Center for Advising and Student Success

The Otter community is committed to your success. Our advisors are here to support you in planning your academic path and reaching your graduation goals.

Pathways to Purpose and Success

The Center for Advising and Student Success supports your academic and career journey with personalized, student-centered guidance. Our team helps you understand your options, make informed decisions and stay on track to graduation — building confidence every step of the way.

Through a connected network of services, including academic advising and career coaching, we provide the tools, resources and support you need to succeed. Rooted in Cal State Monterey Bay’s commitment to inclusive, multicultural and community-focused education, we are here to help you achieve your goals and shape your future.

Explore Advising Services

Academic Advising

Academic Advisors support your path to graduation by helping you understand degree requirements, choose courses, and plan ahead. Connect with your advisor by email, through Otter Navigate, by scheduling an appointment or during drop-in hours.

Human Development and Family Science

Success Advising

Success Advisors help you build the habits and strategies needed to succeed in college, including time management, goal setting, and connecting to campus resources. Advisors are available by email, Otter Navigate, and scheduled appointments.

CSUMB special education credential faculty and student meeting together using a laptop

How We Support Your Success

The Center for Advising and Student Success at Cal State Monterey Bay is a powerhouse of resources and support. Under our umbrella of services, you’ll find academic advising, career coaching and everything in between.

Student Success Services

Career Exploration and Professional Development

Planning for life after college starts now. Explore majors, discover career paths, prepare for graduate school, and start building experience that supports your future goals.

Exploring Majors and Careers

Choosing a major is easier when you understand the careers connected to it. Explore different fields, identify your interests, and learn how majors connect to career pathways.

  • Connect majors with career paths
  • Explore interests and strengths
  • Discover career possibilities

Graduate School Resources

Considering graduate or professional school? Explore resources that help you research programs and prepare for the application process.

  • Research graduate programs
  • Plan application timelines
  • Prepare for advanced study

Student Support Services

College can be challenging, but you do not have to navigate it alone. These campus services provide academic support, accessibility resources and confidential counseling.

Cooperative Learning Center (CLC)

Free tutoring and collaborative learning support are available for many courses to help you better understand course material and prepare for exams.

  • Free tutoring
  • Study groups
  • Academic skills support

Student Disability and Accessibility Center (SDAC)

Students with documented disabilities can receive accommodations and accessibility support to ensure equitable access to learning.

  • Academic accommodations
  • Accessibility support
  • Documentation guidance

Personal Growth and Counseling Center (PGCC)

Confidential counseling and wellness services help students manage stress, mental health challenges, and personal concerns.

  • Individual counseling
  • Mental health resources
  • Wellness workshops

Academic Tools and Guides

University processes can feel confusing at first. These guides help you understand common advising topics and navigate registration and degree planning.

Permission Numbers

Some courses require a permission number before you can enroll. Learn when they are used and how to request one properly.

  • When permission numbers are required
  • How to request one
  • What information to include

Academic Advising Glossary

University terminology can be confusing. This glossary explains common terms used in advising, registration, and degree planning.

  • Registration terminology
  • Degree planning language
  • Academic policies

Advising FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions about advising, registration, academic policies, and navigating campus resources.

  • Registration questions
  • Degree planning basics
  • Advising topics
The Tanimura & Antle Family Memorial Library

About the Center for Advising and Student Success

The Center for Advising and Student Success is here to help you navigate your academic journey at Cal State Monterey Bay. Whether you have questions about degree requirements, planning your next semester, or connecting with campus resources, our advisors are ready to support you.

Close up of yellow flowers with the ocean in the background.

Need Guidance? Start Here.

Whether you’re building your academic plan, facing a challenge, or just need clarity on next steps, we’re here to help.

Center for Academic and Student Success

Our Academic and Success advising team helps students create clear plans and stay on track toward graduation.

Front Desk

Start with our front desk staff for quick questions, referrals or help scheduling an appointment with an advisor.

Office Hours: Monday–Thursday, 8:30am to 5:00pm and Friday, 8:30am to 4:00pm