Advising

Academic Advising

The choice of a program of study is primarily that of the student, but advisors are available to provide support and guidance at any time and should be consulted at each stage of graduate study for academic advising.  In addition to the advisors described below, students may approach any member of the faculty for advice, direction, or answers to questions.  Students are required to meet with the members of the thesis/dissertation committee at least once per year for progress checks and are encouraged to do so more frequently for additional discussion and feedback.   

Area Advisors Committee:

The Faculty Area Advisors are available for consultation and guidance in course selection and matters related to the student’s technical program.  All students are required to meet with their Area Advisor during New Grad Academic Training for initial course planning.  Until you have selected a primary research advisor, you should continue to consult the Area Advisor concerning programs of study.  The Area Advisors remain available for advising and consultation throughout your program of study and may be required to sign certain departmental forms and petitions. 

Primary Research Advisor: Once you have selected a Primary Research Advisor and formally joined their group, they should be consulted about your program of study. The Primary Research Advisor will serve as your supervisor, teacher, and mentor at each stage of degree completion.

Faculty Graduate Advisor: Dr. Trevor Hayton, x3392, Chemistry, Room 3225

The Department’s Faculty Graduate Advisor, who is appointed by the Dean of the Graduate Division on the recommendation of the Department Chair, deals with all graduate matters affecting the Department and represents the Department in dealings with the Graduate Division. The Faculty Graduate Advisor serves as chair of the Area Advisors Committee and may be consulted for academic advising throughout your program of study.  Forms and petitions requiring the signature of the Departmental Graduate Advisor must be signed by the faculty graduate advisor.

Staff Graduate Advisor: Iris Chan x2931, Building 232, Room 1004A

The Staff Graduate Program Advisor helps in the recruitment of new graduate students, degree evaluations and progress checks, referral, and career resource guidance. The Staff Advisor is the first point of contact for all graduate students in need of advising and provides assistance with graduate program administrative tasks.  You should inform the Staff Advisor of leaves, milestone/exam scheduling, concerns or conflicts, and any other questions or issues that may arise during your studies.