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Academic Advising

First Year Students

Why do I have to be academically advised?

Academic advising allows students to clarify their desired educational goals in relation to UALR’s degree offerings. For new freshman students, your Advisor will review your ACT/SAT and/or Compass scores in relation to course selection, explain the UALR core curriculum and variations of core courses by degree, explain and demonstrate the registration process, and refer you to campus resources that support your academic, social, and personal success. After the advising appointment occurs each semester, the advising flag is lifted allowing the student to register. [back to top]

I have not been fully admitted to the University yet. Can I still be academically advised?

Yes. As long as you have already submitted your official admission test scores (i.e. ACT, SAT, Compass), you can call (501) 569-3386 to set up an advising appointment. [back to top]

Who is my academic advisor?

When you call to make your first appointment, you may meet with any one of our academic advisors in University College. If you wish, you may request the same advisor in subsequent terms. However, if you are a declared major, have a major that is offered by The College of Engineering and Information Technology (i.e. Applied Science, Computer Science, Construction Management, Engineering, or Information Science), or are participating in UALR’s four year graduation program (GAP-1014), then you will be advised within your major department. Student accepted into the Donaghey Scholars or STRIVE Scholars Program are advised in these departments. If you are a student within the Academic Success Center (ASC) you will be contacted by an advisior from the Academic Success Center. ASC students are those who’s test scores indicates the need developmental course in RHET 0310 composition fundamentals and/or READ 0310 college reading.

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Do I need to schedule an appointment with my advisor?

Yes, Students taking course work at the UALR Benter Center can be advisied at the center in Benton, AR. If you are meeting with an Advisor in University College, yes. You can either make an appointment in person (Ross Hall, Room 406) or call (501) 569-3386. If you are participating in ACT 1014, then you will be contacted and  meet with an advisor in your major department.If you are a student within the Academic Success Center you will  schedule an appointment by calling (501)-569-3280 or in person at SPCH101.  [back to top]

How often do I have to be advised?

You are required to meet with an Academic Advisor two times a year (once for the summer/fall term and once for the spring term). University College’s advises year round. Advising for the next semester usually begins on the third week of classes. We encourage students to get advised early. Early advising prepares you to  participate in early registration according to you classification.  [back to top]

What is Freshman Orientation and do I have to attend?

Orientation allows students and their parents or a chaperone to spend the day at UALR. The Orientation is designed to assist in the student’s transition to University life. Students learn about available campus resources and services, receive a packet of campus publications and materials, and tour the campus to locate classrooms and offices before classes begin. An effort is made to educate the students about what is expected of them as a student through meetings with staff, faculty, and student peer mentors. Students that are unable to attend the on campus Orientation have the option of completing the online (Cyber) Orientation. It is mandatory to attend Orientation.[back to top]

How do I register for Freshman Orientation?

You can register online at http://ualr.edu/orientation/ or by calling the Office of Campus Life at (501) 569-3308. [back to top]

What is UALR’s Four-Year Graduation Agreement Program (ACT 1014-of 2005) ?

ACT 1014, filed by Representative DeWayne Mack of Kirby, Arkansas, is a bill that was passed in 2005 by the Arkansas State Legislature. According to Act 1014, qualified first-time freshmen may elect to participate in a guaranteed 8-semester degree completion program for most bachelor’s degree programs. The list of majors that are included in the 8-semester degree completion program is published in UALR’s website, in the undergraduate catalog, and in departmental publications. An eligible student MUST accept or waive participation in the program. Failure to either accept or waive participation will result in a hold being placed on the student’s record, and the student will not be able to receive financial aid or register for classes the following semester. [More information on ACT 1014]. [back to top]

As a freshman, in what level courses should I enroll?

Generally, freshman should register for developmental or 1000-freshman and 2000-sophomore level courses for which they have prerequisite test scores or course work. If you have a question about a higher level course, consult the catalog for prerequisites or the major department. High school concurrent students that have taken courses at an institution other than UALR must submit official transcript(s) to UALR office of Admissions. [back to top]

If I enroll and do not pay for my classes, will UALR drop me for non-payment?

If you enroll in the early registration period and do not 1) pay the $100 deposit, 2) pay full fees, or 3) have confirmed financial aid, the University will drop you from classes for non-payment or non-deposit of your tuition/fees. However, if you enroll during regular registration period the university will not drop you from classes and you will be required to pay full tuttion and fees. Please refer to the Registration Pocket Guide for payment due dates or BOSS important dates. [back to top]

I am experiencing some difficulty in some of my classes. What resources are available that can help me improve?

