Student_Handbook

20 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2021-22 GRADES Students can access their grades via Self Service Banner (SSB) on the web page. Access continues for 6 months after last attendance at NSU. Students may wish to print/save an unofficial copy of their transcript for their own records while they still have access. After that, former students may request a transcript. ACADEMIC ADVISING The overall objective of academic advising is to help students realize the maximum educational benefits available to them at Northern State University. Academic advising may include all aspects of academic success, including academic planning and progress, academic policies and procedures, class registration, and exploration of NSU programs. Academic advisors should: • Understand and effectively communicate the curriculum, graduation requirements, and university policies and procedures • Encourage and guide students as they define and develop realistic goals • Encourage and support students as they gain the skills to develop clear and attainable educational plans • Provide students with information about and strategies for utilizing the available resources and services on campus While advisors are available for help and guidance, students must assume the ultimate responsibility for the course of their educational careers. Students should: • Schedule regular appointments with the advisor during each semester • Come prepared to each appointment with questions or material for discussion • Be an active learner by participating fully in the advising experience • Ask questions • Clarify personal values and goals and provide advisor with accurate information regarding interests and abilities • Become knowledgeable about college programs, policies, and procedures ADVISOR ASSIGNMENTS Once students have registered for their first semester, they will be assigned professional advisors. Students are encouraged to meet with their advisors on a regular basis. General Information on Advising/Registration Procedures • Professional advisors will assist students with their initial registration. • The Advising Center assigns advisors. Students may contact the Advising Center for advisor contact information and assignment requests. • Contact the appropriate offices when unsure about policies and procedures. • Students will meet with an advisor prior to registering for classes. • Students who pre-register and later decide to cancel their registration should notify the Registrar’s Office and their advisor. ACADEMIC LOAD The unit of credit is a semester hour representing one lecture period a week for the semester. Three hours of laboratory work is considered the equivalent of one hour of lecture. For each hour of credit, a student should expect to spend up to three hours a week in class or study.