The Office of Academic Advising within the College of Arts and Sciences provides students with the support and resources necessary to achieve their academic goals at Saint Louis University.
Our goals are to:
- Assist students in their understanding of academic requirements
- Nurture intellectual maturation and self-confidence
- Encourage students to take an active role in the advisement process
- Foster a positive working relationship between students, advisors and faculty mentors.
Our advising staff is here to help you plan your curriculum, locate necessary information and resources, and navigate University policies and procedures.
Contacting your Advisor
We are located in the Arts and Sciences Dean's Office in Verhaegen 218. However, most advising appointments take place virtually. If you have a general question, please email your advisor directly. If you'd like to meet with your advisor, you can schedule an appointment through Navigate Student.
Advising Expectations
Below are some behaviors and traits that can help both students and advisors get the most out of their interactions.
Expectations for Students
- Meet the academic advisor at appropriate times and come to advising appointments prepared to assume responsibility for curriculum and degree planning.
- Clarify your personal values and goals and provide the advisor with information regarding academic interests and abilities.
- Become knowledgeable about University programs, policies, and procedures, and utilize available resources and services.
- Ask questions if you do not understand an issue or have a specific concern.
- Keep a personal record of your progress toward completing degree requirements and meeting academic goals.
- Accept responsibility for the decisions and actions (or inactions) that affect your educational progress and goals.
Expectations for Academic Advisors
- Protect and secure the integrity of a SLU degree by enforcing University and departmental policies and requirements.
- Understand and effectively communicate the curriculum, graduation requirements, and policies and procedures.
- Be available, approachable, and personable.
- Demonstrate concern for and an interest in students’ success.
- Assist students in working closely with their faculty mentors and their professors.
Make appropriate referrals within the University. - Encourage students to develop skills that will lead to self-responsibility.
- In the spirit of Jesuit tradition, demonstrate care and respect for each student and model the University Mission.
- Maintain confidentiality and not discuss students’ academic record without permission.
Student Outcomes
Students within the College of Arts and Sciences are expected to become active participants in developing and implementing their curriculum plan. The following are skills and abilities you are expected to gain through the advising process during your undergraduate experience at SLU:
Year One
- Identify your academic advisor and faculty mentor
- Know how to access information about majors and minors
- Identify information about the College of Arts and Sciences core requirements
- Locate and use the University academic calendar
- Understand prerequisites and course sequences
- Understand registration policies and procedures
- Register using Banner Self-Service
- Calculate a SLU semester and cumulative grade point average
- Access information about campus resources
Year Two
- Understand the College of Arts and Sciences core requirements
- Develop attainable academic goals
- Understand the formal major, minor, and certificate request process
- Work effectively with a faculty mentor to review your academic progress in an intended or declared major, minor, or certificate
- Utilize Banner Self-Service to review your academic record
Year Three and Four
- Integrate elements of the Jesuit model of education into curriculum planning
- Identify internship, practicum, and undergraduate research opportunities
- Access information about post-graduation employment, professional school, or graduate school opportunities
- Understand commencement and the degree conferral process