Student Services

Dean of Students

The academic success of individual students is the primary concern of the Dean of Students Office. Different programs address the unique needs of freshmen and transfer students. The Dean, Assistant Deans, and the office staff offer problem solving services to all students with questions or concerns that may affect their campus life.

Students who need information about campus services and policies will find helpful answers at the office located in room 252 of the University Center. University policy interpretation, student behavior code, and code enforcement through university judicial procedures are also responsibilities of the Dean of Students Office.

For additional information or copies of the Student Handbook, a guide to university policies, facilities, and services, call 832-842-6183.

Student Information and Assistance Center

The Student Information and Assistance Center (SIAC) provides information on a variety of campus-related services and activities and serves as a drop-off, delivery, and distribution point for many UH departmental forms and documents. SIAC is funded by student service fees and during fall and spring is open:

• Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

For more information or assistance call 832-842-6255.

Student Responsibilities

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a mature and responsible manner, respect the opinions, rights, and personal property of others, and meet their financial obligations.

Specific policies regarding student life and academic honesty are available in the Dean of Students Office located in the University Center. These policies are published in the Student Handbook available through the Dean of Students Office or at www.uh.edu/dos/hdbk/.

Professors are responsible for the initial enforcement of academic honesty policies, but the responsibility for enforcing student life policies rests with the Dean of Students, the campus police, and the University Hearing Board.

Disciplinary records are confidential and are not released to anyone off campus without the students’ written permission unless subpoenaed.

See the Academic Regulations  and Degree Requirements  section for more information on student responsibilities.

Identification Cards

Persons on the premises of the University of Houston or utilizing its services may be required to furnish proof of identity when requested. Students are required to obtain and show proof of a valid university ID card and present it upon request of a university official.

Student Government Association

The Student Government Association (SGA) is the university’s student government and official student representative organization. The SGA works to improve the quality of education and campus life and participates in policy-making decisions by recommending students to sit on various university committees, councils, and boards, and by representing the interests of students to the faculty, administration, and Board of Regents.

These and other functions are carried out through the SGA’s three-branch structure, which includes the Student Senate; the student body president, vice president, and staff; and judicial.

All students benefit from the work of the Student Government Association, and those who choose to become directly involved are provided with learning experiences not gained through classroom instruction.

Students who wish to serve in the Student Government Association or communicate with their student representatives should call the Student Government Association offices at 713-743-5220. The Student Government Association is funded by student service fees. For more information contact www.uh.edu/sga.

Student Organizations

The Center for Fraternity & Sorority Life (CFSL) works to provide advisement, support, and guidance to the 47 fraternities and sororities and 5 governing councils on campus. Through close collaboration with students, the mission of CFSL is to empower the growth of high achievers and values-based leaders by providing a measurable meaningful, and transformative fraternity & sorority experience. With a commitment to individual student development, the Center creates opportunities for lifelong relationships, innovative thinking, civic engagement, and overall student success.

Location: 267 University Center
Phone: (832) 842-4955
www.uh.edu/cfsl

The Center for Student Involvement (CSI) provides services for Registered Student Organizations, offers advising and training for students leading organizations, connects students with opportunities to be involved on campus, and supports may Fee Funded Organizations at the University of Houston. There are more than 540 student organizations at the University of Houston. There are organizations based on campus traditions, student interests and hobbies, social fraternities and sororities, honors organizations, and major academic focused organizations. There is something for everyone, and if you don’t find an organization that fits your needs, start one.

Location: 278 University Center (top floor)
Phone: (832) 842-6245
www.uh.edu/csi

Student Programming

While all student organizations sponsor programs open to the campus community, the Student Program Board is specifically charged and financed to organize a variety of all-campus programs throughout the year.

Students may elect to join the Student Program Board and work on any number of events, such as:

• fine arts programs
• movies
• concerts
• speaker series
• and a variety of special events.

For information on how to join, call the Student Program Board, 713-743-5210, or visit www.uh.edu/spb.

Music, Art, and Theatre

There are 16 opportunities for music majors and nonmajors to participate in some aspect of musical performance. Included are: the Moores Opera Center

• Symphony Orchestra
• Marching Band
• Wind Ensemble
• Concert Chorale
• University Chorus
• New Music Ensemble
• Collegium Musicum
• Jazz Ensemble
• Chamber Music groups
• Cougar Brass

The School of Theatre and Dance also sponsors several important productions each year; participation in all capacities is open to every student through audition. Art and architectural exhibits, student recitals, the Forensic Club, and films also contribute to the cultural development of the members of the college community.

Music performances are offered throughout the city, theatres abound, and exhibits are often presented in many small galleries. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Contemporary Arts Museum contribute to Houston’s growing reputation as one of the dynamic art centers in the United States.

Religious Activities

The A.D. Bruce Religion Center is the focal point for many on-campus religious and spiritual activities. It is a bustling center of many ongoing educational programs and activities focusing on religious issues with an emphasis on Interfaith Dialogue. The Religion Center offers a place for both quiet meditation and spiritual growth. Additionally, it provides office space and facilities for eleven charter campus ministries. Students, faculty, and staff often use the center for programs, meetings, and other important special occasions.

