While most CSE students get into their first-choice major, it is helpful to identify a back-up plan or a “parallel plan” should you change your mind or if you are not able to get into your first-choice major.
Graduating this semester? Make sure to check your APAS!
If you are expecting to graduate at the end of this semester now is the time to review your APAS report. Your CSE Academic Advising team has compiled a list of some of the most common reasons degrees don't get awarded, and the steps you can take to address these issues.
Preparing for Registration
Registration is coming up quickly! Use these tips, and you'll feel confident as you get ready to plan your courses.
Demystifying Office Hours - What are they and how do I use them?
Office hours (in-person or online) are your time to meet with your instructors and/or TAs to ask questions, get and share feedback, learn about opportunities, make connections, and more.
Exploring CSE majors
As you plan for registration, we know that many of you are still exploring majors. This is normal, and we want you to feel supported in the process.
I've heard Computer Science and Data Science are competitive majors, what should I know?
Computer Science and Data science are CSE’s fastest growing
majors. At this time, there is more demand for the programs than The Department
of Computer Science and Engineering can currently accommodate. In this post,
we’ll dive into the admission to the major process and statistics. We’ll also
cover the importance of parallel planning.
Departmental Advising: Advising for upper division major requirements
Once admitted to your major, you will work more closely with a professional staff member and/or faculty member within your major department—known as a departmental or major advisor. In this blog post, we'll break down how to connect with a departmental advisor and what areas they often assist students with.
Who is who? How college advisors, departmental advisors, and honors advisors each fit into your college experience.
During your time as an undergraduate student, you will work with multiple advisors including a college advisor and a departmental advisor. If you are an honors student, you will also be assigned an honors advisor. In this blog post, we'll break down how to find your advisor(s)'s information, and common areas each advisor can support you with.
University resources to help you be your best
The University is a large place with lots of options to support you in all areas - academic, well-being, involvement, and other services. We have compiled a list of those used most frequently by CSE students.
Building community throughout your college experience
We want your college experience to be fulfilling both inside and outside of the classroom. This blog post highlights the wide variety opportunities for involvement and community building throughout your CSE experience.
Fall 2025 CSE College Academic Advising Drop-In Hours
Drop-in advising can be a great way to connect with a CSE college academic advisor for a quick or time sensitive question. Check out our FAQs for how to access drop-ins, when to use them, and more!
What should I do if a course is full/closed or I experience a prerequisite error when trying to register? (i.e. course access and permission numbers)
You've built your schedule and you're ready to go! You click to submit your registration, and you get the dreaded error message that a section you want is full. Don't panic! Sometimes it happens, and we have some tips to help you manage it.
Important things to know before repeating a course
If you earned any grade lower than a C- in a course, adjustments might need to be made to your upcoming semester schedule. Find out what steps you need to take to repeat a course.
Study tips and success strategies
Being open to seeking out and trying new techniques can help you perfect the skills and strategies that will help you be the most successful in your classes! Read more about our recommended study tips and strategies for a successful semester.
Term, Cumulative, and Technical GPA
In the College of Science and Engineering you'll need to keep track of your term, cumulative, and technical GPAs. Learn more about how each GPA is calculated and what that means for you.
The basics on student records and privacy
It's common for your communities of care to be curious about how you’re doing in college. After all, they are your biggest cheerleaders, and they can be extremely helpful as you transition to the University. Some of you may feel comfortable sharing detailed information about how you’re doing academically, while others may not. It’s a very individual decision, and you’re in the driver’s seat.
Common questions from new-to-CSE students
Incoming CSE Orientation Students: As an new incoming student, we know you probably have many questions about your upcoming experience in CSE. We answer many common questions here for you.
Find help funding your college experience through scholarships
Scholarships are an excellent way to help fund your education. However, understanding how scholarships work can feel a bit intimidating. Your CSE Academic Advising team has compiled a list of frequently asked questions regarding scholarships.
What Brand of Computer Should You Bring to the U?
Incoming CSE Orientation Students: Questions about what technology you should purchase for school? We've got the answers!
AP and IB scores - What do I need to know before orientation?
Incoming CSE Orientation Students: If you have taken (or plan on taking) AP or IB exams to earn credit toward degree requirements, there are some important things to keep in mind. Your CSE Academic Advising team has all the information you need to know.
Everything you need to know about placement testing for orientation
Incoming CSE Orientation Students: Orientation will be here before you know it! Before you come to campus, the CSE Academic Advising team wants to remind you to have your placement exam completed. We've provided answers to the most commonly asked questions here.
Future Gophers: Orientation tips and reminders
Incoming CSE Orientation Students: Orientation is an exciting part of your transition to college. You'll meet other new students, learn about the University of Minnesota, and select the courses you will take fall semester. The CSE Academic Advising team has provided some tips to help you be prepared for and make the most of your orientation experience.
Tips for successfully getting through finals
Congratulations! You've gotten through (and hopefully thrived) another semester of your academic career! The CSE advising team has a few tips to help you stay on top of your game as we approach final exams.
End of Semester FAQs
The end of the semester is quickly approaching! We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you finish your spring semester strong and to start the fall semester off on the right foot.
Considering Taking Time Away from the University? A Leave of Absence (LOA) can be a helpful option.
If you do plan not to enroll in classes for at least one semester or more and plan to return to the University within two academic years, you may qualify for a Leave of Absence (LOA). A formal LOA allows you to break your continuous enrollment and return to your degree program at a later date. This blog post will discuss students' eligibility for taking a LOA, the process for requesting a LOA, and returning from a LOA.
Should I use my one-time-only late withdrawal?
Choosing to withdraw from a course can be a difficult decision to make.
What to know before registering for summer classes
Thinking about taking summer courses? A summer course can be a great way to stay in the academic mindset, get ahead, catch-up, or study subjects you don't have time to explore during the regular academic year. However, there are important things to keep in mind should you choose to register for a summer course.
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