Academic Affairs & First Year Studies

Welcome to Academic Affairs & First Year Studies at Saint Mary's College!

Academic Affairs and First Year Studies is the central advising office at Saint Mary's College. The advising records of all students (first years through seniors) are maintained in this office. Advisors, in collaboration with faculty, work to promote the academic life of all students. They advise students in the selection of courses, monitor their progress toward graduation and administer academic policies.

What we do:

Advise for Course Selection

Advisors explain requirements and assist students in planning their schedules each semester. Advisors arrange first-semester schedules in the summer and meet with first years in November to plan second-semester schedules. When students decide on a major they will have a department advisor in their major. Advisors are available to all students to answer general questions on requirements and curricular issues.

Monitor Academic Progress

First years may need assistance in making the transition from high school to college. They often need additional information about course load, study habits, class attendance or support services. Sophomores and juniors may have questions pertaining to selecting a major or minor. Seniors will be more focused on addressing issues related to degree completion. Advisors are available to provide assistance in answering these questions and others.

Administer Academic Policies

A number of academic policies directly affect students from the beginning of their college experience. Students should come to Academic Affairs and First Year Studies for help with any of the following policies: Adding, dropping and withdrawing from a course; change of status; co-exchange with Notre Dame; disabilities; excused absence; final exam change; grade policy; and transfer credit.

Goals of Academic Affairs and First Year Studies

To provide students with complete information about the College's general education program and about academic policies and procedures.
To maintain students' advising records and assist students in the evaluation of their academic progress.
To help students make informed academic decisions and encourage further intellectual pursuit of courses appropriate to individual interests and abilities.
To empower students by recognizing their role in fostering their own education.
To help students make a successful transition from high school to college.

Academic Guide for First Year Students

The First Year Studies Office publishes the Academic Guide for First Year Students. The guide includes an outline of the general education program, course descriptions and academic policies. For a copy of the Academic Guide or for answers to questions about First Year Studies please contact us at 574-284-4594.

*** 2008-2009 edition***
Download a pdf version of Academic Guide for First Year Students (1mb)

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