Student Publications

Student Publications at the University of Houston belongs to everyone in the Houston community, student body, alumni, faculty, and staff. That is why UH publishes reports, studies, and accounts of the events, accomplishments and contributions that capture what it means to have Cougar Pride. Student Publications also know as Student Media, serves as the supporting center for The Daily Cougar, Transitions Magazine, The Student Video Network, and COOG Radio.
Location: Room 7, UC Satellite

Phone: 713-743-5350

Campus Recreation

The Department of Campus Recreation provides sports, fitness, recreation, and other wellness related activities on campus for students, alumni, faculty, and staff.

Participation in Campus Recreation activities provides an outlet for students, faculty, and staff to clear their mind, stay in shape, and recharge their spirit. The UH Department of Campus Recreation has many activities to choose from.

Intramural Sports provide an opportunity for students to participate in over 26 different competitive activities. Events for men, women, and coed competition are available.

Sport Clubs offer students the opportunity to compete in various sports activities at local, regional, and national levels. Limited funding is available to help cover equipment, uniform, and travel expenses.

Group Exercise classes include aerobics, yoga, cycling, dance, and much more. Personal training and fitness assessments are offered for a minimal fee.

Outdoor Adventure offers indoor climbing, equipment rental, group facilitation, and organized outdoor trips.

Personal training and physical assessments are available services.

Aquatics and Safety offer various learn-to-swim programs as well as First Aid/CPR certification. Lifeguard Training, SCUBA certification, and various trips are also offered.

The Campus Recreation and Wellness Center (CRWC) is located on the corner of University Drive and Calhoun Street. This 264,000 square foot facility features:

• up to five basketball courts, six volleyball courts, eight badminton courts, and an indoor multi activity court,
• 24,000 square feet of fitness equipment,
• a 52 foot high climbing wall,
• six racquetball and two squash courts,
• a 70 meter indoor competition pool with diving facilities, whirlpool, and dry sauna,
• an outdoor leisure pool with Jacuzzi, slide, and sand volleyball court,
• an outdoor equipment rental shop,
• six multi-purpose rooms,
• two class/meeting rooms,
• a large and small conference room,
• locker rooms with over 2,400 lockers available for rental,
• over 500 day lockers available for free while in the facility,
• a convenience food store and Smoothie King,
• a combat/martial arts room,
• a short term/drop off child care center, and
• areas to socialize and lounge in the rotunda.

During the academic semesters the facility is open over 100 hours a week. Reduced hours are offered during semester breaks and university holidays.

For more information stop by the CRWC Welcome Desk on the first floor or call 713-743-PLAY.

To reach the department administrative offices stop by Room 2000 in the CRWC or call 713-743-9500.

Visit our Web site at www.uh.edu/recreation for more detailed information on hours, programs, and services.

See also: UH Wellness (LAS) information.

Student Housing and Residential Life

On-Campus Living

The University of Houston offers a full range of housing options for undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.

Campus housing is managed as an integral part of a student’s education experience. It is conveniently located and offers many amenities that complement a busy schedule. Residence Halls Service Agreements are available for the academic year, spring only, and summer time periods. Assignments are made based on availability of request, and placement is finalized based on date the completed agreement and initial payment is received.

Cougar Village, the university’s newest freshman community, offers unique themed housing to over 1,100 residents to jumpstart their college experience. Freshman can live among others that share their interests, with themes including business, engineering & technology, communication, and honors floors. Residents will also have a role model and advocate close by to support their academic development with our Faculty-in-Residence program.

Moody Towers, frequently called “The Towers,” is one of the tallest complexes on campus standing 18 stories high. Built in 1972, the Towers were named after Libbie Sheam Moody, wife of a famous Galveston financier. It is home to over 1,000 UH students. Two Faculty-in-Residence members also reside in each tower to offer support to the residents. Right downstairs is The Fresh Food Company Dining Hall with Executive Chef David Romines and his staff whipping up delicious meals daily for UH students.

Approximately 800 sophomore and upperclassmen call the Quadrangle home. The Quadrangle, commonly called the “Quad,” consists of five coed halls: Bates, Law, Oberholtzer, Settegast and Taub. Residents live in coed floors with suites arranged by gender. Living at the Quad gives students quick access to our newest residential dining hall, a convenience store, WiFi, computer labs, laundry facilities and even a courtyard with grills to hang out with friends. A Faculty-In-Residence member is also available to offer their academic support.

UH’s newest residential facility, Calhoun Lofts, offers graduate and professional students a simple yet glamorous loft to call home right on campus. Students can choose from efficiency, one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartments, all with ten-foot ceilings, exposed concrete walls and floors, and granite countertops. Residents will find comfortable rooms with modern appliances, cable television and a Cougar Xpress mini-market available right downstairs for quick groceries. Plus Calhoun Lofts, home to over 900 residents, comes with everything anyone could want in a living space: theatre room, private courtyards, study rooms, computer lab, workout equipment, Sky Terrace, Wi-Fi, and a special events kitchen. The attention to design details is breathtaking. Simply standing in the building evokes a strong sense of Cougar pride.

Cambridge Oaks provides stylish apartments, a great range of community events, a supportive environment and a diverse community of potential friends, conveniently located on-campus at the University of Houston. Cambridge Oaks offers a unique combination of independent, self-catered living, with the exciting atmosphere of a vibrant student community and is managed by global student accommodation specialists, Campus Living Villages (CLV). Furniture rental is available and each unit is individually metered for utilities. Students have the option to cook in their kitchen and/or participate in any of the campus meal plans.

