S . O . A . R S . O . A . R
S.O.A.R Student Handbook
Purpose of the Handbook
The S.O.A.R. (Student Onboarding & Academic Readiness) Flipbook is designed to guide new students through a successful transition into college life at Bowie State University. It serves as a centralized resource outlining key advising information, academic policies, and campus support services Whether you're learning how to register for classes or meeting your academic support team, this flipbook will help you navigate your first year with clarity, confidence, and connection. Use it as your go-to tool for starting strong and staying on track!
What You’ll Find in This Handbook
Academic Advising Information
Registration Guidance
Campus Resources & Support Services
Tools for Academic Success
Learn what to expect from advising, how to connect with your advisor, and your role in the advising partnership
Step-by-step instructions for registering for classes using Bulldog Connection, including common errors and how to fix them.
Find contact information, QR codes, and tips for using academic support services like tutoring, the Writing Center, and tech help.
Understand student classifications, explore majors and minors, and learn how your StrengthsFinder results can support your educational journey.
Why This Handbook Matters
Clarity Provides the tools and knowledge you need to navigate your first semester with confidence
Consistency Guides you through important steps like class registration, degree planning, and understand academic policies
Support Introduces key advisors, mentors, and resources so you know where to turn for help.
Note: This flipbook is a living resource and may be updated to reflect changes in university policies, academic procedures, or student support services. We encourage you to review it regularly, as it plays an important role in your academic success and overall college experience.
Important Note
While this flipbook provides important information to support your academic journey, it is not a binding contract between Bowie State University and its students. For clarification or additional questions, please contact the Office of Academic Advising.
Message From the Director of Academic Advising
Dr. Dorsha Goodman
Interim Director of Academic Advising Center
Welcome to Bowie State University! We are thrilled to have you join our Bulldog family and begin your journey toward academic and personal success The transition into college is an important milestone, and S.O.A.R. is designed to help you navigate it with confidence. Through this program, you’ll learn how to connect with your academic advisor, plan your courses strategically, and take full advantage of the resources available to support your success.
Academic advising is a partnership, and our goal is to empower you to take ownership of your education, make informed decisions, and achieve your goals. You are not alone on this journey. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Welcome to the next chapter. Let’s make it count!
Warm regards, Dr Goodman
Welcome Message
Dear Students,
As your Academic Advising Team, we are excited to support you during this transition into college life. Whether you’re a first-time freshman or a transfer student, we’re here to help you make smart, confident choices about your academic path.
In this flipbook, you’ll find everything you need to understand how advising works, how to register for classes, and how to stay on track toward your degree. We encourage you to read through each section carefully, take notes, and reach out with any questions.
We believe in your potential, and we’re committed to helping you succeed.
~Your Bowie State University Academic Advising Team
Purpose & Goals of the S.O.A.R Program
The S.O.A.R. (Summer Onboarding & Academic Readiness) program is designed to provide incoming students with the essential tools, resources, and support needed to confidently transition into college life. Through interactive sessions, personalized advising, and community-building activities, the program aims to foster a sense of belonging, academic preparedness, and long-term student success.
Program Goals
Empowerment
Equip students with strategies for time management, study skills, and self-advocacy to promote personal and academic growth. By the end of S.O.A.R., you’ll feel prepared, connected, and ready to thrive in your academic journey!
Support Transition
Ease the shift from high school to college by informing students of academic expectations, campus resources, and student support services.
Help students understand the culture, values, and community of the institution to build early connections with peers, faculty, and staff.
Academic Advising
Guide students through course selection and degree planning to ensure a strong start to their academic journey.
Onboarding & Integration Registration Readiness
Ensure students are fully registered for their first semester with a clear understanding of their schedule and academic responsibilities.
Academic Advising at Bowie State 02
Academic Advising at Bowie State University
The Academic Advisement Center (AAC) at Bowie State University is committed to assisting students in identifying and completing their educational goals in a friendly, helpful, and professional environment. The Center’s professional advisors deliver services to all students at the University, but they focus primarily on the advisement and development, of first-, second- and third-year students.
