Columbus State University is dedicated to developing the full
potential of its students. A variety of opportunities are provided for students
to explore personal, professional, and social interests; to develop leadership
capabilities; and to broaden intellectual and cultural dimensions through
student activities programs and services consistent with the goals and purposes
of the university.
The Office of the Dean of Students is responsible for student activities and
university recognized student organizations. The student activities fee helps to
defray the operational expenses of a number of programs and services which are
intended for the benefit of all students. A student-faculty committee advises
the university administration in the allocation of these fees and policy issues.
Academic
Support
At Columbus State University, providing academic support
services to students is a community effort. The various university offerings afford
opportunities for every student to succeed. In all stages of their academic programs
of study, students are able to benefit from dedicated faculty and staff, academic
advising services, teaching libraries and computer labs, tutorial services,
specialized courses, computer assistance and instruction, student organizations
and clubs, intellectually stimulating and engaging programs, and challenging and
enriching opportunities for growth. These extensive programs and services enable
the university to realize its mission and vision by providing a student-centered
developmental program while educating students to think critically, work creatively,
communicate effectively, and become technologically literate. In addition, these and
other initiatives enhance Columbus State University�s commitment to function as a
visible, responsible and responsive student-centered institution dedicated to
academic excellence.
Center for Academic Advising
The Center for Academic Advising serves as a central resource
for students to gather information about academic programs and opportunities across campus.
The Center assists students in exploring suitable programs of study and refers them, when
appropriate, to related campus services such as the Career Center and the Counseling Center.
Advisors at the Center for Academic Advising work closely with academic departments, and
offer specialized advising to transfer students, first-year students who have not selected
a major program of study, and continuing students who are considering changes in their
academic programs. The Center for Academic Advising supports and encourages students to
make responsible and informed decisions for themselves about their courses of study.
The Center for Academic Advising is located in 104 Woodall Hall.
Athletics
The university is a Division II member of the National Collegiate Athletic
Association. The director of
athletics
administers intercollegiate athletics in accordance with the regulations of the
NCAA and the policies of a faculty-student committee. Women compete in
intercollegiate basketball, softball, tennis, cross country and soccer; while
men compete in baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, and tennis. Any
student interested in competing on any sports team should contact the athletic
director. The athletic department also supports a nationally-ranked co-ed
cheerleading squad.
Campus Recreation
Campus Recreation
offers a wide range of team and individual intramural programs for students,
faculty, and staff. Current programs include flag football, volleyball,
softball, tennis, basketball, golf, eight ball, chess, checkers, card games, and
individual challenges. Outdoor adventure trips include whitewater rafting,
canoeing, backpacking, and snow skiing. In addition to scheduled activities, the
tennis courts, gymnasium, fitness center, handball courts, and an intramural
field are available for free play. Hours of operation are posted each semester
in appropriate locations. For information, contact the Campus Recreation Office
in 207 Health and Safety Center, (706) 568-2273.
Career Center
The Career Center, located in 147
Davidson Center, provides students and alumni with career information, current
employment and experiential education opportunities, and assists in the
development of effective job search skills. In the Jobs Room at the Career
Center, students and grads will find a variety of opportunities offered by local
as well as state and nation-wide employers seeking qualified candidates. This
includes full-time, part-time, and seasonal employment. The jobs are both casual
� perfect for the student � and professional, right for the graduate. The Career
Center is also the source of information for on-campus employment including
student assistant and work-study positions, and employment with the on-campus
vendors.
The Career Center offers a variety of career-related programs throughout the
year. In addition to posting positions in the Jobs Room, employers provide
information tables at various locations on the campus during the semester. Job
search seminars and interviewing skills seminars are presented several times
throughout each semester, as well as specialized programming on such topics as
how to prepare for a career fair and obtaining employment with the state. Check
the Career Center website frequently
for the schedule of employers and seminars.
Major career events are a highlight of the year on any campus. CSU students are
invited to attend several events during the year; however, two of the largest
are sponsored by the Career Center -- Career Opportunities and Careers Expo.
