FAQ

Q: Who is my assigned academic advisor, and how do I schedule my mandatory advising session?

At the start of each semester, your assigned ECE advisor will email you a welcome message. In most cases, you will have the same advisor throughout your time in the ECE program, though changes may occur due to advising caseload adjustments. Be sure to check your email regularly and reach out to your assigned advisor directly with any questions.

Mandatory advising is required every semester for all ECE students. Your advisor will contact you via email about two weeks before your advising period begins, based on your registration date and total credits. Students with earlier registration times (like seniors) will be contacted earlier in the semester than those with later times (like freshmen).

For new freshmen:
If you're in your first fall semester, you’ll participate in group advising and won’t be assigned a specific advisor until the spring. If you need assistance during the fall, email eceadvise@umd.edu.

Q: What if I have questions outside of my mandatory advising session? 

You can always email your advisor to determine if an advising meeting is necessary. Our office offers virtual drop-in advising every Friday from 9 am-12 pm, where advisors are available to help with some quick questions or concerns. For freshmen, please email our undergraduate office eceadvise@umd.edu or come to Friday Drop-in advising. 

Q: Which courses require permission, and what if I need to change my course permissions after mandatory advising?

Most ENEE and CMSC courses require departmental permission, with the exception of ENEE200, CMSC131, and CMSC132. Additionally, permission for ENES100 must be obtained through the ECE department. If your course plans have changed after completing your mandatory advising session, you should submit the ECE Advising Form to request updated course permissions.

Q: I’m interested in taking winter or summer classes. Should I wait for my advising appointment, or can I meet with my advisor now?

Yes, you can take winter or summer courses, but keep in mind that not all classes are offered during those terms. To plan ahead, check the Schedule of Classes to see what was offered in previous winter/summer sessions if the current schedule isn't available yet—course availability can vary year to year. You can also find winter/summer registration dates and details at exst.umd.edu.

Winter/summer registration typically opens early, so it's a good idea to plan in advance.

  • If your mandatory advising meeting is scheduled before registration opens, feel free to discuss winter/summer classes during that meeting.
  • If your meeting is scheduled after registration opens and you’re unsure what to take, you can email your advisor with questions.

Note:

  • You usually do not need permission stamps for General Education (Gen Ed) or General Technical (Gen Tech) courses during the winter/summer term.
  • If you plan to take ENEE or CMSC courses in the summer, you will need departmental permission, so be sure to contact your advisor for approval.

Q: I’m struggling with a class (or multiple classes). What should I do?

If you're having trouble with a course, here are some steps you can take:

  1. Use office hours – Start by attending your instructor’s or TA’s office hours for help with course material.
  2. Seek tutoring – There are free tutoring resources available through the department, the A. James Clark School of Engineering and the university. You can find a list of options here: eng.umd.edu/advising/tutoring.
  3. Consider your grading options – If you believe you may not pass the course, you might consider dropping it before the official drop deadline. Keep in mind:
    • You can only drop up to 4 credits per semester after the Schedule Adjustment Period ends.
    • If your difficulties are affecting all your courses, a semester withdrawal may be an option.

Be sure to check the relevant academic deadlines [here].

If you're unsure about what to do next, reach out to your academic advisor or attend our Friday drop-in advising hours for personalized support.

Q: I am considering switching my major. What should I do?

If you're thinking about changing your major, start by speaking with your current academic advisor. It’s also important to research the department you’re interested in to understand their requirements and process.

Currently registered engineering students who wish to switch to another major within the A. James Clark School of Engineering must complete two key steps:

  1. Visit the TerpEngage Portal and select the appropriate form based on your status.
    Note: Your major change request is not complete after submitting this form alone.
  2. After submitting the request in TerpEngage, you’ll receive an email with a task list. All required tasks—including submitting a Change of Major form—must be completed and checked off in TerpEngage for your request to be officially processed.

