Academic Advising
Academic Advising
Mission Statement
MTSU academic advising fosters a collaborative, holistic, and inclusive student-centered relationship that promotes academic and personal growth so students can thrive in the university community. Through innovative, transformative, and informed practice, academic advisors empower students to think critically and take ownership of their journey and success. Updated May 2024.
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.
- College of Basic and Applied Sciences
- College of Business (Jennings A. Jones College of Business)
- College of Education
- College of Behavioral and Health Sciences
- College of Liberal Arts
- College of Media and Entertainment
- University College
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:
- Establish contact with advisor
- Get familiar with campus resources
- Investigate majors of interest
- Explore student organizations
- Review college and departmental scholarship opportunities
Year 2:
- Complete general education requirements and lower-division courses (1000-2999 level)
- Explore student organizations related to major
- Consider Experiential Learning (EXL) opportunities
- Begin networking with peers and faculty in major
- Make tentative plan of classes to prevent prerequisite issues
- Explore Career Development Center services and resources
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:
- Be familiar with the academic calendar and important dates and deadlines
- Stay involved with social/professional student organizations
- Seek information regarding education abroad, departmental internships, research opportunities
- Attend campus events and guest lectures, music/theatrical performances, career days, etc.