitted to the M.A. degree program may apply up to six transfer graduate credits toward the satisfaction of degree requirements, subject to the following conditions.

1. The graduate credits must have been earned at a regionally accredited college or university.

2. Only courses with grades of "B" or "A" are eligible for transfer.

3. Graduate credit earned six years prior to the completion date of all degree requirements may not be applied toward the degree without the approval of the program director and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

4. A maximum of six hours from another master's degree may be applied toward M.A. degree requirements.

Graduate Credit Taken After Admission to Arkansas Tech University

If after admission to graduate study, a student wishes to take a course at another institution to count toward degree requirements at Arkansas Tech University, the student must secure (in advance of enrollment) a letter from the Dean of Graduate Studies approving the course for use in the Arkansas Tech University program.

Master of Arts
Spanish

The Master of Arts degree in Spanish is designed to provide students with advanced studies in Spanish language, literature, and culture with special emphasis on contemporary Latin American studies.

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission to the program must complete and submit an application form and arrange for complete and official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work to be sent directly to the Arkansas Tech University Office of Graduate Studies.

Unconditional Admission

1. Applicants must hold a B.A. in Spanish.

2. Applicants must be proficient in Spanish. Advisors will assess Spanish proficiency.

3. Applicants must have a 3.00 grade point average on a 4.00 scale in Spanish.

Conditional Admission

Applicants who fail to meet the grade point requirement specified for unconditional admission may be admitted conditionally to enroll for a maximum of twelve semester hours. If a cumulative 3.00 grade point average or better is achieved at the completion of twelve hours, the student will be granted unconditional admission.

An applicant who satisfies the grade point requirements at an unaccredited college may also be granted conditional admission. In some instances, transcripts may be judged to be deficient and the student will be required to complete supplemental undergraduate or graduate hours in addition to graduate credits required for the degree.

Academic Advisors

The director of the program will assign a faculty advisor to each student admitted to the degree program. The advisor will assist the student in the design of a curriculum of study that leads to the fulfillment of degree requirements. Subsequently the academic advisor, the Department Graduate Committee, and the Office of Graduate Studies monitor the student's progress as they progress through the program. It remains, however, the student's responsibility to understand and to satisfy all degree requirements.

Admission to Candidacy

Students who have been granted conditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy for the degree upon the completion of twelve hours with grades of "B" or higher and completion of all deficiencies. Students who have been granted unconditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy upon completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average. It is the student's responsibility to complete the "Application for Admission to Candidacy" form and to submit it to the director of the program. The form is to be submitted upon the completion of twelve hours of graduate work.

Degree Requirements

1. The satisfactory completion of the following 36 semester hours of graduate work. All courses, except LA 6013, will be taught in Spanish.

Core Requirement (12 hours)
LA 6013 Introduction to Liberal Arts
SPAN 6013 Spanish Composition Through Literature
SPAN 6023 Literary Theory
SPAN 6033 Seminar in Spanish American Literature
Electives (24 hours)
SPAN 5283 Seminar in Spanish
SPAN 6016 Thesis Research
SPAN 6043 Conquest and Chronicles: Historiography and Fiction in the XVI.
Century
SPAN 6053 Spanish American Modernism, 1880-1920
SPAN 6063 Spanish American Literature and Culture in Modern Times
SPAN 6073 Spanish American Short Story
SPAN 6083 Contemporary Latin American Poetry
SPAN 6093 Latin American Novel
SPAN 6881-6 Foreign Language Workshop
SPAN 6891-4 Independent Study

Option I: 24 hours and a written comprehensive examination

Option II: 18 hours and a thesis

Option III: Students may also use 12 ESL graduate credit hours to fulfill part of their 24 elective credit hour requirements. Option III is available only to non-thesis students.

2. The satisfactory completion of 36 credit hours of graduate work (18 of which must be at the 6000 level) and a comprehensive examination, or the satisfactory completion of 30 hours of graduate work and a thesis.

3. Grades in all graduate courses must be "B" or better to be counted toward the Spanish degree.

4. The satisfactory completion of the comprehensive exam or a thesis.

5. The completion of all degree requirements within six years of admission to the degree program.

6. The completion of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) with scores on file in the Office of Graduate Studies.

Special Conditions of Graduate Credit
Graduate Credit Taken Prior to Admission to Arkansas Tech University

Students who are admitted to the M.A. degree program may apply up to six transfer graduate credits toward the satisfaction of degree requirements, subject to the following conditions.

