Penn State students receive academic advising from primary-role and/or faculty advisers. Students can find their assigned adviser’s contact information in Starfish, the University’s online advising platform.
An academic adviser will be assigned between the student’s orientation and the start of classes. If a student does not yet have an assigned adviser, they should contact the advising center for the college in which they are enrolled for advising-related questions.
Academic advising relationships at Penn State are initiated by students. Students are encouraged to meet with their assigned adviser at least once a semester and as often as needed to successfully plan and manage their goals. Students are encouraged to build a relationship with their assigned adviser to help them be intentional about the educational opportunities available.
Academic advisers are prepared to:
- Help students identify and achieve academic goals
- Promote intellectual discovery
- Encourage students to engage in both in- and out-of-class educational opportunities
- Encourage students to become self-directed learners and decision makers
Academic Integrity
Penn State expects students to pursue their academics in an honest and ethical manner. The University takes violations of academic integrity very seriously. Learn more about academic integrity and how to avoid inadvertent plagiarism by taking this training.
Contacting Instructors
Students are expected to contact instructors if they have questions or concerns about course content, policies, or academic performance. College instructors are available during their office hours or by appointment. Office hours should be listed on the course syllabus (an outline of the course content, expectations, and grading basis). Family members should not contact instructors or academic advisers directly.
Syllabus
A syllabus is a document that summarizes course expectations and should be shared by the instructor on or before the first day of class. In addition to describing the course and listing goals and objectives, the syllabus includes information about course grading, exams, attendance expectations and policies, course instructor(s), and required materials for the class. The syllabus should also state information related to instructions for campus closures, academic integrity, procedures for adjustments identified by the Office of Student Disability Resources, educational equity concerns, and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). Students are responsible for reading and understanding the syllabus for each class. Any questions a student has regarding the syllabus should be asked early in the semester so that they have a clear understanding of what is expected in the course by the faculty member. Complete information on the Faculty Senate policy on syllabi can be found in Senate Policy 43-00.
Transferring Credit to Penn State
A student who does advanced work in a secondary school may earn credit through the Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) exams. A-Level exams completed by international students may also be considered for credit. Penn State students may also transfer credits from courses taken at another higher education institution to meet degree requirements.
The online Transfer Credit Tool can be used to search for courses at other institutions. Credit can also be awarded for non-academic training through prior learning assessment. Visit Transfer Students – How to Apply for more information.
When awarded, all transfer credits are recorded on the student’s transcript, but no grade is recorded, and the student’s grade-point average is not affected. Students should speak with a college adviser regarding the ability to transfer course credit toward their intended degree. Additionally, because there is a lower- and upper-division tuition differential, students should contact the Office of the Bursar for help in determining the potential impact of transfer credits on their tuition.