Academic Advising Services

At the University of Massachusetts Amherst, academic advising is a collaborative process with students that engages them in learning and self-discovery, as well as intellectual and personal growth. Members of the advising community guide students to develop an individualized plan that will allow them to reach their evolving academic, career, and personal goals. Our advising practices prioritize student well-being and equitable access to meaningful opportunities and resources.

All students in the college are strongly encouraged to meet regularly with an academic adviser. Faculty and staff advisors are available in each department to assist students with questions or concerns as they progress through their academic careers. This includes advice on course selection; departmental, college, and university requirements; career guidance; assistance with academic problems; enriching opportunities; and referral information about other services.

First-Year Advising - All first-year students are assigned to a first-year advisor who specializes in helping students adjust to college, establish a sense of belonging, identify campus resources, and explore major choices. Our First Year Advising Center is located in Lederle Graduate Research Tower, Room 122, and can be contacted at cnsfirstyearadvising@umass.edu.

Upper-Level Advising – Sophomores, juniors, and seniors will be assigned to a dedicated advisor who is an expert in major-related coursework, internships, and research opportunities.

Pre-Med/Pre-Health Advising – Students interested in exploring careers in medicine, dentistry or any other health-related field have access to specialized pre-med/pre-health advisors. The Pre-Med/Pre-Health Advising Center is located in 101 Shade Tree Lab and can be contacted at ceden@umass.edu. 

Career Advising- The CNS Career and Professional Development Center has a team of career advisors that help students gain experiential learning experiences and professional training to prepare them for meaningful careers and applying to graduate schools. The CNS Career Center is located in Morrill II, Suite 321, and Morrill III, Room 106, and can be contacted at CareerCenterCNS@umass.edu.