Cali Academic FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Academic Advice and Support

Who will help me plan my course load?

  • You will be assigned an advisor who is knowledgeable about your concentration and particular interests.  Your advisor will be listed in Degree Works.
  • Undergraduate Academic advisors and their respective programs/concentrations:        
  • Graduate Program Coordinators (GPC) and their respective programs:

How often and reasons to see my advisor or GPC?

  • You should consult with your advisor AT LEAST once a semester preceding registration to ensure that you fulfill your requirements.  In addition, advisors offer help in many ways, such as discussing decisions regarding your academic program, connecting you to the Cali community, understanding the advantages of MSU resources, etc.

Where can I get help with registration?

  • For curricular matters and authorizations, see your advisor. If you encounter registration errors with music courses, you can use the permit request Google form to request course access.  Email Letitia or Michelle for a link.

Who is responsible for overseeing my progress in the music program?

  • It is YOUR responsibility to meet all requirements of the university and school. Your advisor will help you do this. Use the Cali School curriculum roadmaps and Degree Works to monitor your progress and also meet with your advisor to ensure on-time graduation.

How do the rules and regulations for the Cali School of Music correspond with university requirements?

  • The Cali School sets rules for meeting music curriculum requirements, summarized in the Cali Student Guide. The university sets general rules and regulations for graduation that are summarized in MSU’s undergraduate catalog online. The rules in the university catalog take effect starting your first semester and will apply to you throughout your university career. If there are changes while you are attending MSU—for instance, if general education course requirements are altered—such changes may not apply to you. 

How do I find out about applied music lesson requirements?

  • Applied music lessons are required for all undergraduate programs and most graduate programs, as noted in your curriculum roadmap and DegreeWorks.  Undergraduates register for MUSI 499; graduates for MUSI 599.  

Can I apply for a double major in music?

  • No, a double major is not possible. See your advisor to discuss other options.

May I change my degree program within the school of music?

Yes. To obtain approval to change from one concentration to another:

  1. Meet with faculty advisors in your current concentration and in the one you wish to enter. These meetings will help you clarify your reasons for changing and assess your potential for entering a new concentration.  Keep your academic advisor informed.
  2. Requirements for entering a new concentration:
    • Performance — Audition 
    • Music Education or Music Therapy — Interview 
    • Theory/Composition — Portfolio review and interview
    • Recording Arts and Production — Portfolio review and interview
  3. If accepted, your concentration will be changed after the semester ends.

How can I change my major to something other than music?

You should discuss the change with your current academic advisor and with advisors in your new major to assure a smooth transition.  

May I take a leave of absence from school?

Yes, with approval. If you need to take a leave of absence please inform your academic advisor or GPC so that you, the Cali School and the university can plan accordingly. You will be required to submit a Leave-of-Absence request through NEST. A leave of absence may affect the timeline of your remaining coursework and graduation.

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