We know that parents have many questions that may be different than their son’s or daughter’s. We hope that you can find answers to most of your questions by browsing the categories below. If you are the parent of a prospective student and your question is not answered here, please contact us in our Admissions office. If you are the parent of a current student and need assistance, please contact the department directly with the information provided in these subject areas or by using our online departments and offices index.

ACADEMIC GRADES AND REGISTRATION

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How do students change their class schedules?
Students go to the Portal at https://portal.cmich.edu to add or drop classes at any time during Phase I or Phase II registration. Students access this site using their global ID and password. Students dropping classes during these periods will receive full cancellation of tuition. After these periods have ended, students may withdraw from individual classes, but there is no cancellation of tuition.

Students will find deadlines and information on adding, dropping, or withdrawing from classes in the class schedules and at the Registrar’s Office Web site www.registrars.cmich.edu. If they have questions, students may contact the Registrar’s Office at (989) 774-3261.

Any student who needs to withdraw from all classes after the Phase II registration period has ended should contact the Registrar’s Office to request a complete semester withdrawal. Students requesting complete semester withdrawals may qualify for full or partial tuition cancellation based on the date they file. These students also may qualify for refund of housing fees if they are living in residence halls. Students should contact the Office of Residence Life about terminating their housing contracts and receiving any possible refunds.

Will I receive a bill for my student’s tuition and course-related fees?
A student who registers during the Phase I or Phase II registration periods for fall or spring semesters or during the Phase I period for summer sessions will be sent an e-mail bill as soon as that registration period has ended.  This bill will be sent to their CMU e-mail address.  Payments may be made on the Portal at https://portal.cmich.edu, in person at the Student Service Court (Bovee University Center 119), or can be sent to: Receivable Accounting, UC 119, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859.

Students are allowed to add courses for a short period after the end of Phase II registration. These students receive regular monthly e-mail bills. Failure to pay a monthly bill will not result in classes being dropped, but late charges will be added and a hold will be placed on the student’s record, prohibiting him or her from registering for future terms. Students who register after this period must pay for their classes at the time they register. All information regarding billing and deadlines is available in the class schedule and on the Registrar’s Office Web site www.registrars.cmich.edu.

When do students receive notification of grades?
Final grades are available on our Portal under Academics at https://portal.cmich.edu. Students access this site using their global ID and password. Grades are generally available the Friday following exam week.

Who is eligible for the Dean’s List?
To qualify for this recognition, students must have registered for and completed 12 or more letter-graded hours of CMU credit during the semester (this does not include courses taken for credit/no credit) and have earned a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher. The President’s List recognizes Dean’s List students who have achieved 4.00 semester grade point averages.

What happens when students have academic difficulties?
Students at CMU are responsible for recognizing when they are having academic difficulties and for seeking help as needed. Students are encouraged to seek assistance from their instructors, counselors, advisors, or the Academic Advising and Assistance Office.

When students are not succeeding in courses, the instructors are encouraged to help correct their difficulties or make referrals. Instructors may report their concerns to the director of Academic Advising and Assistance, (989) 774-7506, who is available to help resolve difficulties.

What is the academic probation policy?
At the end of each semester or summer session, a student is placed on academic probation if his or her cumulative grade point average falls within the ranges listed below. The ranges vary depending on the student’s attempted hours or total hours, whichever is greater. Total hours include credits earned at CMU as well as transfer credits or hours earned in any other manner.

	Attempted/Total Hours		GPA Ranges
	1-18		1.00-1.99
	19-35		1.50-1.99
	36-45		1.70-1.99
	46-58		1.80-1.99
	59-71		1.85-1.99
	72-85		1.90-1.99
	86 and over		1.95-1.99

The university notifies students who are placed on academic probation and encourages them to seek counseling or assistance.

What is academic suspension?
New freshmen and transfer students may be placed on academic suspension if their first semester grade point averages fall below the range for academic probation. Suspended students may re-enroll for the next academic session if granted permission by the Committee on Rematriculation. Students may request permission to re-enroll by contacting the Academic Advising and Assistance Office. A written appeal and a personal interview are required following the procedures outlined under rematriculation in the admissions section of the CMU Bulletin.

What is the academic dismissal policy?
A student is subject to academic dismissal if his or her grade point average falls below the average range for probation.

The university reserves the right to cancel the matriculation of a student at the end of any session when his or her total record indicates that such action is desirable. Likewise, a student may be given special consideration if his or her total record shows considerable ability and marked improvement. The university notifies any student whose matriculation is canceled.

No student whose matriculation has been canceled, or whose matriculation would have been canceled had he or she been a student at the university, can enroll again unless readmitted. Consideration for rematriculation will be given to dismissed students only after absences of one year or more. Students may apply to be readmitted to the Committee on Rematriculation in care of the director of Academic Advising and Assistance Office. The procedure is outlined under rematriculation in the admissions section of the CMU Bulletin.

ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE

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Where can students obtain tutoring?
Students seeking tutors are asked to visit the Academic Advising and Assistance Office in the Bovee University Center, (989) 774-7506, to complete a short request form. For some high-demand subjects such as math and physics, tutors are available for walk-in service during certain times and on certain days of every week. For other subjects, students make their own arrangements with tutors regarding when and where they will meet, although tutoring always takes place on campus, during the day or early evening, and in a public place. Sometimes, when it’s deemed advantageous, tutoring may take place in small groups. Our tutors are students who have been recommended by professors. Occasionally, we are unable to obtain a tutor for a course, but we make every effort to find one.

Free tutoring for up to three hours a week is provided to all undergraduate students enrolled in 100- and 200-level courses and in all courses above the 200 level that fulfill University Program requirements. This service is provided regardless of a student’s grade point average.

What can students do when they are concerned about their academic performance?
Making the transition to being an academically successful university student at times can be difficult for even the most successful high school or community college student. Professional staff members are available in Academic Advising and Assistance, (989) 774-7506, to assist all undergraduate students who have concerns about things such as how they are doing in their classes, the effect of academic performance on their grade point average, how to study, how to read more effectively, or how to manage their time to achieve better balance between academics and other areas of their lives.

Some students elect to enroll in one of the two courses taught by the Academic Assistance Programs staff. Academic Learning Skills (EHS 102) is a 2-credit class that emphasizes building good academic habits to meet university rigor. Reading Improvement (EHS 103), a 3-credit class, helps students who are concerned about the volume of reading required at the university to develop effective and thoughtful reading strategies. These courses are open to all undergraduate students, but enrollment is limited, and classes fill quickly.

We always encourage students to get to know their professors so they can more easily seek assistance when encountering difficulties in class. We emphasize that students who attend classes regularly and who sit in front do better, as do those who prepare and review every subject every day even if only for 20 minutes each.

What assistance is provided for students with disabilities?
Student Disability Services is located in Park Library 120. Services are provided to students who register with this office and submit the appropriate documentation of their disabilities. Students submitting the appropriate documentation may qualify for TDD, accessible transportation, sign language interpreters, wheelchair-accommodating housing, extended test times, readers for tests, note takers, visual assistance technology, and other reasonable and appropriate accommodations.

For more information about these services and academic accommodations, call (989) 774-3018.

What should I do if my son or daughter becomes ill and cannot return to school?
You may contact the Office of Student Life at (989) 774-3016. This office will assist with giving notice to the proper persons or offices.

ACADEMIC ADVISING

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Where can students receive academic advising?
All new freshmen and transfer students are assigned general academic advisors when they are admitted to the university, based on their local address. CMU apartment residents and off-campus students receive academic advisement from our staff of general academic advisors. To schedule appointments, students should visit or call Academic Advising and Assistance, Bovee University Center, (989) 774-7506. Each student living in a residence hall is assigned to the academic advisor whose office is located in the student’s residence hall complex. This arrangement makes advisors very accessible to students. Students often visit with their academic advisors, develop personal relationships, and even enjoy occasional meals with them in the residence hall dining commons.

Advisors are available on a walk-in basis. Appointments also may be scheduled in advance. All office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What services do academic advisors provide?
Students should feel free to contact their academic advisors on matters related to career and academic decision making, degree requirements, course selection, scheduling, bulletin interpretation, grade point averages, summer transfer courses, midterm grades, and study skills. Other services that advisors provide include academic presentations, special event programming, and monthly newsletters. Advisors are a great starting point for most issues and on-campus referrals.

What expectations will an academic advisor have for my son or daughter?
An academic advisor will work in partnership with your student to help him or her progress toward graduation. The academic advisors will not make decisions for your student. Instead, the advisor will help your student develop valuable decision-making skills. In addition, the advisor will expect your student to meet with him or her regularly and in a timely fashion. It is important for your student to come prepared for each advising appointment by bringing appropriate materials such as the CMU Bulletin and being ready to ask questions. Your student should always follow through on referrals and suggestions made by the advisor.

How does my daughter or son declare a major?
Your daughter or son will learn the process of declaring a major during his or her academic orientation session. Your student should plan to meet with her or his academic advisor to discuss majors of interest. If your student is undecided, the academic advisor might refer him or her to Career Services to meet with a CMU career counselor. Other suggestions might include enrolling in CED 101, a 1-credit career exploration course; talking with faculty in the areas of interest; doing a related internship; or completing some self-assessment inventories designed to match interests and abilities with academic and career opportunities (i.e., DISCOVER, Strong Interest Inventory, and Michigan Occupational Information System).

In most cases, your student will be able to sign a major once he or she has made a definite decision. Your student must have his or her major signed by the time he or she has completed 56 hours. This simple process requires students to visit the departmental office where they will be assigned a faculty advisor. The advisor will complete a major authorization form, which lists the required courses to complete the major. This serves as a contract between students and the department.

The same process is used when a student wishes to sign a minor.

Once the major/minor are signed, students should meet with an Undergraduate Academic Services advisor, who will prepare a comprehensive plan for graduation. The advisor will review all graduation requirements and present the most efficient way to graduate in a timely manner. This pre-graduation audit appointment may be scheduled by calling (989) 774-3504 or visiting Warriner Hall 123.

