The School of Biological Sciences' team of well-trained academic advisers assists undergraduate students in developing individual plans of study. As teaching faculty, the advisers are uniquely qualified to help students understand and address course selection and professional development issues. Students will find the School of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Programs Handbook, which contains  the latest information about degree requirements, academic rules, and related matters, on Blackboard under Biological Sciences Advising.  Information on time management, reading and note-taking skills, communicating with professors, and taking exams can also be found on the Biological Sciences Advising site in Blackboard.  To facilitate progress toward the student's degree, and to ensure that courses selected provide an appropriate academic program, students are required to participate in advising each semester before registering for classes.

Students enrolled in double majors or degree programs are advised by both academic units. The primary academic unit generally has the major advising responsibility. However, for issues pertaining specifically to a biology degree, an adviser at the School of Biological Sciences must be consulted.

Students are responsible for becoming familiar with all academic regulations of the campus as outlined in the catalog and in other University documents, including the SBS Undergraduate Programs Handbook.

Pre-Medicine, Pre-Dentistry and Pre-Health Professions Academic Advising

The School of Biological Sciences' experienced team of advisers is knowledgeable about admission requirements and application processes for health profession programs. It is important for students considering eventual application to medical, dental, or veterinary school or other professional programs to consult early and often with a School of Biological Sciences adviser about appropriate course selection and additional preparation.

Advisers assist the student in investigating programs throughout the country and in planning an individualized undergraduate course of study.  In addition they host informational meetings/workshops about aspects of planning for a health professions career, provide information on admission exam preparation, assist in the application process and in developing a personal statement, and help the student work with Career Services to compile a letter of recommendation file. Each student receives support and encouragement during all phases of the application process. Students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of adviser expertise by discussing their career plans beginning with their first semester at UMKC. Please see the additional catalog section on Pre-Medicine/Pre-Health for other information.