Sam Houston State University Undergraduate Catalog 2006-2008
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Student Support Services

Alumni Relations and Development

The Office of Alumni Relations is a vibrant and growing part of the University Advancement Division and provides the support and direction for the Alumni Association. The alumni program is an important part of an integrated advancement effort to inform and engage graduates and former students with the university.

The Alumni Association exists to support and promote the university, and it represents the interests of over 55,000 alumni. The association’s programs and activities are developed and planned in consultation with an alumni board of directors. The association sponsors distinguished alumni and alumni service awards programs, homecoming, tail gate parties, an SHSU Alumni Association credit card, area alumni gatherings, newsletters, scholarships, student programs, merchandising, and the senior class ring program.

Membership is open to all graduates and former students of Sam Houston State University, and associate memberships are open to non-alumni friends. For additional information, please call (936) 294-1841 or visit the Alumni Association on the web at https://www.shsu.edu/~alu_kat/. The university must increasingly rely on private giving from its alumni, friends, corporations, and foundations to close the gap between what tuition, fees, and state support provide and what is necessary to offer programs of quality. The Annual Fund is an ongoing program to secure recurring contributions from alumni and friends. More than 5,000 alumni and friends contribute to the university’s scholarships, colleges, departments, and other programs.

The University is in its first capital campaign in the university’s history. A significant priority is to increase endowments for scholarships, faculty and staff development, student programs and the five colleges.

For additional information about providing support for the University through an annual, capital, or planned gift, please contact the division at (936) 294-3625 or Box 2537, Huntsville, TX 77341-2537. Donors wishing to make a gift with a credit card can go online to https://www.shsu.edu/~ua_www/make-a-gift.html.

Athletics

The Department of Athletics at Sam Houston State University is committed to the concept that intercollegiate athletics is an integral part of the University’s educational enterprise. Athletics encompasses nine women’s sports and seven men’s sports. The women’s sports include: basketball, golf, softball, tennis, cross country, indoor track, outdoor track, soccer and volleyball. The men’s sports include: baseball, basketball, football, golf, cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track. Sam Houston State University is one of eleven schools competing in the Southland Conference. The current membership, with offices located in Richardson, Texas, consists of: Lamar University, McNeese State University, Northwestern State University, Nicholls State University, Sam Houston State University, Southeastern Louisiana University, Stephen F. Austin State University, University of Louisiana-Monroe, University of Texas at Arlington, University of Texas at San Antonio and Texas State University-San Marcos. The conference conducts championship competitions in 15 sports at the NCAA Division I-A level and I-AA football level.

The Bearkat teams enjoy excellent facilities, including Bernard G. Johnson Coliseum, Bowers Stadium and a new baseball and softball complex. General admission to all home athletic events is covered by the Student Service Fee paid by Sam Houston State University students upon enrollment, and all students are encouraged to attend as many athletic events as they wish. SHSU athletic fans enjoy the excitement of collegiate athletics surrounded by the enthusiastic school spirit that adds to the fun and friendly competition with counterparts in the Southland Conference. Visit the Department of Athletics website at https://www.shsu.edu/~ath_www/.

Bearkat OneCard Services

The official ID card of Sam Houston State University is the Bearkat OneCard. It has been designed to be an efficient, multi-purpose card which provides students easy access to university facilities and services. The OneCard provides access to residence halls, dining services, parking facilities, library, health center, recreational sports, athletic events and other university services. The BearKat OneCard serves as the vehicle which students choose the manner in which they prefer to receive financial refund disbursements from the university. The Bearkat OneCard also offers to students the option of securing a free on-line checking account. If the optional account is opened, then the Bearkat OneCard may be used as a debit card as well. The Bearkat OneCard Services staff provides assistance in taking ID photos, activating cards, configuring options, and providing information related to refund disbursements to students. For more information, please call (936)294-2273 or visit https://www.shsu.edu/onecard.

