Advising Process

At the beginning of the first semester, students are assigned an academic adviser in the department of their major. Students may be assigned to either faculty or professional advisers, depending on the department or school/college. Pre-majors are advised through the Center for Academic Services until a major is declared. Pre-major advisers are knowledgeable about a wide range of academic programs and can assist students in identifying an appropriate major/minor. All students who have 54 or more earned hours must have a declared major.

The actual number of times a student should meet with his/her adviser each semester depends on the adviser, the student, the student's program and the student's progress in his/her academic career. All students should confer with their advisers at least once each semester during schedule advising. Students may also want to meet with their advisers to discuss degree requirements, selection of a minor, internship opportunities, academic progress, etc.

Students meet with their advisers before registering for classes each semester, but are encouraged to confer with them anytime that academic concerns arise during the year.

In preparation for the Schedule Advising, students should:

  • Give thoughtful consideration to their personal, educational and career goals, and reevaluate these goals as necessary.
  • Acquire a basic familiarity with their own academic program, including all applicable requirements and policies.
  • Give advance consideration to a tentative schedule of classes each semester prior to their advising conference. This should include reading a description of every course under consideration, including whether or not there are prerequisites or whether or not the course will count toward the TCU Core Curriculum.
  • Ask questions if they feel they have received insufficient or confusing information.
  • Provide timely notice and information concerning any academic problems encountered.
  • Read carefully and make appropriate responses to all communications from their school/college office, the Center for Academic Services, their adviser, Office of Campus Life and Office of the Registrar.
  • Provide timely notice of any change of address or telephone number to the Office of the Registrar and their academic adviser.
  • Allot an adequate amount of time to meet with their adviser.
  • Accept responsibility for their choices and decisions.

By following these guidelines, the student and adviser can successfully navigate the academic maze of career choices, major requirements and other expectations.





Texas Christian University
© Copyright 2007. All Rights Reserved.
Disclaimer