Cullen Oaks, located on Cullen between Wheeler and Macgregor, is a partnership between the university and American Campus Communities. Cullen Oaks offers a variety of living plans that ensures each student has a private bedroom in a fully furnished apartment. A utilities package is included as part of the rent, while an additional package is available that includes Ethernet, phone, and cable. Computer rooms, TV lounges, and laundry facilities are located conveniently throughout the complex. The complex has parking and the university provides a shuttle service frequently throughout the day.

Bayou Oaks, located on Calhoun, is a partnership between the university and the American Campus Communities. The 486-bed facility is divided between the townhouse designed for the Greek fraternities and sororities, and the apartments much like Cullen Oaks.

Commuters may also elect to join any of the university’s convenient meal plans. The plans eliminate the need to carry cash and offer the flexibility to eat anywhere on campus.

For more information about Residential Life & Housing, contact:

Hours of Operation: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. central standard time

Note: Admission acceptance does not guarantee housing.

Student Health

Health Center

The Health Center offers primary care and medical specialty services to UH students. We provide affordable and accessible medical care and pharmacy services. The Health Center is staffed by board certified physicians, nurse practitioners, RNs, LVNs, medical assistants, registered pharmacists and helpful administrative personnel.

Our staff is ready to provide care for acute and chronic illnesses and minor trauma. The General Medicine clinic functions on a walk-in basis. Our speciality clinics in Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Psychiatry, Dermatology and Orthopedics are on an appointment schedule and available only to currently enrolled UH students.

We are pleased to announce the addition of on-site dental services. All preventative dentistry along with general and other major dental procedures are now available at the Health Center. Call now to schedule your exam at 713-227-6453.

Your health is important to us. Keeping healthy is an important step you can take toward success as you pursue your studies or career at the University of Houston. Please explore our website to learn more about our Health Center at www.uh.edu/admin/hc.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency and are on campus, call the UH Police at 713-743-3333. If you are anywhere else, call 911. For after hours non-emergent medical issues, please refer to our website for after hours care and advice at: http://www.uh.edu/admin/hc/.

Student Health Insurance

The University of Houston offers a student health insurance plan at a reasonable rate. Students may enroll at both the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. Spring enrollment includes summer coverage. Student insurance is available as an option for U.S. students carrying 6 or more credit hours (3 credit hours for summer). Insurance may be obtained by going to the Student Financial Optional fee section of your myUH (PeopleSoft) student account.

Annual, Summer only, Optional Major Medical and Optional Dental coverage are not available on the student fee bill. Enrollment forms must be completed and mailed directly to the insurance company or online at www.macori.com/uh.

Student health insurance is mandatory for international students and is automatically added to the fee bill each fall, spring and summer semester. If an international student with acceptable alternate health insurance coverage wishes to waive the UH student insurance, he or she may do so online at www.uh.edu/admin/hc prior to the deadline shown below. Waiver requests will be accepted only online. No other department is authorized to remove this charge.

The deadline for adding or waiving student health insurance for each fall, spring and summer semester is the Official Reporting Day (ORD) as posted on the academic calendar. This deadline applies to both International and U.S. students. For questions, please go to www.uh.edu/admin/hc or call the Health Center’s Student Health Insurance Office at 713-743-5137.

Speech, Language, and Hearing Clinic

Diagnostic evaluations and treatment for various types of speech, language, and hearing problems are available to students and others in the Houston area.

Services are provided by graduate clinicians under the direct supervision of faculty and staff certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Discounted fees are offered to UH faculty, staff, students, and their dependents.

The clinic is located in the Clinical Research and Services Building, Cullen Boulevard, Entrance 8, and services may be scheduled by calling 713-743-2898.

College of Optometry Clinics

Vision care services are provided on a fee-for-service basis to the faculty, staff, and students of the entire University of Houston System and the general public. Special reduced fees are available to eligible faculty, staff and all full-time students.

Vision care services include:

• primary vision care
• contact lenses
• vision therapy
• diagnostic and therapeutic medical eye services
• vision rehabilitation
• and pediatric optometry, including visual assessment of infants.

An optical service is available to fill optical prescriptions.

Optometry students perform services under the direct supervision of faculty members.

The University Eye Institute is at 505 J. Davis Armistead Building, Entrance 2. The clinic provides services on an appointment basis.

For appointments and additional information, call 713-743-2020.

Psychological Research and Services Center

The UH-PRSC offers psychological services to University of Houston staff and students, as well as to the general public. The center is staffed by clinical psychology doctoral students and faculty from the Department of Psychology. The UH-PRSC is a training facility offering treatment for:

• anxiety
• panic
• depression
• personality disorders
• sexual dysfunction
• anger management
• as well as adjustment problems related to sexual abuse, marital discord, divorce, and general life difficulties.

Individual, couple, family, and group treatment approaches are included with emphasis on evidence based psychotherapeutic procedures.

In addition to treatment, the UH-PRSC provides psychological assessment of intellectual, developmental, and personality functions. These services are available to adults, adolescents, and children. Fees for assessment as well as therapy services are based on a sliding scale, thus adjusted for by the client’s ability to pay.

