How Academic Advising Works at USD
Attending the University of San Diego means that your education is grounded in the liberals arts.
As the leading liberal arts institution on campus, the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) is responsible for managing an academic advising system designed to holistically support all USD undergraduate students throughout their time here. As a result, the academic advising you experience when you are undeclared will be different than when you have declared a major.
Additionally, if you are interested in a career in health, you have the opportunity to receive specialized advising to help you stay on track regardless of your major.
Scroll down to learn more.
Advising When You Haven't Declared a Major
First and Second Year Student Advising
As a first-year student at the University of San Diego, you are assigned a faculty advisor as part of your Living Learning Community (LLC) class. Your LLC faculty advisor supports you in exploring majors and crafting your Core Curriculum experience.
Once you have declared a major, you will be assigned a new Major Faculty Advisor from your school and in your field of study.
Transfer Student Advising
Transfer students who have not decided upon a major will be advised by a member of the CAS Academic Advising Team.
CAS Academic Advising Team
CAS Academic Advisors are not assigned to specific students (except for undeclared transfer students), but work closely with your assigned faculty advisor as a supplemental resource. The CAS Academic Advising Team can help you with logistics, questions about the Core, etc.
Learn more about when and how to contact the CAS Academic Advising Team.
Advising After You Declare A Major
Major Faculty Advisor
Your Major Faculty Advisor is assigned after you declare a major and serves as your primary advisor for the remainder of your time at USD. Your Major Faculty Advisor is an expert in your field of study and uniquely suited to mentor and guide you through exploring academic and career options.
CAS Academic Advising Team
Students who declare a major in the College of Arts and Sciences can continue to reach out to the CAS Academic Advising Team for supplementary support.
Students in non-CAS majors are able to continue to reach out to the CAS Academic Advising Team with questions about the Core. Questions related to your non-CAS major should be directed to your respective school (e.g., Knauss, etc.).
Learn more about when and how to contact the CAS Academic Advising Team.
Pre-Health Advising
Are you interested in a career in medicine, nursing or another type of health career?
Pre-Health Advising at USD provides support to USD students who are interested in pursuing a career in health (e.g., medicine, nursing, etc.).
All majors are welcomed to take advantage of Pre-Health Advising (in addition to your regular academic advising) to ensure your success in preparing for a health professional school.