What does “Ratio Studiorum” mean?
Ratio Studiorum is Latin for “plan of studies.” The name reflects Creighton’s Jesuit, Catholic tradition of helping students connect their academic choices with their interests, goals and broader sense of purpose.
Academic Advising
Guidance for Your Goals
Academic advising at Creighton helps students make thoughtful decisions about their courses, majors and long-term goals while staying on track toward graduation. That support begins in the first year through the Ratio Studiorum Program (RSP), a robust and unique program that introduces students to Creighton’s approach to advising and connects them with a faculty advisor who helps them navigate the transition to college. From there, advising continues throughout the Creighton experience, giving students ongoing guidance as their plans take shape.
Learn more about our approach to academic advising below.
Ratio Studiorum Program
The Ratio Studiorum Program (RSP) is Creighton’s distinctive, course-based approach to first-year advising. All first-year students enroll in this one-credit course, taught by a faculty advisor who serves as both instructor and mentor. Through RSP, students are introduced to Creighton’s Jesuit, values-centered approach to education while developing the skills and habits needed for academic success.
More than an introduction to campus resources, RSP provides structured, ongoing advising during a student’s first year (and often beyond). Students work closely with their faculty advisor to build an academic plan, explore majors and career interests, and reflect on their goals and sense of purpose. The program also fosters a close-knit community, giving students a strong sense of connection as they start their Creighton experience.
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FAQs About RSP
What happens in an RSP course?
Students cover topics like academic planning, the transition to college, Creighton resources, Jesuit, Catholic values, vocation and goal setting. It's also a chance to connect with classmates and your advisor. RSP is a great place to form friendships!
How does RSP connect to academic advising?
It's the first step in Creighton’s academic advising experience. Students begin building a relationship with a faculty advisor who can help them choose courses, explore majors, understand degree requirements and make informed academic decisions.
I keep hearing about Decurions. What are they?
A Decurion is an experienced Creighton student who serves as a peer leader in an RSP course. Decurions help first-year students navigate college life, connect with resources and learn from someone who has been in their shoes.
Is RSP only for students who need academic help or don't know what they want to pursue academically?
No. RSP is for all first-year students. It provides proactive guidance and support to help students make the most of their academic experience, regardless of how confident or prepared they feel when they arrive.
Does academic advising end after RSP?
No. RSP introduces students to Creighton’s advising approach, but advising continues throughout their undergraduate experience. As students choose a major and progress toward graduation, they continue working with advisors who can support their evolving academic and career goals.
Academic Advising Throughout Your Creighton Experience
As students progress in their academic journey and are accepted into a major, generally during the sophomore year, they are assigned a faculty advisor within their program. This faculty member becomes the student’s primary academic advisor through graduation.
Graduate and professional students receive academic advising through their school, college or program, with guidance tailored to the requirements and expectations of their degree.
Academic advisors support students with:
- Course selection and registration
- Academic planning and degree progress
- Exploration of interests and long-term goals
Contact Us
Center for Advising Resources and Support
2500 California Plaza
Omaha, NE 68178
Hixson-Lied Science Building, first floor
402.280.5566
