The Office of Academic Advising for Student-Athletes is part of a larger academic support program known as the Office of Advising and Retention Services which has a fundamental responsibility for enhancing the educational experience for all students. Through this course, students learn about WCU academic programs and policies and NCAA academic regulations, gain a better understanding of the meaning of higher education, learn more about themselves, and make new friends. Other freshmen and sophomore athletes and first semester transfers are also advised by the athletic advisor until they formally declare a major. Progress reports are sent to all instructors each semester and those athletes experiencing difficulty in a class meet with the advisor to plan appropriate plans of action. Catamount student-athletes have their own computer lab that is equipped with modern hardware and software.
Notebook computers are also available for checkout.
Study hall is required of all first semester freshmen and transfers and any athlete whose grade point average is below a 2.30. A fully equipped computer lab, available to student-athletes only, is located in the study hall area. It is equipped with word processors, laser printers, on-line terminals, and laptop computers. Other services available to all student-athletes include a summer orientation program, tutoring, career and personal counseling, and eligibility information. The university and the Southern Conference have established several awards to recognize academic achievement.