Developing an Academic Plan

An academic plan allows a student to map out short, medium, and long term components designed to meet an academic goal. Remember that an academic plan should include some outside of the classroom learning activities. Learn to think beyond the minimum degree requirements. During each semester think about the degree requirements you need to complete next AND one or two topics to expand your reach - for example: how to get started on research as an undergraduate, should I study abroad later on, should I try to accelerate my studies by completing a combined degree? There are lots of ways to maximize your undergraduate education.

Why Have an Academic Plan?

When you head off to college almost everyone asks you what you are going to major in and what your career goal is. The truth is that most students really do not know and if they say they do, they will likely change their minds. So, how can you plan when you are unsure about so many things? But that is exactly why a plan is so important. A plan allows for constant goal setting, evaluation, and renewal of the plan. And even a choice of a major does not dictate your life's work. So, the planning is continuous and life-long. The best thing you can do for yourself is to learn to set goals (maybe just for the first semester or the first year) and then to be able to evaluate your outcomes - did you meet your goal, were you satisfied - why or why not? As you develop more experience your questions and goals will become more complex. Now that I have completed a series of courses in one area, can I make connections between the formal education and real life experiences (through a job, internship, shadow experience)? And do I like the result? If not, what have I learned about myself and what changes should I make in my plan?

Ask lots of questions - of your advisers, your teachers, your teaching assistants (TA's), and your fellow students. Not only will you learn more, but they can serve as good sounding boards for your ideas. They will probably mention a number of opportunities that a large research university like UB makes available. Should you do an internship, undertake research with a faculty member, study abroad, complete a leadership training program, do an academic minor, or run for student government? Ultimately you will make decisions that are right for you. You can do that if you are inquisitive, collect accurate information, engage in self-assessment, and plan thoroughly.

Short Term Planning

First Year - Fall & Spring Semesters

  • Schedule meetings with your academic advisor to help map out a course plan.
  • Discuss ideas for academic major/minor with professors during their office hours.
  • Take course(s) to begin to satisfy "Acceptance Criteria" for intended major. Refer to the Undergraduate Catalog and DARS report.
  • Take course(s) that will help you meet "prerequisites" for future courses. Refer to the Undergraduate Catalog and Class Schedule.
  • Take course(s) that will satisfy General Education Requirements. Refer to the DARS report and Class Schedule.
  • Take course(s) in area(s) that you might want to explore or possibly pursue an academic minor.
  • Network with faculty and advisors about undergraduate research.
  • Take a Life and Learning Workshop or join a student or academic club.

Medium Term Planning

Sophomore & Junior Year - Fall & Spring Semesters

  • Continue taking course(s) that satisfy "Acceptance Criteria" for intended major.
  • Find out when, where, and how to apply to major.
  • Meet your Departmental Advisor.
  • Consult with advisor and study abroad advisors to consider participation.
  • Approach faculty to see if they will write letters of reference.
  • Begin taking Upper Level courses in Spring of Sophomore year (300 level courses).
  • Take course(s) in area(s) that you might want to explore or possibly pursue an academic minor.
  • Visit Career Services.
  • Check out the Real Experience and Leadership Mentoring (REALM) program.
  • Investigate admission criteria for graduate school.
  • Initiate your Activities Transcript to track your accomplishments.
  • Present undergraduate research at professional conference.

Long Term Planning

Senior Year - Fall & Spring Semesters

Planning for Graduation

Ensuring that you complete the course requirements to obtain your undergraduate degree is an integral part of your overall academic planning. Good short, medium and long-term academic planning, reviewing your DARS report each semester, and frequent consultation with you advisor will help you stay on track. Assistance in obtaining and understanding a DARS report is available.

It is essential that you notify the university of the date on which you intend to graduate. UB confers degrees three times per year (commencement ceremonies are only in May, however). In order to have the university complete a final, official degree audit and to have your degree conferred you must file an application for degree form by the deadline date.

In order to participate in graduation ceremonies, you must also register for commencement. Note that many academic units have their own school graduation ceremonies. Stay up-to-date with plans for commencement and life after UB through the Countdown to Commencement: A Senior Celebration.

Last updated: January 05, 2007 9:55 am EST