The Comprehensive Academic Tracking System (CATS) is designed to help students achieve academic success at LSU and assess their progress toward degree completion. Initially, the University will track only student's progress in certain majors; however, all students are advised to follow the Recommended Paths for their majors.

Each degree program has a Recommended Path that is the optimal path for graduation in four years (or five years for a small number of degrees). Students must meet certain minimum requirements or critical tracking criteria within the Recommended Paths to demonstrate minimal progress toward degree completion. Critical tracking criteria typically include both critical courses and minimum GPA requirements.

• The Recommended Path is the outline of courses designated by the College/Department that are structured in the most effective order for students to make progress in their degree programs.

• The Recommended Path is a suggestive route through the curriculum, however, students may choose to vary paths along the way and can also use intersession or summer term to get back on track.

• Critical courses appear in bold in the Recommended Paths.

• Four times each semester, we assess the CATS students to determine if they are making minimal progress in their degree programs.

• We track students during only the fall and spring semesters. Summer terms and intersessions are not included in tracking and may be used by students to "catch up" and get back on track.

• Students are not making minimal progress if they do not meet one or more critical tracking criteria. We notify students via their PAWs e-mail accounts if they are not making minimal progress. They are advised to see a counselor in their college to resolve any issues.

• For specific information regarding degree programs, please contact a counselor in the college where the degree program is offered.
• For questions relating to CATS or the Recommended Paths email: