UNDERGRADUATE HANDBOOK

2021-22

music.mercer.edu

Undergraduate Handbook Page 1

To: Music Faculty and Music Students

From: Dr. David Keith, Dean

Re: Handbook

______________________________________________________________________

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to Mercer University. For 188 years, Mercer has developed a proud heritage and

tradition of excellence in higher education. This same intensity of purpose is found in Townsend

School of Music where the nurturing of solid musicianship is cultivated within a rich liberal arts

environment. This handbook has been designed as a supplement to the Mercer University

Bulletin to acquaint you with policies and guidelines of the School of Music. It serves as an aid

to students in planning their activities in the School of Music. Concerns, questions, and

challenges encountered during the process of your music study at Mercer should be addressed

first to your music faculty advisor, secondly to the Director of Undergraduate Studies, Dr.

Douglas Hill, and finally to the Dean of the Townsend School of Music, Dr. David Keith.

MERCER UNIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT

Mercer University's mission is to teach, to learn, to create, to discover, to inspire, to empower

and to serve.

In fulfilling this mission, the University supports undergraduate, graduate, and professional

learning as well as basic research and its application in service to others. As a university

committed to excellence and innovation, Mercer challenges members of its community to meet

and exceed high standards in their teaching, learning, research, scholarship and service.

Founded by Baptists in 1833, Mercer is an independent university that remains grounded in a

tradition that embraces freedom of the mind and spirit, cherishes the equal worth of every

individual, and commits to serving the needs of humankind. As a reflection of this heritage:

 We encourage our students to discover and develop fully their unique combination

of gifts and talents to become leaders who make a positive difference in the world.

 We seek to inspire members of our community to live virtuous and meaningful lives

by using their gifts and talents to serve the needs of humankind as an expression of

their love for God and neighbor.

 We seek to enrich the mind and spirit by promoting and facilitating an open and

rigorous search for truth and understanding, including an examination of the moral,

religious and ethical questions of this and every age.

 We affirm and respect the dignity and sacred worth of every person and celebrate

both our commonalities and our differences.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 2

TOWNSEND SCHOOL OF MUSIC MISSION STATEMENT

Townsend School of Music fosters excellence in musical learning within the context of a

comprehensive university environment. Undergraduate and graduate studies prepare

musicians for careers in performance, music education, church music, and musical scholarship.

As an institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music, Mercer University

assures that students receive a quality musical education from a School that has met the

recognized standards of this organization.

TOWNSEND SCHOOL OF MUSIC FACULTY

Professors: C. David Keith, Dean and Choral Conducting; Stanley L. Roberts, Associate Dean and

Choral Conducting; Douglas M. Hill, Director of Undergraduate Studies and Instrumental

Conducting/Music Education; Richard Kosowski, Director of Graduate Studies and

Voice/Opera; Montgomery Cole, Clarinet/Saxophone; Martha L. Malone, Voice/Opera; Jack

Mitchener, Organ; Amy Schwartz Moretti, Director, Robert McDuffie Center for Strings and

Violin; and Christopher Schmitz, Music Theory/Composition.

Associate Professors: Ian H. Altman, Piano; Marcus D. Reddick, Percussion; Dr. R. Timothy

McReynolds, Collaborative Piano; Dr. Nathan Gay, Director of Athletic Bands; Dr. Kyung-A

Yoo, Collaborative Piano; and Kathryn Rios, Music History.

Assistant Professors: Nathan Myrick, Church Music.

Distinguished University Professor of Music: Robert McDuffie, Violin; Distinguished Artist-in-

Residence

Visiting Artists: Richard Aaron, Cello; Julie Albers, Cello; Rebecca Albers, Viola; Victoria Chiang,

Viola; Lawrence Dutton, Viola; Annie Fullard, Violin; David Kim, Violin; Ware Stare, Orchestra

Conducting; Daniel Tosky, Double Bass; and Jeffrey Turner, Double Bass.

Senior Lecturers: Marie J. Roberts, Voice; and Kelly Via, Flute/Piccolo.

Lecturers: Theresa Alexander, Music Education; Anne Armstrong, Staff Accompanist; Jonathan

Baker, Trombone; Eric Bubacz, Tuba/Euphonium; Terence Cantwell, Guitar; Adrian Gnam,

Oboe/English Horn/Bassoon; Steve Ivey, Music Business; Janet Jarriel, Music Business; Calista

Koch, Harp; Sherry Weeks, Music Education; Gail Pollock, Piano; John Sweat, Strings;

Jonathan Swygert, Trumpet; Cynthia Smith, Staff Accompanist.

Professor Emeriti: Carolyn Goff, Professor Emerita of Collaborative Studies; and Lowen

Marshall, Charles B. Thompson Professor Emeritus of Music

Undergraduate Handbook Page 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. POLICIES

A. Music Advisors ....................................................................................................................... 5

B. Advice for Freshmen and Transfers .................................................................................... 5-6

C. Admission to Music Study/Acceptance to Music Major ..................................................... 6-8

D. Music Minor Study .............................................................................................................. 8-9

E. Applied Music Lessons/Applied Music Examinations ....................................................... 9-10

F. Solo Performance Opportunities ......................................................................................... 10

G. Recital Attendance Policy .................................................................................................... 11

H. Senior Recitals/Projects and Required Junior Recitals ................................................... 11-15

I. Recital Checklist .............................................................................................................. 15-16

J. School Accompanists: Allocation of Hours .......................................................................... 17

K. Music Scholarships/Accompanying Responsibilities/Music Scholarship Renewal ......... 17-20

L. School of Music Recital Hour ............................................................................................... 20

M. Practice Room Assignment ............................................................................................. 20-21

N. Music Technology ................................................................................................................ 21

O. School of Music Honors .................................................................................................. 21-22

P. Non-Music Majors........................................................................................................... 22-23

Q. Collegiate National Association for Music Educators (CNAfME) ......................................... 23

R. Mu Phi Epsilon ..................................................................................................................... 23

S. Ensemble Dress Rehearsal Policy ......................................................................................... 23

T. Grievance Policies and Procedures/Academic Grievances and Appeals ........................ 24-28

U. Sexual Harassment Policy .................................................................................................... 28

V. Honor System ....................................................................................................................... 28

W. Cell Phone Policy .................................................................................................................. 28

X. Access/Disability Statement ................................................................................................ 29

Y. Health and Safety Standards................................................................................................ 29

Z. Student Conduct/Mental Health and Wellness .............................................................. 29-30

II. CURRICULUM

A. Description of Degrees Offered ...................................................................................... 30-33

B. Further Requirements for Music Degrees ...................................................................... 33-34

C. Guidelines for Vocal Study .............................................................................................. 34-38

D. Guidelines for Piano Study .............................................................................................. 38-39

E. Guidelines for Organ and Harpsichord Study ................................................................. 39-41

F. Guidelines for String Study .................................................................................................. 41

G. Guidelines for Instrumental Study .................................................................................. 41-44

H. Guidelines for Music Theory Study ...................................................................................... 44