Career Services

The Career Services staff assists students and graduates of Sam Houston State University in their search for employment appropriate to their interests, skills, academic preparation and personal aspirations. Opportunities and resources are provided to assist students in learning and implementing the life-long process of career exploration, career choice and ultimately, obtaining rewarding employment.

Specific services include:

  • Career Assessment tools
  • MBTI®
  • DISCOVER
  • The Strong Interest Inventory®
  • Career Counseling
  • Mock interviews
  • On-campus interviews
  • Resume referrals to employers
  • Web-based registration and resume service
  • Job/Internship vacancy announcements and listings
  • Workshops and individual instruction on resumé writing and interview skills

The Career Services office sponsors special events such as the annual Teacher Job Fair (fall and spring semesters), Career Expo held each fall semester, and the Summer Job and Camp Fair. As a member school in the Houston Area Consortium of Career Centers, SHSU Career Services also participates in the Texas Job Fair which attracts a large number of Houston-area employers each spring.

The Career Library contains many resources to assist students in finding:

  • career choices
  • internships
  • summer jobs
  • professional employment

Printed materials in the Career Library include:

  • employer information for new college graduates
  • information and applications from area school districts
  • job market information and applications for federal and state governmental positions
  • materials on summer camps and internships

Numerous video tapes and books provide information on job searching skills and specific employers. A small computer lab is available for Internet job-searches and resume writing. The Career Services department also provides many free materials such as career magazines, brochures, literature from employers, and informational hand-outs covering various career-related topics. Career Services is located at the corner of Avenue J and Bearkat Boulevard. Further information may be obtained by calling (936) 294-1713 or by visiting https://www.shsu.edu/careerservices. Student Employment. Information about student job opportunities and applications for student employment may be obtained from Career Services, located at the corner of Avenue J and Bearkat Boulevard. Career Services is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The telephone number is (936) 294-1713.

Continuing Education

Continuing Education offers non-credit courses for personal and professional development. Courses include mediation, introduction to various computer software, art, stress reduction, country and western dance, ballroom dance, yoga, cake decorating, and much more. For more information, telephone (936) 294-3701 or visit the website at https://www.shsu.edu/continuinged.

Counseling Center

Counseling Services. Professional counseling services are available to students in the Counseling Center, North Annex of the Lee Drain Building. Individual or group counseling is available for personal, educational, or vocational concerns. Students can receive help in choosing a major, stress management, study skills, and test anxiety. Students can work on a range of personal concerns including alcohol abuse, eating disorders, or physical or sexual abuse. Services are also available for international students who may seek support in adjusting to life at an American university. Students are encouraged to utilize any of these free, confidential services. To make an appointment, stop by or call (936) 294-1720. The Counseling Center is open Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Visit the Counseling Center website at www.shsu.edu/counsel.

Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD). SSD is located in the Counseling Center and provides accommodations counseling and adaptive technology for students with disabilities. Students seeking academic accommodations need to provide appropriate documentation verifying their disability. Please see Service and Documentation Guidelines Brochure for documentation requirements and procedures for receiving accommodations. Adaptive technology available includes Closed Circuit Television (CCTV), computer work stations with large print and speech output capabilities, and FM amplifying devices. Students may also request registration assistance by calling the Registrar’s office (936) 294-1040 or may request admissions information by calling the office of Undergraduate Admissions (936) 294-1828.

Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD). TDD locations are as follows with corresponding telephone numbers:

Office of Student Life: (936) 294-3785
Counseling Center and Services for Students with Disabilities: (936) 294-3786
University Police: (936) 294-3787
Office of Undergraduate Admissions: (936) 294-3788
Registrar’s Office: (936) 294-3789

Dean of Students’ Office

Through leadership, program, and policy development, the Dean of Students’ office contributes to the overall intellectual, social, and personal development of the students. The Dean of Students’ office represents student needs to the University administration, faculty, and departments and also transmits needs of these groups to the students. This office assists students who have questions about any phase of campus life. In an effort to promote individual group development of students, the office co-sponsors educational programs and leadership development workshops.

