Advising Center

Frequently Ask Questions

Q.   Where can I find out about the general education program?

You can learn about the general education program by clicking here.

Q.   Can I change my schedule once I have selected courses?

Yes. There are several ways you can adjust your schedule:

On line registration: follow the guidelines here

Add/Drop: Adjustments to your schedule can be made the first week of classes via the Central Pipeline. 

Drop: You can drop courses up to the midpoint of the term by filing the appropriate form with the registrar's office. The course will not appear on your record.  Note:  If you drop below 12 hours before the 3rd week of classes, your status will change to part time.  Best to discuss such drops with an advisor.

After the midpoint of the term, you may be permitted to withdraw from a course if there are extenuating circumstances. A "W" is recorded on your permanent record. Forms are available from the offices of the academic deans. Withdrawal after the deadline is a complicated procedure. Poor academic performance is not considered a valid reason. Do not just stop attending classes. If your form is not filed and approved, an "F" will be recorded on your permanent record.

Q.   What are considered extenuating circumstances?

Extenuating circumstances may include an illness, an accident, family problems, etc. Students are responsible for class attendance, so if you have been absent for five consecutive days or less, explain the reason to your professor upon your return. If you are absent for more than five consecutive days for medical reasons and haven't been seen at the University Health Services, notify the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs upon your return. The appropriate documentation will be necessary and your instructors will be notified. For non-medical absences of more than five days, the Office of the Vice President /Student Affairs should be notified. Where extenuating circumstances and/or documentation warrant, your instructors will be notified of the reasons for the absence. Absences are excused only at the discretion of the instructor.

Q.   How many credits should I carry each semester?

You must carry at least 12 credits to be a full-time student. If you drop below 12 credits, it will affect your eligibility for sports, financial aid and housing. Changing to part-time status (below 12 credits) can be done only the first three weeks of school.

The average course load is 15-17 credits per semester. Don't forget to factor in time for working, studying and participating in University activities. CREDIT OVER- LOAD forms can be obtained from the Enrollment Center in Willard Hall for registering for over 18 credits and must be signed by your academic dean.

Q. Who is my adviser?

If you are undeclared, you should go to The Advising Center in Willard Hall 100. Pre-Business majors need to go to the School of Business for academic advising.

Once you have declared a major, the major department will assign a faculty member as your academic adviser. Call the department for your adviser's name.

Q. I'm not doing well in some of my classes. Who can help me?

There are many support systems in place to assist you with academic problems:

The instructors of your classes are your first source of assistance. Seek their help first.

Academic advisers are the main source of support and information about your academic plans and programs. Declared majors can make an appointment with their faculty adviser to discuss problems. Undeclared majors can contact an adviser at The Advising Center in Willard Hall 100.

The Learning Center, located in Copernicus Hall, Room 214 is committed to your academic success and will develop an individual study plan with you. Students can receive content area assistance and learn strategies to improve their overall study skills by attending Methods of Inquiry (MOI) classes.

Free tutoring in various subject matter areas such as math, writing skills and accounting is available. Consult your student handbook (HELP) or see an academic adviser for details.

Q. Is there someone I can talk to about a personal problem?

The Office of Prevention and Counseling, the Student Assistance Program, Health Services, the Campus Ministry, the Human Relations Committee and the Women's Center all offer support and help. Be sure to ask for help if you need it.

Q. While enrolled at CCSU, can I take courses at other colleges and universities and transfer the credits to CCSU?

Yes. You should check course equivalencies with your adviser or Admissions BEFORE taking courses at another school which you would like to transfer back to CCSU. Students who wish to apply transfer credit to specific degree requirements should seek advice from the appropriate department chair or academic dean as to how the credit may be applied.

Q. Can I substitute one course for another?

If you wish to substitute one course for another requirement in either general education or in a major, you will need to submit a COURSE SUBSTITUTION request to the appropriate department. Forms are available from the Enrollment Center.