If you've informed your ECE advisor of your plan to change majors, they may offer a one-semester courtesy period. During this time, they can continue to provide advising support and grant permission stamps for ECE courses. If more than one semester passes and you still plan to switch majors but haven't completed the change process, your advisor will no longer be able to lift advising blocks or issue permission stamps for ECE courses.

Q: I’m graduating next semester. Is there anything I need to do before then? Do I need to RSVP for the graduation ceremony?

Yes, there are several important steps to complete before you graduate:

1. Submit a Senior Audit Request

Before applying for graduation on Testudo, you must submit a Senior Audit Request to the ECE Undergraduate Advising Office. This ensures you are on track to graduate and allows any potential issues to be addressed in time to adjust your schedule before the drop/add deadline. If any concerns arise, your advisor will contact you. Once your audit is completed, you’ll receive a finalized version of your academic plan via email. Please allow at least 48 business hours for your advisor to process your request—plan accordingly.

2. Apply for Graduation on Testudo

You must apply for graduation via Testudo no later than the end of the Schedule Adjustment Period for your final semester.

3. RSVP for the Graduation Ceremony

Visit the Clark School of Engineering Graduation Page for details on the ceremony and to RSVP.

  • Fall/Winter graduates: The University does not currently host a fall or winter commencement ceremony. Students graduating in the fall or winter are invited to participate in the Spring Commencement Ceremony. Additionally, the Engineering School hosts a winter celebration in December.
  • Summer graduates: If you are completing 7 or fewer credits during the summer, you may be eligible to participate in the Spring Engineering Commencement Ceremony. For full details, please refer to the graduation section on the Clark School of Engineering website.

Q: When can I meet with my advisor for registration?

Advising for course registration is scheduled based on your completed credits (not including credits from your current semester). Students with the highest number of completed credits are advised first.

You will receive an email from your assigned advisor later in the semester with instructions on how to schedule your mandatory advising meeting through TerpEngage. The email will include a date range during which you are eligible to schedule your meeting. Do not schedule outside of your assigned time window—those appointments will be canceled. 

New freshmen will participate in Group Advising during the fall semester and will be assigned an individual academic advisor in the spring.

Here’s a general timeline for when advising begins by credit level for the fall semester:

  • 90+ completed credits: Email sent in mid-September; meetings held mid-September to early October
  • 60–89 completed credits: Email sent in early October; meetings held throughout October
  • 30–59 completed credits: Email sent in late October; meetings held late October to early November
  • 0–29 completed credits: Email sent in mid-November; meetings held in mid-November

Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher may be eligible to complete an online advising form in place of a meeting—your advisor will include this option in the email if you qualify.

Be sure to check your UMD email regularly and follow all instructions to avoid registration delays.

Q: When Can I Register for Classes (Add/Drop Dates)?

To find out when you can register for classes, check the “Appointment and Registration Status” section on your Testudo page. This is where your specific registration date and time will be posted.

Please note: if you see a message that says, “Your appointment will be available on (insert date),” this means that your registration date will become visible on that day—it does not mean you can start registering then. This is a common misunderstanding.

Once your registration appointment appears, it will show the exact date and time when you are allowed to begin adding or dropping classes.

Q: What is the schedule adjustment period? 

The schedule adjustment period—also called the add/drop period—typically lasts for the first ten business days of the semester. During this time, you can add or drop courses without any penalty. For exact dates each semester, check the Academic Deadlines Calendar. The ECE undergraduate office offers virtual drop-in hours daily throughout the schedule adjustment period to help students with any scheduling questions or concerns.

If you plan to drop one course and add another, be sure to complete both actions on the same day. Changes in your full-time (12+ credits) or part-time status can affect your tuition billing, so doing them separately may cause billing complications.

Q: Can I add or drop a class after the schedule adjustment period?

After the add/drop period ends, you can still drop a course, but it will be recorded as a “Withdrawal” (W) on your transcript. A withdrawal counts as a first attempt, so if you retake the course later, it will be considered a repeat.

There is a deadline for dropping courses with a “W” grade, which you can also find on the Academic Deadlines calendar.

