Choosing a Major: Determining a major can be a difficult decision. Our office recommends taking a 1 or 2 credit introductory course offered either by the university (UNIV100 “The Student and the University” is an example and there are sections available for engineers) or the Clark School of Engineering. Each department offers extremely resourceful and informative websites; searching for information on these sites can help your student narrow down their interests. Viewing what the engineering departments have to offer (in terms of coursework and research/elective opportunities) can provide insight into special topics within each major. Meetings can also be scheduled with academic advisors in the departments or UA&AS to help students make a final decision to declare a specific major within engineering.

Degree Navigator: As an academic planning tool, Degree Navigator provides students an online audit of the coursework they need to complete for their major and where the courses that they have completed fit within that framework. Students should review this online audit once a semester, typically prior to meeting with their academic advisor to discuss the next semester’s registration.

Early Warning Grades (Mid Semester Grades): These are progress reports of any 100 or 200 level courses that are sent out about a month and a half into the semester. The grades are offered to notify UM students of what their grade is at that time. ANY student with a ‘D,’ ‘F,’ or ‘U’ (Unsatisfactory or below a 2.0) as an Early Warning Grade will receive an email from UA&AS recommending that they speak with an academic advisor in the office.

Mandatory Academic Advising: All engineering students must meet with an academic advisor prior to registering for courses for the coming semester (for their first semester as a University of Maryland student, Orientation fulfills this requirement). Students who are undecided within the field of engineering meet with academic advisors from Undergraduate Advising & Academic Support (UA&AS). Students who have declared a specific major within engineering will meet with a departmental academic advisor. If a student does not meet with their advisor, they will be UNABLE to register for courses. Any questions regarding a student’s academic advisor can be directed to UA&AS.

Orientation: At Orientation, students will learn about how to integrate into the institution as well as more about the Clark School of Engineering. We strive to provide information to begin a successful academic career related to course selection and planning to help students begin a successful academic career. We provide training and guidance on how to create first semester schedules as well as how to register for courses.

Scholarships and Financial Assistance: Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year by the University of Maryland deadline of February 15th. Students earning a minimum 3.0 grade point average are encouraged to apply for engineering scholarships each year by the May 31st deadline. Other non-UM scholarship opportunities may also be available throughout the year. Encourage your student to read the scholarship FYI notices and check the scholarship website frequently for opportunities and important deadlines.