1. The graduate credits must have been earned at a regionally accredited college or university.

2. Only courses with grades of "B" or "A" are eligible for transfer.

3. Graduate credit earned six years prior to the completion date of all degree requirements may not be applied toward the degree without the approval of the program director and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Graduate Credit Taken After Admission to Arkansas Tech University

If after admission to graduate study, a student wishes to take a course at another institution to count toward degree requirements at Arkansas Tech University, the student must secure (in advance of enrollment) a letter from the Dean of Graduate Studies approving the course for use in the Arkansas Tech University program.

Master of Liberal Arts

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission to the Master of Liberal Arts degree program must complete and submit an application form and must arrange for complete and official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work to be sent directly to the Arkansas Tech University Graduate Studies' Office.

Unconditional Admission

Students are eligible to apply for unconditional admission to the Master of Liberal Arts degree program if they meet the requirements for admission to Graduate Studies.

Conditional Admission

Applicants who fail to meet the grade point requirement specified for unconditional admission may be admitted conditionally to enroll for a maximum of twelve semester hours. If a cumulative 3.00 grade point average is achieved at the completion of twelve semester hours, the student will be granted unconditional admission.

An applicant who satisfies the grade point requirement at an unaccredited college may also be granted conditional admission. In some instances, transcripts may be judged to be deficient and the student will be required to complete up to thirty undergraduate hours in addition to graduate credits required for the degree. If a cumulative 3.00 grade point average is achieved at the completion of twelve graduate hours, the student will be granted unconditional admission.

Academic Advisors

The MLA Director will serve as faculty advisor to each student admitted conditionally or unconditionally to the MLA degree program. The advisor will assist the student in the design of a curriculum of study that leads to the fulfillment of degree requirements. Subsequently, the academic advisor and the Office of Graduate Studies monitor the student's progress as they progress through the program. It remains, however, the student's responsibility to understand and to satisfy all degree requirements.

Admission to Candidacy

Students who have been granted conditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy for the degree upon the completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average and completion of all deficiencies. Students who have been granted unconditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy upon completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average. It is the student's responsibility to complete the "Application for Admission to Candidacy" form and to submit it to the director of the program. The form is to be submitted upon the completion of twelve hours of graduate work.

Degree Requirements

1. The completion of at least 30 semester hours of graduate course work, at least 15 of which must be at the 6000 level, including the following courses:

Core Requirements1

LA 6013 Introduction to the Liberal Arts	3 hours
LA 6713 Liberal Arts Project	3 hours
Major Concentration2	12-18 hours
Courses in Related Area3	6-12 hours

2. The satisfactory completion of LA 6013, Introduction to the Liberal Arts, and 6713, Liberal Arts Project, as part of the 30-semester-hour requirement.

3. The public presentation of the project paper prepared for LA 6713.

4. The completion of a 12- to 18-semester hour major concentration of course work in one of three areas: communications (including English and linguistics), the fine arts, or social sciences. The completion of 6 to 12 hours in a related area of study.

5. A cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00 in all graduate course work attempted at Arkansas Tech University with a maximum of six semester hours of "C" grades.

6. A minimum of 24 semester hours of graduate course work completed in residence at Arkansas Tech University. (Full time residence is not required.)

7. Completion of all degree requirements within six years of admission to the program.

1LA 6013 must be taken before the completion of twelve semester hours of graduate course work. 2The major concentration areas are communications, the fine arts, and the social sciences. The advisor will approve the courses that apply to the student's MLA major.

3Courses in the related area of study will usually not belong to the major, but will be related to a dominant theme in the courses in the major and/or to the capstone project dealt with in LA 6713.

Special Conditions of Graduate Credit
Graduate Credit Taken Prior to Admission to Arkansas Tech University

Students who are admitted to the MLA degree program may apply up to nine transfer graduate credits toward the satisfaction of degree requirements, subject to the following conditions.

1. The graduate credits must have been earned at a regionally accredited college or university.

2. Only liberal arts courses, not technical or professional courses, are acceptable.

3. Only courses with grades of "B" or "A" are eligible for transfer.

Previously earned Arkansas Tech University graduate hours may be applied to the MLA so long as the course work was not of a technical or professional nature. A maximum of six hours from another master's degree may be applied toward MLA degree requirements.

Graduate credit earned six years prior to the completion date of all degree requirements may not be applied toward the degree without the approval the Dean of Graduate Studies. Credits earned by correspondence courses or for remedial purposes will not apply toward the graduate degree.

Graduate Credit Taken After Admission to Arkansas Tech University

If after admission to graduate study, a student wishes to take a course at another institution to count toward degree requirements at Arkansas Tech University, the student must secure (in advance of enrollment) a letter from the Dean of Graduate Studies approving the course for use in the Arkansas Tech University program.

Liberal Arts Project

All candidates for the MLA degree must complete LA 6713, Liberal Arts Project. The requirements for this course include a scholarly research paper that will be presented publicly. With the approval of the Dean of Graduate Studies and the MLA Director, a significant creative project may be substituted for a scholarly research paper.