Career Opportunities is organized by a consortium of colleges, and attracts a
diverse group of employers from across the state. This event is held each Fall
semester in Atlanta. Careers Expo, held each spring on the CSU campus, is the
largest event of its kind in the Columbus area, providing students and grads
with an excellent opportunity to speak with over 80 employers and school
districts. Underclassmen are encouraged to use this event for information
gathering purposes, while seniors and alumni can network for potential
employment opportunities.
The Career Center supports the students� need to have a professional
presentation. The Center offers resume preparation assistance using ResumeMaker,
which is free to students and alumni, and allows you to create a professional
resume in the Career Center's computer lab. After uploading your resume through
our software, you can make necessary revisions on any computer with internet
access. Once approved through our critiquing service, your resume can be posted
on CougarTRAK for employers nationwide to review. Remember, ResumeMaker must
first be accessed through the Career Center's computer lab. For more information
on Career Center services, visit our website at
http://career.colstate.edu.
Those wishing to relocate outside the Columbus area upon graduation are advised
to utilize Georgia HIRE, a statewide, shared-resume database. This system, a
cooperative effort between MonsterTRAK and the University System of Georgia,
allows resume posting and job notice retrieval and is accessible through the
Career Center web site.
Activities related to the students� classroom experience are offered through the
Career Center and includes the Cooperative Education program and internship
opportunities. Students are also encouraged to become involved with Cougar P.A.W.S., the campus volunteer connection, as another avenue to gain
career-related experience while attending school.
Cooperative Education. The purpose of the cooperative education program
is to provide Columbus State University students with a well-balanced
combination of academic study and alternating periods of professional work
experience related to the student's major and/or career goals. Cooperative
education is a way for a student to earn college expense money while gaining
practical, on-the-job experience.
Internship is meaningful work related to the students� course of study
for course credit. An internship is an academic activity, offered and defined by
many of the CSU majors within the individual schools. The School determines the
eligibility for participation, the requirement for course credit, and supervises
the students� activity.
Both programs allow the integration of classroom theory with professional work
experience, and the opportunity to develop professional work habits.
Participating in experiential programs allows the student to:
- Realistically test career choices
- Achieve smoother transition into full-time
employment
- Apply classroom learning to a work setting
- Gain valuable work experience and professional
contacts that will help in seeking employment after graduation
- Observe a potential employer and workplace before
accepting full-time employment
- Obtain job offers at higher starting salaries upon
graduation
More information on experiential education, including
volunteering, may be obtained by contacting the Career Center.
Center for International
Education
The Center for International
Education increases an understanding of the world among CSU students,
faculty and staff. CIE provides advising for study abroad and exchange
programs. It also provides advising to international students, including
cultural and personal counseling, general academic counseling, and advising on
immigration matters. Students seeking assistance should contact (706)
565-4036. CIE is located in the International House on Clearview Circle.
Clubs and Organizations
Students are encouraged to participate in the programs and services of
student organizations
that can enhance personal and professional development. The university has recognized the following clubs and organizations. For further information regarding clubs and organizations, contact the Office of Student Life, 271 Davidson Student Center, (706) 568-2273.
