Office of Student Retention
Your success matters. The Office of Student Retention is here to support you throughout your journey as a Catamount. You may hear from us by email, text, or phone with reminders, resources, or an invitation to connect. Sometimes we reach out because we see something that might be getting in your way—and we want to help.
If you have questions or need support, respond to our messages or reach out anytime. We’re here for you!
Meet the Student Retention Staff!
Our Programs
Academic standing is the University policy that sets the requirements for your grades and degree progress that determine if you are eligible to continue enrollment. Essentially, we want you to be in good academic standing earning grades required for graduation and earning credits in a timely manner to keep you on track for graduation. However, we know that college can bring new challenges and that balancing your responsibilities outside of the classroom can add a layer of difficulty. You are not alone if you fall below good academic standing at some point during your WCU journey, and if that happens, Student Retention is ready to help you navigate your options.
Below are links to important resources for students to review:
Getting your degree shouldn't be stressful. WCU's Finish in Four initiative is your personal roadmap to graduating on time without the guesswork. We pair step-by-step academic planning with support right when things get tough. Plus, we give you hands-on tools to easily track your GPA, credits, and overall progress. Our goal is simple: to give you everything you need to keep your momentum going and confidently cross that graduation stage in four years.
WCU’s First-Year Experience programs are designed to help new students feel welcomed, supported, and ready to thrive from your first day on campus. In Academic Learning Communities (ALCs), you can take linked interdisciplinary courses with the same group of peers, building strong connections while exploring shared themes across classes. In addition, USI 130: First-Year Experience helps you develop effective study strategies, explore majors and future goals, get connected with campus resources, and build a sense of community in the classroom.
At times, students may need to take time off from their academics. We refer to this as a leave of absence.
How long is a leave of absence? You can take a leave of absence for three semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer) and return to WCU without needing to reapply.*
How do I take a leave of absence? You should tell our Office about your plans to take a leave of absence. This will ensure that you get the best instructions for how to proceed. You can also inform the University about their leave of absence by completing the change of academic plans survey
How do I return from a leave of absence? You can contact your primary advisor to receive your alt pin and registration information.
*Some situations require students to reapply within the three semester time frame.
If you are a first-generation college student, from a low income background, or navigating college on your own, MAPS is for you!
MAPS is a program for WCU students that provides you with academic support in order
to help you reach your goals. All students benefit from a support network that can
help you navigate your academic journey, celebrate your successes, and cheer you on
through graduation!
Learn how MAPS can be a part of your support network.
If you’re hoping to find your place on campus, be matched with an upper‑class mentor, or begin your WCU journey with a supportive community ready and eager to support your journey, Project CARE is designed for you.
Project CARE supports students by:
- Creating a welcoming, close‑knit community
- Providing intentional peer‑to‑peer mentorship
- Offering opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Helping students transition successfully into life at WCU
Guided by committed upper‑class mentors, the program has a proven history of positively impacting retention, graduation, and overall student success across generations of WCU students.
The STEM Success Program is a federally-funded TRIO SSS program that supports undergraduate students pursuing STEM and Health Sciences majors who are also first-generation college studetns, students from low-income backgrounds, and/or students with disabilities. This program provides participants with academic coaching, career exposure trips, leadership development, and more!
Students can join the program in any academic year for support through graduation.
Summer Bridge is a 5-week programs for new first-year students. By joining our Summer Bridge Programs, you will receive lots of academic support, earn 6-8 credits toward graduation, and have fun with friends in events like outdoor adventures, movies, and game nights! Top five reasons to join summer bridge:
- Get a jump-start on your major or liberal studies requirements! Students take a college transitions course and two additional courses chosen based on students' majors, interests, and transfer credit.
- Connect with other students and make lasting friendships!
- Be matched with a high-achieving peer mentor.
- Learn the ins and outs of college life during the slower-paced summer session.
- Go on a field trip! Classes have visited all sorts of places around Western North Carolina.
Learn how to join Summer Bridge
See our answers to frequently asked questions about Summer Bridge
If you wish to withdraw from all courses in a semester, you must complete a term withdrawal with the Office of Student Retention (call 828.227.7171 or stop by 214 Killian Annex to complete!) You will not be able to withdrawal from all classes in the self-service registration portal. Use the links below to learn more:
Withdrawal Options & Deadlines