Educational Specialist Degree

The Educational Specialist Degree program is based on the "value-added" concept of preparation of school leaders for district level leadership positions such as superintendent and assistant superintendent.

Degree Admission

Applicants for admission to the Educational Specialist Degree program must complete and submit an application form and must arrange for complete and official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work to be sent directly to the Arkansas Tech University Graduate Studies' Office. Applicants must also:

1. Hold a Master's degree or equivalent in Educational Leadership

2. Hold a Standard Teaching License

3. Hold an Administrative License

4. Pass a written assessment or portfolio update to be administered and/or reviewed by Educational Leadership faculty

Unconditional Admission

Students are eligible to apply for unconditional admission to the Educational Specialist degree program if they meet the requirements listed above.

Conditional Admission

Applicants who fail to meet the grade point criteria specified for unconditional admission may be admitted to earn a maximum of twelve semester hours. To remove this condition, the student must earn a "B" average on the first twelve hours of graduate work attempted at Arkansas Tech University. Applicants who have satisfactory academic records at unaccredited colleges are also eligible for admission under these conditions, although in some instances transcripts might be declared deficient. In such cases the applicants would be assessed a maximum of thirty hours to be completed before being admitted to graduate study.

Academic Advisors

The director of the CLL program will assign a faculty advisor to each student admitted to the degree program. The advisor will assist the student in the program of study that leads to the fulfillment of degree requirements. Subsequently the academic advisor, the Department Graduate Committee, and the Office of Graduate Studies monitor the student's progress as they progress through the program. It remains, however, the student's responsibility to understand and to satisfy all degree requirements.

Admission to Candidacy

Students who have been granted conditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy for the degree upon the completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average and completion of all deficiencies. Students who have been granted unconditional admission are eligible for admission to candidacy upon completion of twelve hours with a 3.00 grade point average. Students who do not submit an "Application for Admission to Candidacy" prior to the end of the semester in which the student becomes eligible will not be allowed to register for subsequent graduate classes.

Degree Requirements

1. A minimum of 30 semester hours (all at the 7000 level), including the completion of the following courses:
EDLD 7003 Seminar in Systems' Issues
EDLD 7013 Superintendency and Central Office
EDLD 7022 Building a Leadership Community
EDLD 7033 School Personnel and Business Management
EDLD 7101 Administrative Internship in Educational Facilities
EDLD 7112 Advanced Legal Issues
EDLD 7113 Seminar in Current Issues
EDLD 7122 Educational Facilities
EDLD 7132 School Finance for District Level Administration
EDLD 7143 School Accountability Systems
EDLD 7201 Administrative Internship in District Level Finance
EDLD 7202 Administrative Internship in School Accountability Systems
EDLD 7203 School Board Relations

2. A portfolio must be successfully completed and approved by a portfolio review committee.

Portfolio

A candidate for an Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership must complete a portfolio as part of the program of study for the degree of Educational Specialist. This portfolio is an edited, integrated collection of an Educational Leadership candidate's evidence that competencies reflective of the Arkansas Standards and the Interstate School Leaders Standards have been acquired. It is NOT merely a file of course projects nor is it a scrapbook of professional memorabilia. It IS a collection of a student's best work developed during his program of study. It should showcase the student's best work as an educational leadership candidate and demonstrate the student's expertise relative to the principles and standards for a district administrator. The portfolio is a collection of documents providing tangible evidence of the wide range of knowledge, dispositions, and skills possessed as a professional. The candidate's portfolio is a work in progress and should be updated regularly throughout one's program of study. It should provide evidence of the value-added concept from a Master Degree Portfolio.

Special Conditions of Graduate Credit
Graduate Credit Taken Prior to Admission to Arkansas Tech University

A maximum of nine semester hours of graduate credit with a grade point average of "B" or better may be transferred from an accredited graduate school if deemed appropriate to the graduate program by the head of the student's major department and the Dean of Graduate Studies. Students must send a written request to the head of their major department to petition an acceptance of the transfer credit prior to requesting admission to candidacy to the graduate program. Graduate credit earned six years prior to the completion date of all degree requirements may not be applied toward the degree without the approval of the appropriate department head and the Dean of Graduate Studies. Credits earned by correspondence courses or for remedial purposes will not apply toward the graduate degree. No undergraduate course may be repeated for graduate credit.

Graduate Credit Taken After Admission to Arkansas Tech University

If after admission to graduate study at Arkansas Tech, a student wishes to take a course at another institution to count toward degree requirements at Arkansas Tech, the student must (in advance of enrollment) obtain written approval from the head of the student's major department and the Dean of Graduate Studies.