Glossary

An advisor is a professor or counselor who helps you with your academic program. You are their advisee.

To attend a course without earning credit. You cannot later take the same course for credit.

Most classes meet for 150 minutes weekly. Either 50 minutes (Mon, Wed, Fri) or 75 minutes (Tue, Thu).

A subject you study, for example, a course in English.

The unit you receive for completing a course. Most students take 15 credits per semester. 120 credits are needed for graduation.

All the courses required for a degree program.

A division of the University focusing on a subject area, such as the Department of English.

A course you choose freely, not required for your program.

Activities outside of class, like sports, theater, or debate.

A payment for services, such as private music lessons.

Courses that give broad knowledge and skills. All students must take them.

Numbers assigned to grades. A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1. Used to calculate GPA.

Courses taken after earning a bachelor’s degree, usually for a master’s degree.

Another word for credits or credit hours.

The U.S. government agency that enforces immigration laws.

Provides support to international students with academics, culture, and adjustment to life in the U.S.

The total number of credits you take in a semester. Usually 15 for undergraduates.

Your main field of study (major) or a smaller focus area (minor).

An official travel document that proves your identity and nationality. Keep it safe and valid.

A course you must complete before taking a higher-level course.

A warning status if your academic performance is too low.

The overall plan of courses you follow for your degree.

Another name for GPA (Grade Point Average).

The process of signing up for classes at the start of a semester.

Courses you must complete for your program, unlike electives.

University-owned housing where students live on campus.

The list of courses you take each semester.

A U.S. system that tracks international students and exchange visitors.

Another word for a semester at Frostburg.

A student who is working toward their first bachelor’s degree.

A stamp in your passport that allows you to enter the U.S. Do not confuse it with your I-94 or “authorized stay.”