The professional staff is responsible for the administration of a number of policies and procedures found in Student Guidelines, the student handbook. These include student conduct and judicial processes, and certain provisions of the Family Rights and Privacy Act. In addition, the office is responsible for Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges; the Freshman Leadership Program; Orange Keys Program; Faculty/Student Mentor Program; Faculty/Staff Recognition Program; University Parking Appeals; Alpha Lambda Delta, a freshman Honor society; advising the Parents’ Association; and advising the Student Government Association.

The Dean of Students’ office is located in the Lowman Student Center Suite #215, telephone (936) 294-1785. office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and other times by appointment. Website: https://www.shsu.edu/~slo_www.

General Conduct And Campus Regulations. It is expected that all Sam Houston State University students are on campus for serious educational pursuits and that they will conduct themselves so as to preserve an appropriate atmosphere of learning. It is also expected that all students who enroll at Sam Houston State University agree to assume the responsibilities of citizenship in the campus community. While enrolled, students are subject to University authority, which includes the prerogative of dismissing those whose conduct is not within the aims and policies of the University. Students are responsible for abiding by all published University rules and regulations as printed in this catalog, in the student handbook, Student Guidelines, and in other official University publications. Failure to read these publications will not excuse the student from the requirements and regulations described therein. In addition, students should be familiar with House Bill 141 of the 61st Legislature on Disruptive Activities and Senate Bill 24 of the 70th Legislature on Hazing, extracts of which can be found in Student Guidelines.

Student Government Association. The Student Government Association exists for the sole purpose of serving the student community. It is the political voice and liaison for the student body. The University recognizes the need and worthwhile contribution of student input in all facets of the University decision-making processes. The Student Government Association has long been active in this regard and has worked for the betterment of student life and academic quality. The student body participates in the development and management of a well-rounded program of student activities by electing the Student Government Association officers and Student Senators. Each college within the University elects its representatives, the number being determined by the percentage of students majoring in the academic departments within the academic college. Open meetings are conducted each Tuesday night. Students are encouraged to participate in their student government. Copies of the Student Government Association constitution and other information may be obtained from the Student Government Association office, which is located in the Lowman Student Center Suite #326. Please call (936) 294-1938 for additional information.

Health Center

The Student Health Center, located at the corner of Avenue J and Bearkat Boulevard, provides comprehensive routine health services and education to all currently enrolled students. The Health Center is open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Patients may schedule appointments in person, or by phone up to one day in advance. The Health Center is equipped with an in-house pharmacy and laboratory providing convenient and affordable access to routine healthcare services. The cost of office visits are covered by the Medical Service Fee paid at the time of registration. Modest fees are charged for laboratory tests, prescription drugs and certain procedures. These charges are due when services are rendered. However, all of these charges are at discount rates that are often below market value. In addition to medical services, the Health Center offers health education, prevention programs, and general health information. Students with questions about any health issue are encouraged to contact the Health Center. In the case of on-campus medical emergencies, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) should be called (911). Persons experiencing a serious or potentially life threatening medical condition should seek medical attention at Huntsville Memorial Hospital. Information regarding student health insurance is available through the Health Center. The student policy is mandatory for international students unless clear proof of equivalent insurance coverage is provided. Please visit the Health Center’s website at https://www.shsu.edu/healthcenter or call (936) 294-1805 for more information.

International Programs

The Office of International Programs (OIP) promotes, fosters, encourages, and coordinates international activities at Sam Houston State University, including the recruitment and retention of international students and study and travel abroad of SHSU faculty and students. A primary contact for international students at the University, the staff provides assistance and information to international visitors and also publishes a newsletter informing students and faculty of grant opportunities, deadlines, and events of special interest.

