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The Division of Enrollment and Student Services advances Western’s commitment to Active Minds Changing Lives by engaging and challenging students in their pursuit of academic and personal excellence through outreach, support services, and co-curricular learning opportunities. The division’s mission, goals, and priorities align closely with Western’s mission and goals, as set forth in the WWU Strategic Action Plan. Working collaboratively, departments in the division play a key role in bringing together an increasingly diverse and talented student body that involves its members in active learning and reflection. Division departments also create opportunities for students to display leadership, social responsibility, and effective citizenship through co-curricular programs, and are strongly committed to facilitating students’ development.
Programs and services offered by the division include admissions, registration, residence hall life, academic and career development services, tutoring, financial aid, disability resources, dean of students/student assistance services, student activities, dining services, new student and parent programs, counseling, health and wellness services, recreation programs, student outreach services, bookstore, and athletics.
Office of the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services
Old Main 445, 360-650-3839
www.wwu.edu/vpess/vpoffice.shtml
The Vice President’s Office is the central administrative office for the Division of Enrollment and Student Services. The vice president and staff provide leadership to ensure that the ongoing needs of students at Western are addressed. This is accomplished by maintaining effective student-centered programs and services, working closely with academic departments to create an integrated and comprehensive student experience, and assessing students’ needs and concerns. Students with general questions regarding university policies, procedures, and resources may contact the Vice President’s Office for assistance.
Your Right-to-Know: Disclosure of Consumer Information
Western Washington University is committed to providing full disclosure of all consumer information required by state and federal law to all students, their family members, and members of the campus community. A summary of required information, and where to access it, is as follows:
Emergency Response and Evacuation Procedures
Western recognizes its responsibility to provide timely information to the campus community during emergencies. In the event of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of students, staff or faculty, the university will use every communication tool at its disposal to share information with the campus community as quickly as possible. These include, but are not limited to:
- The Western Washington University home page (www.wwu.edu),
- The Emergency/Storm Hotline (360-650-6500),
- The WWU Emergency Communications web site (emergency.wwu.edu); and/or
- The Western Alert emergency notification system.
Emergencies may be reported to University Police by dialing 3911 from a campus phone or 360-650-3911 from a non-campus phone or cell phone.
“Western Alert” Emergency Notification System
The Western Alert emergency notification system gives Western the ability to share health and safety-related emergency information with members of the campus community quickly — by e-mail alerts and cell phone text messages. Students, faculty and staff must “opt in” to receive Western Alert text messages (e-mail alerts will be sent to your official university account automatically).
To “opt in” to receive Western Alert text messages, students, faculty, and staff should login to their MyWestern account online at www.wwu.edu and click on “Web4U.” Select “Personal Information,” then “Cell Phone – View/Update.” Enter your cell phone number, and finish by pressing the “Update” button. Text messaging will only be used to communicate with you in two circumstances: during an emergency and during occasional tests of the Western Alert system.
Academic and Career Development Services
WWU’s Academic and Career Development Services department is committed to helping students succeed in their academic pursuits at Western, and to achieve their personal and professional goals. Academic and Career Development Services is comprised of three units: the Academic Advising Center, the Career Services Center, and the Tutoring Center. The integrated services offered by these three units are focused on providing:
- Accurate and accessible advising to help students establish their academic goals and make effective plans to meet graduation requirements;
- Tutoring support to help students develop their critical thinking skills, work collaboratively to solve problems, and build confidence and self-efficacy in order to achieve their highest academic potential; and
- Career services to help students relate academic decisions to career goals, gain career-related experience, and transition successfully to graduate/professional education or career employment after completing their studies at Western.
Academic Advising Center
Old Main 380, 360-650-3850
www.wwu.edu/advising
The Academic Advising Center focuses on supporting first year freshman and transfer students, students who are undecided about their academic goals, and students experiencing academic difficulties. The center helps students:
- Set academic goals and make academic plans
- Understand academic policies, General University Requirements (GUR), and graduation requirements
- Explore Western’s curriculum
- Choose majors consistent with interests and abilities
- Select and schedule courses to make effective progress in meeting GUR’s and gaining access to desired majors
- Address challenges impeding academic progress
Career Services Center
Old Main 280, 360-650-3240
www.wwu.edu/careers
The Career Services Center provides a full range of services to assist students in all stages of the career development process — from self-assessment and initial academic and career planning to the job search process.
All Western students, regardless of degree or college, are encouraged to seek and use the Career Services Center early in their university experience.
Career Planning Services
Career planning services focus on helping students select academic majors consistent with their interests, abilities, and personal goals. Individual counseling, career assessments, workshops, and resource materials are provided to assist students in:
- Assessing interests, personality characteristics, skills, and values as they relate to academic and career decision-making
- Exploring career and job market trends
- Relating career goals to educational options
Internship Services
Internships provide an opportunity for students to gain valuable career-related experience by expanding their education into the work world. Internships allow students to put classroom theory into practice, test preliminary career choices, and gain valuable experience and contacts to enhance their employment opportunities after graduation.
The Career Services Center provides online listings of internship openings and advises students seeking internship opportunities. The center’s fall internship fair, quarterly career fairs, and on-campus recruiting program provide opportunities for students to connect with employers recruiting for interns.
Job Search Services
The Career Services Center offers a variety of services to assist students in identifying job opportunities and developing the skills necessary to conduct an effective job search, including:
- Individual job search counseling
- Workshops and online resources on résumé writing, job search correspondence, and interview techniques
- On-line job listings
- On-campus interviews
- Job market and salary information
- Mock interviews
Special Programs
The Career Services Center offers three career fairs each year during the fall, winter, and spring quarters. Other special programs offered annually include: the Health Professional and Graduate School Information Fair, the Community Internship and Volunteer Fair, the Law School Information Fair, the International Opportunities Fair, the Majors Fair (co-sponsored with the Academic Advising Center), the Communication Sciences and Disorders Special and Rehabilitation Services Career Fair, the Huxley Environmental Career and Internship Fair, Educator Job Search Seminars, and the Etiquette Dinner.