UALR provides academic support services. Some of these resources include:

For students enrolled in Math 1302(College Algebra) and above, Chemistry and Physics

  • Math Lab Mac II (Department of Math and Statistics)

For Students enrolled in Math 0300(Elementary Algebra) & 0301(Intermediate Algebra)

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Do I have to see an advisor to adjust my schedule?

Once you are registered for your classes you do not have to see an advisor to adjust your schedule. You can make the necessary changes on BOSS. However, if you are a student with an Academic Success Center hold, then you are required to see your Academic Success Center advisor to make adjustments to your schedule. Refer to the Registration Pocket Guide for the last day to register, add, or adjust your schedule. [back to top]

Where do I go if I need help adjusting my schedule?

UALR has created a guide to show you how to use BOSS at www.ualr.edu/success Academic advisors and the staff in the Administration South Building (ADS) [campus map] can also assist students with schedule adjustments. However, it is the student’s responsibility to learn how to use BOSS. If you are a student with an Academic Success Center hold, then you are required to see your Academic Success Center advisor to make adjustments to your schedule[back to top]

What is an Undergraduate Catalog and where can I get one?

The Undergraduate Catalog is a ‘must have’ for a successful academic career. The UALR undergraduate Catalog details all the University policies and procedures, every major offered at UALR, the required courses for each major, all of the classes offered by the University, the prerequisites for each course, and much more. As an undergraduate, you are entitled to a free Catalog upon entering the University. Your Catalog is available for pickup at the UALR Book store, which is located in the Donaghey student center lower level room 115B. The UALR Undergraduate Catalog is also available online. [back to top]

What are the expectations of students for classes?

Each class has specific course requirements which will be detailed by the syllabus provided by your course instructor. Some of the more basic expectations include on-time class attendance, completion of assigned work (i.e. readings, problems, projects, papers, tests, etc.), and participation in class. On average, most instructors expect you to study 2-3 hours per credit hour. For example, a 3-credit hour course will require approximately 6-9 hours of study per week. [back to top]

How do I withdraw from my classes once I am enrolled in it?

BOSS will allow you to drop all enrolled classes prior to the last day to register, add, or adjust schedules (check the Registration Pocket Guide for date). After that date, you will need to go to the Office of Records and Registration to complete and submit a withdrawal form. [back to top]

There are so many majors, how do I decide on one?

You may have an intended major in mind, or no idea as to what major to choose. Take advantage of services that can assist you in exploring your major interests. UALR’s Office of Career Counseling and Planning offers a variety of resources and career search tools and strategies that can assist you in your search for a career to pursue. Your departmental Academic Advisor is also well qualified to discuss career and major options with you. [back to top]

When should I choose a major?

Departments have differing major requirements. Your advisor can also help you plan to meet your specific requirements and if you are comfortable with your choice, will encourage you to declare. Some majors require that certain core courses be completed with a specific grade before admission, while others do not. Your academic advisor can provide you with your major requirements or you can find it in the UALR Undergraduate Catalog, which is also available on-line. [back to top]

I’m having trouble getting into my e-mail, what should I do?

UALR’s computing services has created an excellent Guide for the UALR E-mail System. If you have further questions, you can also call the Computing Services Help Desk at (501) 569-8720. [back to top]

What is the Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS)?

The Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS) contains information about the transferability of courses within Arkansas public colleges and universities. Students are guaranteed the transfer of applicable credits and equitable treatment in the application of credits for admissions and degree requirements. Students may complete specified General Education courses anywhere in the public system as well as many courses in the degree/major that have been pre-idenitfied for transfer. Check with an academic advisor to ensure the proper transfer of courses identified on the ACTS system in compliance with ACT 472 and UALR policy. Most of this information and a link to the ADHE ACTS is on the Records and Registration Transfer Credit Equivalency Guide if you find this helpful. [back to top]

What if I have other questions?

If you have additional questions or would like to schedule an appointment to speak with one of our advisors, please call or come by the Office of Academic Advising. [back to top]

Is there anything else I need to do?

You can click on the link below to download the information sheet/checklist that tells you ‘What You Need to Do Next’ after you get advised. [back to top]

What is UALR’s Core Curriculum?

The purpose of the core curriculum is to establish a foundation for the undergraduate academic experience and to establish and to ensure that students develop fundamental skills and a lifelong commitment and ability to learn. Students seeking a baccalaureate degree must complete 44 hours from the UALR core curriculum. Core curriculum may vary by academic program. Students commonly refer to these class as general education requirements or the basics.

The College of Information Science and Engineering Technology has a  different core curriclum. [back to top]

Updated 10.5.2009