Prospective Student Resources

What should Prospective Students know?

1. Be Informed.
   • Get a copy of the undergraduate catalog so that you will have a copy of the rules and requirements you will have to abide by to get your degree.
   • Come to campus and familiarize yourself with the facilities. Don't wait until the first day of class to try to figure out where to park and what building to go to.
   
   
2. Ask Questions.
   • The College of Engineering Advising Center located in TBE A-107 is a resource that was established to provide students with help in their academic career. Use it.
   • Meet other students. They can share experiences that you will find helpful.
   
   
3. Don't overschedule yourself.
   • Most freshmen assume that because a 3 credit college class meets 3 hours a week, that they will have lots of extra time for other activities, like work and having fun. Most computer science (and other college) courses require students to do reading and assignments outside of class that can easily take at least 3 hours per credit. Thus, a single 3 credit course can take up a minimum of 12 hours (3 hours of class and 9+ hours of reading/homework) of your time each week.
   
   
4. Learn how the registration process works.
   • Every semester dates and times when students may begin registration are posted at the university's website. The earlier you register, the better the chances you will get the classes you want when you want them.
   • Make sure you are advised before your registration date. The College of Engineering has a policy that requires students to be advised before they register for classes. You will not be able to sign up for a class if you have not been advised.
   
   
5. Understand the University's Drop Policy.
   • UNLV has a liberal drop policy. The drop date is set at a point 60% into the term. This date will be available on the university's website and is almost always included in your course syllabus. If you drop a course on or before this date, no grade will be recorded for the course and your GPA will not be adversely affected.
   • It is your responsibility to drop a course and to verify that the drop was recorded.
   • After the drop date, you may not drop a course.
   
   
6. Get Involved.
   • You can make your academic career richer and more enjoyable if you get involved in student organizations. This can be a valuable way to meet fellow students and establish contacts that will help you fulfill your professional goals.