Academic Advising
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Upon entrance to the Woods External Degree (WED) program, you will be assigned an academic advisor. You advisor plans and monitors your progress and ongoing program of study. Your advisor works with you to ensure you sucessfully meet graduation requirements by drawing up an academic plan consistent with your background and goals.
A second kind of academic advising is provided by your instructors, faculty members with expertise in the areas of a semester’s courses. Since courses change each semester, the student has the advantage of working with a variety of instructors.
Each student is responsible for contacting his/her advisor each semester to plan subsequent semesters. This is accomplished by:
- coming to campus for a personal meeting.
- emailing your advisor to begin the planning process.
Each semester, you will work with your advisor to update your plan, find courses that fit your degree requirements and needs, and answer any questions you may have. Don't forget, your advisor is also available for consultation by phone or email anytime throughout your studies!
What Will Happen During My First WED Advising Session?
(whether in person or from a distance)
When you first meet with your academic advisor you'll be able to get acquainted with the procedures of the WED program and ask any questions you may have. Your advisor will have already reviewed all the materials of your application and may need some more information about transfer credit (if any are transferred).
During your conversations be sure to bring up care giving or employment responsibilities that should be considered when planning semester studies. We recommend sharing your career goals and academic interests with your advisor so your coursework can be planned accordingly.
Your first advising session is a good time to begin conversations about APL and CLEP possibilities, which could allow you to earn your degree more quickly with reduced tuition expenses. Additionally, any questions you have about transferring credit should be addressed early in your studies.
You and your advisor will plan courses for your next semester (perhaps two) and you will receive a copy of your evaluation worksheet. You'll need to sign a degree declaration (choosing your major) and any other necessary paperwork.
You should keep your evaluation worksheets, checking off courses as you complete them, and tracking your progress. Be pro-active; ask questions and raise concerns if they arise. You are responsible for communicating with your advisor to plan subsequent semesters.
What Will Happen After the Initial Registration?
Your advisor will respond to questions you may have later about your academic plans. You should consult your advisor before your next registration if you need to make changes in your plan (for example, take fewer or more courses next semester) or if you fail or withdrawal from a course.
Your advisor will consult with you at the beginning of your next semester to review your progress, answer your questions, and help you plan future semesters.
