The master of arts, master of music and master of music education degree programs require a minimum of 30 semester hours; at least 18 hours must be numbered 5500 or above. No 300- or 400-level courses may be included in a master's program if required in the comparable baccalaureate degree at the Conservatory of Music and Dance. CONSVTY 5599, CONSVTY 5598 or CONSVTY 5589 is required on all degree programs except performance. With the approval of the supervisory committee and the principal graduate adviser, students can transfer hours equal to 20 percent of the planned program from an accredited institution other than UMKC, but any such transfer credit must be less than seven years old at the time the degree is awarded. The official time limit for the completion of the master's degree is seven years