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The UMD Catalog contains information regarding University and collegiate structure, policies and procedures for students, degree requirements, and course descriptions. To earn a degree, students must satisfy the requirements identified in the catalog that is in print the year they enter UMD or any other catalog active during their enrollment within an eight-year period. Use the UMD Catalog to look up course descriptions; liberal education requirements; major, minor, or program requirements; and collegiate regulations on academic standing. Many questions about UMD are answered in the UMD Catalog. It should be the first place you look. If your specific questions are not addressed, it will direct you to the right place to ask in person. Academic Adviser Upon entering UMD, every student is assigned a faculty adviser for academic assistance before registration each term, or for help with “the system.” An adviser is usually a member of the department in which a student majors. If you change your major, you will be assigned a new adviser. If you need help with advisement before you are assigned a faculty adviser, go to the student affairs office of the collegiate unit in which you are currently enrolled. What if I don't know my major or want to change it? Each year, 35-40 percent of entering students choose not to identify a specific major of study. Several sources suggest that not declaring a major is an optimal way of approaching your studies. Keeping an open mind to potential areas of interest while actively exploring possible majors can be very beneficial for some students. Students entering with an undeclared major are encouraged to use the Liberal Education Program to explore areas of interest. Several resources exist to help students through the process of identifying a major including Career Services, special advisement, and a variety of workshops and tests. If you have identified a major but wish to explore other areas of interest, take a variety of courses from the Liberal Education Program. You may change your major or collegiate unit at any point during your experience at UMD by submitting a completed Application for Undergraduate Change of College to the student affairs office of the UMD college you wish to transfer to. There are published deadlines each term. Be aware that frequent changes can delay your date of graduation. Some majors do have very structured programs that require an early decision to complete degree requirements in four years. We strongly encourage you to openly discuss your interests and concerns with your adviser throughout your college career. To explore career possibilities, visit UMD Career Services website. |