Active in the recruitment of international students to the University, the OIP staff handles immigration procedures for international students. OIP staff also provides various support services for international students, i.e. transportation, cultural and social field trips, campus and community activities, and receptions. Sam Houston State University offers opportunities for study on exchange programs and faculty-led programs, including but not limited to Italy, France, England, Mexico, Ireland, China, Spain, and Poland. In addition, the University is a member of the Texas Consortium for Study Abroad, which has an agreement with the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS). Students at the University can participate in any study abroad program organized by AIFS. Visit or call the Office of International Programs in Farrington Building; telephone (936) 294-3892. Information is available at the website https://www.shsu.edu/oip. Mail address: International Programs, Box 2150, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX 77341-2150.

Texas International Education Consortium, Inc. Sam Houston State University is a member of the Texas International Education Consortium, Inc. (TIEC), a nonprofit organization which coordinates joint international educational activities in Texas for public institutions of higher education and engages in the separate and joint pursuit of international educational exchange. TIEC also assists institutions of higher education in Texas in building improved international education programs for students, faculty, visitors, and participants of other nations.

Lowman Student Center & Student Activities

The Lowman Student Center (LSC) offers a facility where students can connect with other students and the University through meeting rooms, food courts with computer labs, the bookstore, the art gallery, and a state of the art game room. The Department of Student Activities, located within the LSC, plans events and programs designed to enhance students’ extracurricular development. From special events like Welcome Week, Homecoming, and various leadership programs, there is something for everyone. Students may consider joining one or more of the 190 organizations at Sam Houston State University. By getting involved and connected, students may gain the opportunity to meet other students with similar interests, make new friends, gain valuable leadership experiences, and make better grades.

For additional information, contact the Lowman Student Center staff at (936)294-1759 or the Student Activities staff at (936)294-3861. Visit our website at https://www.shsu.edu/lsc or https://www.shsu.edu/studentactivities.

Multicultural Programs. In order to provide the Sam Houston State University community with diverse cultural experiences, the Multicultural/International Student Services Office coordinates the programming for Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage, and International Student Programs. The specific purpose of these programs is to: (1) promote cultural awareness in the University community, (2) enhance and cultivate leadership, social and academic skills through participation in cultural programs, (3) assist in the retention and graduation of students of color, (4) provide a vehicle by which culturally diverse students can share ideas and talents through a variety of workshops and presentations, and (5) facilitate individual experiences so they explore, identify and evaluate their beliefs and values.

Memorial Museum, Sam Houston

The Sam Houston Memorial Museum, established in 1936 as a Texas centennial project, is an integral part of Sam Houston State University and is dedicated to preserving the memory of General Sam Houston (1793-1863). A soldier, statesman and politician, the only man to serve as governor of two states and president of an independent republic, Sam Houston led the fight for Texas’ independence and then served Texas as President, U.S. Senator, and Governor. Located on fifteen acres, the museum complex preserves three fully furnished original Houston buildings – Woodland Home, Steamboat House, and Law Office – as well as a kitchen, blacksmith shop and other exhibit structures. The Memorial Museum Building houses the major collection of Houston memorabilia and exhibits. The Katy & E. Don Walker, Sr. Education Center is named for a distinguished alumnus of Sam Houston State University and his wife, and provides auditorium, classroom and meeting spaces, as well as a gallery for traveling exhibits and ‘Wigwam Neosho’ – the museum store and gift shop. The museum offers many educational opportunities for Sam Houston State University students. These include semester-length internships, part-time student employment, tours, and research and writing programs using archives, manuscripts and artifacts. The Sam Houston Memorial Museum is accredited by the American Association of Museums. Accreditation certifies that a museum operates according to standards set forth by the museum profession, manages its collections responsibly and provides quality services of museum visitors. The museum complex is located at the corner of Sam Houston Avenue and 19th Street, and can be reached by calling (936) 294-1832; or by visiting the website at https://www.shsu.edu/~smm_www/.

Press & Copy Center, Sam Houston

Sam Houston Press & Copy Center is the University’s in-house printing and copying facility. It provides year-round service for students, faculty, and staff of Sam Houston State University. Copying, binding, fax services, and printing services are offered to students and student organizations. Sam Houston Press & Copy Center is located on the first floor of the Thomason Building. The facility is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For information or to arrange an appointment for placing an order, call (936) 294-1856.