HONORS STUDIES

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What are the benefits of participating in the Honors Program?
The primary benefit of the Honors Program is the opportunity to be a member of a smaller academic community within the larger university system. Students in the program take a portion of their classes as Honors classes. Enrollment in these courses is limited to approximately 20 Honors students. Honors students can elect, but are not required, to live in Larzelere or Trout halls, the Honors residence halls. Honors students receive priority registration, individualized academic advising, and mentoring in their residence hall. Honors members are eligible to join the registered student organization for Honors students, the Honors Outreach Network. The program also holds an annual student talent show, a quiz bowl, and makes an annual trip to the Shakespeare Festival in Stratford, Ontario. Students also receive recognition as Honors Program graduates on their official transcripts.

How does one apply to CMU’s Honors Program and what is required of participants?
Any incoming freshman with a 3.50 cumulative GPA and an ACT of 24 or above is eligible for admission to the Honors Program. If a student’s cumulative GPA is 3.75 or higher, the ACT qualifier is waived. Once enrolled, a student in the Honors Program is expected to maintain a 3.25 GPA and complete the Honors protocol or course of study. Over four years, each Honors student completes 18 credits of Honors courses, two semesters of a single foreign language, an Honors project, and 120 hours of community volunteer service. The Honors project is an opportunity for research/scholarship with a faculty member from the student’s own discipline.

Interested students can obtain an Honors application from the Honors Office by calling (989) 774-3902.

For additional information about the Honors Program, visit us on the Web at www.cmich.edu/honors or call (989) 774-3902.

The mission of the University Honors Program is to offer superior undergraduate students intellectual opportunities beyond those typically found in the lecture halls and classrooms of a large university. This is accomplished through smaller classes, increased direct and personal contact with faculty who have established reputations as educators and scholars, and the possibility of exploring in greater depth areas of inquiry that are of particular interest to the student. Since its establishment in 1961, the Honors Program has worked to provide an academic challenge commensurate with the potential of students’ who are among Central Michigan University’s brightest, most talented, and most highly motivated and creative.

LEADERSHIP EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND DEVELOPMENT

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What is CMU’s Leadership Institute?
The CMU Leadership Institute functions as the coordinating body for the university’s leadership-related activities and programming. The Leadership Institute is committed to preparing Michigan’s students and citizens for leadership roles in an increasingly complex and challenging society. Students who participate in the institute’s programs become ambassadors for new initiatives that serve a growing network of Michigan’s grade school and high school students and educators as well as public and private working professionals.

Are there specific programs for CMU students?
CMU’s Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Program offers a variety of leadership training opportunities for all CMU students. Activities range from guest speakers and leadership workshops to formal programs that are from one week to one semester in duration. The intent of the programs is to develop student leadership potential and provide students with opportunities to fill leadership positions on campus and prepare them to seek leadership challenges in their future endeavors.

The Leadership Institute oversees the operation and services of the Leadership Resource Center, which is a library of leadership information and materials located in Powers Hall.

What leadership opportunities exist at CMU?
There are several hundred organizations on campus. Each has leadership positions. In addition, many university committees and boards seek student membership. CMU has a strong commitment to volunteerism and community service, and a large number of students assume leadership positions through the Volunteer Center and other community agencies. The Office of Student Life has an online handbook called “Focus on Involvement”, which describes student organizations and other activities. In addition, freshmen will have the opportunity to participate in a student organization fair during their first week on campus. This will help them obtain information and meet members of campus organizations.

The Leadership Institute is located in Powers Hall, (989) 774-1909, and on the Web at www.cmich.edu/cmulead.

STUDY ABROAD

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How do students plan for study abroad?
CMU offers more than 100 study-abroad programs in more than 30 countries. Low-cost options, scholarships, and financial aid are available. In addition to studying abroad, CMU students may student teach, intern, or volunteer internationally. Opportunities vary in length from one week to one year. Students may begin planning their study-abroad experiences immediately upon arrival at CMU. The Office of International Education (OIE) has a resource library with catalogs, videos, and other information about study sites around the world. Study-abroad information sessions are scheduled each week in the OIE to provide students with information about available programs.

Students are encouraged to attend an information session with a peer advisor to learn the study abroad basics. Information sessions are offered daily and no appointment is necessary. In addition, the OIE offers an extensive Web site (www.oie.cmich.edu) with program information.

The Office of International Education is located at Bovee University Center 106 and on the Web at www.oie.cmich.edu. Advising appointments may be made by calling (989) 774-4308. Parents are welcome to accompany their son/daughter to these appointments.

OFFICE OF RESIDENCE LIFE

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What is the campus residency policy?
CMU’s campus residency policy requires that freshman and sophomore students live in a residence hall with a meal plan. The sophomore residency requirement has been waived for the 2006-2007 academic year because space is limited on campus. However, students renewing their CMU merit- and talent-based scholarships of $2,500 or greater are required to live on campus during their sophomore year.

Why does the university expect freshmen and sophomores* to live on campus?
Research shows that students who live on campus are more likely to join student organizations, socialize with other students, meet faculty outside the classroom, and be successful in college. The average GPA of residence hall students generally is higher than that of off-campus students. Living on campus also provides instant access to the university community. Students live within 10 minutes of any building. They will meet people who will be their study partners, confidants, and, often, lifelong friends.

