Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my schedule once the semester starts?

Yes, you can change your schedule during the add/drop period. Be sure to go onto SPIRE on the last day of add/drop to check your schedule to be sure it is correct.

How can I withdraw from a course?

You can withdraw from a course through the mid-semester date.  A "W" will show up on your transcript indicating that you were enrolled in the course after the add/drop period. You just have to fill out the course change request form, have it signed by your instructor and bring it to the Registrar's Office by the mid-semester date.  The form does NOT require a dean's signature.  Just be sure you are remain a full time student--carrying 12 credits.

I am not doing well in a class. Can I withdraw from it after the mid-semester date?

The only way you can withdraw from a class after the mid-semester date is if you have verifiable extenuating circumstances. You need to see the Academic Dean in 113 Stockbridge Hall.

Can I take a required course for my major or a general education course pass/fail?

No, you can only take elective courses pass/fail. You must choose this option during the add/drop period. The faculty member does not know if you have chosen the pass/fail option. Remember... if you get a good grade in the course and it helps your GPA, the grade will appear on your transcript.

What happens if my GPA goes below a 2.0?

To be in academic good standing you must maintain a 2.0 GPA. If you go below a 2.0 you will be placed on academic probation and will need to see the Academic Dean in 113 Stockbridge Hall. and your academic advisor to develop a strategy to improve your academic performance. If in a subsequent semester you again earn below a 2.0 GPA you will be suspended for a semester but then allowed to return to the University. If for a third semester, your GPA is below a 2.0 you will be dismissed from the University.

What do I need to graduate from UMass?

You need to earn 120 credits; complete your general education and major department requirements, a 2.0 GPA in your major and a 2.0 GPA for all your courses.

How do I find out more about the General Education Requirement?

This list of General Education Requirements defines the requirements and indicates the courses that you can take to fulfill the requirement.

How do I get on the Dean's List?

You must earn a 3.5 GPA.

How many credits can I take in a semester?

To be a full time student you need to take 12 credits each semester. Most students take 15 credits a semester. To find out the maximum number of credits per semester you can take, look up your department's academic requirements. Each department has a maximum number of credits allowed during a semester. It is possible to take more than the maximum number of credits, but you must complete a "CREDIT OVERLOAD AUTHORIZATION" form. Overload requests cannot be processed until the start of the semester and students cannot register for overloads until that time.

I was not able to complete a final assignment in a class—what should I do?

Speak to your instructor immediately! It is possible to take an 'incomplete' in the course which will allow you to make up the work during the following semester. You must complete an Incomplete Grade Form - you can get this from your instructor or from the Academic Dean in 113 Stockbridge Hall. Remember, an incomplete counts as an "F" until you complete the work and a grade is submitted. You only have one semester to complete the work or the "INC" becomes an "F".

Can I take a course during the summer at another school?

Yes, but you must complete a "Prior Approval Form," which must be signed by your academic advisor. If the course you are taking fulfills a general education requirement, you need to get a signature from an admissions evaluator. The form must be submitted to the Registrar's Office in Whitmore. When you have completed the course(s), forward an official transcript to the Registrar's Office. You must earn a "C-" or above for a course to be transferred – remember your grade will not be factored into your GPA.

How can I be sure my schedule is correct?

You should be sure to log onto the SPIRE system to check your schedule. You want to be sure that your schedule is all set by the last day of add/drop.

I am not getting mail from the University—what should I do?

You need to be sure that the University has your correct address. You can update your address by going onto the SPIRE system and make the necessary corrections.

Where do I go for help in writing my resume or getting ready for an interview?

Ginger Goldsbury is the Campus Career Network representative for CNS students. Her office is in 512 Goodell; 545-6011.

How do I know who my academic advisor is in my major?

For undeclared majors in the College of Natural Sciences, see the Academic Dean in 113 Stockbridge Hall. For declared majors, contact the chief undergraduate advisor in your department to find out who is your assigned faculty advisor. Be sure to visit your faculty advisor often, especially during counseling period.

How can I find out about scholarships offered by the college?

CNS and individual departments offer a variety of scholarships. For more information link to our Scholarship Page. Applications for CNS scholarships are available in 113 Stockbridge Hall.