Our Vision
To be the model and University leader in providing comprehensive advising services at BSU to students in a welcoming and student-centered environment, which results in improved retention rates from first to second year and improved progression through sixty credits.
Our Mission
As the centralized academic advising hub for students with less than 60 credits, we seek to empower freshman and sophomore students with information to make the best decisions for their academic success, and to affirm the role of Academic Advising in retention, persistence, and academic integration at BSU
Our Goals
To empower first-, second-, and third-year students with the knowledge, support, and guidance they need to make informed academic decisions, stay on track toward graduation, and thrive at Bowie State University. Through personalized and proactive advising, we aim to strengthen student retention, boost credit progression, and support a culture of academic success.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM ADVISING 01.
At Bowie State, academic advising is more than just choosing classes. It’s a partnership designed to help you succeed from your first semester through graduation.
You can expect your advisor to:
Provide accurate information about degree requirements and university policies
Support you in developing academic and career goals
Help you plan an efficient path to graduation
Refer you to campus resources as needed
Encourage you to become an engaged and proactive student
Communicate regularly and respond to questions in a timely manner
Maintain confidentiality and provide a safe advising environment
Monitor your academic progress and support your decision-making
Help you understand academic policies, procedures, and opportunities
Schedule advising appointments early—especially during registration periods
Come prepared with questions and review your degree audit regularly
Take responsibility for understanding your degree plan and academic standing
Follow through on referrals and use campus resources
Keep track of deadlines and important dates
Academic Support Team 03
Meet Your Academic Support Team
We’re Here to Help You Succeed at Bowie State
Our advising staff is here to guide you every step of the way from selecting your first semester courses to preparing for graduation. Get to know the dedicated academic advisors, administrative specialists, and peer mentors who will support your journey.
ACADEMIC ADVISORS
Marcus Bryant
0-45 Credits
Email: mjbryant@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: 301-860-4069
Office: Thurgood Marshall Library lower-level, Suite #082
Mrs. Henri Cooper
Computer Technology 0-59 credits
Email: hecooper@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: (240) 610-5703
Office: Computer Science Building, RM # 308B
Gloria Alexander
46-89 Credits
Email: gcalexander@bowiestate.edu Ph#: 301-860-5248
Office: Center for Business and Grad Studies, Room 2337
Tomilola Otukoya
Computer Science 0-59 credits
Email: totukoya@bowiestate.edu Ph#: 301-860-5153
Office: Computer Science Building, Office #107
Fine Arts 0-74 credits
Theatre Arts 0-74 credits
VCDMA 0-74 Credits
Email: jcadams@bowiestate.edu Ph#: 301-860-4065
Office: Thurgood Marshall Library lower-level, Suite #082
Communications 0-59 credits
History & Government 0-59 credits
Email: dwardrick@bowiestate edu ph#: 301-860-4066
Office: Thurgood Marshall Library lower-level, Suite # 082
Cheyene Adams
Dermaine Wardrick
Cameryn DuBose
Natural Sciences 0-59 credits
Email: Cdubose@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: 301-860-4544
Office: Center for Natural Sciences, Nursing and Mathematics, RM# 2160
Courtney Vaughn
Pre-Nursing 0-33 Credits
Email: Cavaughn@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: 301-860-3219
Office: Center for Natural Sciences, Nursing and Mathematics, RM# 2122
Jontae Hankins
Early Childhood 0-45 Credits
Elementary Education 0-45 Credits
Sports Management 0-89 Credist
Email: jhankins@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: 301-860-3184
Office: James Proctor Building, RM #233L
Public Health Information Technology 0-120 credits
Email:Ssheilds@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: 301-860-4756
Office: Center for Natural Sciences, Nursing and Mathematics, RM# 2110