* When space is available

What changes are allowed in the residence hall agreement?
Requests for changes in residence hall, room assignment, or for a new roommate should be made as early as possible. All change requests are dependent on space available.

Dining plan membership changes may be made prior to the first day of classes in the Office of Residence Life. After classes begin, dining plan membership changes may be made at the Campus ID Card Office for a $15 fee.

May students paint their residence hall rooms? What about building a loft?
CMU facilities management personnel complete all painting in the residence hall rooms, corridors, lounges, and lobbies. Students are not allowed to paint their rooms. Every effort is made to have all rooms looking fresh at the beginning of each academic year.

Lofts are permitted but must conform to certain specifications. Forms are available from the Office of Residence Life and each residence hall desk staff. Lofts not conforming to specifications must be removed. If a student builds a loft, the university-provided furniture must be stored in their residence hall room. No other storage is available on campus. All lofts must be removed and the bed reassembled two weeks before the end of the spring semester during Residence Life order day. Lofts are not allowed in Campbell, Kesseler, or Kulhavi halls because the furniture provided may be lofted.

Who is responsible for cleaning the residence halls?
Students are expected to keep their rooms clean. They are responsible for taking their trash and recycling outside to the appropriate dumpsters on a regular basis. Custodians vacuum floors in common areas such as hallways, lobbies, and lounges; nonetheless, students are expected to pick up personal belongings in common areas.

Is storage available in residence halls?
Storage is very limited in each residence hall room, so students may consider adding storage with small bookcases, baskets, a trunk, or cartons that stack. They should plan to take seasonal clothing and bicycles home at break periods.

What size are the mattresses in the residence halls?
All mattresses on campus are 36" wide by 80" long, so traditional fitted sheets will not fit. Extra-long sheets are available at various retail stores. Linen service is not available.

Do residence hall rooms have cable TV?
Each residence hall room has an outlet for cable TV. Students will have to provide the coaxial cable to connect their television to the outlet. Regular cable channels are provided as part of the room and board payment. Premium channels may be purchased through the Information Technology Service Center.

What type of support is available in the residence halls?
Residence hall directors are full-time professional staff members who have primary responsibility for the students and operation of a residence hall. They strive to establish a strong, positive living and learning environment within the residence hall community. Each residence hall director also is trained to be an academic advisor.

Each residence hall has a student who serves as a multicultural advisor. By providing educational programming that focuses on diversity, they help minority students with their transition to university life. This student is essential in promoting an atmosphere of understanding and respect among all students.

Each residence hall floor has a resident assistant – an upperclass student – who serves as the primary resource for information and assistance. Resident assistants are essential in helping develop residence hall communities that emphasize the acceptance of responsibility for personal and group decision making, mutual respect and concern, and a sense of cooperation and sharing.

The residence hall director, multicultural advisor, and resident assistant work together as a team to best meet the needs of the students in their hall.

What is a Student Success Center?
A success center is just that – a center where student services professionals work together to help residents become successful students. An academic advisor, personal counselor, and community police officer are available in the centers located in each residence hall quad.

Are there curfews in the residence halls?
No, but the buildings are secured each evening. After the outside doors are locked, students may enter the front door of their building by showing their key and their Campus ID card.

Are there visitation hours or overnight guest policies?
Members of each residence hall council decide visitation hours, particularly in single-sex halls, at the beginning of each academic year. Individual rooms are responsible for signing a guest waiver form if all residents agree to allow overnight guests.

Are computers available for student use in the residence halls?
Computer labs and centers are available to students who live in the residence halls. The computer areas are open 24 hours per day, seven days a week, when the residence halls are open. The labs offer handicap-accessible tables and other services for special-needs individuals. Personalized support is offered regarding hardware and software problems.

Are there any residence halls with computer hookup capability?
All residence halls have computer hookup capability in each residence hall room. Most halls offer wireless connectivity. Each student must supply his or her own computer, network card, and network cabling.

How many students are assigned to each residence hall room?
The majority of our residence hall rooms are suites for four or five people, with the exception of Barnes and Robinson halls, where there are rooms designed for two or three students. When there are five students assigned to a room, those rooms are designated as “expanded occupancy”. The student with the latest date of application is designated the “extra” person. When space becomes available, the designated person will be reassigned to that available space.

What are residential colleges?
A residential college provides a residence hall floor for serious students to share not only a living space but also a true community feeling, complete with classroom and study areas.

Five residential colleges are available on campus.

• Business Residential College located in Carey Hall
• Education and Human Services Residential College located in Calkins Hall
• Health Professions Residential College located in Emmons Hall
• School of Music Residential College located in Herrig Hall
• Science and Technology Residential College located in Woldt Hall

Most Honors students live in Larzelere or Trout halls and take advantage of the programs and classes offered there. Leader Advancement Scholarship students live together in Barnes Hall, which is adjacent to the Powers Hall Leadership Institute

What is the cost of a telephone in a residence hall room?
There is no installation fee, security deposit, or monthly charge for landline telephones in the residence halls. During the fall semester, each residence hall room will receive a CMU phone directory, which gives complete information on the campus phone system. For additional information, contact the Information Technology Service Center at (989) 774-3091.