I. Guidelines for Certificate of Recognition in Music Composition ........................................ 44

J. Guidelines for Music History Study ................................................................................. 44-45

K. Guidelines for Music Education Study ............................................................................ 45-54

L. Ensembles ....................................................................................................................... 55-58

Undergraduate Handbook Page 4

III. FACILITIES

A. Guidelines for Use of McCorkle Music Building ............................................................. 58-60

B. Guidelines for Use of the Neva Langley Fickling Hall by External Organizations ........... 61-62

C. Guidelines for Use of Newton Chapel by External Organizations .................................. 62-63

IV. APPENDIX

A. Advisor/Advisee Degree Check Sheets ........................................................................... 64-72

B. School Forms:

1. Audition for Undergraduate Admission ......................................................................... 73

2. Audition for Center For Strings Undergraduate Admission ........................................... 74

3. Acceptance to Music Major ........................................................................................... 75

4. Instrumental Jury Examination Form............................................................................. 76

5. Organ Jury Evaluation Form ..................................................................................... 77-78

6. Piano Jury Evaluation Cover Sheet ................................................................................ 79

7. Piano Jury Evaluation and Comment Sheet ................................................................... 80

8. Voice Jury Evaluation Cover Sheet ................................................................................. 81

9. Voice Jury Evaluation and Comment Sheet ................................................................... 82

10. Center for Strings Jury Form .......................................................................................... 83

11. Harp Jury Evaluation Form ........................................................................................ 84-85

12. Recital/Project Request/Proposal Form ................................................................... 86-87

13. TSM Concert & Recital Livestream Request Form ......................................................... 88

14. Recital Hearing Form...................................................................................................... 89

15. Recital/Project Completion Form .................................................................................. 90

16. Recital Hour Form .......................................................................................................... 91

17. TSM Schedule Request Form ......................................................................................... 92

C. Applied Music Courses ................................................................................................... 93-94

D. Listing of Music Courses Offered .................................................................................... 95-97

V. ADDENDUM

A. Policies and Protocol Specifically Related to the SARS-COV-2 Pandemic (Fall 2020) .. 97-105

Undergraduate Handbook Page 5

I. POLICIES

A. Music Advisors

The music student will meet each term with an assigned Music faculty advisor to discuss

curriculum planning and other matters of concern to the student. It is important to realize

that it is the student’s responsibility to follow all guidelines in the Mercer University

Bulletin. The faculty advisor is provided to enhance the guidance given in the Bulletin. Every

entering first-year student intending to major in another area in addition to music must be

assigned a faculty advisor from the other College. If no advisor is assigned, the student

should immediately contact the Dean of that College to request a secondary academic

advisor in the additional area of study.

B. Advice for Freshmen and Transfers

1. Students who plan to major in music must take Music Theory (MUS 105 - 3 hours of

credit) in the fall semester in conjunction with Basic Musicianship I (MUS 111 - 1 hour of

credit) and Class Piano I (MUS 109 - 1 hour of credit, except keyboard students see No. 2

below). These students must also register for one credit hour of applied music in their

specialties (voice, wind instruments, piano, organ, etc.), and register for a large group

ensemble (MUS 182, 183, 191, 192, 197).

2. Keyboard students (piano or organ majors) should register for MUS 139

(Organ/Harpsichord Skills) or MUS 121 (Sight-reading Skills I) instead of MUS 109 since

the Class Piano I course is intended for students who have little or no experience with

piano or organ. Thus, organ students should register for MUS 139 and piano students

should register for MUS 121.

3. Given the heavy schedule of music courses, most music majors will take fewer courses

in general education during their first year. General education courses are necessarily

spread out over the four years to a greater extent than is the case for most students.

4. Transfer students who wish to be admitted to the music program must take a music

theory placement examination. Transfer credits and advanced placement credit in music

theory will be accepted contingent upon examination. This will ensure that the student

is placed in the appropriate music theory course based on ability.

5. Students must audition before enrolling for applied music lessons. Students who have

been heard by the music faculty prior to the beginning of the fall term need not audition

again. All students (majors and non-majors) enrolling in applied lessons at the beginning

of the new semester must contact the private teacher to schedule their applied lesson

time.

6. Intended music majors are required to attend a minimum of 150 recitals in order to

graduate. (See Recital Attendance Policy on page 11.)

Undergraduate Handbook Page 6

7. Intended music majors must participate in at least one major ensemble per semester

during all four years at Mercer (see I.K. Scholarship Renewal).

8. Music scholarship students must fulfill all of the requirements as stated in the letter of

scholarship notification that was signed.

9. Music students must have a responsibility first to the music program within the School

of Music over all outside performance opportunities.

10. School of Music Convocation for all music students will take place in the Fall semester

on the first Thursday of classes at 3:30 p.m. in the Neva Langley Fickling Hall in the

McCorkle Music Building. Announcements and practice room assignments will take

place at that time.

11. Transfer students entering the Townsend School of Music with greater than 30 hours of

collegiate credit (including dual enrollment students):

a. Students with two completed composition courses will be granted transfer credit for

INT 101 (4 hours), receive general elective credits (3 hours) towards graduation, and

have satisfied the MUS 120-Intro to Research and Writing in Music requirement.

Only CLA double majors are required to enroll in INT 201.

b. Students with only one composition course will be granted credit based on their

term of entry. Students entering in a summer or fall semester are required to enroll

in INT 101 in their first fall semester, and upon completing INT 101 CLA double

majors must take INT 201. They will be credited as having completed the MUS 120-

Intro to Research and Writing requirement and will be granted general elective

credits (3 hours) towards graduation. Students entering in a spring semester are

required to enroll that semester in MUS 120-Intro to Research and Writing in Music,

and upon completing that course CLA double majors must take INT 201. They will be

given transfer credit for INT 101.

c. Students who qualify as sophomores and who have not completed any composition

courses will be required to enroll in INT 101, MUS 120-Intro to Research and Writing

in Music and INT 201 if they are a CLA double major.

d. Students who qualify as juniors or seniors and who have not completed any

composition courses will be required to complete two courses with a MUS 120-Intro

to Research and Writing in Music and INT 201 if they are a CLA double major.

C. Admission to Music Study/Acceptance to Music Major

1. An applied music audition and musicianship/sight singing exam is required for incoming

students who plan to major in music. The faculty will complete an Audition for

Admission to School of Music form and, if appropriate, recommend acceptance into the

first-year sequence of music courses. Transfer students must also be examined in the

Undergraduate Handbook Page 7

following areas: music theory, musicianship, keyboard, and lyric diction (if a voice

major). The following is a list of audition requirements by area:

Voice: First-year intended voice majors must prepare two contrasting pieces, to be

performed from memory. The pieces performed should be taken from the standard

classical, traditional, sacred, or Broadway styles. All transfer students at the second-

year level of vocal study pursuing the BA or BME degrees must prepare three (3) pieces

from the standard classical repertoire: one in English, one in either: Spanish, French,

German, Italian, or Latin, and one in a foreign language other than those languages

listed above. All transfer students at the 3rd or 4th year level, and all potential voice

performance (Bachelor of Music) transfer students (2nd-4th year) must prepare five

pieces from the standard classical repertoire which include English and two or three

foreign languages. Students should bring the sheet music for their pieces with them; an

accompanist will be provided. Students will be asked to sight sing and take a music

theory placement test. After auditioning, there will be a short interview with the voice

faculty.