Public Safety Services, University Police, and Safety Office

University Police. University Police Officers are licensed peace officers as defined under the laws of the State of Texas and thereby have the authority as peace officers. Their primary jurisdiction, under H.B. 391, includes all counties in which property is owned, leased, rented, or otherwise under the control of Sam Houston State University.

The University Police Officers subscribe to the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics, a portion of which reads, “As a law enforcement officer, my fundamental duty is to serve mankind; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against deception, the weak against oppression or intimidation, and the peaceful against violence or disorder; and to respect the Constitutional rights of all citizens to liberty, equality, and justice.” In this endeavor, the University Police earnestly solicit the support of the faculty/staff and students. Many officers are students thus providing a balance within Public Safety Services from a student’s perspective.

In addition to University regulations, all the general and criminal laws of the State and the United States are declared to be in full force and effect within the properties of Sam Houston State University. All persons are responsible for compliance with these laws.

All thefts, vehicle accidents, or other offenses that occur on campus should be reported immediately to the University Police. The University Police Building is located at 2424 Sam Houston Avenue (Sam South Complex) — Telephone Number (936) 294-1794. Police Officers are on duty 24 hours every day. The Business Office hours are 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday - Friday. Visit the website at https://www.shsu.edu/~upd_www/.

Campus Safety. Sam Houston State University offers a variety of services to promote a safe campus environment. The campus is equipped with emergency call boxes stationed at strategic locations throughout the campus to include parking lots, walkways, and residence halls. Additionally, the University Police provide staff to escort students not wishing to walk alone at night to and from campus buildings and parking lots. Students wishing to learn more about personal safety and self defense may take advantage of programs offered by the University Police Department. For more information, call (936) 294-1794.

Parking Permits. Students, full or part-time, who operate or expect to operate a motor vehicle, motor cycle, or motor assisted cycle on University property, regularly or occasionally, are REQUIRED to register the vehicle with the Department of Public Safety Services and obtain a parking decal assigning a designated color area for parking. The University reserves the right to require proof of ownership of the vehicle being registered. Parking and Traffic Regulations and Information governing the operation of motor vehicles is issued with each parking permit and is available in administrative offices. Failure to read the regulations is not an excuse for failure to comply with the regulations.

Safety Office. The University Safety Office is responsible for administering safety programs designed to assure a safe and healthful campus environment for all students, faculty, and staff. These programs include fire, health, and occupational safety, as well as safety audits and investigations of any unsafe conditions or safety hazards reported within the campus community. Any person noting a safety hazard on the University campus is urged to report the condition to the Safety Coordinator as soon as possible, telephone (936) 294-1921. The Safety Office is located in the Sam South Complex, Building B, 2424 Sam Houston Avenue.

Recreational Sports and Activities Program

The Department of Recreational Sports and Activities offers broad-based recreational programming in the areas of Intramural Sports, Open Recreation, Aquatics, Club Sports, Outdoor Recreation, Wellness, and Special Events. Facilities managed by the Department of Recreational Sports and Activities include the Health and Kinesiology Center (which houses four basketball courts, two multi-purpose rooms, 1/8-mile indoor running track, ten racquetball courts, weight room, and courts for badminton, volleyball, and pickleball). The Recreation Addition includes a 34’ climbing wall, boulder, a 10,000 square foot. weight room, and an outdoor heated swimming pool. Additional facilities include eight outdoor tennis courts, two outdoor sand volleyball courts, Bernard G. Johnson Coliseum, a 345 acre university campsite, and three athletic fields used for Intramurals. In addition, the department is responsible for the Pritchett Field Complex which includes two athletic fields and an outdoor running track.

