The fundamental purpose of academic advising is to assist students in clarifying and meeting their educational and career goals. Academic advising requires that both the student and faculty member work together as a team; students should come to advising meetings prepared with specific questions and ideas. Advisees are strongly encouraged to meet with their advisors at least once every semester in preparation for course registration.
Seeking other kinds of advising?
Your academic advisor has expertise in scholarly issues, especially pertaining to the study of religion. There are many other issues about which you may seek advice and support such as student health, legal matters, writing and learning skills, general career planning, lifestyle/residential issues, academic accommodations, and more. UVM offers a variety of free professional advising options regarding these and other issues. The College of Arts and Sciences Student Services can help you identify the resources most likely to meet your needs.
Advising within Religion
When students declare a religion major, they usually request to be assigned to a Department of Religion faculty advisor with whom they have completed coursework, after first consulting with their preferred advisor to determine if they are available. Once assigned, their faculty advisor will provide assistance on the following topics:
- Course selection
- Fulfilling the requirements of the major
- General distribution and minor requirements within CAS
- Planning for off-campus studies, internships, and other opportunities
- Career ideas and opportunities
All advisors hold regular office hours; please check the online list to see when your advisor is available and to find contact information to arrange an appointment.
Religion minors or students considering a minor/major who would like advice are welcome to make an appointment with the chair of the Department of Religion or to reach out informally to professors they know in the department.
Advisor Changes: Leaves and Sabbaticals
If and when your advisor goes on sabbatical or other leave, you will be assigned temporarily to another faculty member until your advisor returns and resumes duties; if you are being reassigned, the department's administrative coordinator will email you to let you know who your acting advisor is.
Advisor Changes: Student Initiated
If for whatever reason you would like to change your advisor, please contact the department chair.