Winds: Students auditioning should prepare two contrasting pieces displaying both

lyrical and technical proficiency. Repertoire for an audition may include studies/etudes,

orchestral excerpts, sonatas or concerto literature. Students should prepare all major

scales/arpeggios and expect to play a short sightreading excerpt on the chosen

instrument. Students will also be asked to sight sing and take a music theory placement

exam.

Strings: Students interested in pursuing a Performance degree through the Robert

McDuffie Center for Strings should contact the Center for more information.

Piano: Pianists will perform two contrasting pieces, preferably from memory for the

audition. The following examples indicate the minimum difficulty:

Bach 2 Part Inventions

Haydn or Mozart Sonata Movement

Chopin Nocturne, Waltz, or Polonaise (Op. 26 Nos. 1 and 2)

Bartok Dances in Bulgarian Rhythm from Vol. 6 of Mikrokosmos

Schumann Scenes from Childhood, Op. 15

Students should be able to play all major and minor scales/arpeggios and will be asked

to sightread a short excerpt. Questions about appropriate repertoire should be directed

to any piano faculty member.

Organ: Applicants should prepare three pieces for the audition including a major work

of Bach as well as selections from the romantic and modern/contemporary periods.

Guitar: Candidates for guitar study should be able to play all scales, studies

corresponding in difficulty to those of Sor and Carcassi, and perform two contrasting

solo works from memory. Students will be asked to sightread and should have a

knowledge of music theory.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 8

Percussion: Percussionists should prepare a mallet solo (2 or 4 mallets) and a selection

on each of the following instruments: timpani, snare drum, and/or multiple percussion.

A drum set selection may be presented if applicable. Sight-reading will be requested on

timpani, mallets and snare drum. Students will be asked to sight sing and take a music

theory placement exam.

2. Prior to juries in the Spring Semester of the first year of study, each music student will

be reviewed by the faculty using the Acceptance to Music Major form. The applied

teacher, advisor, and music theory teacher will sign off on the form for formal

acceptance into the various music degrees available in the Townsend School of Music.

Notification of acceptance or denial will be sent to the student and advisor in May of

each academic year.

3. Voice majors will follow the guidelines found in Section II.C.8. in preparing the

repertoire specified for the second-semester “barrier” jury. Successful performance of

this repertoire at the jury is required for the voice faculty to approve the student for

acceptance to the music major/upper level study.

4. A student who wishes to pursue a Bachelor of Music in Performance degree must

perform a 15-minute program before the appropriate music faculty in the area of

specialization no later than the spring semester jury in their first year of study and

receive the approval from that group. Students who are not accepted into the BM

degree may audition once more at the end of their third semester of study if they so

desire.

5. An Instrumental Major who is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Music

Education degree must complete a Barrier Exam at the second semester (usually spring)

jury of the first year of study. Wind and Brass students will perform 10 minutes of

repertoire and technical exercises. This performance will consist of at least one

movement from a Sonata or Concerto with piano accompaniment. The technical

exercises will include the 12 major scales/arpeggios from memory. Percussion students

will be asked to perform three selections utilizing: snare drum, marimba and either

timpani or multi-percussion. Additionally, percussion students will be asked to play the

12 major scales and arpeggios.

D. Music Minor Study

1. The requirements for completion of a Music Minor include the following twenty credits:

Successful completion of an entrance audition and musicianship examination;

completion of twenty credit hours in the following Townsend School of Music courses –

MUS 105, 106, Music Theory I and II (6 hours); 4 hours of ensemble participation chosen

from MUS 182, 183, 185, 191, 192, 196, or 197 (entrance audition required for each

ensemble); 6 hours from MUS 402 and 403; MUS 170, 4 hours of applied study

dependent upon faculty availability and approval by the Dean; applied music fee

required each semester.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 9

2. Music Industry Minor. The requirements for completion of a music industry minor

include the following nineteen credits: Successful completion of an entrance audition

and musicianship examination; completion of the following Townsend School of Music

courses – MUS 105 Music Theory I (3 hours); MUS 109 Class Piano (1 hour); MUS 151

Understanding Music (3 hours); MUS 357 Music Technology (3 hours); MUS 479 Music

Business (3 hours); MUS 480 Special Topics Recording Workshop I (3 hours); MUS 480

Special Topics Recording Workshop II (3 hours). A lab fee is required for each Recording

Workshop course.

3. Music minors are expected to practice one hour each day.

E. Applied Music Lessons/Applied Music Examinations

1. Students who wish to take applied music lessons must audition before registering as a

major, minor, or elective. A limited number of students can be accepted for elective

applied lessons in music. Students must be taking other courses at Mercer in order to be

eligible to take lessons. Exceptions must be cleared with the School of Music Dean.

Auditions are usually administered by the music faculty member in the appropriate

instrumental or vocal area throughout the academic year. Two contrasting musical

selections may be offered for the audition.

2. Students may enroll for 30 minutes of instruction per week (if a non-major) for one hour

of credit or 60 minutes of instruction per week for one hour of credit (if a music major).

Bachelor of Music applied music courses numbered 265-465, 266-466, 267-467, 268-

468, and 269-469 receive 60 minutes of lesson time per week for three hours of credit.

Applied music fees are listed under Financial Information in the University Bulletin.

3. Applied music examinations will be given at the end of each semester for all students

enrolled in applied music lessons.

4. Students should complete Jury Examination forms prior to the jury examination and

submit them to the examination committee before the jury begins. Each area (vocal,

instrumental, keyboard) has different requirements regarding Jury Examination forms;

instructions are available in the School of Music Office. All scales and repertoire studied

that semester must be included on these forms.

5. Students should check the technical and repertoire guidelines for the given area of

applied study in the handbook.

6. Two or more faculty in the appropriate applied area will write jury comment sheets that

will become a part of the student's permanent file.

7. The jury examination letter grade will be submitted to the appropriate applied studio

teacher for consideration in calculating the final grade for that term. The applied studio

teacher must assign a final term grade not greater or less than one letter grade

difference from the jury examination grade. Evaluation of practical musical

development is an admittedly complicated process involving the perception of a

Undergraduate Handbook Page 10

student’s effort, progress and innate ability. Descriptive words are placed by letter

grades given in an attempt to clarify perception of grade quality.

A – 100-90 Outstanding

B – 89-80 Above Average

C – 79-70 Average

D – 69-60 Average Minus

F – 59-0 Unacceptable

Studio Grading Evaluation is based on:

Talent - imagination, creativity, musical competency, facility.

Improvement - compared with previous knowledge, training, skills.

Completion of normal expectations - effort, repertoire learned, attendance,

attitude.

