The best course of study combines planning with flexibility. When entering the political science program, undergraduate students should make an advising appointment with a department advisor. The department has prepared a packet of information for new majors, which is available at the main office, Thompson Building, Room 221.
An advisor is a valuable resource and can help plan a coherent and satisfying curriculum and can provide students with information on course offerings and opportunities within the department. All incoming freshman and sophomores should meet with an undergraduate advisor for initial advisement.
Advisors in the College of Liberal Arts
There are two types of academic advisors in the College of Liberal Arts: College Advisors and Faculty Advisors. Both types of advisors can assist you with your academic progress in different ways and you are able to meet with both types of advisors.
The College advisors, located in the College of Liberal Arts Student Center, are year-round professional staff members whose primary role is academic advisement. College advisors are able to assist all students with a major or minor in liberal arts programs.
A College advisor can be particularly helpful with advising for the following:
New students to the University (incoming freshmen/first-year students and new transfer students)
Students changing their major into the College of Liberal Arts from another College/School at the University
Questions regarding overall degree framework, including Silver Core Curriculum, foreign language, CLA breadth, or the minor requirements
Students on academic probation
Pre-graduation evaluations for students nearing the completion of their degree preparing to graduate
General advising or exploration of liberal arts majors and minors
When faculty advisors are not available (especially during winter or summer breaks)
First-year students generally meet with College advisors prior to their first semester at the University (at summer orientation) and throughout the first year.
Each academic department in the College of Liberal Arts has one or more faculty advisors. The faculty advisors are academic faculty members that advise specifically for their department’s major and minor programs. In addition to their roles as instructors and scholars, faculty advisors can serve as mentors to students as they progress through their degree. It is best to consult with a faculty advisor for the following:
Questions about requirements or course substitutions in a major/minor program
Selecting specific major/minor classes to meet your academic or professional interests
Graduate and professional school planning
Exploring internship and career opportunities related to your program
Students are encouraged to meet with faculty advisors on a regular basis, especially after completing the first year of study.
Undergraduate advising
Political Science advising with Dr. Griffin
Dr. Jeffrey Griffin advises only Political Science students.
Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. In-person at Thompson Bldg. 211 or remotely via Zoom.
Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Zoom only.
In-person drop-in advisement may be available on Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Students with appointments will have priority.