Upon enrollment, each student at NDSCS is assigned an academic advisor in the student’s instructional area.
The primary purposes of the academic advising program are to:
- Assist students in the development of meaningful education and career plans, which are compatible with their life goals;
- Help students accept responsibility for their own education;
- Aid students’ professional development by providing guidance in curricular and professional choices; and
- Provide accurate information about NDSCS policies, procedures, resources and programs.
An academic requirements report is available in your CampusConnection – Degree Progress/Graduation to assist you in meeting your program requirements.
The ultimate responsibility for making informed decisions about life goals and educational plans rests with the individual student. An academic advisor assists by helping to identify and assess alternatives and consequences of decisions.
Student Responsibilities
- Clarify personal values, interests, abilities and career goals. For assistance in the process of career exploration and planning, students should schedule an appointment with a division academic counselor.
- Become knowledgeable and adhere to NDSCS policies, procedures and curriculum requirements.
- Make an appointment and meet with the academic advisor during each registration period for schedule planning purposes and at other times as needed or required by college policy.
- Prepare for advising sessions and bring appropriate resources and materials.
- Follow through on actions identified during each advising session.
- Notify academic advisor and course instructors of difficulties in completing course work and seek their assistance in resolving issues.
- Be diligent in attending class and meeting class objectives and assignments.
- If special academic accommodations are needed due to a documented disability, students must inform their advisors and course instructors in order to receive assistance. To receive assistance, students must document their disability with the Accessibility Support office located in Old Main and request assistance. Students who have a disability are strongly encouraged to contact the Accessibility Support office to inquire about available services.
- Accept final responsibility for all decisions.
Advisor Responsibilities
Although students have the primary responsibility for planning their programs, an academic advisor’s responsibilities include:
- Helping students define education and career goals;
- Providing accurate information about NDSCS policies, resources and programs;
- Helping students select courses for degree requirements;
- Assisting students who are academically at risk;
- Offering advice;
- Encouraging student involvement;
- Making referrals to campus support services; and
- Maintaining confidentiality standards.
Together, the student and advisor can make well-informed decisions to ensure a student’s success at NDSCS.