Frequently Asked Questions: Northern Kentucky University, Greater Cincinnati Region

What is Pathfinders?

Pathfinders is a program designed to provide extra support and resources to students who are admitted to the university conditionally based on high school performance. Participation in the program is a mandatory condition of student's admission to the university.

Who are Pathfinders?

Pathfinders are first-time freshman who are conditionally admitted to the university based on high school GPA and other academic success indicators.

What are the requirements of the Pathfinder Program?

Each student is required to sign a contract, agreeing to requirements below:

Complete 5 hours of Study Tables every week
Attend 4 Advising Appointments
Complete UNV 101
Attend two Pathfinder-Endorsed Workshops
Clear any required literacy deficiencies
Earn a minimum overall GPA of a 2.0

How does a student complete Pathfinders?

Pathfinders is a year long program. To complete Pathfinders, students must fulfill all of the program requirements. The Pathfinder Committee will review each Pathfinder at the end of each semester. At this time, students will either complete Pathfinders; continue in Pathfinders; or be dismissed from the university. Once a student completes Pathfinders, he/she may officially declare his/her major.

Does Pathfinders really help?

Yes! Students who complete the Pathfinder program are provided many academic success skills and support that helps them throughout their college experience.

Does Pathfinders delay graduation?

Pathfinders will take the same types of classes as other first-time freshman.

What happens to Pathfinders who do not follow the requirements of the program?

Students who do not adhere to the requirements of the program may be dismissed from the university. Students who are dismissed must sit out from NKU for one semester.

Who do I contact with questions about Pathfinders?

Any questions about the program can be directed to the following email address:

pathfinders@nku.edu

What are the benefits of being in Pathfinders?

Pathfinders have additional contact with advisors and Peer Coaches which allows opportunities to expand the student's support network. Students also build connections with peers through UNV 101 and other courses.

Frequently Asked Questions

First-Year Experience

First-Year Student Success Hub

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