Susan Murray
CAAS, 0-59 Credits
PSYC, 0-59 Credits
Email: sprice@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: 301-860-4082
Office: Thurgood Marshall Library lower-level, Suite # 082
Kenneth Dovale
Pre-Nursing, 34 or more credits
Email: kdovale@bowiestate.edu
Ph# : 301-860-3202
Office: Center for Natural Sciences, Nursing and Mathematics, RM# 2126
CAAS, 60-89 Credits
CRJU, 0-30 Credits
PSYC, 60-89 Credits
SOCI, 0-59 Credits
Email: mpowell@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: 301-860-5129
Office: James Proctor Building, RM #384
Stacia L. Shields
Morgan Powell
Academic Advising Support Staff
Elizabeth Akinmolayan (Left)
Administrative Specialist
Email: Eakinmolayan@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: 301-860-4072
Office: Thurgood Marshall Library lower-level, Suite #082
Ms. Aura Gardner (Right)
First Year Seminar Coordinator
Email: Agardner2@bowiestate.edu
Ph#: 301-860-4071
Office: Thurgood Marshall Library lower-level, Suite #082
Romello Brown
PEER ADVISORS
Kayla Chapman
Biology Major Sophomore
Terral Gaines Jr.
Sports Management Major
Concentration:
General Business Sophomore
Gabbie Sampson-Hicks
Business Administration Major
Business Administration Major
Concentration: Accounting Junior
Savannah Jackson Computer Science Major Sophomore
Kamal Epps
Computer Science Major Junior
Savannah Robinson Psychology Major Junior
Aaliyah Smith
Concentration: Small Business
Entrepreneurship
Sophomore
Public Health Informatics & Technology Senior
Communications Major
Concentration: Broadcast Journalism Sophomore
Adriana Simmons
History & Government Major
Minor: VCDMA Digital Cinema & Time-Based Media Senior
Nursing Major Sophomore
Mr. Connor Hamilton
Mr. Aaron Loeb
Tiarra Williams
Praise Adekusibe
Understanding Your Classification 04
UNDERSTANDING STUDENT CLASSFICATIONS
At Bowie State University, your student classification is determined by the number of credit hours you have earned. Your classification helps you and your advisor track your progress toward graduation and plays a role in registration order, course eligibility, and academic Students beginning their undergraduate journey, primarily focused on general education and foundational coursework.
Students progressing into lowerlevel major courses while continuing to build on core academic knowledge.
Students engage in upper-level coursework, concentrating in their major field, and preparing for capstone and experiential learning opportunities.
Students in the final stage of their degree program, completing graduation requirements and preparing for professional careers or graduate education.
WHY IT MATTERS
01.
Registration Access
At Bowie State University, students register for classes based on their academic classification. Knowing your classification whether you're a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior helps ensure you’re eligible for the right courses at the right time and don’t miss out on essential classes for your degree progress.
02.
ADVISING & SUPPORT SERVICES
03. GRADUATION TRACKING
At Bowie State University, certain advising workshops, check-ins, and support programs are designed specifically for your academic classification—for example, First-Year Experience advising, Sophomore Success planning, and Senior Graduation Audits. Staying aware of your classification helps you access the right resources at the right time
Your academic classification provides a quick snapshot of how close you are to completing your degree at Bowie State University. All students are encouraged to meet regularly with their academic advisor to review course requirements and stay on track for graduation
ENROLLMENT STATUS & ACADEMIC PROGRESS
Your enrollment status directly affects your financial aid, academic standing, and graduation timeline. Understanding your enrollment status helps you stay on track and fully take advantage of campus resources and support services.
Enrollment Status
Your enrollment status is determined by how many credits you are registered for each semester:
Full-Time: 12 or more credits
Part-Time: 1 to 11 credits
Why it matters:
- Full-time enrollment is often required for financial aid, scholarships, campus housing, athletics, and some campus services.
- Part-time enrollment may extend your graduation timeline.