Academic and Professional
AMSA � Premedical
Association for Computing Machinery
Arden
Cadets in Action Collective
Counseling Student Association
French Club
History Club
Lambda Alpha Epsilon � American Criminal Justice Association
LEAD (Leadership Education and Development)
Max Club
PVMA � Pre Veterinary Club
Psychology Club
Sociology Club
Honor Societies
Alpha Phi Sigma
Beta, Beta, Beta
Chi Chi
Honoris Causa
Kappa Delta Pi
Lambda Pi Eta
National Society for Collegiate Scholars
Omicron Psi
Phi Alpha Theta
Phi Alpha Alpha
Phi Beta Delta
Phi Kappa Phi
Pi Kappa Lambda
Pi Sigma Alpha
Psi Chi
Sigma Tau Delta
Special Interest
African Students Organization
Action International
Baptist Collegiate Ministries
College Republicans
CSU Ambassadors
Cougars for Christ
CSU Democrats
Genesis
Greek Council
Minority Student Union
Newman Society of CSU
Orientation Team
Residence Housing Association
SABER
Student Government Association
Student Political Awareness
Student Activities Council
Tri-Beta
Westminster Fellowship
Social Sororities
Alpha Delta Omega
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Delta Sigma Theta
Delta Zeta
Phi Mu
Xi Theta
Zeta Phi Beta<
Social Fraternities
Alpha Phi Alpha
Kappa Alpha Psi
Kappa Sigma
Omega Psi Phi
Phi Beta Sigma
Sigma Nu
Tau Kappa Epsilon
Performing Arts
CSU Chorale
CSU Jazz Bands
Philharmonic Orchestra
CSU Pep Band
Collegiate Music Educators Association
Mu Phi Epsilon
Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
Sigma Alpha Iota
University Singers
Wind Symphony
Wind Orchestra
CSU University Studio Theatre
Counseling Center
The Counseling Center,
located in 146 Davidson Student Center, offers a variety of services to all
students, staff, faculty, and alumni. The counseling staff consists of mental
health professionals who are trained and experienced in facilitating personal
development. A confidential atmosphere is provided where personal, social, and
academic concerns may be discussed. These concerns include, but are not limited
to, the following: anxiety management, depression, career decisions, loneliness,
interpersonal relationships (peers, boy/girl friend, family), and academic
difficulties.
If the counseling staff are unable to provide the necessary service for a
client, appropriate recommendations are discussed and referrals are made. The
orientation and philosophy of the Center give equal consideration to the
emotional, personal, academic, and vocational aspects of each student's
development.
Each semester, the counseling staff present outreach programs on topics such as
test anxiety reduction, stress management, assertiveness training, study skills
improvement, and other life skills. Students are encouraged to take advantage of
these free workshops.
Psychological testing is available in areas of interest, intelligence, and
personality. The primary purpose of the testing services is to assist students
in self-awareness and to integrate this awareness into decision-making skills
and rewarding behavior. In addition, fee-for-service assessment is available for
students who wish to petition for special academic accommodations.
Disability Services
The Office of Disability
Services coordinates the compliance of Columbus State University with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, not merely to achieve legality, but to foster academic potential through individualized plans tailored to the particular needs of students with disabilities. Students with documented physical, psychological or cognitive disabilities should contact the Office of Disability Services as early as possible so that proper accommodations may be made in a timely manner.
Diversity and Multicultural
Services
The Office of Diversity and Multicultural
Issues and Services, located in the Davidson Student Center, room 271,
provides assistance and advocacy to minority and multicultural students.
Sensitivity to minority, multicultural and cross cultural students is an
important aspect of the office. The office consults with student groups
regarding programming for this aspect of Student Life.
First Year
Experience�
Program
New students face many challenges when making the transition to university life. CSU�s First Year Experience Program is designed to help smooth this transition. The components listed below are intended to assist new students in building a foundation for academic success while promoting social, cultural and personal development.
- Adult Re-Entry Program
- Career Development and Exploration
- Cougar Kickoff
- Freshman Convocation
- Freshman Leadership Program
- Freshman Learning Communities
- Freshman Seminar (CSUS 1106)
- Freshman Orientation
- Welcome Week
Refer to the University College section of this catalog and to
http://uc.colstate.edu/first_year.asp for more information.
Minority Advising Program
The Minority Advising Program promotes
the academic welfare of African American and other minority students at CSU.
Through programs, activities, and services, the Minority Advising Program
enhances the personal development, retention, and academic success of the
students it serves. MAP programs, activities, and services are open to all CSU
students. Contact the Division of Student Affairs for more information.
Residence Life
CSU Main Campus Housing
CSU Courtyard I is a 430-bed student residence complex that houses all freshmen residents. Special programming and activities are planned for the freshmen at Courtyard I. The Wall Street Program for Business majors and the Intensive Study Program for upperclassmen with a 3.0 or higher G.P.A are also located in Courtyard I. It is located, just a short walk from the center of campus, on College Drive. A clubhouse, swimming pool, laundry facilities, outdoor recreation area, basketball courts, gameroom, and cable and internet connections are included amenities.