8. Students are expected to attend all scheduled applied studio lessons. It is necessary to

seek permission for absence from the professor 24 hours in advance in order to receive

a make-up lesson. Unexpected absences due to personal illness require a medical

excuse in order to receive a make-up lesson. In the event the professor is absent, he/she

will make every attempt to contact the student and will schedule the necessary make-

up lesson accordingly.

9. Applied music lessons will be taught on a weekly basis beginning with the first regular

complete week of classes. An applied music professor may schedule applied music

lessons during an incomplete week of class that may begin or end a school term.

10. Applied music students should give a copy of their class schedule to their applied music

teacher(s) as soon as possible following class registration. Applied music professors will

notify their students of lesson time either by campus mail, by phone, or by the posting

of a studio lesson schedule on a bulletin board near the studio door. No make-up

lessons will be given for those lessons missed by students who are not prompt in

supplying their applied music professor(s) with a copy of their class schedules.

F. Solo Performance Opportunities

 Recital Hour – Thursdays, 3:30 p.m., Neva Langley Fickling Hall, McCorkle Music

Building.

a. Apply for one of the recital hour dates at the beginning of each semester.

b. Sign up forms will be on the door of Dr. Nathan Myrick room #167 of the McCorkle

music building.

 Substantial School of Music non-required recitals may function as the applied jury for

the semester that the recital is given with the permission of the applied professor and

the Music Dean. Two music faculty members must attend the recital and assign a grade.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 11

G. Recital Attendance Policy

1. Intended music majors are required to attend a minimum of 150 recitals in order to

graduate. Students can count performances they participated as long as it is not a solo

recital. A program or ticket must be turned into Mrs. Hise in the Music Office. If a

concert runs out of programs, contact her the following day to get a program. Programs

must be submitted to the office secretary, Mrs. Hise in chronological order with the

student’s name included at the top of each program. Seniors must complete the Recital

Attendance requirement by mid-April. Transfer students will be adjusted as follows:

Sophomores-115; Juniors-75.

H. Senior Recitals/Projects and Required Junior Recitals

Prerequisite: Piano Proficiency

Students who have not passed MUS 210, Class Piano IV by the end of their junior year

will not be allowed to process a Recital/Project form for their senior year. No senior

recital/project will be scheduled in a given academic year unless this requirement is

met. All students are required to enroll in applied lessons during the semester their

recital is being presented

Student Recital Rules

Student recitals may only be scheduled at the following times based on availability:

 Mondays at 6:00 p.m.

 Tuesdays at 5:00 p.m. (Center students get priority depending on Orchestra

schedule)

 Thursdays at 3:30 p.m., on dates when TSM student Recital Hour is NOT

scheduled.

 Friday afternoons at 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

 Exception: Graduate with ensembles

 No receptions

 No intermission

 Program template turned in to office at least a month before the recital (Mrs.

Hise sends link to student when date is set)

 Undergraduate Hearing form should indicate payment ($25 check for audio and

printing costs), stage setup, program presented and approved

 “Adding” repertoire or any other element to a student degree recital as a

“surprise”, without the applied teacher’s prior knowledge & approval, results in

a grade reduction, to be determined by the applied teacher.

 Duration of senior recitals: 45-60 minutes. (40 min. of music = 50 min. recital; 50

min. of music = 60 minute recital, etc.) NOTE: B.M. senior recitals should be 55-60

minutes in length.

 Duration of required B.M. junior recitals is 30 minutes (25 minutes of music).

Undergraduate Handbook Page 12

 Students will reimburse the School for the cost of paper for printing recital

programs. The cost of paper is $20.00 to print 100 sheets of recital paper. (The

music office will not fold more than 100 programs). Paper must be 24lb.

Southworth Ivory Parchment Paper.

 Students must submit an audio recording of their recital to the office.

1. Proposals for all Degree Recitals & B.A. Senior Projects

All proposals for required degree recitals & B.A. senior projects (BA majors see

description of degree for senior project options) must be submitted to the Dean of the

School of Music no later than October 15

(Fall semester) or February 15

(Spring

semester).

a. At the beginning of the fall semester, the Applied Area Chairs will appoint a Jury

Committee of three faculty members for

i. Recital (required Senior or required B.M. Junior): 3 TSM faculty members –

applied teacher and two others assigned by the area chair.

ii. Bachelor of Arts Senior Project: members from TSM, and/or other Mercer

University disciplines and departments as appropriate.

Checklist – Preparing the proposal:

I. Student obtains Recital/Project Request Form from music office.

II. Content & Written Proposal of recital program/B.A. research project:

 Recital: The senior recital should display the student’s thorough knowledge

of several (at least 3) musical styles indigenous to the given performance

area. Voice majors, moreover, must demonstrate in the senior recital

proficiency in French, German, and Italian.

 Repertoire: The student types a list of proposed recital repertoire as

assigned/ approved by the applied teacher, to attach to the Recital/project

request form, indicating:

a) Complete title & composer of each piece

b) Length (minutes/seconds) of each piece

c) Total number of minutes of music proposed

III. Date/Time/Venue:

 Student discusses potential performance dates with applied teacher and

accompanist and asks the music secretary, Mrs. Hise, to confirm availability

on music calendar in either Fickling Hall, Newton Chapel, or the Bell House,

as approved by the applied teacher and music office.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 13

 NOTE: Avoid scheduling a recital date which conflicts with other activities

sponsored by the School of Music, including but not limited to ensemble

concerts and dress rehearsals, faculty recitals, or guest artist recitals.

 Once one or two potential dates are found, the student ascertains the

other committee members’ availability, fills in the requested date on the

form, and asks her/his other recital committee members to sign the form if

they are available on that date and time. If they are not available, another

date must be found and marked on the form as approved (signature) by

the committee members.

 Student gives completed Recital/project form with Repertoire to the music

secretary, Mrs. Hise, to reserve the date, time and venue for the proposed

recital only after all committee members have given their approval of the

date.

IV. BA Senior Project:

 Project Description/Abstract: The student types a detailed description of

proposed project as approved by the applied teacher or other TSM project

supervisor/ advisor, to attach to the completed Recital/Project request

form.

 Date/Time/Venue: If the project will culminate in a presentation of the

research (45-60 minutes in duration), the student follows the procedure

under “Recital” above to obtain a date and venue approved by all three

committee members and confirmed as available by the music secretary

(Mrs. Hise), and fills that date in on the Request Form, accompanied by the

signature of the committee members.

V. DEADLINE OCTOBER 15

(Fall semester) or FEBRUARY 15

(Spring semester)

– for Recital or Project Request Proposals:

 The student fills out the Recital/Project Request form, has it signed by the

applied teacher/TSM project advisor, with committee indicating availability

on the proposed date, attaches the repertoire or project

description/abstract to the form, and submits these materials to the Dean

no later than October 15

(Fall semester) or February 15

(Spring

semester).

 The student ALSO places a copy of the proposal with Recital Repertoire list

attached in the mailbox of the Coordinator of Accompanying, Dr. Richard

Kosowski.

