Academic Advisors at College of the Canyons primarily support new and first-time college students as they begin their academic journey. Advisors help students:

• Explore academic pathways aligned with career and educational goals
• Create a one-semester education plan
• Select courses using the My Academic Plan (MAP) web tool
• Understand general education patterns
• Learn about university transfer options
• When needed, conduct degree audits to assess academic progress
• Review transcripts, including CollegeBoard AP scores, for prerequisite eligibility
• Connect with campus resources and support services

After completing 15 units, students are encouraged to meet with a counselor to develop a comprehensive education plan.

Students can meet with Academic Advisors through one-on-one appointments, express drop-in sessions, or specialized workshops. No matter how you connect, our goal is to help you feel confident and informed as you begin your journey at College of the Canyons.

Sarah Ramos brings warmth and dedication to her role at College of the Canyons. With a master’s degree in Social Work, she’s passionate about supporting students and making sure they have everything they need to succeed. Whether you’re just starting out or need a little guidance, Sarah is here to help you feel at home and confident at our Valencia campus.

Brandon Thompson is your go-to advisor at the Canyon Country campus. With a master’s degree in Educational Counseling and over nine years of experience, he brings a calm, collected, and approachable presence to every student interaction. Brandon is passionate about helping students succeed and is always ready to guide you through your academic journey with care and expertise.

Want to schedule an appointment to meet with an Academic Advisor? Appointments are available in-person or online.

READ this important information before scheduling an appointment:

• Advisors meet with students with NO PRIOR CREDITS.
• Advisors meet with students who have ALL of their New Student Steps complete.
• Dual/Concurrent Enrollment students, MIGHT be able to meet with an advisor. Give us a call to check if you meet the requirements to see an advisor.
• If you get an "Oops" message when trying to schedule your appointment, give us a call.

Have questions? Give us a call at (661) 362-5891

FAQ's

HOW DO I DECLARE A MAJOR?

You should have declared a major in your initial enrollment application. You can always change your major by meeting with an Academic Advisor or Counselor.

IS IT MANDATORY TO MEET WITH AN ACADEMIC ADVISOR IN ORDER TO REGISTER FOR A CLASS?

No. However, many students have additional clarifying questions that can best be addressed by an Academic Advisor or Counselor. And remember, we also have advisement videos on our webpage for additional guidance on-demand.

WHY DID MY APPOINTMENT GET CANCELLED?

Based on your information, you may need to see a Counselor - not an Academic Advisor. Please call the Welcome Center at (661)362-5891 to determine your eligibility.

I KNOW WHAT CLASSES TO TAKE, BUT I NEED HELP REGISTERING FOR A COURSE. WHO CAN I ASK FOR HELP?

If you need guidance on navigating My Canyons or MAP to register for a planned class, then our Welcome Center can assist.

If you need help planning classes, you will have to speak to an Academic Advisor or Counselor.

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT CLASSES TO TAKE FIRST?

You are always free to meet with an Academic Advisor or Counselor for more assistance. For immediate access, we recommend viewing our new online PROGRAM MAPPER tool. This tool allows you to view coursework needed for your major program here at COC.

WHERE DO I FIND MY REGISTRATION DATE?

Inside your MyCanyons Portal under "My Registration Time". Contact admissions@canyons.edu for more information about registration

DO I HAVE TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER?

No, however, you can complete your academic goal in a more timely manner if you enroll in courses during the intersessions (Winter and Summer).

HOW DO I SUBMIT MY TRANSCRIPT FROM AN OUTSIDE COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY?

To transfer your official transcripts, have them sent to the Admissions and Records office at College of the Canyons. Most schools will send them directly once you make a request—reach out to your previous school for help getting started!

WHAT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CANYONS PROMISE PROGRAM?

If you have any questions about the Canyons Promise Program, please visit the Canyons Promise webpage or send an email to promise@canyons.edu.

WHERE CAN I FIND INFORMATION ABOUT THE ASSESSMENT AND PLACEMENT LEVELS?

You can learn more about placement levels and AB705/AB1805 information on the Assessment Center webpage or you can send an email to Assessment@canyons.edu.

Every placement level on our assessment system includes a transfer-level English and math placement course. In addition, for those students with ESL advisory placements, they may choose to optionally enroll in ESL courses up to ESL 100 or English 101 (transfer-level), regardless of their ESL advisory placement. If you need help selecting the right courses, you are already at the right place! Make an appointment or contact Advising for questions about planning out the courses you need for your major. 

Canyon Country Campus - Welcome Center - CCSS 337

Monday - Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: CLOSED

We are CLOSED during the following times:

• Tuesdays: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM for Department Meetings
• Thursdays: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM for Online Express Drop-In Support – Join us!

*Call for drop-in confirmation before visiting - (661) 362-3817
*Last advisement drop-ins are 30 minutes before center closes

Valencia Campus - Welcome Center - Canyons Hall 167

Monday - Thursday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

We are CLOSED during the following times:

• Tuesdays: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM for Department Meetings
• Thursdays: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM for Online Express Drop-In Support – Join us!

*Call for drop-in confirmation before visiting - (661) 362-3457
*Last advisement drop-ins are 30 minutes before center closes