If you miss the deadline to drop a course with a “W,” you may still apply for a late drop under exceptional circumstances. These requests are reviewed individually by the College of Engineering’s exception committee. Before submitting a late drop request, students should consult with their advisor. The late drop exception form and instructions can be found here. 

Q: How many credits can I register for per semester, and can I exceed the limit?

Freshmen are allowed to register for up to 17 credits in their first semester. After that, all students may register for up to 18 credits per semester.

If you have exceptional reasons and need to take more than the credit limit, you can submit a request for an exception to the College of Engineering. A committee will review your case and make a decision based on your circumstances.

Q: What courses require permission stamps from my department or advisor?

You will need to request permission stamps from the ECE department or your advisor for the following courses: ENES100, all ENEE courses except ENEE200, and CMSC courses except CMSC131 and CMSC132.

If you need permission for an unusual non-major Math course, you can submit your request through the Math Department here. 

For non-major courses offered by other departments within the A. James Clark School of Engineering, you can find permission request information here.

Q: What are ECE technical elective courses, and where can I find the list?

All Electrical Engineering undergraduates must complete 18 credits of 400-level ENEE technical electives across three designated categories (Categories A, B, and C). For detailed information and the list of approved courses, please visit:
EE Technical Electives

Computer Engineering majors are required to complete 26 credits of technical electives from six categories (Categories A, B, C, D, E, and F). More details and course options can be found here:
CE Technical Electives

Q: What are the General Technical Elective (GTE) courses on my academic plan?

Students in Electrical & Computer Engineering majors must complete General Technical Elective courses as part of their graduation requirements. These courses should be at the 300 or 400 level and in a STEM-related field. You may choose GTE courses from outside the department or additional ENEE or CMSC courses.

More information is available here: General Technical Electives

Q: How can I get permission to take a Gen Tech course outside of ECE or CS?

You will need to contact the department that offers the course for permission.

Q: What are Advanced Lab courses and Capstone courses?

Advanced Lab and Capstone courses are culminating experiences where students apply the knowledge and skills they have gained throughout their studies to tackle complex problems, often involving research and practical work. These courses are typically taken during the final year of your program.

Both Electrical and Computer Engineering students are required to complete one Advanced Lab and one Capstone course in their senior year. These courses also count toward your technical elective requirements.

For more information and lists of available courses, see:
EE Technical Electives
CE Technical Electives

Q: Can I take more than one Capstone or Advanced Lab?

Seniors are required to complete one Capstone and one Advanced Lab course as part of their degree requirements.

If you are interested in taking a second Capstone or second Advanced Lab, you may be considered for enrollment only if seats are available after the first day of classes and with department approval. Advisors will only issue one permission stamp at a time for these courses.

To request a second Capstone or Advanced Lab, please submit the Exception to Department Policy: Technical Courses form.

Q: Can I take a graduate course to replace a technical elective? 

Yes, ECE undergraduate students at UMD may request to take a graduate-level course to fulfill a technical elective requirement, but prior approval is required. Always consult with your academic advisor before submitting a request to ensure the course fits your academic plan.

  • Eligibility: You must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and be in your junior or senior year.
  • Instructor Permission: You need permission from the instructor of the course unless you are in the BS/MS program, but we recommend you still contact the instructor.
  • Clark School Approval: You must complete the Request to Take a Graduate Course form through the A. James Clark School of Engineering.
  • Credit Restrictions: Graduate courses approved for use as technical electives will count only toward your undergraduate degree. They cannot be double-counted for both undergraduate and graduate programs unless you are enrolled in a combined B.S./M.S. program.

Eligible Substitutions:

  • Electrical Engineering: A graduate course may be used to fulfill Category A, ENEE4XX, ENEE/Non-ENEE, or Gen Tech requirements.
  • Computer Engineering: A graduate course may be used to fulfill Category C, Gen Tech, or CP Elective requirements.

Q: How many CMSC or ENEE classes can I take per semester?

