Mar 29, 2024  
2016-2017 Academic Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Academic Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Department of General and Basic Studies


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Marshal Guidry, Director

Academic Advising

The Department of General and Basic Studies provides academic advising to its member students and serves as an initial contact point for first-time freshmen through its orientation and Peerleader programs. First-time freshmen are advised in basic studies before entering the academic department for their chosen major. Additionally, associate’s and bachelor’s degrees are offered in general studies for students who have a broad range of interests and are seeking a diverse curriculum.

Students in the Department of General and Basic Studies are given a sound basis for understanding academics as well as general knowledge about the University. Basic studies advisors guide students in major selection and counsel them on matters that may affect their academic progress, especially in regard to University policies and procedures.

Students who have declared a major are advised by basic studies until a minimum of 12 hours and a cumulative 2.5 GPA have been earned. Students with less than a 2.5 GPA remain in basic studies until a maximum of 24 hours is earned, at which time they will be transferred to the major department.

Students who have not yet declared a major are also advised in basic studies until 24 hours are earned. These students are coded as “GNST” in the student information system and are advised according to the core curriculum listed in the catalog. It is the responsibility of the student to notify the academic advisor as soon as a major has been selected. Once the advisor has been notified and the major has been changed in the student information system, the student will be subject to the regulations of the catalog in effect at the time the major is selected.

Orientation

Orientation is designed primarily for first-time freshmen and covers the programs and policies of the University. This information assists freshmen in adapting to the University environment and in becoming a part of the University community. Orientation programs are scheduled during the summer for students who will be first-time freshmen in the fall. Freshmen meet with faculty, freshman advisors, Blue and Gold Peerleaders, and attend a Student Organizations Fair. At the end of each orientation day, freshmen meet for advising and class registration. Each student will leave orientation with a class schedule for the following semester. Students must register in advance for the date they will attend orientation.

Transfer and non-traditional student orientation programs are scheduled during the summer for students transferring from another institution or for first-time freshmen who have not recently graduated high school. Students who meet these criteria may find out more information by contacting the Department of General and Basic Studies at (337) 475-5135.

Students who register for one of these orientations are assessed a non-refundable $100 orientation fee.

Programs

    Associate of General Studies
    Bachelor of General Studies
    Minor

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