 After the recital has been approved, any subsequent change(s) involving a

collaborative pianist must be approved by the Coordinator of

Accompanying, Dr. Richard Kosowski.

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 NOTE: Failure to submit the completed proposal by the deadline will result

in seniors failing to graduate in that academic year, and juniors not being

permitted to give the recital during that academic year.

2. Recital Hearing & Project Hearing/Defense

a. Recital Hearings:

 Scheduling the hearing date: All recital hearings must be held no later than 2

weeks prior to the approved recital date.

 Following the procedure described above under Date/Time/Venue for

scheduling a recital performance date, the student schedules the hearing date

with the approval of the music secretary (Mrs. Hise), applied teacher,

accompanist, and recital committee.

 3 copies of the following materials must be brought to the hearing by the

student: 1) printed recital program; 2) any program notes to be included with the

program; & 3) a list of individual repertoire timings and total minutes of music to

be presented.

 PROGRAM/NOTES: The student creates the program using only the template

provided by the music office. The typed, edited program (and program

notes/translations) as approved by the applied teacher, must be presented at

the hearing. The faculty committee will make any additional needed changes to

the program and/or program notes and return them to the student for final

editing.

 The student must incorporate the committee’s suggested revisions and email the

finalized, approved recital program and program notes to the music office NO

LATER than 24 hours after the recital hearing (at least 13 days before the recital

date).

 The student will reimburse the music office for the cost of paper used for

printing the programs.

b. Senior Projects (Bachelor of Arts only):

 The Applied teacher and other committee members will work with the student

to design a schedule of weekly supervision meetings, student research and

preparation as appropriate to the individual project.

 The project plan will include, but is not limited to, a 45-60 minute formal

presentation of the project in lieu of the Senior Recital, which is applied for in

the formal Senior Project proposal as described above, and scheduled using the

procedure described above under Date/Time/Venue.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 15

 The project plan includes a project defense or review date by the committee, AT

LEAST 3 weeks prior to the presentation date. (See procedure for scheduling

under Date/Time/Venue above.) The student will present a printed program,

other written materials, and presentation/performance elements of the project

that have been designed with committee approval, for their review and

suggested revisions, and for final approval to move ahead with the presentation.

 The program and any other written materials to be printed and copied in the

music office must be emailed to the music office in their final, edited format, as

approved by the committee chair/applied teacher NO LATER than 2 weeks

before the presentation date.

I. Recital Checklist

Fall & Spring Semester: proposal

1. Make sure that the recital date requested is available on the School of Music Calendar

and is properly reserved. Avoid scheduling a recital date which conflicts with other

activities sponsored by the School of Music, including but not limited to ensemble

concerts and dress rehearsals, faculty recitals, or guest artist recitals.

2. Submit proposed recital program, with repertoire timings, and Senior Project/Recital

Request Form with faculty committee signatures to the Dean of the School of Music, Dr.

David Keith and Coordinator of Accompanying, Dr. Richard Kosowski by October 15

(Fall Semester) or February 15

(Spring semester).

Preparation for the recital

3. Map out a rehearsal schedule with your accompanist to prepare for the recital in a

timely manner.

4. Try repertoire out in studio classes and on School of Music Thursday 3:30 p.m. Recital

Hour programs.

Two months before the recital

5. The student will schedule the official Recital Hearing location, date and time with the

applied teacher, two faculty committee members, accompanist, and Administrative

Secretary in the School of Music Office, Mrs. Hise at least two weeks prior to the recital

date.

6. Prepare printed program using approved School of Music template, as well as any

program notes to be used. Work with your applied teacher to make suggested edits for

approval before submitting these to the committee at the hearing.

7. Schedule the appropriate performance venue with the School of Music Office for

appropriate rehearsal times.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 16

8. AUDIO and VIDEO recordings: Once your recital has been officially scheduled by the

School of Music Office, arrange to meet with Dr. Ian Altman to enter your recital date on

his calendar in order for the recital to be professionally recorded. A fee of $25.00,

payable to Dr. Altman is required for the audio recording of recitals. An additional

$25.00 fee, arranged through Dr. Altman, is required for the video recording of recitals.

9. Please complete and submit the signed TSM Concert & Recital Livestream Request

Form no later than three weeks before the scheduled date of your recital. Email a copy

of the signed form to Dr. Myrick ([email protected]) on the same day you submit

the original form to the Music Office. Requests for concert/recital livestreaming may not

be honored if your form is submitted later than three weeks before the concert/recital.

Two weeks before the recital

10. The person presenting the recital is expected to acquire ushers, page turners, and stage

hands, as needed. Upon successful completion of the Recital Hearing, the student is

responsible for submitting the completed and approved program to the School of Music

office no later than two weeks prior to the scheduled recital date.

11. Recital Attire: Performers should dress in a manner that reflects respect for the occasion

and the music that is being presented. Professional or formal attire is encouraged.

(Voice majors please see Guidelines for Vocal Study.)

Non-required recitals

 Students may only present non-required recitals with the approval of their applied

teacher, who must be present to supervise the recital.

 The Recital/project form must be submitted to the Dean by October 15

(Fall Semester)

or February 15

(Spring semester). The proposed repertoire with timings must

accompany the form, just as it does for a degree recital.

 Non-required recitals may function as the applied jury for the semester that the recital

is given with the permission of the applied professor and the Music Dean. Two music

faculty members must attend the recital and assign a grade.

 Recital date and time is chosen at the discretion and convenience of the student,

teacher, and accompanist, and is scheduled with the music secretary, Mrs. Hise, at an

available venue.

 Students must pay a non-required recital fee of $150.00 to their collaborative pianist to

compensate for 4 hours of extra rehearsal time in addition to the recital itself.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 17

J. School Accompanists: Allocation of Hours

The following times will be weekly or as needed (Junior, Senior recitals, juries)

determined by the Dean, Dr. David Keith, the Applied Teacher and the Coordinator of

Accompanying, Dr. Richard Kosowski

1. Applied Voice Majors (BM., BME., BA)

30 minutes in studio

30 minutes in rehearsal

2. Applied Instrumental Majors (BM., BME., BA)

30 minutes in studio

30 minutes in rehearsal

Instrumental and vocal students must submit their recital proposal form no later than

October 15

(Fall semester) or February 15

(Spring semester) with the calendar date

already cleared with the applied teacher, the accompanist, two faculty members assigned

to the recital, and the Administrative Secretary, Mrs. Hise. Please do not set a date

without checking with all of the above!

The accompanist assigned to you must be given all of your music no later than three (3)

weeks before the performance date. Please be professionally courteous and notify your

accompanist 24 hours in advance of any cancellation. If you do not notify the accompanist

before the 24-hour period, the accompanist is not required to make up the missed

rehearsal or lesson.

Voice majors must have all music made available and in a black 3-ring binder with all

translations transferred into the music for the accompanist. The accompanist will make an

audio recording of your accompaniment if this is suggested by the applied teacher.

