Frequently Asked Questions about Advising

1. What is a General Education Requirement (GER)?
   
   Springfield College emphasizes a Humanics philosophy that involves education of the whole person – the spirit, mind, and body – for leadership in service to humanity. To fulfill this mission, Springfield College requires that the students have exposure to the following disciplines: mathematics, science, computer science, health, written communication, literature, and fitness. Students can choose from a variety of courses to meet GERs and to advance their own interests and knowledge in a particular aspect of human services. The GERs can also be met through transfer credits or the experiential learning process. (See the SHS catalog for a listing of courses that meet these requirements.)
   
   
2. What happens when I meet with my advisor?
   
   Be prepared. Advising is the responsibility of both the Advisor and the Advisee. This handbook was written to give you an overview of the SHS program so that you will be more informed for your advising sessions. Ask questions, and be proactive and engaged in the advising process. Provide information that will help your advisor be the best advisor possible.
   
   
   • Review transfer credits; all courses of C- or better will transfer unless they are considered to be developmental (usually courses below the 100 level).
     
     
   • Verify the GERs that will be met by transfer credits.
     
     
   • Focus on what you need to be an educated, articulate School of Human Services graduate.
     
     
   • Keep a copy of your academic schedule. This will guide you through the SHS program. You should have a copy of the advising sheet so that you can take more responsibility for your academic process.
     
     
   • Discuss the experiential learning process. Do you have licenses, human services training and certificates to be evaluated? Will you be submitting a Portfolio? When is the appropriate time for you to take the Portfolio class?
     
     
   • Think of your academic advisor as your partner in education. Your advisor is responsible for ensuring that you understand the SHS program and sequencing of courses, and for monitoring your academic progress so that all graduation requirements are met. It is also your responsibility to ask questions and to keep track of your own progress.
     
     
3. How, What, When, and Where about Transfer Credits
   
   The Registrar reviews transcripts from regionally accredited colleges and universities and posts them to your Springfield College transcripts. When possible, transfer credits are made equivalent to Springfield College courses and carry the same number of credits as the Springfield College course.

In This Section

• credit and course requirements
• advising FAQs