Advising for Pre-Healthcare Professions
Pre-healthcare Advisors are available as early as freshman year to support students interested in pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine and other healthcare professions with:
- Individualized advising
- Curriculum planning and registration assistance
- Shadowing and volunteering connections
- Student club advising
- Listserv correspondence
- Professional school application support
- Mock interview service
A fall Health Professional and Graduate School Fair provides students direct interaction with admission representatives of professional programs of study.
Advising for Students Considering Post-Graduate Study
The Career Services Center provides advising for students planning to pursue graduate or professional studies. Students are assisted in weighing the value of further study, exploring options, and preparing graduate/professional school applications through individual counseling, workshops, resource materials and information fairs.
Students interested in learning more about graduate programs at Western are encouraged to contact the Graduate School, Old Main 530, at 360-650-3170, or visit its website at www.wwu.edu/depts/gradschool/.
Career Services for Western Alumni
The Career Services Center provides services to alumni seeking to change jobs or careers. Alumni can receive automatic e-mails of job openings and participate in on-campus interviewing and workshops. Alumni are eligible to receive individual counseling and use the reference file service. Additional information is available online at www.wwu.edu/careers/alumni.shtml.
Tutoring Center
Learning Commons: Wilson Library 2 North, 360-650-3855
www.wwu.edu/tutoring/
The Tutoring Center helps WWU undergraduates achieve their highest academic potential by providing a range of support including drop-in tutoring, study skills appointments and presentations and study group facilitation.
Drop-in Tutoring
Peer-to-peer tutoring support is offered 60 hours per week in WL 280. Courses supported include, but are not limited to, most math and science General University Requirement (GUR) courses. Tutor helps student to identify and articulate gaps in understanding, use quantitative and scientific reasoning to frame and solve problems, and make problems relevant to the course as a whole and to the students’ lives.
Study Groups
Many high-demand courses are also supported by a tutor-facilitated study group. Study group facilitators are tutors who did well in the course and usually have at least two quarters of drop-in tutoring experience, as well as extensive training. Students who participate in study groups are encouraged to work collaboratively and engage with the material.
Study Skills Assistance
The Tutoring Center also helps students develop academic skills essential to a successful college career. Peer advisors offer one-on-one appointments as well as group presentations and workshops for skills such as time management, test taking, note taking, and textbook comprehension. Study skills appointment give students the opportunity to reflect on their individual learning preferences and to develop learning strategies that build on their personal strengths and goals.
Resources
The Tutoring Center has a host of resources available to students. These include textbooks for many math and science GURs, answer keys, chemistry molecular model kids, scientific calculators, and other resources. Detailed quarterly calendar and weekly schedules are available in the Tutoring Center and on the Tutoring Center website.
Admissions
Old Main 200, 360-650-3440
admissions.wwu.edu
See the Undergraduate Admission section of this Catalog.
Associated Students Bookstore
501 High St. 360-650-3655
bookstore.wwu.edu
Western’s Associated Students Bookstore, the official Western Washington University bookstore, operates much like a student cooperative. It keeps prices lower than the industry average and partners with student groups to support campus programs and activities. The AS Bookstore provides value by offering a number of services: discount prices on course materials; a wide selection of used textbooks; a textbook rental program; a price comparison tool; general books; school, office, and art supplies; a variety of “Western Gear” sportswear and emblematic gifts; and more. Every quarter, the bookstore’s website, http://www.bookstore.wwu.edu, publishes the list of textbooks required for each class. You can use Bookit to place your order online, Rent to rent your textbooks for 30, 60 or 90 days, or use Verba to compare the bookstore’s new, used and rental prices with other marketplace online options. At the beginning of each quarter, our Charge-it purchasing program allows students to charge in-store and online purchases to their student account.
Shopping at your local independent Western AS Bookstore keeps dollars on campus supporting student activities at Western.
Athletics
Carver Gym 100, 360-650-3109
wwuvikings.com
Intercollegiate athletics involves many students as participants and spectators. Men’s sports include basketball, soccer, cross country, golf, and indoor and outdoor track and field. Women’s sports include volleyball, soccer, cross country, basketball, indoor and outdoor track and field, golf, rowing, and softball. Western’s athletic program is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II, and the Great Northwest Athletic Conference. For ticket information, call 650-BLUE (2583).
Students are encouraged to join The Blue Crew, Western’s student sports fan organization. There is no cost to join and free Blue Crew prizes are awarded to all Western students attending Viking athletic events. For further information, contact the Department of Athletics, Carver Gymnasium, at 360-650-3109, or visit Blue Crew on the Athletics Facebook page at www.facebook.com/wwuathletics or at wwuviking.com.
Old Main 585A, 360-650-6863
www.campuscommunitycoalition.com
The mission of the Campus Community Coalition is to promote working relationships and communication between the campus and community, and to enhance shared responsibility through collaborative education and problem solving. The Coalition’s philosophy is that shared problems require shared solutions. Coalition partners include neighborhood associations, the Bellingham Police Department, the Washington State Liquor Control Board, rental property owners, City of Bellingham officials, Whatcom County Health Department, Whatcom Prevention Coalition, local bar owners, and students, faculty, and staff from Western Washington University, Whatcom Community College, Bellingham Technical College and Northwest Indian College. The Coalition has three main areas of focus:
- We work to engage and support students living off campus. The purpose of this work is to address quality-of-life issues affecting students and local residents in the neighborhoods as they relate to alcohol and other drugs (AOD) and citizenship.