Students are limited to taking no more than four (4) technical courses per semester. Technical courses include CHEM, MATH, PHYS, ENEE, and CMSC.

Students with a cumulative UMD GPA of 3.5 or higher who have completed their 200-level ENEE technical courses may be eligible for an exception.

If you have exceptional circumstances, you can petition for an exception by submitting the Exception to Department Policy: Technical Courses form to the Associate Chair of Undergraduate Education.

Q: Can I take MATH246 instead of ENEE290?

If you were admitted to the ECE program in Fall 2024 or later, you are required to take ENEE290.

If you were admitted before Fall 2024 and have credit for MATH240 or MATH461 (Linear Algebra), then you should take MATH246.

Transfer students or internal transfer students: If you have previously completed MATH246 or Linear Algebra (MATH240 or MATH461), please meet with an ECE advisor to discuss how these courses may satisfy your ENEE290 requirement within your academic plan.

Please notify your advisor if you plan to do a math double degree or minor.

Q: Can I take ENES200 instead of ENEE200?

The answer is no. ECE students must take ENEE200. However, if you transfer into ECE and have already taken ENES200, it can be accepted in place of ENEE200 with an exception request using this Exception to Department Policy: Requirement Waiver form. 

Q: What department policies should I be aware of?

You can find a full list of relevant department policies here:
ECE Advising and Support

Q: How many times can I repeat a course? What are the repeat credit limits for my major?

More information about the University’s repeat policy can be found here: UMD Repeat Policy

You may repeat a previously attempted course once.

A maximum of 18 attempted credits may be repeated while at UMD. Note that a “Withdraw” counts as an attempt.

For a third attempt at a course, students must request an exception from the College of Engineering. Contact your advisor to begin this process. Exception Request Page

Q: May I take a class at a different school while being a UMD student?
Yes, you may take courses at another institution. For details and requirements, visit the “Permission to Enroll in Another Institution” page.

Q: I heard about “freshman forgiveness.” How does it apply to me as a freshman or transfer student?

More details on the University’s repeat policy, including freshman forgiveness, are available here: UMD Repeat Policy

In short, the cumulative GPA typically includes all attempts of a course, but freshmen and transfer students have two exceptions where only the highest grade counts:

  • If the repeated course was taken during the first semester at UMD
  • If the repeated course was taken within the first 24 credit hours attempted (including transfer credits, but excluding AP credits

Q: How many credits can I drop from one semester?

After the Schedule Adjustment Period ends, you may drop no more than 4 credits per semester without special approval. If you need to drop more than 4 credits, you must submit an exception request to the School of Engineering. Approval is not guaranteed and is reviewed case-by-case. Please contact your advisor for assistance. Exception Request Page

Q: What additional programs are available in the ECE Department that I can join?

The ECE Department offers several exciting programs and opportunities for students:

  • Academy of Machine Learning:
    Designed for students interested in deepening their knowledge of machine learning. Open to all majors, though some eligibility requirements apply. Learn more: Academy of Machine Learning
  • Computer Engineering Minor:
    An option to complement your major with specialized knowledge in computer engineering. Details here: Computer Engineering Minor
  • Quantum Science and Engineering Minor:
    Explore foundational and advanced topics in quantum science and engineering through this interdisciplinary minor. Learn more: Quantum Science and Engineering Minor
  • Undergraduate Teaching Fellow (UTF) Program:
    Gain valuable teaching experience by assisting in undergraduate courses. More information: UTF Program
  • Peer Mentor Program:
    Connect with experienced students who provide guidance and support throughout your studies. Learn more: Peer Mentoring

Q: Can I add a minor to my current major? What is the process?