The university provides long distance service to students through the CMU Calling Card. The card offers two calling plans. The first includes a flat rate of 9 cents per minute for all domestic long distance calls. The second offers a flat rate of 6 cents per minute with a $4.99 monthly access charge. Billing for the card is performed monthly and is charged directly to the student’s account. For more information about the CMU Calling Card or to sign up online, visit the Web site www.it.cmich.edu.

May students accept collect calls?
Students may not accept charges for collect calls. If a collect call is accepted, it will be billed to the students in the room. The bill will include a $12 administrative fee.

May students use calling cards from an outside vendor?
Students obtaining calling cards from outside vendors may make phone calls from their residence hall rooms. Normally these cards have the student dial either an 800 number or may be accessed by dialing 9 + 0.

Visit the Web site www.reslife.cmich.edu for more information about Residence Life.

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

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Does CMU have an alcohol and drug use policy?
Yes. Only students who are of legal drinking age may have alcoholic beverages in their residence hall rooms. They cannot violate any local, state, or university ordinances. Most new students will not be of legal age to consume alcohol. No one can consume or possess alcohol in open containers in lounges, recreation rooms, hallways, outdoors, or in other public areas. The alcohol policy statement is available from the Office of the Dean of Students or the Office of Student Life.

What can parents do to assist?
Our policies on alcohol and drug use are clear, and we view violations of these very strongly. We confront students and issue sanctions when we identify transgressions. Federal Law H.R. 6 allows universities to notify parents when violations occur. CMU will notify parents when students are found in violation. We encourage parents to join us in an effort to prevent incidents that might interfere with their student’s academic goals and personal well-being at CMU.

What behavior is expected of CMU students?
Students are expected to obey federal, state, and local laws as well as the rules and regulations of the university. The Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Disciplinary Procedures establishes expectations for student behavior within the university community. This code also outlines acts on university-owned or controlled property that constitute unacceptable conduct by graduate and undergraduate students. All alleged violations of the code may result in referral to a judicial proceedings officer. The university also reserves the right to review students’ off-campus conduct.

If a student is sanctioned under the Code of Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Disciplinary Procedures, will that action appear on his or her permanent university record?
No. A separate discipline file is maintained by the judicial proceedings officer.

Do I have access to my daughter’s or son’s disciplinary records?
Student records are confidential and released directly to students. These records may not be released to others without the student’s permission.

Does CMU have a policy regarding sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment of students, staff, or faculty is prohibited at CMU. No male or female member of the university community – including faculty, contract staff, classified staff, and students – may sexually harass any other member of the community. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and is illegal under law as well as a violation of CMU policy.

CAREER SERVICES

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Where can my daughter or son get extra assistance in deciding on a major or career?
Career Services, Bovee University Center 215, offers a full range of services to students and alumni. Career advisors provide individual assistance and suggest exploration and career-based activities to help students focus on major and career issues. The DISCOVER guidance program and other assessment tools also assist with this process.

The Career Resource Center and Web site contain a wide variety of information on careers, internships, employers, graduate schools, and full-time job opportunities. There is no charge for services.

For information, call (989) 774-3068, fax (989) 774-6608, or e-mail careers@cmich.edu. The Web site is www.careers.cmich.edu.

Can the university help my daughter or son get a job when she or he graduates?
Career Services has several ways to assist graduating students with their job search process. Individual advising, résumé writing, mock interviewing, and résumé and cover-letter critiques help prepare students for the job search. Special services for seniors include on-campus interviews, Web site résumé referrals, and weekly job bulletins. Career Services also offers job postings, employer directories, Internet access, and employer literature as valuable resources for active job hunters. Career fairs provide the opportunity for students to make direct contact with a wide range of prospective employers.

UNIVERSITY HEALTH SERVICES

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How can I obtain information about what is available at University Health Services (UHS)?
Visit the UHS Web site www.healthservices.cmich.edu; call (989) 774-3944, TTY (989) 774-3055; e-mail healthservices@cmich.edu; or stop by our reception desk at Foust Hall 200.

University Health Services is conveniently located on campus in Foust Hall at the corner of Preston Street and East Campus Drive. Hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reserved parking is available in Lot 29. To schedule a same-day or future-date appointment call (989) 774-5693. Care for life threatening emergencies is provided by the Central Michigan Community Hospital Emergency Department. Call 911 on campus to contact CMU police and ambulance assistance.

Services are similar to those offered at your family doctor’s office, an urgent care center, or the public health department. They include diagnosis and treatment of illnesses and injuries, physical exams, a travel health clinic, immunizations, TB skin testing, and women’s health care services. There is an onsite laboratory and pharmacy.

X-rays and other diagnostic imaging services are provided by agreement with a local radiology clinic. An open access appointment system minimizes waiting time. Walk-in service is available for more urgent problems requiring prompt attention.

Students are legally adults at age 18. The care provided is confidential and information will not be released to anyone without the student’s knowledge and signed authorization, except as required or permitted by law.

Will my student see a physician if he or she schedules an appointment at University Health Services?
University Health Services physicians are board certified in family practice medicine and work in teams with a nurse practitioner or physician assistant who also is appropriately educated and certified. Students may see the clinician of their choice. A physician always is on duty during our normal hours of operation and available for consultation or referral as needed.