- We work to maintain a positive and safe environment downtown where people are free to make healthy choices. This work involves our Hospitality Resource Alliance workgroup, which promotes sound business practices that influence customers to make healthy choices about their drinking and reduce problems related to AOD use in the community.
- We work to connect the four area campuses. The purpose of the Campus Collaborative is to create opportunities to share health promotion and educational initiatives at area campuses.
Campus Recreation Services
Wade King Student Recreation Center 138, 360-650-3766
www.wwu.edu/campusrec
Campus Recreation Services provides each student, faculty, and staff member the opportunity to become actively involved in organized sports and recreation programs. Services provided by Campus Recreation include intramural sports, noncredit fitness classes, open recreation, nutritionist, athletic trainer, and sport clubs.
Wade King Student Recreation Center
Offering a wide variety of fitness and leisure activities, the Wade King Student Recreation Center (SRC) is designed to meet the recreation needs of the campus community. The SRC offers students, alumni, faculty, and staff a dynamic and inviting place to stay fit. All undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled in six or more credits automatically become SRC members by paying the mandatory student recreation center fee. Paid memberships are available for faculty/staff, spouses/dependents/partners, and alumni and affiliates. The center features a climbing wall; a three-court gym; three weight and cardio areas; an indoor jogging track; a multi-activity court for basketball, floor hockey, tennis, volleyball, and soccer; a six-lane lap/leisure pool and 32-person whirlpool; two group exercise rooms; an equipment checkout counter; and the Rock’s Edge Café.
Intramural Sports
Intramural sports are competitive and recreational activities designed to encourage participation by all members of the campus community. Leagues and tournaments are offered in a wide variety of sports and are generally played on campus or at nearby facilities. Various local, regional and national organizations co-sponsor events and provide opportunities for promotional materials, special prizes, and invitational playoff berths. Intramural sports are structured for different skill levels and conducted in a safe, supervised environment.
Noncredit Fitness Classes
Noncredit fitness classes provide participants an opportunity to develop, grow, and maintain a healthy lifestyle in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Instructional classes include aerobics, Zumba, Pilates, cardio kickboxing, yoga, hip-hop dance, step aerobics, water aerobics, and more. Classes are taught by qualified student and non-student instructors, and are designed with the individual differences of the student population in mind.
Sport Clubs
WWU sport clubs are student organizations formed to promote non-varsity team sports and recreational activities. Sport clubs participate in intercollegiate and extramural competition at the local, regional, and national level while offering opportunities for instruction, skill development, and practice. Some of the sport club programs are co-recreational and allow members to be involved in scheduling and hosting events, arranging transportation and lodging, purchasing equipment and uniforms, and serving on the Sport Club Council. All WWU students, faculty, staff and alumni are eligible to become sport club members. Current WWU sport clubs include baseball, climbing, cycling, men’s crew, equestrian, fencing, ice hockey, judo, lacrosse, rugby, sailing, swimming, tennis, ultimate disc, volleyball, water polo, and water skiing. Additional information is available online at www.wwu.edu/campusrec/sportclubs.shtml.
Counseling, Health and Wellness Services
www.wwu.edu/chw
Being a healthy college student means having the confidence and energy to live each day to its fullest. Health is achievable when people care about themselves, make decisions and practice skills to enhance their well-being, and respect one another as unique, worthwhile individuals.
The Counseling Center, Prevention and Wellness Services, and the Student Health Center are dedicated to the provision of quality physical and emotional care for Western students. Through utilization of services, students can learn ways to care about their own health and to improve and maintain their overall well-being so that personal, academic, and career goals may be achieved.
Counseling Center
Old Main 540, 360-650-3164
www.wwu.edu/counseling/
Personal problems can interfere with school and life. The Counseling Center provides professional counseling for a wide variety of concerns students may have while at Western. Students sometimes get depressed or lonely or anxious. Relationship problems may occur: couples break up, roommates argue, friends leave, parents divorce. Problems can develop with procrastination, low motivation, and/or lack of direction. Anxiety may interfere with academic success. Self-esteem can slip. Stress may erode performance. The Counseling Center’s staff of professionally trained and experienced psychologists, counselors, and graduate trainees is here to help students work through these problems in a caring and confidential environment. All counseling services are voluntary, free, and confidential.
In addition to individual counseling, the Counseling Center also provides workshops each quarter aimed at meeting the special needs of college students, such as dealing with stress, math anxiety, and enhancing interpersonal skills. Counseling groups can provide an emotionally supportive environment for addressing issues of common concern. There also are many self-help books, CDs, and other materials available in the Counseling Center.
The Counseling Center provides brief and focused individual counseling. The staff is also knowledgeable about community referrals when campus resources cannot provide the longer-term or specialized services a student desires or needs. The center is open 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday when classes are in session and provides same-day appointments for students whose concerns are urgent. An after-hours counselor may be accessed by calling 360-650-3164 and selecting Option 1.
Prevention and Wellness Services
Old Main 560, 360-650-2993
www.wwu.edu/pws
Prevention and Wellness Services (PWS) offers Western students opportunities to get involved in improving their own health and the health of their community. PWS offers numerous professional and peer-led health promotion programs that can help students achieve optimal well-being and specific services to those who may face challenges to their well-being, such as alcohol and drug concerns or sexual assault.
Some of the services available to students include:
Old Main 560, 360-650-6865
www.wwu.edu/adcas
ADCAS is a confidential, professional service for Western Students who want assistance or information regarding their own use or someone else’s use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs. ADCAS services are designed to assist students in making their own informed choices about alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use and related risks (personal, physical, social, academic and legal) so they can enjoy their college experience, maximize academic success, and minimize unwanted and unintended consequences. Specific individual services available to students include: one to one discussion of personal use issues, concerns about friends, family members, partners, or roommates, and referral to appropriate campus and community support, counseling or treatment resources.
