For the vast majority of students at WSU, the goal of attending college is to earn a degree. As a student takes the first steps on their educational journey, it pays to keep that long-term goal in mind. WSU's Office of Student Success: First-Year Programs offers a set of programs, resources and activities designed to help students reach their goals, and maximize their success and satisfaction as they pursue their degree. The three main components to the traditional first-year experience are First-Year Programs (orientation and transition experiences), First-Year Advising and First-Year Seminar courses. Each of these is a valuable tool for navigating the transition to Wichita State University and should be considered an integral part of the student experience. Students who take full advantage of these programs and opportunities are more likely to be successful, and are more likely to finish their degrees in a timely manner.

New Shocker Orientation

Whether starting a college career at WSU fresh out of high school, transferring from another institution, or returning to school after a long absence, WSU offers orientation experiences tailored to student needs. Orientation provides opportunities to get to know faculty members and fellow students, resources and offices on campus, academic expectations, keys to college success, the history and traditions of WSU and much more. Parents and guests are invited to attend guest programs so they can learn more about how to help their students succeed in college.

New Shocker Orientation is required for all students new to WSU regardless of previously earned credit. Each semester, First-Year Programs in Student Success notifies new students about their options to complete the orientation requirement.

For the latest information, phone 316-978-5420 or visit the orientation website¹.

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First-Time Registration

Students coming to WSU directly from high school will complete an enrollment questionnaire after they RSVP for orientation. First-year advisors use their responses to the questionnaire to create a proposed schedule of courses for the student to review and approve. New transfer and returning adult students are required to meet with an advisor before registering.

For further information on registration, see the Registration and Withdrawal page of the catalog.