Academic Advising

The Arts and Sciences curriculum encourages students to explore a range of academic subjects while focusing more deeply on a major—and often a minor. Academic advising plays a key role in helping students make the most of their degree options.

The School of Arts & Sciences-Newark (which includes two undergraduate colleges, the Newark College of Arts and Sciences University College-Newark) endeavors to ensure that all students receive sound academic advice and guidance during their undergraduate years. All undergraduate students are encouraged to build a network of support across general advisors, departmental advisors, faculty advisors, and specific program advisors.

First-year students, students who have not declared a major, and all students who are on academic probation are advised by a special group of academic advisers working through the Office of Academic Services.

In addition to an assigned academic adviser in the Office of Academic Services, students may have additional specialized counseling in other offices across campus. For example, Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) students are also advised by the counselors at the Academic Foundations Center. Honors College students are also advised by the staff of the Honors College. Honors Living-Learning Community (HLLC) are also advised by the staff at HLLC. Students with an interest in engineering, health, or law, should consult with an academic advisor within our Pre-Professional Services unit.

Once students have declared a major, they receive advisement toward their major requirements from a faculty member within that department. Simultaneously, academic deans and advisers are also available to all undergraduate students for guidance on academic matters, and students should regularly consult with them regarding college requirements, academic regulations, or their program of study. 

Students in the campus' professional schools are advised by general advisers in their respective schools: Rutgers Business School, the School of Criminal Justice, or the School of Public Affairs and Administration. The Office of Career Resources and Exploration is another useful resource for students seeking information or guidance in selecting a major. At the latest, a student must declare a major by the completion of 60 credits.

Lastly, students should routinely consult the degree audit system (Degree Navigator) throughout their course of study. This online tool provides useful information for monitoring progress in the Core Curriculum, major, and second concentration. It is meant only to be a guide and not a substitute for consultation with academic advisors.