Individual ADCAS services are provided by professional staff specializing in alcohol and drug concerns. Skilled Peer Health Educators and professional staff provide group-format services.
The use of alcohol and other drugs can have both immediate and long-term impact including increased health risks, increased risk for accidents, forced and/or regretted sex, poorer academic performance, regretted actions or social behavior, and possible legal sanctions. ADCAS services are designed to assist students in making accurately informed and thoughtful choices.
Old Main 585B, - Violence Prevention Coordinator 360-650-7982
Consultation and Sexual Assault Support Services (CASAS) 360-650-3700
www.wwu.edu/casas
CASAS is Western’s caring and compassionate resource to assist all students who have, in childhood, adolescence, or adult life, been affected by any of the following: sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, or stalking.
CASAS staff works with survivors to access all available resources in an effort to ensure that students continue to be academically successful and have the support necessary to heal from the incident(s). Resources and support are also available to assist students whose partner, friend or family member has experienced an act of violence.
CASAS provides professional staff assistance to guide students through the details of identifying and accessing available campus and community services and resources, including:
- Medical/legal referral assistance
- Professional advocacy
- Academic support services
- Accompaniment to the hospital or police station
- Support group
- Information and referral
Anyone who has ever experienced any form of violence is strongly encouraged to utilize this service. To reach CASAS, call 360-650-3700, or send questions by e-mail to casas@wwu.edu.
Western is fully dedicated to not only supporting survivors of many forms of violence, but also to creating and sustaining a safe environment where violence does not occur. We recognize that discussing the root causes of violence is a key component in prevention. You will find resources of support for those who have been touched by violence, as well as resources for how to become part of the solution on our website.
www.wwu.edu/offcampusliving/
The Off-campus Housing Listing Service allows students to find local housing. There are two services for off-campus housing: Prevention and Wellness Services has a website with an off-campus registry, and there is a bulletin board on the fifth floor of the Viking Union. Bulletin board listings may be made at the VU 5th floor Administration Desk in person between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. The website has 24-hour login capacity for eligible users.
Sexual Health Consultation Services
Viking Union 432, 360-650-7557
www.wwu.edu/pws/sexual_health_information_sessions.shtml
Sexual Health Consultation Services provide one-on-one confidential information sessions available to all students. These sessions cover sexually transmitted infections and prevention, and tips on how to talk with your partner, information on breast and testicular self-exams, birth control, and women’s annual exams. These sessions are judgment free, tailored to fit specific student needs and free for WWU students.
To schedule an individual appointment, call 360-650-7557.
Wellness Outreach Center
Viking Union 432, 360-650-4321
www.wwu.edu/pws/wellness_outreach_center.shtml
The Wellness Outreach Center is a welcoming space dedicated to helping Western students improve their quality of life. The center specializes in helping students find the tools to optimize their health and wellbeing. The center houses a resource library with books, pamphlets and videos on all aspects of health including nutrition, body image, sexual health, alcohol and other drugs, mental health, and social justice issues. The center also offers free cold-care kits that include cold/flu risk reduction tips, condoms, and a Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) light. Many students come to the center for a stress-break–a cup of hot tea and a comfortable couch.
The Wellness Outreach Center is open from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday during the academic year. It is located in the Viking Union Room 432.
Student Health Center
Campus Services Building 2nd floor, 2001 Bill McDonald Parkway, 360-650-3400
www.wwu.edu/chw/student_health
The Student Health Center provides students with a broad range of primary medical care services including, but not limited to: evaluation and treatment of illness, contraceptive services, immunizations, mental health, sports medicine, evaluation/referral for specialized conditions, men’s and women’s health care, monitoring and treatment of chronic illnesses, rapid lab tests (such as strep, influenza, mono and pregnancy tests), preventive medicine, sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment, travel consultation, and well-physical exams. The center is staffed by a team of physicians, nurse practitioners, and support staff.
The Student Health Center is open from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday and from 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Thursday during the academic year when classes are in session. Please see the website for Summer Quarter hours. When the Student Health Center is closed, a telephone consulting nurse is available at no cost and students are advised to seek clinical services from available after-hour medical facilities in the Bellingham area. NOTE: The University assumes no financial responsibility for care dispensed at other health care facilities. Students who seek treatment at off-campus health facilities must use private funds or their health insurance policy to cover resulting charges.
Please see the website www.wwu.edu/chw/student_health/ for medical insurance plan information. The medical director strongly recommends that all students have some form of health insurance to defray the substantial costs associated with serious accidents and illness.
Measles Immunity Requirement
Western requires all students born after January 1, 1957 to provide medical documentation of immunity to rubeola measles to the Student Health Center before they will be allowed to register for classes or live in on-campus housing. Acceptable options for documentation include:
- Provide the dates for two individual doses of measles vaccine (usually referred to as “MMR vaccine”). The doses must have been given: (1) after January 1, 1968, (2) at least 30 days apart, and (3) on or after 12 months of age; or
- Provide a copy of evidence of measles immunity by demonstrating high positive antibody levels from a blood test (rubeola titer). A copy of the actual test results is required.
- Request a waiver from the immunity requirement for legitimate religious, personal, or medical reasons. To request a waiver, call 360-650-4839 or visit the Health Center website at www.wwu.edu/chw/student_health/measles.shtml. The form requires verification from your current health care provider for medical requests. Please note: in the event of a measles outbreak, students with an approved waiver may be excluded from attending classes and living on campus.
Questions about the measles (rubeola) immunity requirement may be directed to the Student Health Center.
