Liberal Studies Online – Advising & Student Support
Liberal Studies Online – Advising & Student Support
Academic Advising and Student Support
Whether you're new to Sonoma State, returning to college after time away, or getting ready to graduate, knowing whom to contact can make things easier.
The Liberal Studies Online Degree Completion Program has two pathways: SSU Stateside and Extended Education. Both lead to the same Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from Sonoma State University, but advising and student support are organized differently for each pathway.
Below you'll find the contact information for each program and an overview of the assistance available.
SSU Stateside – Academic Advising
Dr. Stephanie Dyer
Academic Advisor, Liberal Studies Online – Stateside
Email: dyers@sonoma.edu
Faculty Office: Carson Hall, Room 37
View Dr. Stephanie Dyer's Faculty Profile
Dr. Dyer provides academic advising for students enrolled in the SSU Stateside Liberal Studies Online Program.
If you have questions about your classes, degree requirements, or progress toward graduation, she can help you review your options and plan your coursework.
Dr. Dyer can assist with:
- Reviewing your academic progress and remaining degree requirements.
- Planning courses for upcoming semesters.
- Understanding Liberal Studies major requirements.
- Discussing electives and other academic questions.
- Preparing for graduation.
If you'd like to schedule an advising appointment, please contact Dr. Dyer by email.
Extended Education – Student Support
Melissa, Adult Learner Concierge
Student Support, Liberal Studies Online – Extended Education
Email: concierge@sonoma.edu
Phone: (707) 664-4169
Visit Sonoma State Extended Education
If you're considering returning to college through Extended Education, Melissa is a good person to contact with questions about getting started.
As the Adult Learner Concierge, Melissa works with students who are exploring the program, preparing to apply, or looking for help navigating university resources.
We know that many students returning to college are also working, raising families, or managing other responsibilities. Having someone to help explain the process can make returning to school a little easier.
Melissa can assist with:
- Getting Started: Learning about the Extended Education Liberal Studies Online pathway.
- Application Questions: Understanding the application and enrollment process.
- Transfer Coursework: Exploring how previously completed college courses may apply toward your degree.
- Credit for Prior Learning: Learning about possible opportunities to receive credit for eligible previous learning experiences, subject to university approval.
- Course Planning: Understanding course options and connecting with appropriate academic advising resources.
- Student Resources: Finding the university offices and services that can help you.
- Graduation Information: Understanding graduation procedures and where to get assistance as you approach degree completion.
If you're unsure where to begin or have questions about returning to Sonoma State, please feel free to contact Melissa.
Email Melissa, Adult Learner Concierge
Not Sure Who to Contact?
The best place to start depends on which Liberal Studies Online pathway you're enrolled in or considering.
SSU Stateside Students
Contact Dr. Stephanie Dyer for academic advising, course planning, and degree requirements.
Email: dyers@sonoma.edu
Extended Education Students
Contact Melissa, Adult Learner Concierge, for assistance getting started, navigating the program, and connecting with university resources.
Email: concierge@sonoma.edu
Phone: (707) 664-4169
If you're still deciding between the two pathways, you can review the program options before reaching out.
Compare Liberal Studies Online Pathways
Preparing for Your Advising Appointment
Meeting with an advisor is a good opportunity to review your academic progress and make sure you understand what you need to complete your degree.
You don't need to have everything figured out before your appointment, but it helps to come prepared.
Before Your Appointment
We recommend taking a few minutes to:
- Review your Academic Requirements Report (ARR). Look at the courses you've completed and the requirements you still need.
- Check your previous college coursework. If you're transferring or returning after time away, have information about your previous classes available.
- Think about your upcoming schedule. Consider how many courses you can reasonably take while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.
- Write down your questions. Make a list of anything you're unsure about so you don't forget to ask.
- Review important dates. Check upcoming registration periods, application deadlines, and graduation dates.
Questions You May Want to Ask
Depending on where you are in your program, you may want to discuss:
- Which courses should I take next semester?
- How many units do I have remaining before graduation?
- Will my previous college coursework count toward my degree?
- Which electives would be appropriate for my interests and goals?
- How many classes should I take each semester?
- Are there any requirements I should complete before taking upper-division courses?
- When should I apply for graduation?
If you're unsure about something, please ask. Your advisor or student support contact can help you find the information you need or direct you to the appropriate university office.
We're Here to Help
Whether you're just beginning the Liberal Studies Online Program or getting close to graduation, we encourage you to stay in touch with your academic advisor or student support contact.
If your schedule changes, you're having difficulty finding a course, or you're unsure about a requirement, reaching out early can help you understand your options.
We know that many of our online students are balancing college with jobs, families, and other commitments. Our goal is to make sure you know where to go for information and support as you work toward completing your degree.
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions. We're happy to help.