CSU Courtyard II, a 349-bed complex is arranged in one, two, three and four-bedroom
apartments. Courtyard II houses all upperclassmen and is located on Gentian Boulevard, which is within walking distance of the center of campus. Courtyard II also houses the Global Village Program for international residents. It has a clubhouse, laundry facility, cable and internet connections, balconies, and outdoor storage.
Each apartment complex has a full-time live-in Residence Life Coordinator and a staff of Resident Assistants to make the living on campus a great experience. The Office of Residence Life is located on University Avenue (behind Courtyard I) and the office number is (706) 568-2026.
RiverPark Student Housing
RiverPark student housing, a 360 bed student housing facility made up of three buildings in uptown Columbus, is open to all CSU students. The three buildings (Rankin, Columbus Hall, and Broadway Crossing) are conveniently located to serve students in the nearby art, music, and theatre classes. RiverPark student housing is apartment style living with a community atmosphere. Resident Advisors live in each building and contribute to the campus experience with special programming and activities. Amenities include: basic furnishings, laundry facilities, Card Access control, unlimited high speed internet, cable, recreation and fitness facilities. The RiverPark campus has a dedicated shuttle to and from CSU�s main campus
.
Student Art Galleries
Student Art Gallery
The student exhibition spaces located on The RiverPark campus in the Corn Center for the Arts will have a number of art exhibitions on display throughout the year. These displays feature contemporary works by student artists. Annually, during the spring, the Student Art Exhibition is the high point of art students� academic activities during the year.
The Norman Shannon and Emmy Lou P. Illges Gallery
The exhibition space located on The RiverPark campus in The Norman Shannon and Emmy Lou P. Illges Gallery features exhibits by international, national, regional and local artists. This 3000 square foot gallery exposes students to the finest available traditional and contemporary visual artwork. The highlight for many of the exhibits is the reception for the visiting artist attended by faculty, students and community members. Workshops by these artists are offered and may be attended by University students
.
Student Government Association
The Student Government Association
represents the interest and welfare of students through its elected officials
and representatives. Student government has as its purposes the encouragement of
student participation in university affairs and the promotion of understanding
among students, faculty, and administration. The student forum advises the
university administration on student issues, recommends students to serve on
university student-faculty committees and administers programs and services
consistent with the privileges granted in its constitution.
Student Handbook
A student handbook is available to all CSU students, faculty, and staff. The
handbook contains general information on student life, student services, campus
organizations, and fraternities and sororities. University policies and student
rights and responsibilities are also included in this publication.
Handbooks are distributed during new student orientation and are also available
in the Student Life Office, Davidson 271, in most academic department offices, and on the Web at
http://studentservices.colstate.edu/06-07_handbook.pdf.
Student Health Services
The Student Health Center
is located in the Health and Safety Center. The hours of operation are posted
each semester. After hours, students may receive assistance from the University
Police Department in the Health and Safety Center. A family practice physician
is available to see students by appointment during scheduled clinic hours at no
cost to the student.
The university is not responsible for medical bills or for illnesses/injuries
incurred in free play, physical education classes, university-sponsored
intramural sports, or other regularly scheduled classes or activities.
All students are urged to have health insurance coverage of some type. A group
student health and accident insurance plan is available to all Columbus State
University students. Information and applications can be obtained from the
Student Health Center.
The Student Health Services budget is derived from student health fees. Fees
cover professional services, selected over-the-counter medications, first aid
supplies, and educational materials. Community referrals and health counseling
are available through the health center. All medical care and counseling are
confidential. For further information, contact Student Health Services (706)
568-2039.