Reporting Communicable Diseases
Western is committed to the ongoing health and safety of our campus community. Individuals who know or have reason to believe that they are infected with a communicable disease have an ethical and legal obligation to conduct themselves in ways that minimize exposure in order to protect themselves and others and to inform the appropriate university administrator. Students should contact the Student Health Center or the Office of the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services if they have been diagnosed with a communicable disease.
Communicable disease shall include, but not be limited to:
- Chickenpox (varicella)
- Hepatitis
- Influenza
- Measles
- Meningitis
- Mumps
- Norovirus (viral gastroenteritis)
- Pertussis
- Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
- Tuberculosis
Any employee, student, prospective student, volunteer or visitor who knowingly arrives from a country outside the United States that has been issued a Travel Health Warning by the Centers of Disease Control must contact the Student Health Center’s Medical Director for medical clearance before being allowed on campus to attend classes, work or other activities.
Individuals with communicable diseases shall be excluded from enrollment or employment or restricted in their access to university facilities, programs or services if a medically based judgment, in an individual case, establishes that exclusion or restriction is necessary to ensure the health and safety of the infected individual and/or other members of the university community.
For a complete review of this policy, visit the University’s Policy and Procedures website at http://www.wwu.edu/policies/docs/1000%20University%20Administration/POL-U1000.12%20Reporting%20Communicable%20Diseases.pdf
disAbility Resources for Students
Old Main 120, 360-650-3083 (voice), 360-255-7175 (VP)
www.wwu.edu/depts/drs
The primary mission of the disAbility Resources for Students is to ensure equal access for students with disAbilities to all curricular and co-curricular opportunities offered by Western Washington University. disAbility Resources for students provides disability management counseling, enabling resources and referral information to enrolled students who possess a temporary or permanent disabling condition. disAbility Resources for Students (DRS) is committed to providing services and programs that foster student development at all levels: intellectual, emotional, physical, and social. Full participation in all aspects of university life is not only necessary to achieve this holistic development, but encouraged and supported by the DRS team.
- DRS provides reasonable accommodations in compliance with State and Federal laws.
- Students’ records are treated with confidentiality.
- Students must complete a Needs Assessment with DRS in order to receive services.
For service eligibility, a complete diagnostic description from a qualified professional is required. Specific academic accommodations and services are determined on an individual basis and are modified to meet the unique needs of students and their academic experience.
Services and programs offered through disAbility Resources for Students include, but are not limited to:
- disAbility management counseling
- Exam accommodations
- Interpreter services
- Alternative text
- Print enlargement
- Braille
- Academic advisement
- Academic adjustments in the classroom
- Mobility assistance
- Transcription services (Typewell, real-time captioning)
- Assistive listening devices
- Resource referral services
Evacuation Guide
Western’s Emergency Evacuation Guidelines for Persons with Disabilities is now available. Students are encouraged to obtain this publication and learn about preparing for an emergency on campus and establishing an individual written evacuation plan. The guide is available online at http://www.wwu.edu/ehs/emergency_preparedness/emergencypreparedness.shtml.
Financial Aid
Old Main 265, 360-650-3470
www.finaid.wwu.edu
See the Financial Aid section of this catalog.
New Student Services/Family Outreach
Old Main 300, 360-650-3846
nssfo.wwu.edu
New Student Services/Family Outreach fosters student learning and development by supporting new students and family members in their transition to the academic, personal, and social experience of Western, as well as the greater Bellingham community. Programs and services provided include:
- Coordination of new student programs, services, and orientation, including Summerstart, Transitions, Fall Orientation, quarterly orientation, weekly e-mails, and ongoing programs. Orientation provides students an opportunity to receive academic advising and course registration assistance, become familiar with services, meet faculty, staff and current students, and complete placement tests.
- Coordination of family orientation and outreach, including summer orientation programs, Fall Family Open House, Back2Bellingham, and the Parent Connection.
- Online and in-person referral to campus and community resources.
- Leadership opportunities for current students (orientation student advisors and student coordinators).
Dean of Students Unit
Viking Union 547, 360-650-3450
www.wwu.edu/depts/dos/
The Dean of Students Unit, led by the Dean of Students, supports Western Washington University’s role and mission as follows:
Mission Statement: The Dean of Students Unit contributes to intentional student development by providing programs, services, and facilities that promote leadership, community engagement, citizenship, creative expression, student well-being, and the realization of personal and academic success.
The Dean of Students oversees the Office of Student Life, Student Outreach Services, L.E.A.D.S., Ethnic Student Center, Viking Union Facilities, Student Activities/Associated Student Governance Board Advisement.
LEADS
Viking Union 506, 360-4187
http://www.wwu.edu/leads
The mission of the program is to provide a campus environment where student leaders engage in action, discernment, and skills-building. Self-reflection, assessment, and the development of leadership skills are central. The L.E.A.D.S. program, open to all students, provides campus-wide programming:
- co-curricular leadership development support through open sessions, student government, residence life, and other campus units;
- leadership lectures, panels and events featuring alumni, parents and national/regional leaders;
- training of a cadre of peer leadership educators, LeaderCorps, who learn to teach leading to other students while deepening their own leadership knowledge and skills; and an electronic leadership portfolio process to enhance leadership of self-awareness, self-efficacy, and opportunities during college or transitioning to careers.
Additionally, the L.E.A.D.S. Program, in partnership with the Karen W. Morse Institute for Leadership, provides leadership education to a select group of incoming student leader-scholars, incorporating self-reflection, character strengths assessment, interaction with alumni, faculty, staff and administrators, leadership learning, and team-building.
Office of Student Life
Viking Union 506, 360-650-3706
www.wwu.edu/depts/dos/office/
The Office of Student Life is dedicated to supporting the learning and development of students, and creating an environment that fosters students success and graduation. Our primary purpose is to ensure the well-being and success of Western students. We work closely with students (and their family members), faculty, and staff, in support of this purpose. We also collaborate with a number of campus departments, including the Counseling Center, Registrar’s Office, Student Health Center, University Police, and University Residences.
