Academic Advising

Mission Statement

The mission of the MTSU academic advising process is to provide a quality, student-centered environment that promotes intellectual growth. This process is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and mentoring relationship among advisors, students and the university community. Students are encouraged to think logically, critically and creatively in order to assume ownership of their lifelong educational goals. Advisors guide students through a variety of support services that enable them to make a successful and holistic transition in the MTSU and global community.

Objective: To understand university, college and degree program policies and requirements.

Need to meet with an advisor?

When students declare a major, the major department will assign a faculty advisor. Students may view their assigned advisor including contact information in their PipelineMT account. In the event that faculty advisors have not been assigned or are not available, students may also contact the college of their major to speak with a college advisor. Click on the college listed below to be directed to the college advising website or go directly to your program for contact information.

Undecided majors will be advised by the advising staff from University College until solidifying a major of choice.


Students with questions regarding the Honors program should also contact the Honors College.

  • Buchanan Fellowships for incoming freshmen
  • Transfer Fellowships
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Information for current MTSU Honors students
  • National Fellowships such as the Fulbright and Goldwater

What takes place during an advising session? How should I prepare?

Expectations of Students

  • Schedule regular appointments with faculty and/or college advisor.
  • Review major/program policies and requirements using the MTSU Undergraduate Catalog and make a list of questions and concerns.
  • Clarify personal values and goals; follow through and accept responsibility for academic decisions and performance.
  • Keep a record or file of your academic progress and goals and bring it to scheduled appointments.

Advisor Responsibilities

  • Possess an understanding of university/college/program requirements in order to effectively communicate those requirements to others.
  • Provide a teaching/learning environment for students to share thoughts, aspirations, concerns and interests.
  • Encourage and guide students to define and develop realistic educational goals.
  • Assist students with making course selection and career-related decisions; make referrals when appropriate.

Academic Advising Timeline

Year 1:

Year 2:

Year 3:

  • Begin upper-division courses (3000-4999 level)
  • Research career options and graduate programs
  • File intent to graduate and upper division form with advisor (three semesters remaining)

Year 4

  • Finalize career/postgraduate plans
  • Take graduate exams (LSAT, GRE, MCAT, GMAT)
  • Complete appropriate exit exams (graduating semester) - see the Major Field Test (MFT) and the General Education Exam

Ongoing