- Your enrollment status may affect your ability to participate in certain programs or services.
ENROLLMENT STATUS & ACADEMIC PROGRESS
Academic Alerts and Advising Guidance
Students may be placed on a temporary or special academic status based on their academic performance, which may require additional advising and support.
Academic Warning: At Bowie State University, an academic warning is given to students who show early signs of academic difficulty, such as a decline in GPA or course performance. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their academic advisor promptly to discuss challenges and develop strategies to improve their academic standing before being placed on probation.
Academic Probation: At Bowie State University, students are placed on academic probation if their cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters. During this time, students must work closely with their academic advisor to improve their academic performance and meet specific requirements to return to good academic standing.
Academic Suspension or Dismissal: At Bowie State University, if a student continues to perform below the required academic standards after being placed on probation, they may be subject to academic suspension or dismissal. Academic advisors are available to guide students through the suspension appeals process and assist with academic planning should readmission be an option.
Why it matters:
- May limit the number or type of courses you can register for.
- May impact your financial aid eligibility.
- Students in temporary status or special academic status should work closely with their Academic Advisor to remain in good academic standing and make steady progress toward graduation.
Majors, Minors, & Concentrations 05
College of Business “Building Leaders for the Global Economy”
Discover the world of business through innovative programs that prepare students for exciting careers in management, marketing, finance, accounting, entrepreneurship, I.T., supply chain, public service, and more. Whether students aspire to launch their own business, lead global organizations, manage finances, or innovate through data and technology, the College of Business provides the knowledge, tools, and hands-on experience to turn those goals into reality.
Majors
Accounting (BS)
Banking & Finance (BS)
Business Administration (BS)
Data Analytics (BS)
Economics (BS)
Entrepreneurship & Small Business (BS)
General Business (BS)
Management (BS)
Management Information Systems
Marketing (BS)
College of Arts & Sciences
“Where Curiosity Meets Discovery”
Explore the world of science, technology, and the arts while preparing for dynamic careers in art, research, healthcare, government, theater, media, public service, STEM, and more. Students gain a strong foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, creativity, and communication, equipping them to thrive in a rapidly evolving global workforce. Hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and real-world experiences empower students to turn their passions into meaningful careers.
Majors
Arts (BS)
Bioinformatics (BS)
Biology (BS)
Chemistry (BS)
Communications (BA/BS)
Computer Technology (BS)
Cyber Operations Engineering (BS)
Data Science (BS)
English and Modern Languages (BA/BS)
Fine Arts (BA)
History, Government, & Philosophy (BA/BS)
Mathematics (BS)
Politics and Economics (BS)
Science Education (BS)
Software Engineering (BS)
Theatre Arts (BS)
Visual Communication & Digital Media (BS)
College of Education “Shaping Future Educators & Leaders”
Develop the tools to educate, mentor, and lead the next generation. Through a combination of real-world experience, hands-on training, and classroom instruction, students are prepared for impactful careers in teaching, coaching, sports management, educational leadership, curriculum development, and student support services.
For future sports management professionals, the program offers a deep dive into the business, administration, and operations of the sports industry. Students explore areas such as event and facility management, marketing, and promotions, athlete representation, sports analytics, and leadership roles within collegiate, professional, and recreational sports organizations.
Majors
Early childhood/ Special Education (BS)
Elementary Education (BS)
Sports Mangament (BS)
College of Professional Studies “Turning Passion into Purpose
Step into your purpose and start developing the skills to lead, serve, and inspire real change. Whether you’re driven by a passion for youth and families, community justice, mental wellness, healthcare, or cutting-edge technology, there’s a path here designed just for you. With powerful programs in Child & Adolescent Studies, Sociology, Criminal Justice, Public Health, Psychology, Nursing, Social Work, and Information Informatics & Technology, you’ll gain hands-on experience, sharpen your voice, and build the confidence to thrive in today’s most impactful careers. This is where your passion meets preparation —and your future starts to move with purpose
Majors
Child and Adolescent Studies (BA/BS)
Criminal Justice (BA/BS)
Health Services Administration (BS)
Nursing (BS)
Psychology (BS)
Public Health Informatics & Technology (BS)
Social Work (BS)
Sociology (BA/BS)
Colleges of Bowie State University
Explore Bowie State’s academic colleges. Each college offers unique programs and resources designed to prepare you for success in your field of study. Scan the QR codes to learn more about departments, majors, and academic support.