Staff members in the office are available to provide general assistance with problem solving and referrals; to support students in crisis; to advise students on university policies and procedures, including the Student Rights and Responsibilities Code; and to process dean’s letters and letters of recommendation.
We can assist students with:
- hardship withdrawals
- leaves of absence for non-medical emergencies
- advice on university policies, procedures, and grievances
- support while experiencing a crisis
- information on university resources
Common situations the Office of Student Life can help with include: academic grievances, frustrations with the administrative workings of the institution, and emergency leaves of absence or hardship withdrawals due to illness, injury, or the death or illness of a family member.
Student Conduct
The Student Conduct Officer is charged with administering Western’s student conduct system, as set forth in the Student Rights and Responsibilities Code. As a condition of enrollment at Western, all students are expected to assume responsibility for their actions, and for maintaining an environment conducive to the academic success, safety, and well-being of all members of the university community. The student conduct process is designed to be a learning experience, and to promote growth and understanding of one’s rights and responsibilities as a Western student.
Alleged violations of the Code may be reported to the Assistant Dean of Students at 360-650-3706 or student.life@wwu.edu. Copies of the Student Rights and Responsibilities Code can be found in Appendix C of this catalog, in the Dean of Students Office, or online at www.wwu.edu/dos/office/conduct/index.shtml.
Student Outreach Services
Old Main 387, 360-650-3843
www.wwu.edu/depts/sos
Student Outreach Services supports the educational needs of all students, particularly first-generation, non-traditional and multicultural students. Professional academic advisors engage students in personalized academic coaching, peer mentoring and specialized programs using a global and multicultural focus to support student persistence and academic achievement. Advisors help develop educational plans and provide positive intervention for those in academic risk, including former students interested in returning to Western. Student Outreach Services also serves as a resource to the campus community on issues of diversity and student success. The office is committed to the academic success, retention, and graduation of all students.
Viking Union Facilities
Viking Union 547, 360-650-3450
vu.wwu.edu
As the community center of the campus, the Viking Union plays an integral role in students’ out-of-class experience. The Union houses offices for the Associated Students’ government, services and activities, and the Viking Union/Student Activities administrative office. Also located in the Viking Union are the Dean of Students and Student Life offices, meeting rooms, lounges, an outdoor equipment rental shop, a bicycle repair facility, several food service areas, a post office, an information center/Lost and Found, two cash machines, an art gallery, KVIK-TV, Vendors’ Row, KUGS-FM, a publicity center/print shop, and program areas. Viking Union food service locations include the Viking Union Market, the VU Café, the Underground Coffeehouse, and Vendor’s Row.
Lakewood Watersports Facility
2410 Lake Whatcom Blvd, 360-650-2900
www.vu.wwu.edu/lakewood/
The Lakewood Watersports Facility – located approximately 7 miles from Western’s campus at 2410 Lake Whatcom Blvd. – offers sailing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, and rowing, as well as a sand volleyball court, picnic tables and BBQ’s, and hiking trails. For-credit Extended Education classes and private instruction in sailing are available during the academic year and summer quarter. An informal lounge with a kitchenette and fireplace is also available.
AS Recycle Center
as.wwu.edu/recycle/
The mission of the Associated Students Recycle Center is to provide the opportunity for faculty, staff and students to recycle on campus, to educate the University community on the recycling process at Western, and to continually increase collection efforts in order to reduce Western’s waste stream. The center also provides student employment opportunities and work experience, specifically in recycling and waste management.
Viking Union Student Activities
Viking Union 547, 360-650-3450
www.as.wwu.edu
Student activities at Western are designed to provide maximum opportunities for student engagement in a wide range of co-curricular experiences. As an important part of the educational experiences offered by the University, students are encouraged to become involved in some aspect of the activity program since these activities provide leadership and social experiences that build on classroom learning.
Many student activities are initiated and administered by students through the Associated Students. Students who participate in the governing bodies of student-administered services, activities, and facilities gain valuable leadership experience while supporting the quality of co-curricular life. Students may also participate in the University governance system as elected or appointed members of its various councils and committees.
Associated Students Personnel Office
Viking Union 505, 360-650-6113
as.wwu.edu/personnel
The AS employs over 200 students in a variety of diverse and exciting jobs in all the AS offices listed below. The Personnel Office coordinates the hiring of AS employees and open positions are listed on the website. The bulk of hiring takes place at the very beginning of each spring quarter for the following academic year.
Associated Students Productions
Viking Union 422
as.wwu.edu/asp
From socializing to civil dialogue, Associated Students Productions (ASP) is a student-run programming office that brings major events to campus. There are six divisions of ASP: Pop Music, Films, Special Events, Underground Coffee House, Viking Union Gallery, and Marketing. The students that staff these offices work hard to bring top-quality events to campus, including local, regional and national music performances, films, comedians, authors, lecturers, art exhibits, and all kinds of other fun and intellectually stimulating engagements.
Associated Students Representation and Engagement Programs
Viking Union 520, 360-650-4267
as.wwu.edu/rep
The AS Representation and Engagement Programs provide resources, services, and support necessary to ensure student representation in decisions that impact students at the university, local, state, and federal levels. The programs also promote effective citizenship and civic engagement through services, programs, and collaboration. For more information, contact the Information Coordinator at 360-650-3450.
Child Development Center
Fairhaven College Stack 11/12, 360-650-3021
as.wwu.edu/cdc
The Child Development Center is provided by the Associated Students of Western Washington University and serves the children of students, faculty and staff, ranging in ages from 2-5. The center is open from 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. on the days Western is in session, as well as during winter and spring breaks. Tuition is based on a sliding-scale fee for students.
