Advising Frequently Asked Questions
Should I see an advisor?
Yes! You should make a strong effort to see your major advisor at least once per academic year. This will help ensure you are taking the right classes and are on track to graduate.
Do I need to make an appointment to see an advisor?
No. Advising is available both by-appointment and without an appointment. Please log into
SDSU Navigate to see appointment and walk-in availability for our Advising Team.
What if I need help with questions concerning general electives, or non-major courses?
Our Advising Team is trained and ready to help you with all of your academic advising needs while you are a student at SDSU. If you have questions we cannot answer, we will refer you to the appropriate office.
What is the difference between “Applied Arts and Sciences” and “Liberal Arts and Sciences?”
Liberal Arts and Sciences (Language Requirement) – Competency (successfully completing the third college semester or fifth college quarter) is required in one foreign language to fulfill the graduation requirement. Refer to section of catalog on “Graduation Requirements.” (Think completion of Span 201, French 201, etc.).
You can also test out of the language requirement if reading, writing and speaking proficiency is demonstrated.
Applied Arts and Sciences (Mathematics Requirement) – Competency of mathematics must be satisfied by three semesters of college mathematics or a statistical sequence such as Statistics 250, 350A, 350B; or Sociology 201*, 406*, 407* (*additional prerequisites required).
What is the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement?
Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement. Passing the Writing Placement Assessment with a score of 10 or Rhetoric and Writing Studies 305W with a grade of C (2.0) or better. See http://arweb.sdsu.edu/es/catalog/GRBD.pdf for a complete listing of requirements.
How do I get from pre-major status to major status?
A. Complete general education oral communication requirement (3 units) and two courses (6 units) selected from Communication 160, 201, 204, and 245, each with a grade of “C” or higher and an average grade of 2.75 or higher. These courses cannot be taken for credit/no credit (Cr/NC).
B. Complete a minimum of 45 transferable semester units and a maximum of 90 semester units.
C. Have a cumulative grade point average of 2.75 or higher.
D. To gain entry into the major, students must fulfill the pre-major requirements described in the catalog in effect at the time they declare the pre-major at SDSU (assuming continuous enrollment).
How many units does the minor require?
The minor in communication requires the completion of 21 units (7 classes). See minor sheet for more details.
Are major courses allowed to be taken for credit/no credit?
No, courses being used to satisfy major requirements are not allowed to be taken for credit/no credit. For more information visit - http://arweb.sdsu.edu/es/catalog/webfolder/440-454_U_Policies.pdf
What is the Communication Certificate?
The certificate program in communication emphasizes scholarly, creative, and professional aspects of communication studies. Coursework includes instruction that provides understanding of culture, health, institutions, interaction, politics, relationships, and rhetoric in everyday life. The focus is placed on how effective communication enhances well-being and relationships; promotes civic engagement, and allows for effective participation in a global community.
To be admitted to the certificate program, students must be enrolled at San Diego State University or through SDSU Global Campus.
The certificate requires 12 units from Communication 201, 245, 300, 371. Coursework must be completed with a GPA of 2.0.
Courses in the certificate may not be counted toward the major or minor in the School of Communication.
What is the Health Communication Certificate?
The certificate program in health communication focuses on how people understand and communicate about health and illness. Coursework includes instruction in health-related and care-related messages, the goals and strategies of health care promotion, the relationships, roles, situations, and social structures in health maintenance and promotion, and the communication surrounding wellness, illness, and healthcare in personal and professional relationships.
To be admitted to the certificate program, students must be enrolled at San Diego State University or through SDSU Global Campus.
The certificate requires 12 units to include Communication 321 and nine units selected from Communication 421, 422, 423, 424, 425, 426, 427, 428. Coursework must be completed with a GPA of 2.0.
Courses in the certificate may not be counted toward the major or minor in the School of Communication.
