Student Support Services

Academic Services

Asa-Gordon Library

The Asa H. Gordon Library offers a variety and wealth of informational resources and services to the university community. The library ensures access to resources to serve both the research and general needs of undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty through its collections of print and electronic journals, GALILEO databases (a project funded by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia), interlibrary loans, a reference collection, and archival materials that relate to Savannah State University’s history.

The library houses and provides access to approximately 190,209 volumes of books, 30,000 bound periodicals, 548,273 microforms and print periodical subscriptions, 4,000 audio visual materials, various educational media materials including television monitors, projectors, and distance learning facilities, and over 240 electronic databases including JSTOR. The library also has study and conference rooms that are equipped with computers with access to the Internet along with printing capabilities.

The Gordon Library is centrally located within close proximity to all institutional facilities on campus. Access to the library is provided through two main ground level entrances. The east entrance is ADA accessible and is equipped with an entrance ramp and an automatic door. A newly renovated cafe is found on the first floor and provides an informal area for patrons to enjoy food and drink and quiet individual or group study. Students have access to over 75 computers located in study rooms, the computer lab and the reference area of the library.

SSU Writing Center

Location

• 201 Payne Hall

What we do

• We work on a one-to-one basis on any writing project - from brainstorming to revision to final touches. We work on essays, lab reports, resumes, formal letters of all types, master’s theses, work for publication, etc.
• We help anyone on campus - from freshman to graduate students and from staff to faculty to administrators of SSU.
• We identify your strong and not-so-strong writing habits and help you perfect your strengths and improve your potential strengths.
• We focus on Writing Across the Disciplines to include math, science, history, etc. This focus reflects the SSU QEP - the “Write” attitude.

What we do not do

• Edit or change your words or ideas
• Type or write your work
• Take dropped off papers
• Determine your grade (professors do!)

Tips for success

• Plan to spend 30 minutes with your Writing Coach. We cannot run over into another student’s or staff’s appointment time or take you early if we are working with someone when you come in. For that very reason, be on time for your appointment with your paper already printed.
• Speaking of printing, we do have computers and a printer for your use. If you know you need to print the paper you wish us to help with, come a few minutes early so it’s printed before your 30- minute appointment starts. That way, you will get the entire 30 minutes to work on your writing assignment.
• If you plan to use our computers, know your SSU login (user name and password). We do not have access to that information, and we are not encouraged to log you in under our name. You can get this information from SSU computer services by calling 358-HELP (4357) or by visiting Powell Hall, room 106.
• Bring your syllabus or writing assignment/guidelines. We can help you fulfill your writing requirements better if we know what your professor is expecting. Help us help you!

Academic Computer Laboratories

Locations

• Asa H. Gordon Library 1st Floor
• Adams Hall
• 111 & 201 Payne Hall
• 222 Drew-Griffith Lab
• 109, 110A, & 212 Herty Hall
• 1-123, D-21, D-23, D-109, D-111, D-118, & D-208 Hubert Hall
• 220 & 253 Social Sciences Building
• 103, 104, 122, 126, 128,132, 203,204, 247, & 256 Whiting Hall
• 104 Morgan Hall
• 109, 128, & 208 Howard Jordan Business Building

Office of the Registrar

The Office of the Registrar is responsible for maintaining official student records. Requests for transcripts and enrollment verification are handled by the Registrar’s office. The Registrar also determines whether students have satisfied all degree requirements.

Military and Veterans Affairs

Veteran refers to any Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard or Military Dependent student using VA Education Benefits to attend this University.

Savannah State University maintains a School Certifying Official in the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs under the Vice President of Enrollment Management. Their duties are to coordinate between various Department of Defense and Veterans Administration agencies and to assist all students who are eligible for Veteran’s Education Benefits.

Veterans wishing to attend Savannah State University under any of the educational benefit programs provided by public law should apply for admission.

SECTION 3679(e) COMPLIANCE

Savannah State University permits any individual who is entitled to educational assistance under chapter 31, 33, or 35 of this title to attend or participate in the course of education during the period beginning on the date on which the individual provides to the educational institution a certificate of eligibility for entitlement to educational assistance under chapter 31, 33, or 35 of this title and ending on the earlier of the following dates:

(i)            The date on which the Secretary provides payment for such course of education to such institution.

(ii)           The date that is 90 days after the date on which the educational institution certifies for tuition and fees following receipt from the student such certificate of eligibility.

Savannah State University ensures that the educational institution will not impose any penalty, including the assessment of late fees, the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities, or the requirement that a covered individual borrow additional funds, on any covered individual because of the individual’s inability to meet his or her financial obligations to the institution due to the delayed disbursement of a payment to be provided by the Secretary under chapter 31, 33, or 35 of this title.

Those who have never used their education benefits should apply for their Certificate of Eligibility (COE) at va.gov.