College of Arts and Science
Departments include:
Communications
Computer Science
Fine & Performing Arts
History & Government
Language, Literature & Cultural Studies
Mathematics
Military Science
Natural Sciences
Technology & Security
College of Education
Departments include:
Counseling & Psychological Studies
Educational Leadership
Teaching, Learning & Professional Development
College of Business
Departments include:
Accounting, Finance & Economics
Management Information Systems
Management, Marketing & Public Administration
College of Professional Studies
Departments include:
Behavioral Sciences & Human Services
Criminal Justice
Health Sciences
Nursing
Psychology
Social Work
“At Bowie State University, your major isn’t just a subject—it’s your starting line. Let’s build your future, one class at a time.”
How to Register 06
YOUR REGISTRATION ROADMAP: WITH VISUALS
01. Start by logging into your Bulldog Connection portal.
02. To start the registration process, choose "Manage Classes" from the menu after logging in.
03. Select “Enrollment: Add Classes” to find your courses.
YOUR REGISTRATION ROADMAP: WITH VISUALS
Pick the semester you’re registering for (e.g., Fall 2025).
05. Type the subject (e.g., ENGL) in the top box and the course number (e.g., 101) in the box directly underneath it, then press Enter.
06. Choose your preferred section based on time, instructor, and availability.
YOUR REGISTRATION ROADMAP:
WITH VISUALS
Once added, your course will show up in your shopping cart before enrollment.
Review your selections and click ‘Enroll’ to finish.
You’re registered! A green check means you're all set!
01.
COMMON REGISTRATION HOLDS & SOLUTIONS
Advising (ADV)
What It Means
You must meet with your academic advisor before registering for classes.
How to Resolve It
Schedule an advising appointment. Your advisor will lift the hold after your meeting. Business Office (BUS)
What It Means
There is an unpaid balance on your student account.
How to Resolve It
Contact the Office of Student Accounts or pay online through Bulldog Connection.
What It Means
Missing required immunization records (e.g., MMR, meningitis, Rubella).
How to Resolve It
Submit documentation to the Henry Wise Wellness Center so that the hold can be removed Registrar (REG) 05. Disciplinary (DIS)
What it Means
Registrar related issue missing transcripts, forms, or records.
How to Resolve it
Contact the Registrar’s Office to determine what documentation is needed.
What it Means
A disciplinary matter is unresolved with the Office of Student Conduct.
How to Resolve it
Contact studentconduct@bowiestate.edu. Complete required actions to clear the hold.
Dropping vs. Withdrawing from a Course
Dropping a Course
Students may drop a course during the first week of classes (Schedule Adjustment Period).
Dropped courses will be removed from your schedule and will not appear on your transcript.
To drop a course, log in to Bulldog Connection and complete the process online.
Withdrawing from a Course
After the first week, students may withdraw from a course up until the official withdrawal deadline listed in the academic calendar.
A withdrawn course will remain on your transcript with a grade of “W,” which does not affect your GPA. However, withdrawing may impact your financial aid or academic progress.
Refunds are not issued for course withdrawals.
To drop a course, log in to Bulldog Connection and complete the process online.
Need Support?
Be sure to review the Academic Calendar for important dates and deadlines.
If you’re considering dropping or withdrawing from a course, speak with your academic advisor first to understand the potential impact.
NEED A CODE? HERE'S WHAT TO DO!