Clubs and Organizations
www.as.wwu.edu/clubs/
More than 200 clubs and organizations exist within the Associated Students, providing a wide range of involvement opportunities for all students. AS clubs come in all varieties, including service, environmental, recreational, academic/departmental, social issues, religious, cultural and ethnic, arts, music and dance, political, gaming, pre-professional and honorary, and special interest areas. Some clubs have long histories at Western; others are brand new. If a student doesn’t find the right club, it is easy to start a new one. Students at Western enjoy being involved in clubs for the opportunities to meet new people, develop new skills, make positive changes in the world, and just have fun.
Environmental & Sustainability Programs (ESP)
Viking Union 424, 360-650-6129
as.wwu.edu/esp/
The purpose of the AS Environmental & Sustainability Programs (ESP) is to inform, educate, and provide resources regarding a variety of issues surrounding environmentalism and sustainable practices. The following offices comprise the ESP:
Alternative Transportation
Viking Commons 25, 360-650-7960
as.wwu.edu/transportation/
Western Student Transportation provides services funded by the Student Alternative Transportation Fee. These include a WTA Viking Xpress Bus Pass good for all WTA bus routes, a daily late night and Sunday daytime Student Shuttle, and assistance for any questions students may have concerning transportation at Western.
Environmental Center
Viking Commons 424, 360-650-6129
as.wwu.edu/earth/
The Environmental Center presents lectures, seminars, music events and other programs to educate the campus community about environmental topics and to illustrate the interconnections between environmentalism and other social concerns. The Center maintains a library of current books, newspapers, brochures, videos and magazines and acts as a networking center for campus and community activists.
Outback Outdoor Experiential Learning Program
Viking Union 424, 360-650-2433
www.as.wwu.edu/outback/
The Outback, a joint program of the Associated Students and Fairhaven College, is a 5 acre farm and wetland restoration site. The purpose of the Outback OELP is to coordinate a wide range of opportunities for students to learn about, develop, and implement sustainable land use practices. These opportunities include personal and collaborative events and projects involving habitat restoration, organic gardening, green building, academic partnerships, independent study projects (ISPs), workshops, lectures and classes. The OELP also provides job-related skill building and community networking opportunities for students. These include serving on the Outback Governing Council, volunteering, and participating in work-study, AmeriCorps Students in Service, and salaried employment.
Green Energy Fee Grant Program
Viking Commons 25, 360-650-2491
sustain@wwu.edu
The Green Energy Fee (GEF) is a student-initiated, quarterly fee paid by all Western Washington University students to reduce the campus’ environmental impact and engage the campus community in environmental awareness. The GEF purchases Renewable Energy Credits to offset all of the university’s carbon emissions from electrical consumption. WWU is one of the nation’s top-20 buyers of renewable energy among academic institutions as recognized by the US EPA, and was the first institution in the nation to purchase Renewable Energy Credits to offset 100% of its electrical consumption.
The GEF Grant Program provides funding to innovative, student-driven projects focused on promoting experiential learning opportunities and sustainable practices at Western Washington University. The GEF Grant Program is managed by the Office of Sustainability and supported by the AS Environmental and Sustainability Programs. Students, staff and faculty are all eligible to apply for grant funding.
Ethnic Student Center
Viking Union 420, 360-650-7271
as.wwu.edu/esc/
The Ethnic Student Center serves as a cultural community hub for gathering and programming. Some of the 16 cultural clubs are: the African-Caribbean Club, Black Student Union, Brown Pride, Chinese Student Association, Filipino American Student Association, Hui `O Hawai’i, Japanese Student Association, Khmer Student Association, Korean Student Association, Latino Student Union, MEChA (El Movimiento Estudiantil Chican@de Aztlan), Mixed Identity Student Organization, Native American Student Union, Queer People of Color, South Asian Student Association, Thai Student Association, and the Vietnamese Student Association.
KUGS Radio
Viking Union 7th Floor, 360-650-KUGS (5847)
as.wwu.edu/kugs/
Operated by the Associated Students, KUGS broadcasts in stereo at 89.3 on the FM dial, online at as.wwu.edu/kugs/, and on Comcast Cable channel 980 on campus and throughout Western Washington. A general manager and student staff coordinate the efforts of 100 volunteers in all facets of station operation. With a complete range of music, news, and educational programming, KUGS offers students opportunities for participation as disc jockeys, newsreaders, producers, and managers.
KVIK Western Television Production Organization
Viking Union 423, 360-650-2343
as.wwu.edu/kvik
Operated by the Associated Students, KVIK Television creates and maintains broadcast programs to highlight the work of Western students. KVIK provides firsthand experience for those interested in the fields of television broadcasting and video production. KVIK productions represents students’ original work and serves the campus community by providing interesting, informative, and entertaining media.
Outdoor Center
Viking Union 150 (access available from North Garden Street adjacent to VU entrance), 360-650-3112
as.wwu.edu/outdoor
The Outdoor Center provides a variety of outdoor-related opportunities and activities for all students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Emphasis is placed on developing and refining outdoor skills and responsible environmental practices, fostering diversity, enriching the academic experience, and promoting life-long learning. Resources include a knowledgeable staff, equipment rentals, a bike shop, excursions, educational resources, and instructional clinics.
Outdoor Center Challenge Program
as.wwu.edu/theedge
2410 Lake Whatcom Blvd, 360-650-3731
Located at the Lakewood Watersports Facility, the E.D.G.E. (Encouraging the Development of Groups through Experience program offers teams, clubs, and groups of students, as well as faculty and staff groups, a facilitated opportunity to work on goal setting, leadership, effective communication, problem solving, trust-building, consensus-building, synergym, group roles, confidence and other valuable group and individual skills. The E.D.G.E. program offers a sequence of “Challenge by Choice” activities specifically designed to increase social and individual awareness and appreciation through safe physical and mental challenges, discussion and reflection.
