For Students
Office for Academic and Student Affairs (OASA)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is my advisor?
Freshman accepted into the University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions majoring in Exercise Science and Occupational Therapy are advised by the Office for Academic and Student Affairs (OASA).
How do I schedule an appointment?
Appointments can be made by:
- telephone: 716-829-3434 ext. 410/287
- e-mail to: sphhp-oasa@buffalo.edu
- in-person: 417/418 Kimball Tower
What is a normal load for a full-time student?
To be eligible for financial assistance, you must take a minimum of 12 hours. However, the average student will take 15 hours. Students who wish to take more than 18 hours must receive permission from a OASA advisor.
Can I change my major?
Yes. To change an undergraduate major prior to enrollment, you should contact the Office of Admissions. Once you are enrolled, make major changes through your advisor.
Where can I get help with tutoring?
The University Learning Center, 218 Baldy Hall. The Thomas J. Edwards Learning Center offers students an opportunity to develop their learning skills through credit-bearing courses in the areas of reading, academic study skills, writing, and mathematics. The center includes The Math Place, The Writing Place, and the Math and Science Place.
Can I add or drop a class during the semester?
Yes, policies for adding and dropping courses are contained on the Student Response Center website. First semester freshmen may withdraw full-semester courses up to the end of the tenth week of classes.
How do I determine my GPA?
The grade point average is determined by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of credit hours in which grade points are recorded. See the GPA Calculator.
What is the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy, and how can I get a copy?
The Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy is used to determine whether an undergraduate student is eligible for federal financial aid. To be eligible a student must demonstrate (1) successful academic performance as measured by the student's cumulative and semester GPAs, and (2) progresses toward the baccalaureate degree as measured by completed credit hours per semester according to the university's Federal Satisfactory Academic Progress standards. Additionally, students must complete their first bachelor's degree within 150 percent of the normal number of credits required to complete a bachelor's degree, not exceeding 180 credit hours.
Is there any way to improve a grade if I am not satisfied with it?
Yes, a student may attempt to improve a grade by repeating that course at the University at Buffalo. All grades remain on the student's transcript, and the grade for the last enrollment in the course will be used in determining grade points. For more information, see the University's Course Repeat Policy.
I am interested in visiting UB. Who should I contact?
Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Office of Admissions for more information on the Visit UB program. Students may also meet with an OASA advisor while on campus by scheduling an appointment prior to their arrival.
What if I have a question that was not answered here?
We encourage you to talk to your advisor.
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