CSI Advising Center

 

Frequently Asked Questions

We realize you may have a lot of questions and concerns as you navigate through CSI. With you in mind, our office has compiled frequently asked questions that you as a student may encounter. Remember that sound advice also comes from campus personnel so don't be afraid to ask. Our friendly staff will point you in the right direction.

Meeting With Your Major Advisor

Declaring a Major

Placement Testing

Planning Your Schedule

Registering for Classes

Transferring Your Credits

Why is advising important?

Advising services are an essential part of student success. We highly encourage you to meet with your major advisor periodically throughout the semester to ensure that you are meeting program requirements. This is especially important prior to registration when planning your course selection.

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What are the responsibilities of students and major advisors?

Student Responsibilities include:

  • Develop knowledge about CSI program degree requirements, catalog regulations, and instructional calendar information.
  • Schedule regular advising sessions with major advisor for appropriate course selection guidance, create a graduation plan, and receive up-to-date campus resources and support.
  • Make informed, timely decisions based on information obtained or recommended by your major advisor. You control the freedom to make informed choices.
  • Access your CSI student email account, MyCSI student portal, and Blackboard course management system as part of your educational studies.
  • Visit the CSI website for current events and updated information.

Major Advisor Responsibilities:

  • Develop knowledge about admissions, course and program placement, and the developmental advising philosophy.
  • Understand and explain the relationships between degree requirements, catalog regulations, and instructional calendar information.
  • Assist students with relevant career and workforce opportunities, proper course sequence selection, and articulation program agreements.
  • Maintain working knowledge relating to CSI email, MyCSI student portal, and Blackboard course management system in order to assist students with these technology services.
  • Act as a referral resource for advisees to other CSI departments and community agencies, when appropriate and necessary.
  • Assist students in selecting courses that reflect individual interests and are aimed towards degree completion.
  • Revise website program content and hard copy materials with the most current information periodically.
  • Protect the privacy of students' educational records by adhering to Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations.

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Who is my major advisor?

If you don't know who your major advisor is, the program websites page will indicate the assigned major advisor for your desired program of study.

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When should I meet with my major advisor?

We recommend that you meet with your major advisor at least two weeks before the start of the registration period each semester. After your initial visit we recommend visitation with you major advisor periodically to ensure proper advising, evaluate academic progress, and online registration assistance.

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How do I contact my major advisor?

New students, undeclared, Liberal Arts majors, and non-degree seeking students should contact the Advising Center. Students are seen on first come, first serve basis. Current students will be directed to contact their major advisor. To set-up an appointment with your major advisor visit the directory page for office hours and location.

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What materials should I bring to my advising session?

Being prepared for your advising meeting will make best use of your time and be informative as possible. We suggest you bring the following materials to each session:

  • Program checklist or catalog curriculum requirements
  • List of questions and concerns regarding your declared major
  • Placement test scores (if applicable)
  • List of course interests
  • Transfer questions and employment workforce opportunities

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Do I need to declare a major before I start college?

It is helpful to declare a major before the start of the academic year as part of the catalog matriculation process. However, it is not required to select a major before attending classes, unless you plan on receiving Financial Aid. Contact the Advising Center or the program listing to research your degree options.

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How do I receive help on declaring a major?

If you are uncertain about what program to study or have a few career ideas but don't know where to start, the Career and Counseling Services is here to help. Career and Counseling Services offers a wealth of information on hundreds of careers to help you research career options and educational goals. Weekly workshops are available in Career Exploration, Successful Job Seeking, and Test Anxiety at no cost.

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Can I change my declared major?

It is not uncommon for students to change their major while attending CSI. These changes happen as a result of a shift in lifestyle and interests, career path exploration, or workforce needs. Before you declare a new major, we highly suggest setting up a meeting with your current and potential major advisor to discuss the pros and cons in each area of study. If you decide to change your major, complete a Major and Advisor Change Form and submit it to the Admissions and Records Office.

Please note: Students receiving financial aid and scholarships should consult with a Financial Aid Advisor to discuss conditions relating to a change in major.

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Do I have to take the COMPASS if I have other placement?

Students may be exempt from all or part of the COMPASS placement exam if they submit an acceptable type of placement or transfer courses. The Advising Center or your major advisor will help determine which COMPASS test sections you will need to take.

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Does CSI accept COMPASS scores from a different institution?

The COMPASS placement exam can be taken at testing sites other than CSI. However, many institutions do not require students to take the reading portion of the exam. In most cases, CSI students will need the reading portion, along with the math and English. The Advising Center or your major advisor can help you determine if you will need all parts of the exam.

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Can I retake all or part of the COMPASS?

Yes. The COMPASS can be retaken if you feel the score you received is lower than your actual skills. You can retake the entire test or just the specific section(s) in which you want to improve your scores. Your major advisor will provide a form notifying the Testing Center that you have permission to retest.

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How long are my placement scores valid?

Placement test scores will be considered valid if they have been taken within three years from the date of course enrollment.

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How should I balance college and other outside obligations?

Because every student has different life obligations such as work, family, travel, and course delivery preferences, flexibility is key. The chart below is a guideline to keep in mind when planning your schedule.

Outside Time Obligation: 40 hours/week 30 hours/week 20 hours/week 5-15 hours/week
Suggested Credit Load: 6 credits 9 credits 12 credits 14-16 credits

 

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How much time commitment is needed for each credit?

A credit hour is defined as the number of hours of class time per week. For example, a three credit class will meet three hours per week for the duration of a full semester. You will also need to schedule time outside of class for homework and studying. Remember the 2:1 Rule, for every class hour plan on at least two hours of outside class time.

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When should I register for classes?

You are stongly encouraged to contact your major advisor before registering for classes. Registering early for classes will provide many course section options, so don't wait until the last minute. The Academic Calendar indicates the open registration dates for each term.

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How do I register for classes?

Students are expected to register online using MyCSI. You will be required to retrieve a PIN and login with your student ID number. The following links will provide assistance when using MyCSI.

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Where can I find my class schedule after I register?

You can view and print your class schedule on MyCSI. Once you login, visit the "Records and Registration" tab and click on the "Student Schedule" located on the left menu. The course schedule contains the course title, credit amount, instructor, class meeting time, and class location. If you don't know your textbook and class material requirements, bring your schedule to the Bookstore and the staff will help you gather purchases.

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Will all completed credits transfer to the 4-year school that
I am planning to attend?

CSI is an accredited institution, therefore all completed credits will transfer. While all the credits will transfer, each school will determine transfer equivalency for the intended program. We suggest you contact a tranfer representative to determine course selection at CSI. The following transfer guides are provided by regional institutions and may be useful as you plan to transfer.

 

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