There are also several active research projects working out of the UHPRSC, providing services to the community and working to extend the knowledge base in certain areas of clinical psychology. Among the areas currently studied by active UH-PRSC research teams are Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in children and adolescents, the effect of marital conflict on children, marital discord/domestic violence, depression, anxiety disorders, serious mental illness and community violence. Lastly, UH-PRSC offers Forensic Psychology Services for cases involving family, civil and criminal law.

The UH-PRSC is located in the Clinical Research Services (CRS) Building on Cullen Boulevard, entrance 8. To obtain more information regarding UH-PRSC research projects, please call 713-743-8600.

To make an appointment for clinic services please call 713-743-8609.

Information about Forensic Psychology Services please call 713-743-8615.

University Career Services

University Career Services (UCS) offers a wide variety of career-related services and resources to assist UH students and alumni to develop, evaluate, and implement their career plans. Services include:

• Career Counseling
• On-Campus Recruiting
• Vocational Assessment
• Internship Services
• College Work-Study Program Job Postings
• Career Workshops
• University Career Advisory Network (UCAN)
• Career Fairs
• Alumni Career Services

Career counselors help students:

• Clarify vocational interests, personality preferences, and workplace values
• Select an academic major and formulate career goals
• Search for internships
• Research career fields, industries, and employers
• Develop professional resumes and cover letters
• Practice interview techniques
• Work a career fair and network professionally
• Plan and implement an effective job search
• Craft personal statements for graduate school applicants

To complement the aforementioned services, UCS provides online tools and resources, including ResumeBank, JOBank, JobSCAN, Career Planning Handouts, On-Campus Interview Scheduling, Credential Files, Salary Information, Event Calendar, Newsletters, and Links to helpful websites.

ResumeBank, an online resume database, effectively matches students’ career interests with employers’ hiring needs. It also allows employers to access and search the resume database. Students may upload up to four different, customized resumes to ResumeBank.

Students may search for job postings in our two databases: JOBank and JobScan - JOBank provides automatic e-mail notification to students about job openings and enables students to apply for jobs online.

Available jobs include part-time and full-time, on-campus and off-campus, internship, and career-level positions. New job listings are received daily.

USC offers several career planning handouts on topics such as choosing a major, resume writing, interview skills, internships, information interviewing and networking, job search strategies, how to work a career fair, on-campus employment, searching and applying to graduate school, etc.

UCS coordinates more than 150 corporate recruitment visits to the campus each year, enabling students to interview with representatives from local, national, and multi-national firms.

UH students are welcome to visit University Career Services during walk in hours or to contact us by e-mail or telephone to schedule an appointment with a career counselor. Please see the Events Calendar on the UCS website for information about workshops, career fairs, and other events, and be sure to connect with UCS on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn!

Walk In Office Hours

Fall and Spring Semesters
9:00 am - 11:00 am & 2:00 pm - 6:30 pm, Monday and Tuesday
9:00 am - 11:00 am & 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Wednesday and Thursday

Summer Semester
9:00 am - 11:00 am & 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Monday through Thursday

University Career Services
University of Houston
106 Student Service Center I
Houston, Texas 77204-3040
Tel: 713/743-5100
Fax: 713/743-5111
www.career.uh.edu

Children’s Learning Centers

The University of Houston Children’s Learning Centers (CLC) has two convenient locations on campus. They are licensed by the state and nationally accredited by both the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

Their mission is “to provide exemplary early childhood education for the children of faculty, staff and students at the University of Houston, by offering a model program tailored to ensure the quality of a child’s daily experiences while building a foundation for future learning.” The centers are open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Morning and afternoon snacks are provided for children age one and older; part-time options are available for children age two and older. Lower fees are applicable for students, and child care tuition assistance is available for eligible student parents.

Location 1
Children’s Learning Centers 1
3859 Wheeler
Houston, TX. 77204-6016
Phone: (832) 842-0500

Location 2
Children’s Learning Centers 2
Cameron Building
4200 Wheeler
Houston, TX 77204-6016
Phone: (832) 842-0510
www.uh.edu/clc

Counseling and Psychological Services

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers a variety of services to students including Crisis Intervention, Individual, Couples and Group Counseling, Learning Disability and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessment, Personality Assessment, Career Exploration and Assessment and Outreach Services. CAPS staff consists of licensed psychologists, postdoctoral fellows and advanced graduate trainees in counseling and clinical psychology. Psychology ethics and state law require that these services be confidential except under unusual, well-defined circumstances. All currently enrolled students at the University of Houston are eligible for comprehensive services at CAPS, most of which are free. If you are interested in any of the counseling or assessment services, simply call CAPS at 713-743-5454 to arrange a free intake appointment. An intake appointment usually requires 90 minutes, including time to complete paperwork. Intakes are available throughout the week and can be scheduled at your convenience. The intake is an opportunity for you and a CAPS clinician to determine what kinds of services will best meet your needs. CAPS hours of operation are as follows:

Fall and Spring Semesters

Monday and Tuesday, 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Wednesday-Friday

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Summer Semesters

Monday-Friday

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

CAPS is located at 226 Student Service Center 1, you may also access more detailed information about our services on our website: www.caps.uh.edu.

Learning and Assessment Services (LAS)

The mission of LAS is to foster a vibrant, stimulating, and supportive learning environment to promote the success of UH students, the university, and the greater Houston community. LAS identifies needs, provides assessment and evaluation services, promotes outreach activities, and facilitates student learning. LAS common goal is superior service to promote student learning.

