Section D: Planning Your Academic Path

Academic Advising

Each student is assigned an academic advisor according to their program major. The academic advisor will help the student make informed decisions, using academic planning tools, to make sure you reach your educational goals. An academic advisor will assist with planning course registration, referral to appropriate college and community services, identifying career opportunities, and interpreting college policies and procedures. 

Minnesota State College Southeast will host several opportunities throughout the year for students to connect with their advisor, in-person, or online. Students should check their Southeast email accounts for when these opportunities are available.

Degree Audit Reporting System (DARS)

The Degree Audit Reporting System (DARS) is designed to help students identify and understand current academic requirements for certificates, diplomas, and degree completion. A DARS lists all college requirements for a student's program of study to help the student plan and monitor progress by indicating courses already completed, both at Southeast and in transfer. Degree Audit reports are available through eServices. 

For more information on how to access your DARS, Southeast - Academic Advising

Planning Strategies

Full-time and part-time students, as well as those transferring in courses, should discuss a completion strategy with their academic advisor. Many courses have prerequisites, it is important to understand the order in which to take classes. 

1. Access and review your DARS report available through eServices
2. Use your DARS and watch the video on How to Access and Read Your Degree Audit Report for step-by-step instructions. You can also use Minnesota State advising tools, Minnesota State Student Planner, as you work with your academic advisor to create a path to completion  
3. For general information about a specific program visit Academic Programs by Degree  and click on the program of interest
4. If you have or plan to take college classes elsewhere, please create an account through Transferology to evaluate or ensure transferability. You can begin the process here, transferology.com

Changing Your Program Major

Once a term has begun, it is possible to transfer from one program major to another. A student who wishes to transfer should meet with an admission advisor or academic advisor. The student should then complete the Change of Program Major form.

Substituting a Required Course for a Program Major

Southeast allows the option to substitute a course identified as required on the program major plan. This substitution is allowed on a case-by-case basis only after recommendation by the academic advisor and approval through the appropriate academic department. Replacement courses must be identified as equivalent in both content and rigor. No reduction of program length is allowed. A student will work with their academic advisor on the course substitution process.