Welcome to the Department of Behavioural Sciences
Whether you are a new student embarking on your educational journey or a returning student continuing your studies, we are thrilled to have you as part of our department. As we begin this new academic year, we want to ensure that you have the support and guidance you need to succeed. Academic advising plays a crucial role in your academic journey, and we encourage all students to take advantage of this valuable resource.
What is Academic Advising?
Academic advising is a support service that helps students navigate their university journey. Advisors guide students in selecting courses, understanding degree requirements and setting educational and career goals.
Why Attend Academic Advising?
- Course selection, scheduling and registering.
- Understand major, minor requirements and electives.
- Receive help with academic or personal challenges.
- Stay on track for graduation.
- Explore career options and internships.
Attention New Students!
- Check the schedule for academic advising, arrive on time.
- Prepare for your advising session in advance by bringing a list of questions.
- Have your Advising Hold removed after your advising session.
- Register for classes and create your weekly schedule.
- Attend Orientation and Welcome Week.
Guidelines for Returning Students
- Check the schedule for academic advising, arrive on time.
- Review your academic progress e.g. Deans Hold, AR Hold or RTW.
- Students on Deans Hold must visit an academic advisor for hold removal.
- Students on Accounts Receivable Hold must visit Student Accounts Section-Student Administration Building.
- Bring a printed copy of your unofficial transcript to your academic advising session.
- Discuss career and graduation goals.
- Explore additional opportunities e.g. Specials and Minors.
- Visit the Department of Behavioural Sciences with your completed and signed Academic Advising Form to be stamped.
Save the Date and Academic Advising Schedule
- Faculty of Social Sciences Orientation for New Undergraduate Students – August 19th, 2026, from 10:00am-12:00noon at Daaga Auditorium.
- Department of Behavioural Sciences Orientation for New Undergraduate Students – August 20th, 2026, from 9:00am-10:00am at JFK Auditorium.
- New Undergraduate Students Academic Advising 9:00am-4:00pm – August 20th – 21st, 2026 JFK Auditorium.
- Returning/Postgraduate Students Academic Advising – August 24th – 28th 2026 FSS Rooms. see schedule below
- Department of Behavioural Sciences Orientation for New Postgraduate Students – September 4th, 2026, from 5:00pm-8:00pm at FSS Lounge.
Academic Advising FAQs
Is Orientation Mandatory?
Yes. Students are expected to attend both the Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS) Orientation and the Department of Behavioural Sciences (DBS) Orientation.
- FSS Orientation: Provides an overview of the Faculty, important academic policies, resources, and services available to students.
- DBS Orientation: Provides information specific to the Department of Behavioural Sciences, including academic advising, programmes, courses, and departmental procedures.
Students are encouraged to attend both sessions, as each orientation covers different information that will help you navigate your academic journey.
When should I meet with an Academic Advisor?
Is Academic Advising available for Postgraduate students?
Yes, academic advising is available for Postgraduate students. Graduate advisors help with course selection, research opportunities, and navigating the specific requirements of the programme.
What is an Academic Advising Hold?
An Advising Hold may be placed on your record if you are in a faculty that requires academic advising prior to registration. You must attend an advising session before your faculty advisor will clear you to register.
Is Academic Advising mandatory?
It is required for all first-year students. Otherwise, it’s highly recommended for programme completion
Can advisors help with changing majors?
Yes! Advisors can explain implications of switching majors and help with the process
What is a Deans Hold?
A Dean’s Hold indicates that your GPA has fallen below 2.0. Students on a Dean’s Hold are restricted to a maximum course load of three courses. To have the hold removed, please visit an Academic Advisor.
What is a Minor?
A Minor is a secondary area of concentrated study based on a specified number of credits (normally 15) of prescribed courses from Levels II and II either in a single discipline. Visit an academic advisor to explore your minor options.
Can I pursue a Double Major?
Visit an academic advisor to explore your options.