Academic Advising

Every student is assigned an adviser for her first two years at the College. This adviser is a member of the Barnard faculty or a dean who is particularly interested taking on this responsibility. You can count on your adviser for information about course selection, procedures, and guidance on how to plan your program in order to satisfy the College's degree requirements. He or she is a valuable resource during your first two years.

Major Advising

During the sophomore year, students declare a major and select an adviser who will work with them for the next two years. A student who chooses to double major will have two major advisers. Students who know which major they would like to pursue but are unsure how to select an adviser should consult with the chair of their department. Students sometimes visit with particular faculty members with whom they may not have studied in order to decide if they would be a good match. Each semester, most departments hold meetings or open houses to help students make an informed decisoin about the major. This is also an opportunity to meet faculty members within a department.

Special and Combined Major

If you wish to apply for a special or combined major, please discuss requirements and procedures with your Class Dean. Once you are at the point of making application, please follow the instructions on this form, and obtain the necessary signatures, conveying support for your proposed major.

Transfer Student Advising

Barnard has a long and happy tradition of welcoming transfer students. Dean within the Office of the Dean of Studies and the Registrar serve as advisers to new Transfer students, helping them negotiate the particulars of the Barnard curriculum course selection process. Students who transfer after two full years of study at another institution move almost directly to major declaration. Those who are classified as first-year or sophomore students will continue with their initial adviser until the appropriate time (see above section about the major). Visiting students are assigned an adviser to assist with procedures and to act as a general resource during the student's stay at Barnard. Marjorie Silverman is the Dean of Transfer Services and also coordinates advising for visiting students.