Yes! UMD offers a wide range of minors that you can add to your academic plan.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Explore available minors and their requirements:
    Visit the University Minors and Requirements page to see what options are available and what each minor entails.
  2. Review degree policies and requirements:
    For more detailed information on how a minor fits into your overall degree, check the Degree Information for Minors.
  3. Do your research first:
    Not all departments are able to meet individually with students about minors. It's best to review the minor’s requirements on their website and, if possible, meet with an advisor from that department to discuss your interest.
  4. Discuss with your ECE advisor:
    Once you’ve done your research, bring it up during your mandatory advising meeting. Your ECE advisor can help you determine how the minor can fit into your schedule and overall academic plan.

Planning ahead ensures you stay on track with your major requirements while pursuing additional interests through a minor.

Q: Can I pursue a double major or double degree? What is the process?

Yes, you can pursue either a double major or a double degree. For detailed information about the differences and the requirements for each option, please refer to: Double Major and Double Degree Information

Steps to get started:

  1. Review the curriculum and requirements for the second major or degree you’re interested in.
  2. Meet with an advisor from the department offering the second major to explore feasibility and fit.
  3. Once you’ve gathered that information, schedule a meeting with your assigned ECE advisor to help plan your academic path and make sure everything aligns with graduation requirements.

Planning early is key to staying on track, especially if you’re managing requirements for two programs.

Q: I want to study abroad in the future. When should I start planning, and who should I contact?

We highly encourage students to consider studying abroad! Typically, the best time to study abroad is during your junior year. It’s generally advisable to avoid studying abroad in your final semester to prevent any unexpected issues that could delay your graduation.

How to start:

  • Explore different countries, universities, and programs through the Engineering Study Abroad website.
  • Use their course database to check if the courses you want to take abroad will be offered.
  • Gather information before your advising meeting to make the discussion more productive.
  • Schedule a meeting with a Study Abroad Advisor and your ECE advisor during the semester before you plan to go abroad.

Q: Do I need to schedule a separate meeting to discuss study abroad, or can it be covered during my mandatory advising appointment?

  • Most study abroad questions can be addressed during your regular registration advising meeting.
  • If needed, your advisor may recommend scheduling a second meeting to discuss your plans in detail.
  • To prepare, review the Study Abroad page and your current academic plan before your advising meeting.

Q: I am interested in the BS/MS program. Where can I find more information, and who should I contact?

  • Start by visiting the Combined BS/MS Program page.
  • Attend any available information sessions—they offer valuable insights.
  • Review the PowerPoint presentation on the website for detailed information.
  • Bring your specific questions to your advising meeting or reach out to your current assigned academic advisor— they will assist you in planning your courses and next steps.
  • For additional inquiries that are related to grad courses/policy, you can email the Graduate Studies Office at ecegradstudies@umd.edu.

Q: I’m a freshman. Are there any organizations that can help me adjust to college life?

Yes! While there are many great student organizations to explore at the annual First Look Fair, our department offers a dedicated program called the ECE Peer Mentor Program, designed specifically to support first-year students.

As part of the program, you’ll be paired with an upper-level ECE student who can help guide you through your freshman year—offering advice, support, and insights into college life. The program also hosts events throughout the year to help you build connections and feel more at home in the ECE community.

Sign-ups open at the beginning of the fall semester, but you’re welcome to reach out anytime with questions. Our mentors are happy to help! You can contact them at ece-peermentoring@umd.edu.

Q: What resources are available for internship and career planning?

The Engineering Career Services Office offers a wide range of resources to help you plan your career, find internships, and prepare for the job market. You can explore everything they offer on their website: eng.umd.edu/careers

Here are some of the key resources and services available:

  • Career Advising & Drop-In Hours: Meet with career advisors for one-on-one guidance on job search strategies, interviewing, and career exploration.
  • Workshops & Handouts: Access a variety of professional development workshops and downloadable guides on resume writing, networking, and more.
  • Career Fairs: Participate in semesterly career fairs, especially the ECE Career Fair, where you can connect directly with employers hiring for internships and full-time positions.
  • Internship & Co-op Programs: Learn how to gain real-world experience through internships and cooperative education programs tailored for engineering students.
  • Resume Support: Get help reviewing and improving your resume to make a strong impression on employers.