Can my student get an allergy shot at University Health Services?
Allergy shots with serum provided by the student’s allergist are administered by registered nurses at University Health Services. Refrigerated storage of the student’s allergy serum is provided in the Primary Care Suite, Foust Hall 202. An initial appointment with a medical staff member is required prior to beginning allergy injections at University Health Services. This allergy review includes an assessment of the student’s current health status, medical history, the allergist’s instructions and protocol for management of reactions, and the content and labeling of the vials of serum. After that visit, the student can schedule a time convenient to his/her schedule to receive the periodic injections.

How do we pay for the services provided?
University Health Services operates on a fee-for-service basis. Fees are based on usual and customary charges for this area and are selected by the clinician based on strict state and federal coding guidelines and are determined by whether a patient is new or established, the complexity of the problem, and the time required for the visit. Office visit fees typically range between $45 and $75, with additional charges for pharmacy and laboratory fees. Payment is not required at the time of service.

If the student has proof of current health insurance coverage (an insurance card or photocopy of both sides) and authorizes us to do so, we will bill the student’s primary insurance carrier for the services. The student is responsible for payment of any copays or deductibles. If required by the insurance plan, pre-authorization for services should be obtained by the student prior to the scheduled appointment.

University Health Services participates with Blue Cross Blue Shield traditional plans, Community Blue PPO, Blue Preferred, MESSA, Medicare, Medicaid, Tri Care, and the CMU Student Health Insurance plan. The University Health Services Pharmacy also participates with a number of prescription drug plans.

New insurance plans are added periodically, so you should contact the Health Services Business Office at (989) 774-3059 to see if your plan is included. If University Health Services does not participate in your insurance plan, University Health Services will submit the billing for you. The insurance company will reimburse the subscriber (usually a parent) directly for any covered benefits and that payment then can be applied to the student’s CMU account.

If the student is not insured or does not wish to submit charges to his or her insurance plan, the charges are placed on the student’s CMU account. The student is responsible for payment of the total amount by the posted due date unless other arrangements are made.

STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE

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Do I need to purchase CMU Student Health Insurance for my student to be eligible for care at University Health Services?
No. Currently enrolled students or their spouses are eligible to use University Health Services, regardless of whether they are insured. However, it is strongly recommended that all CMU students have health insurance coverage to avoid potentially devastating financial problems in the event of an unanticipated illness or injury while they are in college. The CMU-sponsored student health insurance plan is designed to meet most of the health care needs of most students at a reasonable cost.

A mailing is sent to all currently enrolled students prior to the start of the fall semester. It describes the benefits and exclusions of the plan and includes an application form. We encourage you to read the information carefully to see if the plan meets your student’s needs. The information is available from the Health Services Business Office, Foust Hall 108, (989) 774-4382; and the University Health Services Web site www.healthservices.cmich.edu. Information also is available online at www.firststudent.com. Premiums can be paid for the full year or for fall semester and then the combined spring semester/summer sessions.

Your student should always carry his or her health insurance card in case he or she needs to be seen at University Health Services or elsewhere in the event of an emergency. It also is important for him or her to have a basic understanding of how the plan works, whether there are any copays or deductibles, and if pre-authorization is required before services can be obtained.

COUNSELING SERVICES

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What services do the Counseling Center and Counselors in Residence provide and at what cost?
A staff of licensed professional counselors and social workers provides brief/time-limited individual and group counseling and therapy to students. Assistance is available for a variety of concerns including academic performance, career indecision, and personal issues such as unsatisfactory relationships, adjustment to college, self-esteem, anxiety, test anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Consultation and referral assistance is available for long-term concerns. Counselors also provide consultation to parents, faculty, and staff.

Counseling is free; however, there are limits on the number of sessions available to students. There is a fee for certain testing such as the Strong Interest Inventory. Counselors are available at Foust Hall (989-774-3381), and Residence Life Counselors in Residence are available in the North Campus Student Success Center (989-774-4928), the Towers Student Success Center (989-774-1480), and the South Campus (989-774-3089) and East Campus (989-774-1879) residence halls. Some community referral and other resource information are available at various campus locations where counseling is offered.

Information also is available online through the Counseling Center Web site (www.counsel.cmich.edu), Listening Ear’s online resource directory (www.listeningear.com/resource.html), and www.campusblues.com. A brochure titled “Mental Health Services at CMU: A Guide For Students With Past and Current Mental Health Concerns”, and a handout titled “For a Healthy and Successful Transition to College: Recommendations for Students with Histories of Mental Health Concerns” are available at all campus counseling locations and can be downloaded from the Web by going to the Counseling Center’s Web site, choosing “Other Resources Available”, and then choosing “Campus Mental Health Information.”

If a student seeks counseling, does this information go on the student’s permanent record?
No. Information about counseling and therapy is confidential and protected by privileged communication laws of the state. No information is released to anyone – including parents – without the student’s explicit permission. The only limits to confidentiality are the result of law and professional ethics and occur when:

• Clear and substantial danger to the student or others is present
• Release of confidential information is requested by the student or court order
• Child abuse or neglect is evident or suspected
• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults who are vulnerable due to physical and mental impairment or because of advanced age is evident or suspected

These situations are infrequent. Any questions a student has about confidentiality may be discussed privately with a counselor.

