Being a Graduate Student

Department of Music

Graduate students at the University of Wyoming have the opportunity to develop their performing skills, research and writing skills, teaching skills, and overall musicianship through interaction with music at a more mature and artistic level than was possible as an undergraduate. Graduate students are expected to model standards for professional behavior and a high level of musicianship in the studio and ensembles and in all interactions with faculty and student colleagues.

What does a Graduate Assistant do?

Graduate Assistants help faculty members teach undergraduate classes. Duties will differ in each class, but are likely to involve lecturing, applied teaching, administrative duties, grading, tutoring, and demonstrating. All duties are performed under the supervision of the faculty member. A student with a full assistantship will be assigned 18 clock hours of responsibilities each week.

GA Application

How will I be mentored?

Students are mentored by their studio teacher and other faculty members. This mentoring relationship is one of the most beneficial aspects of the graduate experience. Both student and faculty member will work to establish a positive, professional relationship, and will be guided in this process via presentations offered through the Music Department Graduate Studies program.

Comprehensive Exams and Plan B Project

All graduate students will take comprehensive exams and submit a Plan B project, in the form of either a research document or a Lecture-Recital, near the end of their last semester. 

Graduate Recital

Performance majors will perform a graduate recital under the direction of their studio teacher. Complete information is available in the Graduate Handbook.

Graduate Seminars

The Graduate Student Seminar Series offers monthly presentations on a wide variety of topics relevant to the Graduate Program. This is a new service to graduate students to assist in furthering their success at the University, helping with Graduate Assistant issues, enhancing their career goals, and helping them get to know other graduate students in music.

What is next after I graduate?

Advanced Degrees

 

Consult with your applied teacher or advisor about your suitability and interest in graduate degrees. The Graduate Student Seminar Series will offer extensive guidance in this area as well.

Performing Career

 

Consult with your applied teacher about performing possibilities in the region and nationally.

Teaching

 

Opportunities exist for those with a music education degree and teacher certification to teach in public and private schools. Many graduate students teach private lessons and are involved with programs such as the Wyoming String Academy.

Professional Teaching Associations:

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Questions?

Dr. Erik Erlandson, Graduate Studies Coordinator
PA 2013 | (307) 766-5242 | eerlands@uwyo.edu
Responsible for Graduate Advising, Graduate Assistant Assignments, arranging and promoting the Graduate Student Seminar Series, and coordinating Comprehensive Exams.

Dr. Ben Markley, Department Chair
PA 2047 | (307) 766-5242 | bmarkley@uwyo.edu