Graduate Advising

As soon as you are admitted to one of our programs, you can begin registering for courses.  To assist you through the program, you can contact your advisor with questions.

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Who is my advisor?

When a student enters the program, he or she is initially advised by the graduate coordinator in the department, otherwise known as the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS).

During the second semester in the program, a student is encouraged to identify a faculty member in the department who will become his or her advisor for the duration of the program. The DGS can help you with this selection process if you have any questions.

If in doubt, the DGS is always a resource in the department for you to contact with questions you have as a graduate student in the department. Currently the DGS is:

• Dr. Dan Cronn-Mills (daniel.cronn-mills@mnsu.edu)

What courses should I take first?

Always start by registering for the required core courses in your program as soon as you can.  If you are seeking an MA, MS, or MFA, register for CMST 600, 601, and 602 as soon as possible.  If you are seeking one of the certificates, register for CMST 602, 604, and 633 as soon as possible.

How can I organize my coursework so that I know I am on track and completing the required classes?

Start by carefully reviewing the Coursework Checklist and the Paperwork Checklist for your program. Always consult with your advisor about the coursework and paperwork for your program. We have a number of graduate students in the program and each student is moving through the program at their own pace. A student should be pro-active in working with an advisor on planning out coursework and capstone project.

Coursework Checklists

• Coursework checklist for Graduate Certificate in Professional Communication (pdf)
• Coursework checklist for Graduate Certificate in Communication Education (pdf)
• Coursework checklist for Master of Science (pdf)
• Coursework checklist for Master of Arts (pdf)
• Coursework checklist for Master of Fine Arts-Forensics (pdf)

Paperwork Checklists

• Paperwork checklist for MA/MS Programs (pdf)
• Paperwork checklist for MFA Program (pdf)
• Paperwork checklist for Certificate Programs (pdf)

At what times should I make sure I am in contact with my advisor?

In your first semester, contact the DGS with any questions about the coursework you will take initially.

MA, MS, & MFA students:  In your second semester, you need to find a professor to serve as advisor for your capstone project. Discuss your capstone project ideas with a few professors until you find one who is available and willing to work with you as an advisee.  You will then need to remain in close contact with your advisor as you complete your capstone project and prepare for graduation.

Certificate students: Discuss advisor options with the DGS, and make sure you have this conversation in the first semester within the program.