Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which major is best for me?

If you are uncertain as to what you may be able to do with your major, you may wish to meet with a career advisor in the Career and Student Employment Services. You will also be encouraged to register with broncojobs early in your college career to obtain information on various job opportunities and career search options. For students undecided on a major, you may wish to complete the career self-assessment through the Counseling and Testing Center or one of the shorter career explorations programs through Career and Student Employment Services.

Why is it important to build a strong relationship with my advisor?

An advisor serves as an information liaison between you and the university. Your advisor will review program requirements, assist with program planning, and can be a great resource for career opportunities. Ideally, you should see your advisor at least once or twice a year.

How can advising benefit my academic career?

There are many components and sometimes obstacles to earning your degree. Meeting with your academic advisor(s) on a regular basis will help to ensure that you are progressing through your program requirements in an efficient and timely manner.

Do I have to declare my major/minor right away?

Not necessarily. Some programs of study will require you to be a declared major/minor in order to take the department courses; however, knowing your academic strengths, weaknesses, and interests will help you to develop a schedule of courses that will be beneficial regardless of your major/minor. General education courses or entry level major/minor courses can assist you in preparing for your declaration.

How many advisors should I have?

This depends on your major/minor, but most students in the College of Arts & Sciences will have three advisors: one for the major, one for the minor, and one for the general education curriculum. Major and minor advisors assist with requirements pertaining to the specific department. Your curriculum advisor will assist with your general education requirements and any other academic issues relating to completing your degree requirements.

What is the significance of my catalog year?

Academic catalogs can change each year; therefore, graduation requirements (major/minor or curriculum) may change with each revision. Discussions regarding your catalog year should take place with your advisor(s). Any requirements, restrictions, and guidelines that apply to your catalog year apply to you. So, if you and a friend have the same major, you both may follow different catalog year requirements. When in doubt about requirements, check with your advisor(s).

How do I check which classes and institutions are transferable at WMU?

For the Proficiencies and Distribution Area equivalents for all Michigan Community Colleges, please visit www.wmich.edu/admi/micc. For information on how any courses from a Michigan community college transfers to WMU, please visit https://bssp.cc.wmich.edu/PLS/BPROD/WSHATCE.P_TCEMain. For courses other than Michigan community colleges, please consult a credit evaluator in the Office of Admissions at 269-387-2000. You may also wish to consult your major/minor or curriculum advisor regarding use of transfer courses in your academic program. Remember you must obtain a grade of "C" or higher for any class to transfer to WMU.

When should I complete my graduation pre-audit?

Your pre-audit, or application for graduation, should be completed one full calendar year prior to your planned graduation date or when you have completed 88 credit hours. Please bring copies of your signed major/minor slips (obtained in your respective departments or colleges) to the CAS advising office either during walk-in advising hours or schedule an appointment to complete the process.

 

College of Arts & Sciences Advising
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49009 USA
(269) 387-4366 | (269) 387-3999 Fax
arts-sci-adv-office@wmich.edu