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  1. Home
  2. Academics
  3. New Student Orientation (NSO)

Academic Advising at Penn State

Academic advising promotes intellectual discovery, encourages students to take advantage of both in-and out-of-class educational opportunities, and helps them to identify and achieve their goals. In addition, advising supports students’ successful navigation of the University’s academic opportunities, policies, systems, and procedures. Working with advisers, students assume responsibility for their education and become lifelong, self-directed learners, and decision-makers. Academic advising is a collaborative teaching relationship among academic advisers, students, faculty, and the University community.

Student Responsibilities

  1. Acquire information needed to assume final responsibility for course scheduling, program planning, and the successful completion of all graduation requirements.
  2. Learn more about an intended major and evaluate the fit of a major with individual interests and abilities.
  3. Use tools and resources (e.g., University Bulletin, Suggested Academic Plans, Degree Audits).
  4. Become knowledgeable about University policies and procedures and rules of the college and academic program.
  5. Seek opportunities and information at Penn State needed to set and achieve educational goals.
  6. Meet regularly with an assigned academic adviser to discuss goals and plans and to address academic progress and challenges.
  7. Read Penn State email regularly and ask for help when needed.

Academic Adviser Responsibilities

  1. Assist students in defining academic and career goals that match students’ values, interests, and abilities.
  2. Engage students in active discussion to help them understand the range of educational opportunities available at Penn State.
  3. Answer questions and clarify University policies and procedures.
  4. Help students plan a course of study and give advice about courses and adjustments to course loads.
  5. Help identify campus resources and make referrals to appropriate services.
  6. Actively reach out to students as interventions are needed and provide timely responses to the student and others in a student’s support network.
  7. Create an inclusive environment that welcomes and supports all students.
  8. Document advising interactions in the electronic system.

New Student Orientation (NSO)

  • Academic Advising at Penn State
  • Academic Advisers
  • Academic Advising Basics
  • Academic Calendar
  • ALEKS Math Assessment
  • Campus Resources
  • Notification of Student Rights Under FERPA
  • Money Matters
  • View and Pay Tuition Using Authorized Payer Access
  • Get a Head Start on Course Scheduling
  • Choices of Successful Students
  • Penn State Values
  • Guests

Accessibility Statement

Penn State encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact the Penn State Altoona Health and Wellness Center at 814-949-5540 in advance of your participation or visit.

Get a Head Start on Course Scheduling

Watch a video to learn how to schedule courses using the LionPATH shopping cart.

Learn More

See Also

  • Welcome Week
  • Transfer Student Orientation
Pennsylvania map showing Penn State's campuses with Penn State Altoona highlighted

Penn State Altoona

A full-service, four-year, residential campus located less than 45 miles from the research campus at University Park. Offering 21 four-year degrees and the first two years of over 275 Penn State majors.
  • facebook
  • twitter
  • instagram
  • youtube
  • flickr
  • linkedin
Give Visit Apply
  • This is Penn State Altoona
    • Penn State Altoona At a Glance
    • Mission, Vision, and Values
    • Our History
    • Campus Map
    • College Leadership
    • Current Weather Conditions
    • Livestream
  • Academics
    • Majors
    • Academic Calendar
    • Out-of-Class Learning
    • Eiche Library
    • Learning Resources Center
    • Registrar
    • Academic Advising
    • Honors Program
    • Campus Closures
  • Admissions
    • Visit Us
    • Information for First-Year Students
    • How to Apply
    • Accepted Students
    • Experience Altoona
    • Virtual Tour
  • Tuition & Financial Aid
    • Scholarships and Awards
    • Grants
    • Loans
    • Work-study
    • Financial Aid Basics
    • Tuition and Costs
    • Financial Aid Information
  • Student Success
    • Center for Student and Civic Engagement
    • Health and Wellness Center
    • Student Diversity and Inclusion Programming
    • International Student Services
    • Housing
    • Parking
    • Police and Safety
    • Career Services
    • Diversity at Penn State Altoona
  • Research & Engagement
    • Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry
    • Faculty Research Resources
    • Community-Based Studies
    • Internships
    • Study Abroad/Study Away
    • Internal Grants and Awards
  • Athletics
    • Schedule
    • Facilities
    • Recreation and Club Sports
    • Staff and Coaches Directory
    • Athletic Training and Sports Physicals
    • Athletics News
    • Camps and Clinics
    • Hall of Fame
  • Stay Connected
    • Faculty and Staff Directory
    • Offices and Divisions
    • Campus Calendar
    • PSUAlert Text Messaging Service
    • COVID-19 Information
    • Penn State Altoona Connect
    • Penn State Student Engagement Network
Penn State University
3000 Ivyside Park, Altoona, Pennsylvania 16601 814-949-5000

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