Learning and Assessment Services
713-743-5434 (phone)
210 Student Service Center
Web site: www.las.uh.edu

Learning Support Services

The mission of Learning Support Services (LSS) is to increase graduation rates by improving student academic performance and retention. LSS offers learning strategies counseling and workshops, tutoring, and collaborative programs to promote successful academic performance.

LSS Services (Provided at no cost to UH students) Tutoring:

Walk-in individual and group tutoring in a wide range of courses is offered. Students are encouraged to seek tutoring assistance as needed. Tutoring is available Monday through Sunday. A complete list of courses tutored and tutor availability can be found at www.las.uh.edu/LSS.

Learning Strategies Counseling:

LSS provides learning strategies counseling for individual students. This is by appointment and students can call 713-743-5411 to make an appointment to meet with a learning strategies counselor. The Learning Strategies counselors will discuss with students strategies for effective self-managment and development of learning strategies to optimize their student learning experiences.

Seminars and Workshops on Learning Strategies and academic success.

Learning Support Services offers workshops on a wide variety of topics each semester. Topics include Study Strategies for a Great Semester, Time-Management, Preparing for Exams, Boosting Memory, Reducing Test Anxiety, Overcoming Procrastination, and many more. Please visit our website at www.las.uh.edu/LSS for workshop information and registration.

Graduate Student Support:

LSS supports graduate and professional education with learning strategies counseling and workshops on such topics as the American Psychological Association writing style, scholarly writing, presentations, learning styles and time management.

Faculty Consultation:

• In-class modules to improve students’ learning strategies (e.g. test-taking strategies)
• Tutoring for students who are having difficulty with course content
• Learning strategies counseling to improve students’ classroom performance (including developing an individualized learning support plan for a student)
• Research assistance for students with this need
• Training of Tutors, TA’s, Teaching Staff

Certification:

The LSS tutoring program is certified by the National Association of Developmental Educators. Tutors are certified by the International College Reading and Learning Association.

Learning Support Services
713-743-5411
Room 109N Cougar Village
Web site: www.las.uh.edu/LSS

Challenger Program

The mission of the Challenger Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, is to provide support to students who either are first-generation college students, come from economically disadvantaged families, or have a physical disability.

The Challenger Program is designed to assist students in completing a post-secondary education at the University of Houston.

Services:

• Tutoring: Tutors are available to assist students in a wide range of academic subjects. Students are encouraged to seek tutoring assistance as needed.
• Counseling: Academic, career, and personal counseling is available on an individual or group basis.
• Academic Instruction: A Reading, Writing, and Study Skills college credit course is available to provide academic support and to enhance basic learning skills.
• Financial Aid Advising: Staff will help ensure that students’ are assisted with their financial needs.
• Financial Aid Assistance: Eligible participants may receive grant funding for their education.
• Social support and cultural enrichment: Supportive programs such as campus social gatherings and opportunities to attend cultural events are available.

Requirements for Admission:

Interested applicants must:

• be currently enrolled at UH,
• be faced with academic or financial obstacles, or have a disability, or come from a home where neither parent has earned a college degree,
• be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, be willing to attend a scheduled orientation prior to enrollment (registration),
• have a sincere desire to complete a degree program at UH, and apply to the Challenger Program.

Specific Benefits of the Challenger Program:

The Challenger Program offers an array of unique programs that are educationally and intellectually enriching. The program helps participants to develop a positive attitude toward academic and personal goals and to balance their lives as college students.

Certification: Tutors are certified by the International College Reading and Learning Association.

Challenger Program
713-743-5420
319 Student Service Center
www.las.uh.edu/CP

Urban Experience Program

The mission of the Urban Experience Program (UEP) is to provide support to students with exceptional life challenges.

UEP is designed to address the needs of the underrepresented student population and the changing dynamics of the American workforce. The program prepares students for the workforce by identifying ways for the students to combine educational opportunities with valuable internship experiences.

UEP promotes scholarships, community service, and personal and professional development. Mentorship and internship opportunities provide participants with an opportunity to improve their grades and earn a college degree.

Services:

• internships,
• community service,
• tutoring,
• mentoring,
• cultural enrichment activities,
• academic success workshops,
• career development activities, and personal development workshops.

Student Selection Criteria:

Participants are selected on the basis of their demonstrated or potential ability for campus leadership, community service, and academic achievement. The selection process includes consideration of the following: an application, an essay, an interview with both candidates and their parents or guardians, demonstrated financial need, and exceptional life challenges in pursuing higher education. Participants must be full-time, degree-seeking UH students who contractually agree to abide by the terms of the program and participate in all evaluation activities.