Student Medical Withdrawals. A student may be administratively withdrawn
from the university when, in the judgment of the office of the dean of students, and after
consultation with appropriate university officials, such as the director of
Student Health Services and/or the director of the Counseling Center, it is
determined that the student suffers from a physical, mental, emotional, or
psychological health condition which poses a significant danger or threat to the
student, the university, or the rights of others in the university community. A
student shall, upon request, be accorded an appropriate hearing with the vice
president for student affairs prior to final decision concerning continued
enrollment at the university. In emergency situations, a decision on medical
withdrawals may be made prior to a hearing, but review of the decision may be
made at the request of the student.
Student Musical Organizations
Opportunities are available for students to participate in instrumental and
choral activities in the Schwob School of Music. Individual auditions and
professor/conductor approval is required for all CSU ensembles, including Wind
Symphony, Wind Orchestra, Philharmonic Orchestra, Chorale, University Singers and Jazz Band.
Students selected for participation in these various ensembles may register for
one hour of credit per semester. All rehearsals and most performances are in the RiverCenter. A university shuttle is available to transport students from the
main campus to the RiverCenter.
Student Newspaper
The student newspaper, The Saber, offers a wide variety of opportunities
for interested students to gain experiences in writing editorials, reporting,
photography, layout, and business management. It reports and interprets news of
interest to the campus community and expresses opinions on significant matters.
Student Activities Council
The purpose of the Student Activities Council (SAC)
is to contribute to the social, recreational, cultural, and educational
development of the university community through programs and services. A program
of concerts, lectures, films, and other entertainment is provided through a
portion of the student activities fee paid by students at registration. Student
admission is free or at reduced rates.
Theatre
CSU Theatre
provides students with an opportunity to participate in a wide variety of
dramatic activities which includes main stage productions, as well as several
shorter studio theatre presentations each semester. Experience and training can
be gained in acting, directing, musical theatre, children�s theatre, makeup,
design and production, and arts management. Academic credit may be earned for
participation in theatre productions. Student admission to the university
theatre productions is free.
Tutorial Services
Free tutoring is provided to students enrolled in learning support and many core curriculum courses through the Office of Tutorial Services, located in Tucker Hall. Free seminars and workshops provide information and strategies that assist students in making satisfactory academic progress.
University Police/Motor Vehicle Regulations
The CSU University Police Main Campus office is located on the second floor of the Health and Safety Center. The CSU University Police RiverPark campus office
is located at 1013 Broadway. The department has sworn police officers who are responsible for life and property safety, parking enforcement and enforcement of state and local laws. The officers also secure campus buildings, assist motorists with battery jump-offs and patrol the university campus on foot, bikes, and marked patrol cars. The University Police Department has membership in the Georgia Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators and the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police.
Operation and parking of a motor vehicle on campus is a privilege. All motor vehicles (including motorcycles) parked on campus and CSU Courtyard I & II are required to have a university decal. University decals may be obtained at the University Police Department in the Health and Safety Center; decals for Courtyard residents may be obtained at the Residence Life Office. Permits are issued for the school year. Students, faculty, and staff are responsible for vehicles (to include parking citations) while their vehicles are located on university property. Temporary permits are available for students, faculty, and staff free of charge at the University Police Department. Temporary permits should be obtained and placed on vehicles upon arrival on campus. Two parking decals are included in the university access fee. Additional decals may be purchased for $5.00 each.
Habitual parking violators will be booted and/or towed. Tow and Boot Fees are the responsibility of the violator. The Boot Fee is $25 and can be paid to the Student Payment Center in Fine Arts Hall.
A complete code of motor vehicle regulations may be found in the Student
Handbook and the University Police Department. For more information,
visit the University Police Web site at
http://police.colstate.edu.
Writing Center
The CSU Writing Center (116 Woodall Hall) provides free assistance for writers of all levels and abilities and from any discipline. Formally trained peer consultants can help writers understand assignments and generate ideas; focus, organize, and develop drafts; document sources to avoid plagiarism; and edit for usage and punctuation errors. Besides consulting with students about class assignments, consultants will also help students prepare for the Regents� Test and compose essays for scholarship and program applications. Additional services include online consultations,
workshops on writing issues, and classroom based consulting. For more information, visit our website at
http://langlit.colstate.edu/writingcenter.
