Academic Advising

Online Advising Best Practices and Guidelines

Zoom Meetings

If you scheduled your appointment via Zoom please be aware that if you are early for your appointment, the Zoom room may be locked. If so, we ask that you wait patiently until we let you into the room. Most likely, there will be another appointment before and after yours.

To protect privacy, only one student per appointment is allowed in the Zoom space. Your advisor has sent correspondence with their specific Zoom meeting room link.

If you need to cancel your appointment, you can do so via TerpEngage. We ask that you do so 48 hours in advance, so we can make that appointment available to another student.

During your video session, please be aware of the following expectations:

  • Limit the amount of noise, distractions, and interruptions in the background
  • Check the background area of your meeting location as this is a professional meeting
  • Close all unnecessary software on the computer, turn off notifications, and ensure your computer is fully charged
  • Test run your microphone, speakers, and webcam and make sure that you can hear, be heard, and are well-lit

Effective Fall 2019 limited enrollment has been implemented for the Computer Science major and applies to new freshmen, new transfer students, and internal transfers changing majors within the University. For more information please visit the CS LEP FAQ here.

All Computer Science Majors who are entering their first term within the Computer Science major (as of Fall 2022) or are on academic probation are required to see their assigned advisor for mandatory advising. Students cannot register for courses in the next semester without attending a mandatory advising session. Students outside of their first semester in the major are not required to come in for a mandatory advising session; they will request permissions through an online form sent by their assigned advisor.

Students will meet with advisors via a scheduled session. During mandatory advising sessions, advisors will help ensure that students meet CS and University General Education requirements, discuss their academic performance, and connect them with resources and opportunities. Students are encouraged to speak with an advisor at any time during the year to discuss their academic performance or other issues. Drop-in hours are designed for quick questions, exploratory conversations, and time sensitive issues. Students should contact their assigned advisor for mandatory advisement and in-depth discussions. The CS Undergraduate Advising Office is located on the first floor of The Brendan Iribe Center for Computer Science and Engineering.

If you are a minor or non-major, you may request permission for CMSC classes here.


How To Prepare for Your Advising Session

  • Have your University ID card available
  • Review your degree audit via uachieve prior to attending your session. Take ownership of your education--understanding CS coursework and requirements can help you make timely progress on your degree! Knowing your requirements will also facilitate a productive conversation with advisors.
  • Be sure to have a completed 4 year plan (electronic copy is OK) for your advising appointment.