Advising

Academic advising at Fairfield University is a key component of the teaching and learning relationship at the heart of educating the whole person.

In conversations with your advisor, you should expect to develop an educational plan that allows you to explore curricular offerings, take advantage of co-curricular experiences and resources, and engage meaningfully with the Jesuit educational mission.

Advisor Assignment

Declared Majors

Students with a declared major are assigned a faculty advisor in that academic discipline.

Undeclared Majors

Undeclared students are assigned a general faculty advisor. Once the students declare a major, they will be reassigned to an advisor in their chosen academic discipline. The College of Arts and Sciences tries to ensure that each undeclared faculty mentor is assigned in line with the student’s personal interests and academic strengths.

What to Expect from your Advisor

Regular Meetings

Advisors work with students regularly to keep students on track.

Progress Monitoring

Advisors will familiarize themselves with your academic and professional goals, ensuring you are given the tools and opportunities to succeed.

Advising at registration time

Advisors will meet with you before course registration to create a plan to fulfill major, minor, and Magis Core requirements.

Discussion of courses and programs of study

Students will receive guidance on which classes and programs they are interested in. For undeclared students, advisors will lead them toward a declaration of major.

Consideration of curricular and co-curricular opportunities

Advisors will make advisees aware of both academic and co-curricular opportunities available at the University in addition to making the appropriate program referrals.

Support through experiential learning options

Students will be guided through the process of applying to/completing high-impact learning opportunities such as study abroad, capstones, and internships.

Advising for First-Year Students

Fairfield’s academic advising begins before the actual start of classes.
Students are pre-registered for at least one major/Magis Core class before their orientation. At orientation, students will meet with their assigned advisors to learn more about the academic planning process before registering for the remainder of their first semester courses.

To create a fall course schedule, students must complete the Academic Interests Questionnaire and Language Placement Exam, via the New Student Checklist.