Publicity Center
Viking Union 411
as.wwu.edu/publicity
The Publicity Center is a full-service advertising facility provided by the Associated Students for use by all students, as well as Associated Students programs and clubs. The center also publishes the AS Review.
Resource and Outreach Programs
Viking Union, 5th Floor
as.wwu.edu/rop
Resource and Outreach Program’s seven offices – including the Disability Outreach Center, Legal Information Center, Veteran’s Outreach Center, Women’s Center, Social Issues Resource Center, Sexual Awareness Center, and Queer Resource Center – provide unbiased and confidential information and referrals to students in a safe, peer-to-peer environment. They also present a range of events, workshops, and activities each year that provide students with engaging and empowering opportunities to learn about themselves as well as our local and global community. Students can gain valuable work and life experiences through salaried student employment, work-study, and volunteer positions.
Viqueen Lodge
Sinclair Island, 360-650-6131 (VU Reservations Office)
as.wwu.edu/viqueen
Viqueen Lodge, located on 13 acres on Sinclair Island and provided by the Associated Students, offers overnight accommodations in a unique location for students, faculty, staff and alumni.
Registrar’s Office
Old Main 230, 360-650-3430
www.wwu.edu/depts/registrar
See the Registration section of this catalog for information.
University Residences
Edens Hall 100, 360-650-2950
housing.wwu.edu
See the University Residences section of this catalog.
The Writing Center
Wilson Library (across from Zoe’s), 360-650-3219
http://library.wwu.edu/writingcenter
Monday-Thursday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.; Evenings: Open Sun - Thurs evenings; call for hours. Always open for online draft submissions at http://library.wwu.edu/writingcenter.
“I know what it feels like to be stuck, and I know what happens when I can talk about my writing to an interested person.”
— The Writing Center: “Get Unstuck”
A free resource for students, the Writing Center provides academic support to writers of all disciplines and abilities. The Center welcomes writers engaged in the writing process in various stages – from brainstorming topics to polishing final drafts. Writers may conference with our qualified writing assistants first to clarify ideas (thesis and organization) and then to identify patterns of error (grammar and punctuation). Services include:
- Face-to-face response on course papers, essay exams, and applications/résumés
- Oral or written response to drafts submitted online
- Resources for writing, including software, handbooks, whiteboards, and strategies for getting unstuck
- Group conferences for those with collaborative writing assignments
- Partners for writers wishing to work consistently on long-term development or complex writing projects
Department-related Activities
Department-related activities provide opportunities for students to participate in a wide range of programs. Although faculty from related departments work closely with these activities, students do not need to be affiliated with the departments in order to participate. In many cases, students may receive academic credit for their involvement. The individual programs are outlined below.
Forensics Program
Communication Facility 295, 360-650-4879
chss.wwu.edu/communication-studies/debate-team
The forensics program provides opportunities for participation in local, regional, national, and international competitions, in National Parliamentary Debate Association-style debate. The program encourages achievement in tournament participation at all levels of competition, ranging from novice to championship. Western’s program enjoys a strong national reputation including numerous top-20 rankings and consistent participation in the National Parliamentary Tournament of Excellence field of participants. Annual activities also include sponsoring several local events, including campus presentations, hosting tournaments, and an annual advocacy on-campus conference (CASCAID). All students are welcome to participate regardless of major or experience level.
Music Activities
Performing Arts 273, 360-650-3130
cfpa.wwu.edu/music
A wide range of vocal and instrumental groups on campus provides musical activity for students at acceptable levels of ability, and musical entertainment to satisfy listeners of all tastes. Some of the opportunities available to students include the Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony, University Choir, Concert Choir, Symphony Orchestra, Viking Pep Band, jazz ensembles, opera, Collegium Musicum, and numerous smaller ensembles. Membership in all of these ensembles is attained through either a performance audition or consent of the instructor. For more information see the Department of Music section of this catalog or contact the Department of Music, Performing Arts Center 273, at 360-650-3130.
Publications
Communications Facility 230, 360-650-3171
www.wwu.edu/depts/journalism/student%20publications.shtml
Student publications include The Western Front, a twice-weekly newspaper; Klipsun, a twice-quarterly magazine; Jeopardy, the annual literary magazine; and The Planet, a quarterly environmental journalism magazine. Student contributions of time and talent are essential to these publications, and new students at all academic levels are encouraged to join their staffs each quarter. Students may receive credit for working on these publications through the Journalism and English Departments, as well as the Huxley College of the Environment.
Theatre and Dance
Performing Arts 395, 360-650-3876
cfpa.wwu.edu/theatredance
The Theatre and Dance Department offers students a rich variety of opportunities in faculty- and student-directed productions – both on stage and off – to write, act, dance, stage manage, design, teach, produce, and choreograph. The broad range of productions during the academic year includes musicals, dramas, and comedies from a variety of periods as well as faculty-and student-choreographed events, traditional dance concert events, and collaborations between the departments within the College of Fine and Performing Arts. The Theatre and Dance Department provides ongoing concentrated applied theatre and dance experiences for both the beginner and the advanced student. Previous theatre experience is not required for participation and all auditions are open. Previous dance experience is not a requirement for placement in a technique class. The Theatre and Dance Department participates regularly in the American Association of Theatre in Higher Education (ATHE), South Eastern Theatre Conference (SETC), The American College Dance Festival (ACDF), The Kennedy Center’s American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) and the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT).
Western View (Video)
Communication Facility 295, 360-650-3870
Western View offers students the opportunity to gain digital video production and editing experience. Informational and educational video instruction includes hands-on course work. Students produce videos shown on the campus and for special off-campus audiences. Credit is available through the Department of Communication Studies.
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