Academic Advising Guide

The document below walks you through everything you need to know about your role and responsibilities along with your academic advisor to ensure the completion of your academic goal.

Academic Advising Guide

Inloading Online Credits

Background: The University of Northwestern has a limited amount of funding which allows a traditional undergraduate student who has enrolled in at least 12 credits of traditional (on-campus) courses to also enroll in a maximum of 4 online UNW credits without additional tuition cost to the student. If the total of on-campus and online credits exceeds 18 credits, the per-credit charge for 19 or more credits will apply. Online credits exceeding 4 credits are charged the regular online tuition rate. The student is still responsible for the online learning admin/tech fee if approved.

Deadline: Submission of the completed form before the start of the semester is recommended. To receive full consideration, the form must be submitted by the student not later than seven days after the start date of a requested semester-long online course and not later than three days after the start date of a requested quad online course.

Qualification: This opportunity is available only to students who demonstrate at least one of the listed curricular and co-curricular needs.

This student is not able to take this course at a different time due to a lack of on-campus alternative courses that meet their graduation requirement.
This student is not able to take this course at a different time due to a conflict with their course schedule.
This student is not able to take this course at a different time due to this course not being offered as a traditional, on-campus course.

Discuss this opportunity with your Academic Advisor to determine your eligibility. If eligible, complete the Dynamic Form linked below.

Inloading Online Credit Request Form

FAQs

What is an academic advisor?

An academic advisor is a professor in your field of study who works with you to ensure completion of your academic program. The advisor assists you with course planning and registration and is a good source of information about program requirements.

Who is my academic advisor?

You can find your academic advisor's name and contact information on the Academics tab.

How do I contact my academic advisor?

Advisors may be contacted via e-mail, phone, or in person at their office. New incoming students may also contact the Registrar's office if they cannot connect with their academic advisor.

What if I want to change my academic advisor?

You may request to have your academic advisor changed by filling out an Advisor/Concentration/Minor Change form and bringing it to the Registrar's Office.

When am I required to meet with my academic advisor?

You need to meet with your advisor once a semester in order to be cleared to register for classes. It's recommended that you meet more often though, so your advisor can work with you to ensure you're on track to meet your educational goals.

How do I prepare for my advising appointment?

Read all the information you've received about advising. Schedule your advising appointment well in advance, and attend any departmental advising sessions that are offered. Make a preliminary schedule to discuss with your advisor. Be sure to write down any questions that you want to ask your advisor.

What resources are available to help me with planning my academic schedule?

Use the Degree Audit and Curriculum Planning Guide to make a preliminary plan. Take this to your advising appointment to discuss with your advisor. Additional forms to help you plan your schedule are on the Registrar Confluence page: the Class Registration Worksheet , the Four Year Schedule Planning Worksheet and the Schedule Planning Chart.

How can I get advising on major changes/choices or career options?

Career Development advises students who are wondering if they are in the right major, who think they want to change their major, or who are trying to determine career choices and paths. Services are free! Stop by N4106, or contact them at 651-631-5265 to make an appointment.

What should I do if I want to change my major?

Fill out the Major/Program Change form and take it to your current advisor for a signature. Your advisor may change as a result of changing your major.

I can't register because of holds on my student account. What should I do?

You can find information about holds on theROCK in your Academic Profile. Even if you have holds, you should still meet with your advisor and plan your schedule, so you can register immediately once your holds are cleared. If the hold is financial, contact Student Accounts. If the hold is regarding some other issue, please contact the Registrar's Office.

Can I take online classes at the same time I'm taking regular classes?

Yes, BUT there is an additional cost for online classes that is not included in your full time tuition. If you're considering this option, talk it over with your advisor and check with Financial Aid to determine if this option is wise for you.