Orientation/New Student Advising

Online Tutorial

Once you have signed up for Orientation/New Student Advising, you will be mailed a confirmation booklet that includes:

• The location and time of your event
• A checklist for next steps
• Information about how to access SPU technology
• Informaton for students requiring special assistance
• Information about how to access and complete the Online Tutorial

Why is the Online Tutorial important?

By completing the assignments in this web-based module, you will learn all the basic information you will need during the next four to five years as an SPU student. Failure to complete the assignments before attending your Orientation/New Student Advising event will result in a delay in your registration, and possible closure of first-choice classes.

From the time you register for an event, it may take several days to receive your confirmation booklet and to be "enrolled" in the Blackboard Online Learning System, through which you will complete the tutorial. If you need a copy of the confirmation booklet now, print off this PDF.

How long should I set aside to take the Online Tutorial?

Allow 60 minutes to complete the tutorial information in this course, and one additional hour for each placement test that you take.

Online Tutorial Due Date

As a newly admitted student planning to attend an Orientation/New Student Advising event, you should complete the tutorial according the the schedule posted in Blackboard (usually at least two weeks before the event.)

Contact Student Academic Services at 206-281-2575 or nsa@spu.edu if you have questions or experience complications.

Do you need to take the English Placement Test?

Freshman students take the English Placement test in class during Autumn Quarter. Transfer students will find out at Orientation/New Student Advising if they need to take the exam. This information will appear on your Personal Information Sheet. You may schedule a test time through the English Department by calling 206-281-2617.

Do you need to take the Math Proficiency Exam?

If you are required to take the Math Proficiency Exam, you will find out at Orientation/New Student Advising. This information will appear on your Personal Information Sheet. The math exam must be taken before October 30. You will receive an email from the Math Department informing you about test dates.

Online Tests

There are three online tests that you MAY need to take prior to coming to your new student advising event. The tests are available beginning April 16, and they must be completed 10 days before coming to the event. Online tests are available at http://learn.spu.edu.

Do you need to take the online foreign language test?

You will need to take the Foreign Language Placement test if you have completed some foreign language classes in high school, but did NOT complete three years of the same foreign language, with a minimum average of "C" in your final year.

Do you need to take the online chemistry test?

You will need to take the Chemistry Placement test if you plan to take General Chemistry anytime in your first year at SPU.

General Chemistry (CHM 1211) is also required for students who intend to pursue these study areas:

• Biochemistry
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Electrical engineering and applied engineering
• Exercise science
• Nursing
• Nutrition/dietetics
• Physics
• Premed
• B.S. in psychology (not required for the B.A. in psychology)

 

Do you need to take the online calculus test?

You will need to take the Calculus Placement test if you plan to take Calculus I anytime in your first year at SPU.

Calculus I (MAT 1234-formerly MAT 1225) is required for students who intend to pursue these study areas:

• Biochemistry
• Biology  (B.S. I, III)
• Chemistry
• Computer Science (B.S.)
• Electrical engineering and applied engineering
• Mathematics
• Premed
• Physics