Academic Advising

Advisement begins during the admissions process as prospective students are given materials and counseled on the degree options, contents, and requirements. A faculty academic advisor is assigned during the master’s student’s first term. At various times during the Core, students receive special group advisement on registration procedures or on Field Education preparation procedures and placements. Faculty advisors assist students in developing their program of study. This program of study includes their electives (M.A.) or self-selected studies (M.Div.). It is the responsibility of graduate students to contact their faculty advisors to arrange meetings concerning program planning. Registration packets are sent to all enrolled students 45 days in advance of each new term.

In addition to academic planning, the advisor provides support to students concerning other issues such as personal problems, difficulties with other faculty members, grievance issues, etc. The faculty advisor can also assist students to develop ideas for their M.A. research projects.

D.Min. students are assigned advisors who will assist them in future course selection and normally serve as chair of the dissertation committee. This occurs at the conclusion of their first semester.