Students wishing to present a non-required recital will need to schedule an accompanist

with the Coordinator of Accompanying, Dr. Richard Kosowski. The student must submit a

Recital/project form available in the School of Music Office from Mrs. Hise, Administrative

Secretary including a fee of $150.00 payable by check made out to the Townsend School of

Music two weeks prior to the performance date. The fee will cover up to four hours

rehearsal in addition to the Recital and one hour Dress Rehearsal. Failure to pay the fee

two weeks prior to the performance date will result in a hold being placed on the student’s

grades for the semester by the Dean of the School of Music, Dr. David Keith.

K. Music Scholarship/Accompanying Responsibilities

Music Scholarship Renewal

1. Music Scholarship Responsibilities and Conditions for Music Majors

a. Be a declared music major, be registered in the proper courses for the major, and be

a full-time student.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 18

b. Be enrolled in a 60-minute lesson each semester, follow the advice of your teacher,

and work to the best of your ability in applied music. You further agree that you will

not perform outside the School (solo or groups) without seeking the advice and

consent of your applied teacher.

c. Perform to the best of your ability (as judged by your professors) in all School

academic subjects.

d. Maintain at least a 3.0 average GPA in your applied area and a 2.0 overall average

GPA for BM and BA majors. BME majors must maintain a 2.5 overall average.

e. Keyboard majors - Assist the School by accompanying as set forth in School policy.

f. Voice majors - Participate in various Mercer University choral ensembles as

designated by the Director of Choral Studies, Dr. Stanley Roberts and adhere to the

attendance policies and performances of these ensembles. The student will also

assist the Director of Choral Studies with various administrative duties.

g. Instrumental majors - Rehearse and perform with the Mercer University Wind

Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, or other ensembles as assigned by the Director of

Instrumental Ensembles, Dr. Douglas Hill and adhere to the attendance policies and

performances of these ensembles. The student will also assist the Director of

Instrumental Ensembles with various organizational duties and recruitment projects

as necessary.

h. Instrumental Music Education majors - Rehearse and perform with the Mercer

University Wind Ensemble, Mercer University Marching Band, and Mercer Jazz

Ensemble or other ensembles as assigned by the Director of Instrumental

Ensembles, Dr. Douglas Hill and adhere to the attendance policies and performances

of these ensembles. The student will also assist the Director of Instrumental

Ensembles with various organizational duties and recruitment projects as necessary.

2. Music Scholarship Responsibilities and Conditions for Non-Music Majors

a. Register for 1-hour credit in MUS 170 and work to the best of your ability in applied

music.

b. Rehearse and perform with the Mercer University Wind Ensemble, Mercer

University Jazz Ensemble, Mercer Singers, University Choir or other ensembles as

assigned by the Director of Instrumental Ensembles or Director of Choral Studies.

3. Accompanying Responsibilities

As an integral part of their musical education and as a scholarship condition, all

keyboard majors and advanced non-music majors taking keyboard lessons will be

required to accompany applied music students in the vocal or instrumental areas. To be

Undergraduate Handbook Page 19

sure that this matter is both fair and effective, guidelines for students and faculty are set

forth as follows:

a. Sophomores will be assigned one student, unless the musical scholarship given

indicates the assignment of more students. Students with no previous accompanying

experience may or may not be assigned to a student. Those students not assigned

will be given other work to help gain some experience in this area.

b. Juniors and seniors will be assigned accompanying duties under the advisement of

the Coordinator of Accompanying, Dr. Richard Kosowski. Opportunities are available

to play for certain ensembles. This responsibility will be considered as the equivalent

of one student accompaniment and is encouraged as an important part of musical

growth.

c. Those students who are paid for accompanying through work-study must do such

accompanying in addition to the above requirements.

d. The Coordinator of Accompanying, Dr. Richard Kosowski will be responsible for the

coaching of assigned pieces. However, all keyboard faculty will be responsible for

assisting their students in the preparation of accompaniments as needed.

e. All instructors are expected to report promptly the names of their major and

advanced non-majors to the Coordinator of Accompanying at the beginning of each

semester. Non-keyboard applied teachers should also be prompt in giving to the

Coordinator of Accompanying the names of their students who need

accompaniments.

4. Guidelines For Music Scholarship Renewal

Music scholarships will be renewed only after formal consideration by the Music faculty.

This consideration will be made early in the Spring semester and will be based on the

student's work in the School of Music and progress during the year. The Dean will follow

the recommendation of the faculty insofar as practicable but reserves the right to make

all final decisions concerning renewal or non-renewal of a given scholarship

independent of any recommendation. Moreover, renewal of all scholarships is subject

to the availability of funds. Notification of scholarship renewal will take place following

April 1.

Matters to be considered in this decision are as follows:

a. Recommendation of the jury committee.

b. Recommendation of applied music instructor.

c. Recommendation of appropriate ensemble directors. Students are reminded that

music scholarship recipients are expected to participate in designated ensembles.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 20

d. Recommendation from instructors of music courses in which the student is enrolled.

e. The student's grade point average.

f. For students who are recipients of functional scholarships such as band,

accompanying, etc., the recommendation of the faculty member in charge of that

activity will weigh heavily.

L. School of Music Recital Hour

Recital Hour will provide an opportunity for students to engage in performance activities in

front of their peers and develop their public performance skills. It is expected that music

students will perform in Recital Hour at least once each semester.

Recitals will be scheduled on Thursdays throughout each semester at 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. The

students will gather for Recital Hour, Student Recitals, and Performances (which are noted

below) in the Neva Langley Fickling Recital Hall with the exception of organ majors, who will

meet in Newton Chapel. Music minors and non-majors who are studying privately are

encouraged to attend.

Student Recitals/Performances

As noted above, Student Recitals and Performances will take place in the Neva Langley

Fickling Hall. Student Recitals are a formal presentation by the School of Music and

attendance is mandatory for all students. The formal recitals will be divided into three 15-

minute segments—instrumental, keyboard, and vocal. It will be the responsibility of each

Division Chair to assign students for those performing segments. This is a formal recital and

performers are expected to wear appropriate dress. The remaining performance meeting

times are open to anyone and students are encouraged to perform as often as possible.

At times, not to exceed four in the academic year, the Dean can designate either the

Tuesday or the Thursday period as a School of Music Masterclass for all students. Normal

weekly routine will be suspended for these Masterclasses. It is expected that these

Masterclass dates will be determined and agreed upon by the faculty at the beginning of

each semester. This will afford an opportunity for all students to benefit from a master

teacher/performer or visiting ensemble. All Students will meet the first Thursday of the new

semester in the Fickling Recital Hall.

M. Practice Room Assignment

On the first Thursday of classes at the beginning of the term, practice room assignments are

made following the 3:30 p.m. convocation in the Neva Langley Fickling Hall in the McCorkle

Music Building. The meeting will include important announcements for the term and will

conclude with practice room sign-up. The following rules apply to practice room

scheduling:

Undergraduate Handbook Page 21

Each student will be allowed a maximum dedicated time of 4 hours per day:

2 hours in Prime Time (7:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.)