UNIVERSITY POLICE AND SAFETY

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The CMU Police Department works in partnership with the entire university community to maintain a safe, secure, and orderly living and learning environment. The department is located in the Combined Services Building. The CMU Police Department – a full-service department – employs a diverse group of highly trained, sworn police officers who are certified by the state of Michigan. The department participates in cooperative efforts with other area police agencies, including Mount Pleasant Police Department, Michigan State Police, Isabella County Sheriff’s Department, and the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police.

Does the campus have police patrols?
CMU police perform conspicuous and inconspicuous campus patrols using fully marked patrol cars, mountain bikes, walking patrols, and inline skates. Officers conduct investigations of both criminal and noncriminal incidents occurring on campus. CMU officers answer all medical and fire emergency calls, providing the proper assistance until EMS or fire department personnel arrive. CMU police provide many extra services not offered by conventional law enforcement agencies. Their services help provide a safe environment in which to obtain a quality education.

Are additional police services provided in residence halls?
The CMU Police Department maintains one community policing officer in the Towers complex, with several other officers participating in partnerships with other residence halls and registered student organizations. The community policing officer works closely with the Office of Residence Life to form a partnership with the students to prevent criminal activity in the residence halls. The community policing officer performs most of the public education and information programs sponsored by the police department.

What about emergency phones on campus?
Twenty-five blue-light emergency phones have been strategically placed on the CMU campus to enable members of the campus community and visitors to report emergencies or crimes in progress or to contact the CMU police for any reason. Each phone is marked with a blue light and offers a direct line to the CMU police dispatcher.

Are safety escort services available?
The “NightRides” program, sponsored by the CMU Police Department, provides students access to fully marked NightRides escort transportation between 8 p.m. and 1 a.m. during the fall and spring semesters. To use the service, simply call 774-HELP (4357) or dial 774-3081, and two student patrollers will be dispatched to your location in a vehicle. You also may contact the CMU Police Department using a blue-light phone or from any of the 43 campus pay phones by simply pressing the button labeled CMU Police. The call will be free of charge.

What personal safety education programs are available?
The majority of sexual assaults are committed by acquaintances, not strangers. An individual’s risk is reduced with increased education and understanding. The police department presents programs regarding sexual assault, personal safety, and stalking. Students are encouraged to be safety conscious and attend these programs. Printed information is disseminated at these programs and is available at the CMU Police Department. For more information on personal safety, contact the department at (989) 774-3081.

What else should we know about crime prevention on campus?
Although CMU has one of the safest campuses in the state, it is important that students use common sense and take appropriate precautions. Each student’s personal safety can be enhanced by walking in well-lighted areas, walking with a friend, knowing the locations of the blue-light emergency phones, being aware of the environment, and by not putting one’s self at greater risk through the abuse of alcohol. Thefts can be avoided by locking cars and residence hall rooms, keeping valuables secured and out of sight, engraving valuables with a driver’s license number, and by recording the model number, serial numbers, and description of all valuables.

Should bikes be registered?
Bike registration is offered free of charge by the CMU Police Department. Since extensive information about each bike is necessary for registration, it is best to bring the bike to the department. This registration does not expire and can be updated with new address information when a student leaves CMU. The registration is free and greatly enhances the likelihood that the bike will be returned if it is stolen and then recovered.

Must cars be registered for parking?
Parking permits must be displayed on the first day of classes. They can be purchased at the Parking Bureau, a division of the CMU Police Department or online at www.police.cmich.edu. All vehicles must be registered to park on campus unless students are taking evening classes and are not on campus during the day. For those only on campus occasionally, daily or weekly passes can be purchased. Meter parking also is available. Parking for motor vehicles of physically challenged persons can be arranged by calling (989) 774-3083 for information.

All students may park their vehicles in their assigned areas only. All parking lot permit regulations are in effect Monday through Friday, midnight to 4 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Parking for residents of Washington Apartments is restricted 24 hours a day, seven days a week. See current campus map for parking regulations.

All violations are handled through the Parking Bureau. Fine payments also may be deposited in boxes at several locations on campus.

What is being done to prevent sexual assaults on campus?
The fact is that nationally, one in two females will be confronted by a sexual assailant sometime in their lives. CMU is taking an aggressive approach to this problem by increasing services and education.

All freshmen will attend a mandatory program on this topic during their orientation session. Follow-up programs are scheduled at all residence hall complexes during the month of October. Information and educational programs also are offered throughout the year through classes and speakers. Sexual assault peer advocates are available 24 hours a day to assist any student in need. For further information, contact the sexual assault services coordinator, Office of the Dean of Students, (989) 774-6677.

For more information about the CMU Police Department, including crime prevention tips, you may visit the department Web page at www.police.cmich.edu.

