Orientation

Susan Esters, Orientation Specialist
(270) 745-4242
www.wku.edu/orientation

The Academic Transitions Program is a required orientation for all degree-seeking undergraduate students entering WKU for the first time. The purpose of this program is to help new students become familiar with WKU, take placement exams, learn about campus programs and activities, meet with an academic adviser and register for classes. A parent program runs simultaneously on most orientation dates for parents of students who attend the program. Students must be officially admitted to the university to be eligible to register for the Academic Transitions Program. Once admitted, students will receive information from the orientation office on how to schedule their orientation date.

The freshman Academic Transitions Program is a one-day orientation. All first-year students must participate throughout the entire day to be registered for classes. Students who arrive late or leave early must reschedule for another date. A variety of fall semester Academic Transition Program dates are available in March, April, June, July and August. Students planning to begin course work in the spring semester may attend the program in late January. Program dates are available on a first come, first served basis. Reservations must be made online at least four business days before the program date.

Transfer orientation is a required online only program for transfer students with at least 24 earned hours. The online orientation provides information regarding what to expect as a transfer student. This includes policies, procedures, academic departments, student services and more. All transfer students are required to complete the online orientation in order to register for classes. Once the student has successfully completed the orientation process, they are able to contact an adviser and receive assistance with choosing and registering for classes via phone and/or email.

An additional required orientation for newly enrolled international students is conducted by International Student and Scholar Services. This program is held prior to the first week of each of the two regular semesters (spring & fall). It is a time for new international students to become more familiar with their student visa requirements, the services provided by the Office of International Programs, the American cultural environment and the Bowling Green community. Contact International Student and Scholar Services at 270-745-4857 or email isss@wku.edu for additional information.