Advising at Western
Academic advising is a shared responsibility between students and academic advisors. Through academic advising, students work closely with faculty and professional advising staff to establish and successfully complete their academic goals. Academic advising provides undergraduates with opportunities to explore the intellectual side of their lives, choose among various educational options, and develop meaningful plans to support their academic and life endeavors.
Major Guides were developed to help students identify major options and requirements associated with those majors. Once a student has decided to major in a particular area, it is imperative the student make contact with the major department for guidance in the major declaration process.
Academic departmental advisors provide advising on the following:
- Clarifying major requirements
- Approving transfer credits toward the major
- Planning and tracking progress in the major
- Evaluating major for graduation
Note: You will be assigned a departmental advisor when you declare your major.
Freshmen are assigned an advisor at orientation who serves until a major is declared. Your advisor's name is noted on your Student Advising Sheet, You are encouraged to begin early discussions with the academic departmental advisors and with the Academic Advising Center to explore areas of interest which may lead to a major.
Transfer students typically begin the advising process by consulting with academic departmental advisors for information specific to the major and transferability of credits. Transfer students who have not yet determined their major are encouraged to contact the Academic Advising Center to discuss interests, options, and goal planning.
Graduate Student advising information can be obtained at the Graduate School web site.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to initiate regular and ongoing advising contacts with an advisor.