2 hours during other times

No more than 2 consecutive hours may be reserved at any given time. Students leaving

instrument(s) and equipment in a practice room longer than 10 minutes, may have the

instrument/equipment removed so another student can utilize the room.

Practice rooms with grand pianos are reserved for applied piano students and for chamber

music.

If a student finds a scheduled room unoccupied, she/he is at liberty to use the room for the

scheduled hour if the person of reservation arrives later than 10 minutes after the hour.

Following the initial sign-up period, if practice room hours remain unclaimed, additional

hours may be claimed by students on a first-come, first-served basis.

It is urged that students observe their practice schedule conscientiously. Only Water in

Sealable containers are allowed in practice rooms and NEVER placed on or near pianos.

Practice rooms should be kept clean. Equipment, including chairs and stands, should not be

removed from rooms.

Routine maintenance problems with practice pianos are handled as a matter of course by

the tuner-technician at the time of bi-annual tunings. However, substantial problems with

the practice instruments or with the practice rooms themselves should be reported to the

Music Office.

N. Music Technology

Any student may enroll in Music Technology (MUS 357), offered in Spring Semester in even

years.

O. School of Music Honors

1. Graduating seniors may be invited by the School of Music faculty to attain School

Honors in Music by completing the following requirements:

a. Maintain an overall 3.5 grade point average in music.

b. Present an honors project that is pursued and completed on a level significantly

higher than would normally be required for a senior project. The project should be

submitted to the School of Music Dean no later than October 15

(Fall semester) or

February 15

(Spring semester). In the case of the Bachelor of Music in Performance

degree, the project must be a recital that is appropriate in repertoire level and

performance standard for honors consideration.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 22

2. Honors Day – During Spring semester, the School of Music faculty select undergraduate

music majors to receive awards at the University Honors Day ceremony held in April.

The following guidelines are used for selection of honorees:

a. Academic Excellence in Music – graduating senior with the highest overall Grade

Point Average (GPA), including transfer credits. One honoree.

b. Excellence in Performance – graduating seniors whose performance skills in applied

music are of a superior quality, both in technique and artistry. No numerical limit on

honorees.

c. General Excellence in Music – graduating seniors who have given outstanding

service to the School of Music and who have assumed leadership roles within the

School, while maintaining high standards in the applied and academic study of

music. (Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in music courses). No numerical

limit on honorees.

3. Honors Recital – Each year, the School of Music faculty invite selected students to

perform on the Honors Recital, given in Fickling Hall in the evening. The following

guidelines are used in choosing performers for the recital:

a. Participants in the Honors Recital must be undergraduate music majors in their

sophomore, junior or senior year of study.

b. Selection is based on excellence in performance in the applied area, evaluated at the

previous semester’s juried examination as well as during the current semester.

Students who exhibit outstanding progress in their applied areas as well as students

who consistently perform at a superior level are eligible.

c. Performers who are soloists only, not chamber groups.

d. The faculty in each area (Vocal, Instrumental, Keyboard, and Strings) will reach a

consensus and nominate one performer from each area to be approved by the full

music faculty.

e. Students may perform on the Honors Recital only once during their enrollment at

TSM.

P. Non-Music Majors

1. The School of Music welcomes participation by non-music majors in coursework,

lessons, ensembles, and recital attendance.

2. Audition schedules for ensembles are posted before registration and students are urged

to audition. All qualified students are invited to participate in the Music School

activities.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 23

3. The student may enroll in Understanding Music (MUS 151), or three hours of ensembles

(MUS 182-197) to satisfy the Humanities and Fine Arts courses for the General

Education Program. Any student wishing to register for theory must take the theory

placement test before registration. Any applied study for credit will include a

performance examination.

4. Some non-majors are awarded keyboard, instrumental, and vocal scholarships by

audition. All non-major scholarship recipients are required to register for one credit

hour of instruction in applied music – MUS 170. Instrumentalists who have a non-major

scholarship must register for MUS 184, 185, 188, or 191 as assigned by the Director of

Instrumental Ensembles. Vocalists who have a non-major scholarship must register for

MUS 182, 183, 196, or 197 as assigned by the Director of Choral Studies. Keyboard non-

major students assist the department by accompanying as set forth in departmental

policy.

Q. Collegiate National Association for Music Educators (CNAfME)

Collegiate National Association for Music Educators is a national student organization

sponsored by the National Association for Music Educators. NAfME was founded in 1907,

and boasts a membership of more than 75,000 active, retired, and pre-service music

teachers. NAfME serves millions of students nationwide through activities at all teaching

levels, from preschool to graduate school. Chapter #899 at Mercer University was founded

in September 1979. All music education majors and other music students are encouraged

to participate in the chapter.

R. Mu Phi Epsilon

Mu Phi Epsilon is an International Professional Music Fraternity; its purposes are the

recognition of scholarship, musicianship, and the promotion of friendship. Its goals are the

advancement of music throughout the world, the promotion of musicianship along with

scholarship, loyalty to one's alma mater and the development of a true bond of friendship.

The Fraternity is composed of collegiate chapters, alumni chapters and allied members.

Founded in 1903, Mu Phi has 136 collegiate chapters, 74 alumni chapters and more than

75,000 members. The Delta Tau chapter of Mu Phi Epsilon at Mercer University was

founded in April 2001. The Delta Tau chapter encourages all music majors and minors who

have successfully completed one semester of music theory to participate in formal

recruitment each Spring semester. All candidates for membership must have a 3.0 GPA in

their music courses.

S. Ensemble Dress Rehearsal Policy

The evenings before ensemble concerts are reserved for ensemble dress rehearsals. Class

events and student recitals are not to be scheduled in conflict with ensemble dress

rehearsals.

Undergraduate Handbook Page 24

T. Grievance Policies and Procedures

1. Academic Grievances and Appeals

Policy: Students have the right to bring grievances against a faculty member or an

administrator and to appeal decisions concerning academic matters. A “grievance” is

typically a complaint relating to some allegedly improper action or behavior. An “appeal” is

typically a request for review of a routine judgment or decision. Such matters may include,

but are not limited to failure to abide by requirements described in the course syllabus,

arbitrary awarding of grades, discrimination based on race, color, national origin, disability,

veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, age, or religion (except in

limited circumstances where religious preference is both permitted by law and deemed

appropriate as a matter of University policy).

Time Frame: For grievances and appeals of any kind, students are required to initiate them

with the appropriate faculty member no later than thirty (30) days from the completion of

the term in which the course was offered. Grievances or appeals received after this period

will not be honored.

Informal Resolution Procedure: Student grievance and appeal procedures encourage each

student to handle complaints as close to the source as possible. If a student has a complaint

against a faculty member, the student should first attempt to resolve the issue by an

informal meeting with the faculty member involved. If this is not satisfactory, or if the

student believes that he or she cannot discuss the complaint with the instructor, the

student may follow the Formal Resolution Procedure.

