Graduate Program Directors and Advisors

One of your first contacts at Emerson and your most important during your program is your Graduate Program Director.  In most programs this person will also be your advisor. The Graduate Program Director (GPD) is your contact for day-to-day academic issues and information.  You will meet with your GPD at Orientation and at program meetings.  They are there to assist you but it is your responsibility to seek them out if you have a problem or need information.  Academic exception and policy forms must be signed by your GPD before the Office of Graduate Studies will accept them for review. Some forms may also require the approval signature of the Graduate Studies Director and the Dean of Graduate Studies.

The Department

Your department assistant can often provide information about locations, offices and other day-to-day questions.  The Chair is the main person for department based decisions and often your GPD will consult with the chair.  In most cases, chairs want you to talk with your GPD first but they are accessible if you have problems.

Issues and Information

The GPD and Chair are responsible for:

• Merit Aid appointments
• Course load management
• Degree requirement questions

Please first refer to the Graduate Student Handbook, the Department Handbook and Graduate Catalog for information and answers to your questions. If you cannot find the information you need, contact your GPD or come to the Office of Graduate Studies. Department Chairs are also available if you have problems.

Graduate Program Directors