> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ismms-gs.gitbook.io/graduate-student-handbook/chapter-9/master-in-health-administration-mha/advising.md).

# Advising

### Getting Started

MHA students must read and continually reference the following resources:

* Graduate Student Handbook – Program policies and expectations (this handbook)
* Advisement & Course Tracking Worksheet – Your personal course checklist and progress tracker
* Graduate School Course Catalog – Full course descriptions and availability
* Check your unofficial transcript at student.mssm.edu for credits earned

### Your Advising Team

Different questions go to different team members or departments:

| If you need help with…                             | Contact                                                               |
| -------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Course planning & degree requirements              | Program director or program manager                                   |
| Internship placement & registration                | APE & Internships Manager                                             |
| Mentorship program questions                       | Mentorship Program Director                                           |
| Career services, job search, resume review         | Career Services Manager                                               |
| Tuition, financial aid, scholarships               | Office of Student Financial Services                                  |
| Course registration, transcripts, academic records | Office of the Registrar (icahn.mssm.edu/education/students/registrar) |
| Leave of absence, program withdrawal               | Program director and Graduate Student Affairs                         |
| F-1 visa questions, reduced course load approval   | International Personnel Office (IPO)                                  |

### When to Meet with Your Adviser

Meet with your Program Director or Program Manager:

* Before the term begins: Course planning and registration (meet by add/drop deadline)
* Mid-term: Check in on progress and course performance
* Before Spring 2 of Year 1: Plan your second year of coursework
* Two trimesters before graduation: Capstone project approval and registration
* Anytime you need it: Academic concerns, workload adjustments, course substitutions, or questions about policies

### F-1 Visa Student Advising

#### Mandatory minimum credit load

If you are on an F-1 visa, meet with your adviser before each term to ensure you are registering for at least 9 credits. Taking fewer credits puts your visa status at risk.

#### Reduced course load in final term

If you plan to take fewer than 9 credits in your final trimester before graduation, you must request approval in advance. Contact the MHA Program Office and the International Personnel Office (IPO) to obtain and submit the Reduced Course Load Form. Both your Program Director and IPO must sign this form, and it must be kept on file with Enrollment Services. Do not register for a reduced load without this documentation.