What is Academic Advising?
Academic Advising is an educational process that, by intention and design, facilitates students’ understanding of the meaning and purpose of higher education and fosters their intellectual and personal development toward academic success and lifelong learning (NACADA, 2004). Academic advising should be ongoing throughout your college career. It helps you to clarify your personal, educational and career goals, and to understand how your courses fit into your goals for the future.
Help us get to know you (and learn a little about yourself).
- University College Student Profile (PDF)
- Take the Focus2 self-assessment. A free service offered by the Career Center to help you connect your skills and interests with potential careers and majors offered at Montclair State.
- Understanding Myself and My Options (PDF)
Think about what you like to do, what skills you have or would like to gain and see what your work personality is. Meet with your advisor to talk about potential majors that you may connect with.
I’m ready to declare! What do I do now?
To declare your major, most programs require the completion of the Change of Major/Minor Form. Other programs are restricted and have GPA and/or coursework requirements. Please review the Restricted Majors page to see if the program you are interested in is restricted. Please meet with an advisor to review your progress into a restricted major.
- Change of Major Request (NEST)
All undergraduate students looking to change their major/minor must use the online form via NEST. All requests will be reviewed by your new College/School designee before being made official; students will receive an email with confirmation of approval. Expect 5-10 business days for processing to occur. Note: only one transaction is permitted each time you complete the form.- Please note: Students looking to drop their current major and become pre-major must first meet with an Academic Advisor to discuss their academic plan.
- Restricted Majors
Review entrance requirements for restricted programs. All students are encouraged to meet with an advisor to review requirements to get into a major. We encourage even the most decided student to learn more about his/her choice of major. What potential careers can you pursue? Are there any research or learning opportunities associated with your major?
- Informational Interview
What better way to find out about a major then speaking with someone from that major? Speak with a faculty member or student in the program to learn more about coursework and what students in the major do after they graduate. - Learn about Career Fields
Using O*NET, research a career field you might pursue. What do you like about it? What skills will make you successful in this field? Do you have them? How can you enhance or develop the skills required for your career field of interest? Meet with your advisor to discuss.