Most colleges have three tiers of academic advising: Student Division (a.k.a. Dean's Office) advisors, departmental advisors, and faculty advisors. Some colleges also have student peer advisors. Liberal Arts uses professional advisors in the Student Division and the departments; faculty advisors; and Student Division peer advisors. The list of duties below is far from inclusive as students visit advisors of all stripe for a wide variety of reasons.

Dean's Office/Student Division advisors see students who

• Are undeclared who need registration advising.
• Seek an exception to general degree requirements.
• Have an emergency situation.
• Need referrals to other student services.
• Seek the “permission of the Dean” for a form or administrative procedure.
• Need to apply for graduation.

Departmental advisors see students who

• Are declared in their major and need registration advising.
• Would like information on special programs related to the major, information on classes, faculty, and career information for the department/major. 
• Seek an exception to major/minor requirements.
• Are exploring the possibility of declaring that department’s major.

Faculty advisors usually see students who

• Seek departmental honors.
• Need of letters of recommendation for graduate school.
• Are considering going to graduate school in the faculty member’s field of study.

Student Division Peer Advisors assist students who

• Have basic policy questions.
• Need to complete paperwork, such as for Q-drops, withdrawals, and pass/fail changes.
• Wish to make advising appointments in the Student Division.