SOMETIMES REGISTERING FOR A CLASS ISN'T AS SIMPLE AS CLICKING "ADD." IF A COURSE IS FULL, REQUIRES A PREREQUISITE, OR NEEDS DEPARTMENT APPROVAL, YOU WILL NEED A PERMISSION NUMBER TO ENROLL.
DON'T WORRY—IT'S A QUICK PROCESS, AND WE'VE MADE IT EASY TO FOLLOW. JUST REMEMBER C.O.D.E.: CHECK IF A CODE IS NEEDED, OBTAIN IT FROM THE RIGHT PERSON (INSTRUCTOR, ADVISOR, OR DEPARTMENT), DROP IT INTO BULLDOG CONNECTION, AND ENROLL IN THE COURSE.
Check if your class needs a permission code Is the course full? Do you know if it needs prerequisites? Advisor, Instructor, or Departmental approval?
Obtain the code from your instructor, advisor, department, or administrative assistant.
Send a quick email with your name, ID, course, and reason for the request.
“Shopping Cart” > enter the 6-digit code in the permission request box D
rop the code into Bulldog Connection
Go to “Manage Classes” >
nroll in the course
Click “Submit” to lock it in. Don’t wait—codes expire!
Campus Resources 07
BULLDOG RESOURCES
When our Bulldogs needs help with something, campus resources are just a email, call or short walk away. Here is a quick guide to some of our services and support available to help our students achieve success and growth here at BSU!
Academic Advising Center advisingbsu@bowiestate.edu
The Academic Advisement Center (AAC) is committed to assisting students in identifying and completing their educational goals
Career Development Center
301-860-3825
Career advice, resume help, job and internship fairs and more are available in the CDC.
Counseling Services counselingservices@bowiestate.edu
24/7 counseling via in- person, telephone or video sessions. Counseling and Mental Health Services hosts resources and services to support student well-being.
HENRY WISE WELLNESS CENTER
301-860-4170
The Henry Wise Wellness Center provides students with easily accessible and confidential primary care services in a supportive and compassionate environment.
MATH LAB
DISABLITY SUPPORT SERVICES
dss@bowiestate.edu
Our Disability Support Services ensures accessibility to programs and services for students who have disabilities.
ENGAGED LEARNING & STUDENT SUPPORT
bulldogacademy@bowiestate.edu
scholarsstudio@bowiestate.edu
ELSS is a communal space for students to learn, grow, transform and unlock their potential power.
The BSU Math Lab offers guidance in the world of mathematics. We welcome all levels of math to receive "helpful pushes" in the right direction as students gain knowledge and confidence in their own personal math skills and abilities
Student Success Center
studentsuccesscenter@bowiestate.edu
The Student Success Center is committed to the academic growth and success of our BSU students by providing everything from college life to academics, getting involved on campus
Register
mathtutor@bowiestate.edu registrar@bowiestate.edu
The University Registrar maintains accurate, confidential and secure academic records for currently enrolled, formerly enrolled and graduated students.
THE WRITING CENTER AT SMITH VIDAL LITERACY AND LANGUAGE CENTER writingcenter@bowiestate.edu
Grow as a writer with our amazing writing center! The Writing Center at Smith Vidal Literacy and Language Center helps students become more effective and confident writers
Need to Know 08
University Terms
College comes with a lot of new lingo, but we’re here to break it down.
Overload
Enrolling in more than the standard full-time credit limit in a semester (19 credits or more). Overloads require administrative approval and include extra tuition charges.
Teaching Assistant
A graduate student who has been awarded a Graduate Assistantship (GA). TAs may perform a variety of tasks that may include assisting with teaching responsibilities, conducting laboratory sessions, grading assignments, and providing support to students.
Full-Time Student
Enrolled in 12 or more credit hours in a semester. This status is often required for financial aid, housing, and athletics.
Grade Point Average
Grade point average is computed by dividing the total number of points accumulated in courses for which a grade has been assigned by the total number of credits attempted in that semester.
