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Student services
The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities offer services to help you get off to a good start, keep costs down and make the most of your time on campus. The admissions office on each campus can help you find out what’s available.
Common student service areas
Career planning and counseling
Advising services help students with course scheduling, long-term academic planning,
career exploration and placement assistance after graduation. On some campuses,
students have the opportunity to attend workshops on such topics as study skills,
time management, career choices, general studies requirements and academic success.
Counseling services also are available on many campuses, offering confidential
help in resolving personal, social and educational concerns.
Developmental education
To save money and time, take high school courses that prepare
you for college-level work. After you are admitted to a two-year
college, you will be required to take a placement test. The
test has no bearing on whether you will be admitted; rather, it
will determine whether you will need to take developmental
or remedial courses before taking college-level courses. Some
students need to take developmental or remedial courses to
help them succeed. Many need just one developmental or
remedial course, often in math or English. These courses do
not count toward a certificate, diploma or degree.
Disability services
Many students with physical and learning disabilities choose the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. Buildings are accessible, and many accommodations are available to help students with documented disabilities. To request accommodations, speak with the disability coordinator at the college or university you want to attend.
Housing
Six of the seven Minnesota four-year state universities offer on-campus housing
and meal plans for students. Room and board rates vary depending on the number
of people sharing a room and the number of meals desired. Some two-year state
colleges offer housing options, either on campus or nearby. For more specific
information about housing opportunities, contact the college or university you
wish to attend.
New student orientation
New students have the opportunity to participate in orientation sessions at
many Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. The orientation introduces students
to the campus, faculty, staff and other students, and provides an opportunity
to ask questions, meet new people and become acquainted and comfortable in a
new environment.
Student health care and insurance
Many state colleges and universities have health services available to students.
Every student is encouraged to have health/medical insurance coverage. If not
covered by an individual or parental policy, the student may purchase an accident
and illness insurance plan available at all Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.
For more specific information regarding available health services, contact the
college or university you are interested in attending.
Student life
Extra curricular activities are great for self-development and discovery. A wide range of activities is available to students at Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, including athletics, theater and arts, instrumental and vocal
music organizations, newspaper and other mass communications, literary magazines,
student government, convocations, social activities, and a variety of special
interest clubs ranging from business initiatives to cultural exploration. If
you are interested in a specific aspect of student life, the college or university
that interests you most can send you more information on student life at that
campus, or check the college or university Web site.
Students of color
Many campuses have a variety of services available to students of color. Many
campuses assist multicultural student groups in co-sponsoring celebrations and
educational programs in support of American Indian, African-American, Asian
and Hispanic cultural awareness.
Students with children
Child care is available right on campus at most state colleges and universities
and financial aid is available for those who qualify. Courses offered at night
and on weekends make it easier for students who are parents to work and go to
school. Many campuses have special orientation programs for non-traditional students,
designed specifically to meet the needs of students who have been away from
education for several years or who are older than traditional students and may
have families of their own.
Veterans services
Admissions offices at system institutions provide veterans with education and career information and will assist veterans who wish to access campus services, state and federal services and other resources that assist veterans with the re-integration process.
