ULCR - FAQ

When am I reviewed for the Upper Level Competency Review (ULCR)?

At the end of your 4th semester of being a music major. Transfer students who have completed 4 semesters comparable (lessons/ensembles/theory) music coursework will be reviewed at the beginning of the first semester at Texas State.

Who reviews me for my ULCR?

There are 6 committees comprised of faculty and staff members:
Music Education – Instrumental (band or orchestra)
Music Education – Choral
Performance – Instrumental & Vocal
Sound Recording Technology
Jazz Studies
Bachelor of Arts
The committee then sends its recommendation to the Director of the School of Music.

Can I postpone my ULCR?

No. However, please see the music academic advisor if you have extenuating circumstances. If you do not attempt the ULCR, that will be considered a 1st attempt.

Can my private lessons teacher postpone my ULCR?

No.

What is an UL Performance Jury?

An extended jury that determines the student’s ability to advance to junior-level applied lessons.
I’m a transfer student with 4 semesters of applied lessons; do I need to do an UL Performance Jury?
You will do a performance jury at the end of the first long semester at Texas State.

I need to be reviewed this semester. What do I do?

Contact your major area at the beginning of the semester to determine what is expected of you for your ULCR.
Ask your applied lesson teacher for UL Performance Jury requirements (as necessary).
Complete the ULCR form. Turn this form in 1 week before ULCR committees meet to the Music Academic Advisor.

What is a “curricular ensemble”?

An ensemble that is required of your major. For example, you may be enrolled in Marching Band and Jazz Band. If you are a music ed major, MB is the curricular ensemble. If you are a jazz studies major, Jazz band is the curricular ensemble. NOTE: Only one ensemble counts towards the curricular ensemble each semester.

What if I don’t meet one or more of the required components?

You will receive an automatic “Deferral” for that semester. See the music academic advisor.

What if I’m enrolled in theory/aural III or piano in my ULCR semester?

The results of your ULCR will be held until grades are turned in. If you do not pass the requirement, you will receive a “Deferral” result.

What if I get off track (e.g. I don’t pass my piano proficiency or I’m only in Theory II)?

Please see the music academic advisor.

I’m a transfer student & we didn’t have Convocation at my institution, what do I do?

Many institutions have a similar recital component. If you completed 4 semesters of recital attendance, this requirement is completed. If you did not have a recital attendance requirement at your institution, you must inform the reviewing committee.

What if I pass the ULCR but not the UL Performance Jury?

You will not be allowed to enroll in 3000-level applied lessons; however, you will be allowed to enroll in 3000-level courses within your major.

What if I pass the UL Performance Jury but not the ULCR?

You will not be allowed to enroll in 3000-level courses within your major; however, you will be allowed to enroll in 3000-level applied lessons.