The Intramural program offers a variety of team, dual, and individual sports. Offering leagues for those with a competitive motivation and a recreational league, the Intramural Program is comprised of three divisions — men’s, women’s, and co-recreational. The Informal Recreational program is designed to offer opportunities in self-directed recreational pursuits. Informal “free play” is an ideal alternative for those not interested in team affiliation, nor the commitment needed for club sports. The Outdoor Recreation program offers an extensive outdoor recreation rental program (tents, canoes, etc.) and the trip program (backpacking the Big Bend or skiing in Colorado are examples). The Club Sports program accommodates individuals who have an interest in competitive sports such as soccer, volleyball, and rugby. The Wellness Program offers a wide variety of interactive programs promoting a positive personal lifestyle. The department also offers special events such as concerts, sports trivia bowl competition, and fun days.

The department also provides numerous employment opportunities for students who are interested in part-time work. Over 400 student positions are filled annually in the areas of intramural officiating, facility supervision, aquatics, and special events assistants.

The informal relationships which are established through involvement in sport and recreational activities are an integral part of a student’s life. The Department of Recreational Sports and Activities invites students to become active participants in one or more of the various forms of leisure time activities available. For information pertaining to any of these Recreational Sports activities, stop by the administrative offices located on the first floor of the Health and Kinesiology Center, call (936) 294-1985 or visit the Recreational Sports and Activities website at https://www.shsu.edu/recsports.

Residence Life

Residence Halls. The Department of Residence Life operates about thirty residence halls or housing units, including an apartment complex for upperclassmen. A housing brochure will be sent to the student once (s)he has been accepted to SHSU. This brochure provides many details of the residence life program at Sam Houston State University, including information regarding specific residence halls, applicable rates, and some policies. The student may also visit the Residence Life website at https://www.shsu.edu/~hou_www/, or call us at (936) 294-1812.

A person may not live in University housing unless enrolled in classes at SHSU for each particular semester.

Application for housing may be made via the website once the student has been accepted to SHSU, or may be filed in person, by mail, or by fax. A deposit of $200 is required with the application for housing. Assignments are made on a space-available basis according to the date of deposit. Prior to the beginning of a semester, the student will be mailed a residence hall or apartment assignment, the appropriate arrival and check-in hours, and other pertinent information. The housing contract will be in effect and must be adhered to for the full academic year.

Should a student become unable to fulfill a reservation, a refund may be made under certain conditions. Please refer to the Housing Application/Contract for specific details regarding refunds which are determined by the date the cancellation is received.

The student may pay for housing in full at registration or in an installment arrangement. Payment of rent and/or deposit may be made with MasterCard or VISA, if desired. A late fee of $10 is charged on all payments received after established deadlines. Information on specific dates of payments and amounts due may be obtained from the Department of Residence Life.

University residence halls are closed during the Thanksgiving holiday, academic breaks between semesters, and during spring recess. The student may stay in the residence hall during these periods, if approved, for a separate fee unless the buildings are closed for maintenance or renovation.

Bearkat Village Apartments. The University maintains two-bedroom, fully furnished apartments for upperclassmen. The apartments are located on Montgomery Road across from Bowers Stadium. All residents must be enrolled in the University.

First-year Students Required Housing And Meal Plan Policy. All students who have graduated from high school within the current or previous calendar year are required to reside in University housing and to purchase a meal plan for their freshman year, which will normally include the fall and spring semesters. For example, a December 2005 high school graduate would be required to live on campus the Spring 2006 semester, as well as the entire 2006-2007 academic year. Anyone signing an academic year housing/meal plan contract will be required to fulfill the terms of that contract. Exceptions to the Freshman Required Housing and Meal Plan Policy may be made by the Department of Residence Life if:

  1. Residence in University housing will impose a significant hardship, financial or otherwise; or
  2. the student is married and living with his/her spouse; or
  3. the student commutes from the home of his/her parents, grandparents, or a brother or sister; or
  4. the student graduated from high school at least one year prior to attending Sam Houston State University; or
  5. the student is a veteran of military service.

The student must provide documented evidence to warrant consideration for a waiver of this requirement. A denial of this request may be appealed to the Assistant Director of Residence Life.

Charges for both services will be added to the student’s account until approval for the waiver is obtained. Any student that does not comply with the above policy will be subject to disciplinary action as specified by the Code of Student Conduct as published in Student Guidelines.

