Graduate Diagnostics

Graduate Music Diagnostic Exams

As part of the Master of Music (M.M.) degree program at Sam Houston State University, all incoming graduate students must complete the Graduate Music Diagnostic Exam before their first semester of study. These exams assess expertise in music history and theory. For vocal performance and choral conducting students, additional evaluation will be included on foreign language and diction.

Why Are These Exams Required?

  • Assess Your Readiness – Ensure you have the foundational knowledge to succeed in graduate-level coursework.
  • Identify Areas for Growth – Receive guidance on topics that may require additional study or remediation.
  • Meet Program Requirements – The exams must be completed before scheduling your M.M. comprehensive oral exam.

Exam Details

  • When? Exams are typically administered the week before fall classes begin.
  • Where? Exam details, including dates and locations, will be sent via email.
  • Who is required? All M.M. students (except those pursuing a Performer’s Certificate or Artist Diploma).

Graduate Music History Diagnostic Exam

This exam evaluates your knowledge of major historical developments, time periods, composers, genres, forms, and musical styles from (c. 1580) to 1970, based on the textbook:
Burkholder, J. Peter, Donald J. Grout, and Claude V. Palisca. A History of Western Music (10th ed.)

What to Expect:

  • Format: 50 multiple-choice and short-answer questions (randomly selected from a 200-question test bank).
  • Passing Score: 80% (40 correct answers out of 50).
  • Preparation: A study guide PDF with sample questions and answer keys will be provided.

Retaking the Exam

  • Students who do not pass can retake the exam twice within their first year.
  • The exam must be passed before scheduling the M.M. comprehensive oral exam.
  • To schedule a retake or for questions, contact:
    Mario Aschauer (mxa072@shsu.edu) or Dr. Lesley Hughes (llh036@shsu.edu).

Music History Study Guide

Graduate Music Theory Diagnostic Exam

This 2-hour exam assesses key undergraduate music theory concepts, including:

  • Music Fundamentals (major and minor scales, major and minor key signatures, intervals, time signatures (simple and compound)
  • Harmony & Analysis (iatonic and chromatic harmony, Roman numerals, chordal qualities and inversions)
  • Part-Writing & Analysis (figured bass/4-voice part writing; and phrase/periodic analysis)

Recommended Study Resource: Tonal Harmony, 8th Edition (Kostka, Payne, Almen), Chapters 1-25.

What Happens if I Don’t Pass?

Students who do not pass must take a remediation course and earn a B or higher before enrolling in the Analytical Techniques course (offered in the spring semester).

Music Theory Study Guide

Graduate Diction Diagnostic Exam

(Vocal Performance & Choral Conducting Only)

This exam evaluates pronunciation and articulation in four languages:
Italian, English, German, and French. Each section will test your knowledge on the IPA and pronunciation rules specific to each language. A passing grade of 80% is required for each portion of the exam. Students can retake any failed section after additional preparation.

Recommended Study Resources:

  • "A Handbook of Diction for Singers" (David Adams) – Covers Italian, French, and German pronunciation.
  • "Singing and Communicating in English" (Katheryn LaBoeuf) – Focuses on English diction for vocalists.

Preparing for Your Exams

  • Review study materials in advance to ensure readiness.
  • Check your email for exam schedules and important updates.
  • Reach out to faculty if you have questions or need clarification.

These exams are a critical step in your graduate music education at SHSU. Ensuring that you meet these requirements early will help you focus on advancing your studies and preparing for success in your academic and professional career.

For additional questions, contact the SHSU School of Music Graduate Office.