Urban Experience Program
713-743-6032
250G Oberholtzer Hall
www.las.uh.edu/UEP

Measurement and Evaluation Center

The mission of the Measurement and Evaluation Center (MEC) is to promote excellence through evaluative services. Services include administration of university faculty/course evaluations, design of research and survey methodologies, instrumentation, data analysis, program evaluation, exam scoring, and consultation for outcome assessment. www.las.uh.edu/MEC

Goals

• Provide consultation for program evaluation
• Evaluate customer satisfaction
• Support needs assessment endeavors
• Assist in data collection and analysis
• Provide state of the art scanning services

Services

• Research support, consultation for data collection, focus groups, interviews, and assistance in survey design and research
• Faculty support through course evaluation, exam scoring, and consultation
• Improved programming through outcome assessment, data analysis, and evaluation of goals and objectives

Faculty/Course Evaluation

MEC offers consultation and design of evaluation questionnaires. At the conclusion of each semester, MEC processes all course evaluations, generates individual faculty reports, and provides various statistical reports for colleges or departments. Online evaluation information is available at www.eval.uh.edu.

Exam Scoring

MEC scores most of the university-scheduled course examinations administered using scannable forms. The center can generate reports such as student score reports and item analyses according to the instructor’s specifications. Exams received by 2 p.m. are available for pick-up after 9 a.m. the following business day.

Electronic Gradebook

The electronic gradebook is helpful to professors who teach large classes. MEC merges test and quiz grades on the class roster and provides the gradebook to professors. Following each exam, professors receive an updated gradebook file and a list of non-matched students to aid in file clean-up.

Focus Groups

MEC provides trained focus group leaders for the university community and external entities. Staff can assist in developing the script and compile a report summarizing the findings.

Program Evaluation

MEC offers assessment and evaluation services to assist organizations in evaluating their goals, objectives, and performance outcomes.

Survey Research

MEC offers consultation with design and administration of survey research projects. MEC can assist with the development of customized scannable forms for all types of projects, as well as the administration of large-scale, university-wide and community surveys.

Accomplishments in Search of Excellence

Forms Scanned

MEC performs a large volume of scanning for various constituencies on and off campus. This includes scanning for academic, research, and administrative purposes, as well as for other university/community support.

Major Projects

MEC has coordinated the administration of a number of major surveys and focus group projects for the University of Houston and greater Houston communities.

Measurement and Evaluation Center
713-743-5440
206 Student Service Center
Web site: www.las.uh.edu/MEC

University Testing Services

The mission of University Testing Services (UTS) is to provide comprehensive testing and assessment services through administration of institutional, diagnostic, psychological, academic, and professional licensure examinations..

UTS offers institutional tests for prospective and enrolled students, including the Institutional SAT, Institutional TOEFL, Miller Analogies Test (MAT), SPEAK test, and the TExES Qualifier examination. www.las.uh.edu/UTS

Services:

• Admission and placement exams: to assess student level of mastery and placement in appropriate courses. Placement tests do not allow the student to receive credit unless otherwise specified. Tests offered include English, foreign language, math, and music placement tests.
• Computer-based testing: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and PRAXIS Series tests. Students may register on the Web or by telephone for all of these tests. Several language placement tests are offered on a daily basis.
• Credit by exam program: UTS offers Credit by Examination options enabling students to receive credit for prior learning. Credit is offered for Advanced Placement (AP) (offered only in High School), International Baccalaureate Program (IB), College Level Entrance Program (CLEP), Defense Activity for Nontraditional Education Support (DANTES), departmental credit, and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT II).
• Correspondence/distance education testing: Students attending other universities or institutions may have their examinations administered at UH. The tests may be in the traditional paper and pencil format or delivered on the web. Distance education tests may be faxed, E-mailed, or mailed to UTS.
• Course testing support: UTS administers makeup exams for faculty. Forms available at www.las.uh.edu/UTS.
• Administration of professional certification and licensing exams.
• Vocational, educational, and psychological batteries: These instruments help students identify their learning styles, vocational interests, and academic strengths and weaknesses. These assessments may also assist students in developing their academic, career, and personal goals.
• Test development and validation.
• Scholarly review of tests and materials.
• Consultation services for the following: credit by exam selection, placement test validation, consultation related to standardized testing, vocational, psychological, and educational batteries including testing to identify one’s learning style.

University Testing Services
713-743-5444
200 Student Service Center
Web site: www.las.uh.edu/UTS

UH Wellness

The mission of UH Wellness, a campus-wide education and prevention program, is to promote healthy choices and a healthier, safer learning environment.

Services:

Provide quality outreach programs, education, and support including:

• Certified Peer Education Program: specially educated UH students promote health and wellness among their peers on campus.
• A clearing house of information on health and wellness.
• Academic coursework: Social Health and Wellness course (three semester credit hours).
• Health and wellness workshops and psycho-educational support.
• Major campus programming and national wellness campaigns and events.
• Information and consultation to students, faculty , and staff.
• Electronic newsletters and Web based wellness services.
• The Houston-Galveston Consortium for Health and Wellness Promotion.

UH Wellness offers outreach and educational programs for the campus and community. It also provides referral information and resources on a wide range of health topics including stress management , alcohol, drugs, and sexual health. The department cosponsors large-scale prevention campaigns including Alcohol Awareness Month, the Texans’ War on Drugs, Red Ribbon Week, Safer Sex Awareness Week, Eating Disorders Awareness Day, the Great American Smokeout, and the Safe Spring Break Campaign. The department also involves student peer educators in the development and implementation of service learning projects.

The Peer Education Program offers students the opportunity to provide prevention and wellness education activities and workshops to their peers. Peer educators are trained in a three-credit hour course led by the UH Wellness program director. They may test to become certified peer educators upon course completion.

Certification:

The peer educators are certified through the National Bacchus and Gamma Peer Educator Program.