Dining Service. Four meal plans are currently available. All required first-year students must choose between the 20, 15 or “any 160” meal plans. The 5 meal plan is designed for and restricted to upperclassmen living on or off campus. The 20, 15 or 5 meal plans offer the given number of meals per week (Monday through Sunday). The fourth option provides for “any 160” meals during the semester. Students who purchase the 5, 20, or “any 160” meal plans receive 100“Bonus Points” toward the Bearkat Express. Students who purchase the 15 meal plan will receive 155 “Bonus Points” toward the Bearkat Express. The Bearkat Express is a declining balance account in which a minimum of $25 is deposited and the cash price of food purchases is deducted from the balance. Bearkat Express funds are nonrefundable. Bearkat Express is welcome at any ARAMARK managed campus dining facility. Rates and additional information are available from the Department of Residence Life.

Summer Housing. The buildings that are open for summer school housing vary from year to year because of renovation and maintenance schedules. Rooms in residence halls and Bearkat Village apartments are usually open for summer school students. Assignments are made according to date of deposit.

Student Services, Division of

The role of the Division of Student Services is to complement the total educational mission of the University by providing opportunities for students to develop and grow in an academic environment. This is accomplished by offering quality programs and emphasizes the holistic approach in co-curriculum involvement. Studies indicate that learning occurs in an environment conducive to social, recreational, educational, and intellectual interaction. A variety of student service programs are designed to foster such interaction with students, faculty, staff, and the University community. The goal of the division is to contribute to the learning experiences of SHSU students, helping them to become educated, enlightened, and empowered in ways that they can achieve and contribute as productive citizens in their college, community, and country.

The Office of the Vice President for Student Services provides administrative leadership, supervision, and coordination for the Division of Student Services. The division includes the following departments: Bearkat OneCard Services, Counseling and Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD); Dean of Students’ Office; Health Services; Lowman Student Center; Student Activities; Recreational Sports and Activities; and Students’ Legal and Mediation Services. For more information, visit the website at https://www.shsu.edu/vpss.

Students’ Legal And Mediation Services

The Students’ Legal Services office is located in the Counseling Center (North Annex of the Lee Drain Building). The Student’s Legal Advisor has scheduled hours that allow students with various schedules to easily obtain an appointment by calling (936) 294-1717 . Brochures concerning specific legal issues are also available for registered students as well as a CD-Rom discussing the legal aspects of the most common student legal problems.

The advisor often helps students with legal problems by guiding them through self-help procedures and providing written materials concerning their legal issues. By guiding the student through the procedures required in administrative and judicial proceedings, it is anticipated that the student will be able to effectively deal with these problems currently and in the future. However, when the problem is of such a nature that legal representation is immediately needed, referral to several practicing attorneys in that area of law is made.

Students’ Legal Services also offers mediation services with a trained neutral third party (a qualified mediator) who facilitates an agreement between the parties.

All matters between the Students’ Legal Advisor and the student are confidential. Some areas of student concern are landlord/tenant issues, consumer protection, insurance, crime, family law, traffic tickets, automobile accidents, and employee rights.

Visitor Center

The Sam Houston State University Visitor Center is the welcoming point of the University. Visitors are encouraged to register at the Center upon arrival to campus to ensure the maximum benefit of their visit. Buses are welcome and easily accommodated. Please contact the Center to:

  • Schedule a tour of the campus
  • Obtain departmental brochures to assist in educational planning
  • Register for Saturdays@Sam Campus Preview Day

The Visitor Center, located at the Bowers Boulevard entrance to campus is housed with the Office of Alumni Relations. Visitors can enjoy showcased SHSU alumni success stories, university history, and view the university’s “story” on video in the new state-of-the-art theater.

Saturdays@Sam campus preview days are held in the fall and spring of each year for prospective students, parents, and guests. For more information, please contact the Visitor Center at 936.294.1844 or visit https://www.shsu.edu/visitor.