Part Time Student
Enrolled in fewer than 12 credit hours. Part-time students may have more flexible schedules but could take longer to graduate and have limited financial aid eligibility.
Credit Hours
Credit hours represent the number of hours a student spends in class each week counting toward graduation.
Good Academic Standing
A status given to students who maintains a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher with a minimum completion rate of 67% of attempted credits.
Academic Probabtion
A status given to students whose cumulative GPA falls below the university’s required 2.0 minimum . While on probation, students can still take classes but may have limits on credit hours and be required to meet with an advisor or complete academic support activities.
A status given to students whose cumulative GPA falls below a 2.0. This serves as a preliminary notice that the student is at risk of probation if their grades do not improve. This warning is meant to encourage students to seek academic support and take corrective activities.
Academic Warning Registration Holds
An administrative restriction placed on a student's account that prevents them from registering for classes until the issue causing the hold is resolved (i.e., advising hold, immunization hold, business hold etc.)
Prerequisite
A course requirement in which a student must successfully complete a course before enrolling in a more advanced course.
Frequently Asked Questions: Academic Advising at Bowie State University
What is academic advising, and why is it important?
Academic advising is a partnership between you and your advisor to support your academic, personal, and professional goals. At BSU, advisors help you choose courses, track your progress, and connect with resources to stay on the path to graduation.
How do I find out who my academic advisor is?
Log in to Bulldog Connection and check the “Student Profile” section, or contact your academic department. First-year students are typically assigned a professional advisor through the Academic Advising Center.
How often should I meet with my advisor?
Meet with your advisor at least once per semester, ideally before registration begins. Regular check-ins help you stay on track, catch issues early, and plan for internships, graduation, or graduate school.
How do I schedule an advising appointment?
At Bowie State University, the primary way to schedule an appointment with a Professional Academic Advisor is through Starfish, which can be accessed via Bulldog Connection. If your advisor is a faculty member, please email them directly. They will inform you of the platform they use for scheduling (such as Starfish, Calendly, or Outlook) and guide you through the course registration process.
Can my advisor help me choose or change my major?
Advisors can help you explore new majors and complete the Change of Major form from the Registrar’s Office. Just email your advisor to set up an appointment—they’ll walk you through the process!
Frequently Asked Questions: Academic Advising at Bowie State University (continued)
What should I bring to an advising appointment?
Come prepared with a laptop or electronic device, or bring a pen, pencil, and notebook to take notes and write down your courses. It’s also helpful to have a copy of your academic plan or degree audit and to review your Program of Study ahead of time so you're ready to register with your advisor.
How do I know which courses to register for each semester?
Your advisor will help you review your Program of Study and use your degree audit in Bulldog Connection to select courses that fulfill your requirements. Always check for course prerequisites and availability.
What happens if I’m on academic probation?
If you're on academic probation at BSU, you’ll likely need to meet more frequently with your advisor and complete an Academic Success Plan. The goal is to support your academic recovery and keep you on track for graduation.
How do I withdraw from a course, and will it affect my financial aid?
You can withdraw through Bulldog Connection, but it’s critical to meet with your advisor first. Withdrawing may affect your Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), which can impact financial aid eligibility.
Where can I go if I need more help outside of advising?
If you need additional support beyond advising, there are many campus resources available to help with academics, wellness, finances, and student life.
Thank You from the Academic Advising Center!
Thank you for exploring our Student Onboarding & Academic Readiness: Your Guide to Academic Success at Bowie State University.
Whether you're beginning your year, transferring to BSU, or returning to continue your journey, we’re excited to welcome you. Our team is committed to helping you build a strong academic foundation through personalized advising, thoughtful planning, and access to campus resources.
We hope this guide is helpful as you navigate your BSU experience. Remember—your success is our priority, and we’re here to walk with you every step of the way. We’re taking Tomorrow Together with purpose, preparation, and pride.
We look forward to working with you and helping you SOAR to success!
— The Academic Advising Center