UH Wellness

Campus Recreation and Wellness Center and University Center
Suite 1038, Wellness Center
Room 35, University Center
713-743-5455
Web site: www.las.uh.edu/wc

See also: Campus Recreation and Wellness Center information.

Parent Education Project

The mission of the Parent Education Project (PEP) is to enhance the lives of at-risk children and families in the Greater Houston area.

PEP has been a successful grant-funded project of the University of Houston for over 30 years. It provides two programs: (1) Families CAN and (2 Family Based Alternatives Project.

Services:

Families CAN Program
713-743-5435

Families CAN is a parent-to-parent service for families of children (up to 18 years) who have physical/medical disabilities and/or chronic illness and who meet the Texas Department of Health’s definition of children with special health care needs. Families CAN provides casework services for more than 275 children and their families each year. Others are helped with information about available resources.

Caseworkers are themselves parents or family members of a child with special health care needs and understand the families’ struggles. Parents are educated, supported, and empowered regarding the process of obtaining resources for their child.

The program also offers a support group, resource information, a quarterly newsletter, a transition workgroup, and information about resources and enrichment activities for the children served by the program. Referrals to Families CAN may be made by the child’s family, school, or any service provider.

Family-based Alternatives/Every Child Project
713-743-5614

This project is a part of a statewide effort to create new opportunities for children with disabilities now living in institutional settings in Texas. The contract between EveryChild, Inc. and the University of Houston assists in developing a system of family-based alternatives for children and families in the southeast Texas area. Research confirms (1) that children with developmental disabilities do best in a home-based setting as long as the family is adequately supported with resources and (2) that enduring relationships are vital to healthy development. Financial resources are becoming more available for families. This project joins parents and certified community-based agencies to facilitate children’s return to their own family or to a qualified Support Family that shares in their upbringing, on either a full- or part-time basis. The Family-based Alternatives Project offers a new choice for families and a new life for children.

Funded by: a contract with EveryChild, Inc., Austin, from their contract with Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Internships and Student Placements:

The UH-PEP accepts a limited number of student placements in its programs. Its first commitment is to students of the University of Houston. Supervision is provided by the Project Director, Shelly Townsend.

Parent Education Project
713-743-5491
301 Student Service Center
Web site: www.las.uh.edu/PEP

International Student and Scholar Services

The International Student and Scholar Services Office provides counseling and advising for international students and scholars on issues related to government regulations and/or differences in customs and cultures. The office meets the university’s responsibility for compliance with U. S. Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Department of State regulations. The office verifies and completes letters, certificates, government documents, and forms for students who need to continue their stay at the university. All nonimmigrant visa students may apply to the International Student and Scholar Services Office for financial assistance through Texas Public Education Grant awards and scholarship programs. Each semester, the office staff plans and implements check-in services and a special orientation program. The office also provides opportunities for international students and scholars to establish a meaningful relationship with an American family, called an international friendship family.

For further information about International Student and Scholar Services, call 713-743-5065. The Web site is www.issso.uh.edu/.

Veterans’ Services Office (VSO)

The Veterans’ Services Office (VSO) is an ADA compliant facility which serves veterans, their spouses, and dependents. It works with the University Registrar’s Office and the Veterans’ Administration to help students initiate and resolve problems with veterans’ benefits. Counseling and advising on V.A. benefits Chapter 30, 31, 35, 1606/07 and Hinson-Hazelwood Act are available. The office assists in initiating referrals for tutorial services payable under the G.I. bill and has information on V.A. work-study and state veteran’s benefits. It also serves as a referral agent for the Center for Students with DisABILITIES (CSD), Learning and Assessment Services (LAS), UH Career Services, and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). VSO also provides programs and activities throughout the year for this special population. These are just a few of our annual programs:

• Entrepreneurship and the 21st Century
• Veterans Speak Up!
• Veterans, Troops and Family Support Group
• Veterans Oral History Project (VOHP)
• Veterans Awareness and Honors Ceremony
• Veterans Collegiate Society (VCS)

For more information call 713-743-5490, or go to the office in the University Center, room 268.

Center for Students with DisABILITIES

The Center for Students with DisABILITIES (CSD) provides a wide range of accommodations and support services to University of Houston students who have any type of temporary or permanent health impairments, physical limitations, psychiatric disorders, learning disabilities, or sensory impairments.

CSD helps to ensure that qualified students who have disabilities are provided equal educational opportunities at UH. CSD staff serve as liaisons between students and faculty, administrators, and community agencies. Advocacy services are also provided.

Upon receipt of required documentation from appropriate health care provider(s), CSD staff recommend the most appropriate academic accommodations for students. Some of the individualized accommodations and services provided to students may include, but not be limited to:

• priority registration
• determining individual accommodation needs and ensuring that accommodations are made available
• two testing centers with soundproof booths
• testing accommodations
• assistive technology, including voice input/output software
• alternate textbook coordination
• sign language interpreters
• captioning services
• Sorensen Video Relay System
• two student computer labs with assistive technology
• note-taking accommodations
• resource referral and/or coordination
• disability-related counseling
• environmental accessibility assistance
• advocacy assistance

The University of Houston strives to maintain an accessible campus for students who have disabilities. Accessible parking, curb cuts, ramps, automatic doors, Braille signs, and low elevator buttons are just a few examples of campus accessibility features.

