B.S.W. Program
Advising
Each student in the School of Social Work is assigned a faculty adviser who assists in planning a program of learning and who is available to the student for appropriate guidance and advocacy. Early in the student′s first semester at VCU, they will receive an e-mail from the program director, informing them of the adviser′s telephone numbers and e-mail address. If students wish to request a change of adviser they should contact the program director. Students must meet with their advisers to apply for admission to the professional curriculum (upper level), field placement and graduation.
The adviser is concerned with the total learning experience of the student and is responsible for knowledge of the student′s progress in class and in field instruction. The student′s teachers and field liaison are responsible for keeping the adviser informed of his or her progress.
The importance of advising
Advising is an important element in the professional education of all students. It provides the opportunity for students to consult with faculty outside the classroom to discuss any matters of concern or interest to the student. The following statement from the University′s Task Force on Advising summarizes the role of advising:
“Academic advising is an ongoing process designed to assist students as they develop educational plans consistent with their interests, abilities, and goals and to link students with university resources to enhance their total educational experience.”
The purpose of the advising process is to:
- Assist the student in planning a program of study.
- Discuss academic progress based on information from instructors.
- Refer students to appropriate resources in the school and university.
- Interpret academic policy, rules and regulations of the school and university.
- Assist with the student′s integration of learning experiences.
- Advocate on behalf of advisees.
Responsibilities
It is the mutual responsibility of both the faculty adviser and student advisee to develop and maintain the advising relationship and to be available for conferences when considered necessary by either party. All advisers are available for such conferences during the preregistration periods prior to each semester and as needed. Students also are expected to contact advisers when questions arise or assistance is needed.