COMPUTING FACILITIES

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Are computer labs available on campus?
CMU provides three general computer labs for all students. The Woldt Lab located on the south end of campus is open 24 hours per day, seven days a week. The Grawn Lab located on the north edge of campus has extended weekday and weekend hours. The Pearce Lab located near the center of campus has extended weekday and weekend hours. These general computer labs contain both Windows-based and Macintosh-based computers and software applications.

Does CMU provide Internet access and e-mail?
Students can access the Internet in all of our various computer labs and at many additional computer workstations in various departments and buildings on campus. Students using laptop computers also may access public Ethernet connections in many buildings. Each student is assigned a global ID and password for e-mail access. Students are expected to monitor their university-provided e-mail for communication with faculty as well as various administrative departments on campus, such as the financial aid and registrar’s offices.

Using their global ID and password, CMU students can send and retrieve e-mail through any computer workstation with an Internet connection. For more information about student e-mail access, contact the IT Help Desk at (989) 774-3662.

FINANCES

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Billing and expenses

When will we receive registration (tuition) bills?
Students who register during the Phase I or Phase II registration periods for fall or spring semesters or during the Phase I period for each summer session will be sent an electronic bill to their CMU e-mail address as soon as that registration period has ended. The tuition is billed on the monthly electronic statement.

Students are allowed to register for a short period after the end of the Phase II registration period. They then receive a regular monthly electronic bill. Failure to pay a monthly bill will not result in classes being dropped, but late charges will be added and a hold will be placed on the student’s record prohibiting him or her from registering for future terms. Students registering after this period must pay for their classes at the time they register. All the information regarding billing and deadlines is listed in the class schedule publication and at the Registrar’s Office Web site www.registrars.cmich.edu.

What other expenses will be assessed, and how will they be billed?
Students may be assessed charges during a semester or summer session that include – but are not limited to – long-distance telephone charges, bookstore charges, health services charges, and parking permit charges. Students will receive an electronic monthly bill if they incur any charges or have outstanding tuition due.

What about charges for room and board?
Room and board charges can be paid in five monthly installments for each semester. For fall semester, payments are due in May, August, September, October, and November. For spring semester, payments are due in December, January, February, March, and April.

What is the refund policy if a student withdraws or drops a class?
A student who drops a class by the drop deadline will receive full cancellation of tuition and course-related fees. After the drop deadline, a student may withdraw from an individual course through the tenth week of classes for a full-semester course or through the midpoint for a shorter term course, but there is no cancellation of tuition and course-related fees.

A student who needs to withdraw from all classes for a term after the Phase II registration period has ended should contact the Registrar’s Office to request a complete semester withdrawal. A student requesting a complete semester withdrawal may qualify for full or partial tuition and course-related fee cancellation based on the date he or she files. This student also may qualify for a refund of housing fees if he or she is living in a residence hall. The student should contact the Office of Residence Life about terminating a housing contract and checking on possible refunds.

What are the banks in the area?

Students should consult www.registrars.cmich.edu or the class schedule book for deadline dates, the refund schedule for complete semester withdrawals, and the policies on course drops and individual course withdrawals.

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

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Are services available to help students locate jobs?
Student Employment Services in the Bovee University Center assists students with finding on- and off-campus employment opportunities. College work study, general student assistance, and community job postings are available online at ses.cmich.edu. Many departmental jobs are available on campus, including residence halls, dining facilities, grounds and maintenance, Student Activity Center, library, and bookstore positions. More information is available at Student Employment Services, Bovee University Center 206, by calling (989) 774-3881, or on the Web at ses.cmich.edu.

Should students work during their first year? Won’t employment interfere with studies and adjustment to college?
If the student has a desire to work, he or she should be encouraged to do so. The average student employee actually works between 10 and 20 hours a week. Work assignments are scheduled before, between, and after classes to meet the needs of both students and employers. Having an on-campus job can help the student better organize his or her time, make valuable contacts, and adjust to the overall atmosphere of college life.

FINANCIAL AID/STUDENT LOANS

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How should students apply for financial aid, and when do they receive notice of their financial aid package?
Students must apply for financial aid each year by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSAs are available at high school counseling offices and college financial aid offices. Students also may complete and submit the FAFSA over the Internet at www.fafsa.ed.gov. For optimal consideration, new students should mail their applications to the federal processor by February 15, and returning students should mail their applications by March 1. New freshmen are notified of their financial aid packages in early April; returning students receive notification after the conclusion of the academic year.

What kind of aid is available to students?
After students file their FAFSAs, they automatically are considered for all federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Aid packages may consist of one or more of the following: scholarships, grants, jobs, and student and parent loans. Institutional scholarships are automatically awarded to new freshmen and community college graduates who meet the academic criteria.

In addition, applications for privately endowed scholarships are available to returning students in the Student Service Court from March through April 1 and on our Web site financialaid.cmich.edu.

If a student has received financial aid, when will those dollars be applied to the student’s account to pay for university charges?
Processed and finalized financial aid is applied to the student’s account by the first week of the semester.

If financial aid exceeds charges, what happens to the extra money?
Once university charges have been paid by a student’s financial aid, any remaining money is refunded to the student to be used for other educational expenses. Refund checks are mailed to students at their local addresses by the first week of the semester. Refund checks are mailed to permanent addresses if no local address is on file.