Q: I’m a newly transferred student from another college or university. Are there resources to help me adjust to life at UMD?

 

Absolutely! The University of Maryland offers a variety of resources to support transfer students as they transition into campus life. Visit transfer.umd.edu for helpful information tailored to:

  • Prospective Transfers
  • Newly Admitted Transfers
  • Current Transfer Students

This site includes guidance on academics, campus involvement, and making the most of your experience at UMD. In addition, if you’re having trouble finding specific resources or have questions about your transition, you’re always welcome to contact our office or your assigned academic advisor. We’re here to help you feel supported and connected as you settle into your new environment.

Q: I’m a newly admitted international student. What support and resources are available to help me adjust to life at UMD?

Welcome to the University of Maryland! As an international student, you have access to a wide range of resources designed to support your transition and help you succeed both academically and personally.

International Student Support

Visit the International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) website for comprehensive support, including immigration advising, orientation programs, cultural adjustment resources, and social engagement opportunities.

Career Resources

If you're looking for job or internship opportunities as an international student, check out the Engineering Career Services website:
eng.umd.edu/careers/students/international
They offer resume help, job search strategies, and workshops tailored specifically for international students.

Health & Wellness

  • General Health Services: Visit the University Health Center for medical care, immunizations, and health education resources. health.umd.edu
  • Mental Health Support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need someone to talk to, you can contact the Counseling Center at counseling.umd.edu. You can also reach out to your academic advisor for guidance and referrals.

Academic Support

If you have questions about your major, course registration, or are having difficulty locating resources, don't hesitate to contact your assigned academic advisor or our office. We’re here to help you navigate your academic journey at UMD.

Q: I’m a newly admitted freshman or external transfer student, and I’ve taken AP or other programming-related courses. Can I take any exams to place out of similar classes at UMD?

Yes, there are a few placement and exemption exam options depending on the course and department:

  • ENEE150 Placement Exam: Our department offers a placement exam for ENEE150. This exam is available to new students or students outside the ECE major who wish to enroll in our programs. Contact the ECE Undergraduate Advising Office for more information.
  • Computer Science (CMSC131/132) Exemption Exams: If you’ve taken programming courses and are interested in placing out of CMSC131 or CMSC132, the Computer Science Department offers exemption exams for newly admitted students.
    You can find details here: https://undergrad.cs.umd.edu/external-new-student-exemption-exams
  • The Mathematics Department offers credit-by-exams for MATH 120, 121, 140, 141, 240, 241, and 246. https://www-math.umd.edu/credit-by-exam.html

If you’re unsure which exam applies to your situation or need guidance on the process, feel free to reach out to your academic advisor for support.

Q: What tutoring and academic support resources are available on campus?

There are several free academic support services available to help you succeed in your courses:

ECE-Specific Support

  • Free ECE Tutoring: Available for 200- and 300-level ENEE courses, provided by experienced peers in the department.
  • Friday Drop-in Advising: Open to all students who have questions or concerns that fall outside of their mandatory advising meeting. No appointment needed—just log in to Zoom for quick support and guidance.

Engineering School/Campus - Wide Resources

General Course Support

Whether you're looking for help in a specific class or need academic guidance more broadly, these resources are here to support your success. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of them early and often!

Q: What Mental Health and Wellness Support Services are available on campus?

The University of Maryland offers a variety of resources to support your mental health, well-being, and overall wellness:

Mental Health and Behavioral Support

Wellness Programs and Workshops

  • Wellness Skills Workshops: Interactive sessions held Monday through Thursday via Zoom, with recordings available for flexible access. These workshops focus on developing healthy coping and life skills.
  • Health Promotion and Wellness Services: Programs and resources aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle, stress management, and personal well-being.
  • UMD Memorial Chapel – Garden of Remembrance: A peaceful place for quiet reflection. Visitors can leave entries in anonymous journals placed under benches.
  • UMD RecWell Programs: Recreational and wellness activities designed to support physical health and mental relaxation.

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