The M.D. Anderson Library currently has three computers in the Academic Research Center equipped with assistive technology, including a Kurzweil reading machine and a text magnifier.

Several residence halls and apartment complexes have accessible rooms. Attendant Care Services can be arranged through the Student Health Center.

For more information, please call or write:

Safety and Security

University Public Safety Department

Police Bureau Services:

Police Services

The University of Houston Department of Public Safety is a multiservice organization whose mission is to ensure the safety and security of persons and property on the campus.

The department’s police officers are commissioned by the Board of Regents and licensed as peace officers through the State of Texas after receiving state-certified training in the duties and responsibilities of a Texas peace officer.

In addition to traditional police services, the department offers crime prevention workshops, on-campus escorts, and assistance with starting disabled vehicles. The philosophical focus of the department is the belief that only through police-community teamwork can the campus remain safe and secure for everyone. Emergency/Information call boxes and telephones are located throughout the university to provide citizens with direct immediate access to the services of their police officers.

The University Department of Public Safety Building is located at 3869 Wheeler at Scott Street.

http://www.uh.edu/police/

FOR EMERGENCIES CALL 911
OR 713-743-3333.

For all nonemergency purposes call 713-743-0600. Additional information can be located on the World Wide Web www.uh.edu/admin/police.

Requests for Police Services During Special Events

Individuals or organizations desiring to host on-campus special events that require police services must utilize University of Houston police officers.

For additional information, call University Center Reservations at 713-743-5287 or the police special events area at 713-743-0814.

Under unique circumstances and with the permission of the chief of police, visiting dignitaries will be allowed to have special police present.

http://www.uh.edu/police/special_events.html

Parking Enforcement

The University has adopted a parking and traffic program to create an orderly traffic flow and equitable parking conditions on campus. Your personal safety, the recognition of others’ needs, campus appearance, and applicable laws were considerations in the formulation of these regulations. To park on the University of Houston property you must have a permit, unless you park at meters, visitor lots, or the University Hilton Hotel garage. Purchasing a permit does not guarantee a parking place but allows you to park if space is available.

Anyone who operates a motor vehicle on UH property must register that vehicle with Parking and Transportation Services. Authorized university vehicles and equipment are exempt.

http://www.uh.edu/parking_enforcement/

Security Services

The Police Bureau has a fully functional Security Unit which works in conjunction with commissioned Police Officers, to enhance overall safety of the campus. As UHDPS police officers patrol the campus, the University’s Security Unit is also on the lookout for suspicious activities or emergency situations.

The Security Officers are hired, trained and supervised by the University Police Department and are assigned to the University as well as System-wide units, who contract for, and fund the positions.

Departments or colleges interested in hiring Security Officers can contact the Security Services Unit.

http://www.uh.edu/security/

Fire and Life Safety

Fire Marshal’s Office, a bureau of the Department of Public Safety, supports prevention, planning and response. Everyone on campus has a responsibility to prevent fires and injuries, to plan for emergencies, and to respond according to the emergency plan.

Specific responsibilities include:

1. Using UL or F.M. labeled appliances and power strips with built-in fuses or circuit breakers.
2. Contacting Fire Marshal’s Office regarding the use of items with open flames.
3. Reporting blocked exit paths, improper storage, smoking in buildings, and physical safety hazards.
4. Becoming familiar with at least two exits other than elevators in buildings that one frequents.
5. Knowing the location and operation of the fire alarm system.
6. Evacuating a building when the alarm is sounding or when advised to do so.
7. Calling 911 for fire, medical and police emergencies.

Additional information may be obtained at the University Police Building or by calling
713-743-1635.

Environmental Health and Safety

Environmental Health & Safety Bureau

Environmental Health & Safety’s efforts are directed at reducing and managing hazards at the university through its programs in Biological Safety, Environmental Protection, Occupational Safety, Chemical Safety, and Radiation Safety.

For Emergencies, call 911 or UH Police at 713-743-3333.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact EHS at 713-743-5858 or send questions via fax to 713-743-8035.

http://www.uh.edu/ehs/

Emergency Management

The mission of the Emergency Management Bureau at the University of Houston is to coordinate and facilitate effective campus disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response and recovery activities to minimize the impacts of emergencies on the campus community, facilities, and environment. Through the use of the five phase program activity for:

• Preventing
• Mitigating
• Preparing for
• Response to and
• Recovery from

…all incidents, emergencies or disasters which may impact the University or its personnel.

Ultimately, the purpose of emergency management is to increase the University’s capabilities to respond to the hazards that threaten the campus, all the while, preventing or reducing the impact of the hazards on the campus community. The purpose of the University of Houston’s Emergency Management Bureau is to coordinate the activities of various departments responsible for continued operations during disasters, coordinate the activities of various departments responsible for continued operations during disasters, coordinate inter-local agencies, communicate with state and federal agencies, and provide education and training.

The University of Houston is committed to the welfare of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Our emergency management program is designed to respect this commitment; to maximize human safety; to minimize hazards; to preserve university property; to restore normal working conditions; and to assure responsive communications within the university community and to our surrounding neighborhoods, the broader City of Houston community.

Additional information on Emergency Management at the University of Houston please, visit the website at www.uh.edu/emergency or by calling 832-842-5503.