Undergraduate Advising

You'll have the support you need to succeed at NIU. If you're looking for information about departmental, college or university requirements, we encourage you to refer to the undergraduate catalog.

You can also turn to the Academic Advising Center for assistance, as well as to Registration and Records for information on searching for courses and registering for classes.

If you're majoring or minoring in environmental studies, you're welcome to schedule an advising appointment as needed.

Meeting With Your Advisor

As a student at NIU, you will intentionally connect with several academic advisors during your time as a Huskie, starting with a first-year advisor and then connecting with college, department, and specific program advisors to ensure your academic success.

First year students in all colleges will work with the Academic Advising Center.

Students who have earned 24+ credits will work with your advisor in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

After you decide on your major, you should meet with your major advisor immediately. They'll help plan your courses to keep you on track to graduation. You should contact your advisor at least once a semester after this first meeting.

Treat an advising appointment like an interview. Come prepared with knowledge about class offerings and major requirements, as well as questions for your advisor.

Tips for Success

These tips will help you succeed at NIU and after graduation:

• Participate in engaged learning opportunities.
• Gain research experience in a professor's lab (ENVS 490).
• Build your communication skills at the Writing Center.
• Get an internship (ENVS 492).
• Join student organizations related to sustainability.
• Use the many resources provided by Career Services.
• Read constantly in a range of subjects (academic, nonfiction, novels, etc.)
• Explore opportunities to study abroad.