My Academic Advising gives you insight on academic advising for undergraduate students at the University of South Carolina. Check out the tips for a successful advising appointment, links to requirements for majors offered at the University of South Carolina, and frequently asked questions about advising.

Tips for a Successful Advising Appointment:

1. Be prepared for advisement. Know in advance what you want to take in the next semester. Look at the master schedule online http://registrar.sc.edu/html/Course_Listings/ and also your degree requirements.

2. Use your advisement time for more than scheduling courses. Ask questions about what area your advisor is an expert in. Ask questions about how your major courses may apply to your future. Advisement time is an excellent time to explore options and learn!

3. Go see your advisor or the department’s student services office more than just at advisement time. These folks may become your best allies on campus. If they know you as a person, the advisors will know ahead of time what type of student activities, internships, etc are best for you.

4. Do not be afraid of your advisor!! They are people just like you! Most have children, and many have college-aged children. You will be surprised to find most advisors will treat you the way they hope their own child will be treated when they go to college. Ask about the advisor’s family and their interests. You may be surprised to find how much you have in common.

Frequently Asked Questions about Advising

Who is my advisor?
When you enrolled at the University of South Carolina, you were assigned an advisor. To find out who is your advisor, go to VIP and click the Academics tab. Your advisor will be listed under Registration Eligibility/ Advisor Information. You may also contact your department.

When do I have to see my advisor?
The only time you have to see your advisor is before you register for classes or if you need a form signed related to your major. However, consider making an appointment before the advisement period to introduce yourself and to get to know your advisor.

Does my advisor tell me what courses to take?
Your advisor offers advice on what courses to take but will not choose your classes for you. You must take ownership of your career at the University of South Carolina.

What should I do if I'm considering changing my major?
Please visit this page for more information

What should I do if I want to change my advisor?
Please visit this page for more information

See Academic Success FAQs for more questions about general academic concerns.

Have a question that isn’t answered on our site?
Submit it here and we’ll contact you.

Additional Information:

Links to University of South Carolina’s Colleges & Schools:
http://www.sc.edu/colleges/

College of Arts & Sciences Office of Academic Affairs & Advising Page:
http://www.cas.sc.edu/ugrad/index.html

Frequently Asked Questions from the College of Arts & Sciences:
http://www.cas.sc.edu/ugrad/frequentlyaskedquestions.html