Formal Resolution Procedure: The following protocol should be followed:

a. The student should meet with the appropriate department chair or program

director after submitting to this person a formal written account of the grievance or

appeal. This narrative must be submitted no later than thirty (30) days from the

date on which the student was formally notified of the instructor’s decision.

b. If the grievance or appeal is not satisfactorily resolved by the department chair or

program director, the student should meet with the associate dean after submitting

to the associate dean a formal written account. This narrative must be submitted no

later than thirty (30) days from the date on which the student was formally notified

of the department chair’s or program director’s decision.

c. If the grievance or appeal is not satisfactorily resolved by the associate dean, the

student should meet with the Provost after submitting to the Provost a formal

written account of the grievance or appeal. This narrative must be submitted no

later than thirty (30) days from the date on which the student was formally

notified of the associate dean’s decision.

If the student has a grievance or appeal involving a dean, he or she should schedule an

appointment with that dean in an attempt to resolve the matter. If the matter is not

resolved or if the student believes that he or she cannot discuss the issue with that dean,

Undergraduate Handbook Page 25

the student may address the grievance or appeal to the Provost. In all academic grievance

and appeal procedures, the decision of the Provost is the final University decision.

Once the University grievance or appeal procedure has been exhausted, the student can

seek a solution outside the University by filing a complaint with the Georgia Nonpublic

Postsecondary Education Commission (GNPEC). The details for filing a complaint with the

GNPEC are located on their website and require a specific form. The student can access

https://gnpec.georgia.gov/ and click on “File a Complaint” for this information.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and

program accreditors can be contacted to file a complaint if a student believes accrediting

standards were violated or grievance procedures were unfair and applied inappropriately

and inconsistently. The student can access SACSCOC at https://sacscoc.org/?s=complaint

and click on “Complaint Procedures Against SACSCOC or Its Accredited Institutions” for

more information. A listing of all University accreditors with contact information can be

found in the Mercer University catalog. [Note: The procedures associated with the

accrediting agencies are not intended to be used to involve the agency in disputes between

individuals and member institutions, or cause the agency to interpose itself as a reviewing

authority in individual matters of admission, grades, granting or transferability of credits,

application of academic policies, fees or other financial matters, disciplinary matters or

other contractual rights and obligations.]

2. Nonacamdemic Grievances

Policy: Mercer University recognizes the importance of providing an efficient procedure for

a timely and fair resolution of a nonacademic grievance. Students are encouraged to use

the process to resolve allegations concerning

(1) a University employee, (2) administrative policies or procedures, and/or (3) a University

program, service, or activity.

Informal Resolution Procedure: Many grievances can get resolved via informal personal

meetings, phone calls, or e-mails directly with the employee or office responsible for the

grievance. Whenever possible, students are encouraged to exercise these avenues of

communication first. However, should these avenues not rectify the grievance, or the

student wishes to bypass the informal resolution process, then the formal grievance process

below should be implemented.

Formal Resolution Procedure: When a student wishes to file a formal grievance that is

nonacademic in nature and does not already have a stated appeal or grievance process as

prescribed by law or the institution, he or she should follow this procedure:

a. The student should submit the grievance in writing to the supervisor of the

University employee responsible for the action or event that forms the basis of

the grievance. This statement should contain a brief statement of the grievance

and the remedies sought, and be clearly labeled “Formal Grievance” for tracking

purposes. A copy of the statement must also be presented to the Associate Vice

President of Human Resources and the Vice President for Student Affairs. The

Undergraduate Handbook Page 26

grievance should be submitted to the employee’s supervisor within ten (10) days

of the action or event that forms the basis of the grievance.

b. The supervisor will meet with the respondent to discuss the grievance within ten

(10) days of receipt of the written grievance. The employee’s supervisor will reply in

writing to the student with the results of the discussion and plans for further action,

if any, within ten (10) days of the meeting. A copy of this reply will be provided to

the Associate Vice President of Human Resources and the Vice President for

Student Affairs.

c. If the student is not satisfied with the results from the supervisor and wants the

grievance to be considered further, the student will have an opportunity for appeal

as follows:

i. In the case of grievances concerning employees, policies, procedures, or

programs of a nonacademic nature within a specific school or college, the

student may appeal to the Dean with responsibility for the employee’s unit

and request a meeting in order to seek a resolution. This appeal must begin

within ten (10) days after the employee’s supervisor has completed

consideration of the grievance and responded in writing to the student. A

written reply from the Dean indicating the results of the meeting and including

further action, if any, to be taken will be sent to the student within ten (10)

days after consideration of the grievance. A copy of the appeal and the

response from the Dean must be provided to the Associate Vice President of

Human Resources and the Vice President for Student Affairs.

If the student is not satisfied with the decision of the Dean, the student may

appeal in writing to the Provost with responsibility for the school or college

and request a meeting. The appeal must begin within ten (10) days of the date

the Dean has completed consideration of the grievance and responded in

writing to the student. A written reply by the Provost indicating the results of

the meeting and including further action, if any, to be taken will be sent to the

student within ten (10) days after consideration of the grievance. The decision

of the Provost with responsibility for the employee’s unit will be the final

University decision on the grievance. A copy of the appeal to the Provost and

the Provost response will be copied to the Associate Vice President of Human

Resources and the Vice President for Student Affairs.

Once the University grievance or appeal procedure has been exhausted, the

student can seek a solution outside the University by filing a complaint with

the Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission (GNPEC). The

details for filing a complaint with the GNPEC are located on their website and

require a specific form. The student can access https://gnpec.georgia.gov/ and

click on “complaint form” for this information.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

(SACSCOC) and program accreditors can be contacted to file a complaint if a

student believes accrediting standards were violated or grievance procedures

Undergraduate Handbook Page 27

were unfair and applied inappropriately and inconsistently. The student can

access SACSCOC at https://sacscoc.org/?s=complaint and click on “Complaint

Procedures Against SACSCOC or Its Accredited Institutions” for more

information. A listing of all University accreditors with contact information can

be found in the Mercer University catalog. [Note: The procedures associated

with the accrediting agencies are not intended to be used to involve the

agency in disputes between individuals and member institutions, or cause the

agency to interpose itself as a reviewing authority in individual matters of

admission, grades, granting or transferability of credits, application of

academic policies, fees or other financial matters, disciplinary matters or other

contractual rights and obligations.]

ii. In the case of grievances concerning employees, policies, procedures, or

programs of a nonacademic nature outside of the administrative organization

of a specific school or college, the student may appeal to the Vice President

with responsibility for the employee’s unit and request a meeting in order to

seek a resolution. This appeal must begin within ten (10) days after the

employee’s supervisor has completed consideration of the grievance and

responded in writing to the student. A written reply from the Vice President

indicating the results of the meeting including further action, if any, to be

taken will be sent to the student within ten (10) days after consideration of the

grievance. The decision of the Vice President with responsibility for the

employee’s unit will be the final University decision on the grievance. A copy of

the grievance and their response will be submitted to the Associate Vice

President of Human Resources and the Vice President for Student Affairs.