University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Something Great in Mind

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Most Advice is Free... Our Advice is Priceless

Academic Advising, Something Great in Mind
Welcome to UWM! Whether you are new to our campus, or are a seasoned UWM student, you may have many questions about your academic program. Dedicated to answering your questions are knowledgeable professionals, Academic Advisors.

Academic Advising services at UWM are decentralized; that is, each of the ten Schools and Colleges provides a staff of “in-house” professional advisors. The University assigns a professional advisor to you, even if you are undecided about your major. In some Schools and Colleges, you may also have a faculty advisor whose area of study aligns with your choice of major.

Like a partnership, you and your Advisor work together to enrich your academic experience. You can find the name of your Advisor by looking on your PAWS account.

Advisors Listen, Lead, Link
Advisors LISTEN to your concerns and questions.

  • What courses should I take?
  • How long will it take to graduate?
  • I’m struggling in one of my courses; what should I do?

Advisors LEAD you through the maze of degree requirements and demystify University regulations.

  • How do I declare or change my major?
  • How does the UWM Repeat Rule apply to me?
  • How is my grade point average calculated?
  • What happens if I have to drop a class or withdraw from the University?

Advisors LINK you to campus resources.

  • Where can I go for tutoring?
  • Where can I go for career counseling?
  • How do I get involved with campus student organizations?

Academic Advising: It Takes Two
Here are a few simple suggestions to make the most of your student-advisor partnership.

  • Meet with your advisor AT LEAST once per semester. Your advisor’s calendar fills quickly around registration time (April for fall/summer; November for spring). Scheduling appointments several weeks in advance is recommended.
  • Keep your advising appointments. Your time is precious – come prepared with questions, concerns, and issues.
  • Keep a Personal Academic File of your records such as transcripts, curriculum plans, email, University forms and correspondence.
  • Keep a calendar of important events (exam dates, assignment due dates, advising appointments).
  • Know your degree requirement and be familiar with University rules and regulations found in UWM’s Undergraduate Catalog and Timetable publications (web versions available).

We Value Your Input!
As part of an enrollment management initiative here on campus, we are currently assessing our academic advising resources. Campus-wide, each School and College will be evaluating their advising practices to improve services offered to students. As part of our assessment, we will be asking for valuable feedback from you, the students, mostly in the form of advising surveys. Please take the time to provide that feedback in order to help us serve you better!

School/College Advising Links

Additional Academic Advising Links