Those who have previously used VA Education Benefits must obtain their Letter of Remaining Benefits (LORB) from the VA. This can be accomplished in several ways:

• Each time a student is Certified to the VA that they are using their VA Education Benefits, the VA will send a LORB to the student outlining the number of months and days of benefits they have used and have remaining.
• Online through their E-Benefits account.
• Online at www.benefits.va.gov (tab through: Education and Training, For Students, Get Started Home and Submit a Question),
• Fax a request to (404) 929-3009
• Written request to “Department of Veterans Affairs, 1700 Clairmont Road, Decatur, Ga. 30033.

Those transferring to Savannah State who have used their VA Education Benefits at other institutions must also submit a VA Form 22-1995 for Military or VA Form 22-5495 for Military Dependents to change their Place of Training or program of study. Upon notification by the Admissions Office of their acceptance to Savannah State University, the Veteran should contact the School Certifying Official for further instructions.

Full-Time Status for Graduate Students

While each SSU graduate program has unique components and differences, full-time graduate enrollment at Savannah State University is typically, on average, 9 credit hours per term, unless specified otherwise by a specific degree program.

Repeated Courses

All repeated hours are counted in Pace of Completion calculation, however, only the highest grade is counted in the GPA calculation.

Grades and Grading Policies

Graduate programs utilize the standard grading scale unless otherwise noted. In all cases grading scales and evaluations are clearly outlined in course syllabi. Grade reports are issued directly to the student at the end of each semester. The following grade report will be used for completed graduate credit:

Special Topics, Independent Study, Directed Study and Conference Courses

Only nine credit hours of independently-taught course work, directed study, and conference course work may apply to a degree upon approval of program coordinator.

Audit

Students who audit course must follow regular admission and registration procedures, pay full tuition and fees, and are subject to the University’s academic policies. Audited course may not be changed to credit after the schedule adjustment period has ended.

Enrollment and Readmission

Unless an admitted graduate student does not plan to be on campus for services of any kind (including meetings with their thesis advisor) the student must enroll in at least 1 unit of credit (typically Directed Research if all other coursework is completed) each semester excluding summer.

A graduate student who does not register in the semester for which they were accepted or who has not been enrolled for a period of two consecutive semesters will be classified as inactive. To resume graduate study, the student must reapply for admission using a special form (not the original process) available from the Graduate Studies Office. A graduate student does not need to be enrolled in the semester in which they apply for candidacy or the semester in which the degree is conferred.

Graduate Student Affairs Committee

This Committee shall make recommendations to the Graduate Council on matters pertaining to graduate student admissions, progression (including exclusion, suspension, and graduation), student appeals and other graduate student issues (including graduate assistants and graduate students programs). [Source: Savannah State University Graduate Council Bylaws]

Appeals and Grievances Procedures

Graduate programs have established processes for appeal of admission decisions and other academic matters. Admission matters are handled by the appropriate Graduate Program Coordinator and the Director of the Office of Graduate Studies. Other matters may involve the appropriate department chairperson or college dean.

A student may appeal admission, progression, and graduation decisions. The student will be required to complete the appeal form and provide additional information.

Suspension or Dismissal Appeal Procedures

• Savannah State University graduate students have the right to appeal academic decisions.
• The Office of Graduate Studies will consider appeals of suspension and dismissal decisions issued by the respective Graduate Programs.
• This appeal process is strictly used to request reconsideration of a suspension or dismissal from a graduate program.
• If the issue has not been resolved between the student and course instructor, a written appeal should first be directed to the Graduate Coordinator of the department/program in question. An unfavorable ruling at one level can be appealed at subsequent levels.
• If the problem remains unsolved to the student’s satisfaction, appeals must be directed in progressive order to the Department Chair, who will assemble a departmental review committee to consider the student appeal. The committee will deliberate and will make its recommendation to the chair. If the appeal is unsuccessful, the student has the right to then appeal to the College Dean, then subsequently to the Director of Graduate Studies.
• The Director of Graduate Studies will request that the Graduate Student Affairs Committee review the appeal and make its recommendation to the Director of Graduate Studies. The Director of Graduate Studies will inform the student of the final decision.
• If the student wishes to appeal the department/program’s decision, the student can appeal to the Office of Graduate Studies by completing a Graduate Appeal Form.
• The appeal form must be submitted to the Office of Graduate Studies within ten (10) business days following the date on which the department/program notified the student of the suspension or dismissal.
• It is the student’s responsibility to complete an SSU Graduate Student Appeal Form and provide a clear and concisely written statement of his/her appeal, and to provide all the relevant documentation the student wishes to be reviewed.
• Each appeal is reviewed individually and a decision will be based on the merits and the documentation provided.
• If the appeal is successful, the student will be reinstated in the graduate program. If the suspension or dismissal ruling is affirmed by the Director of Graduate Studies, the suspension/ dismissal ruling stands and the student will remain suspended or dismissed from the graduate program.
• If the problem remains unsolved to the student’s satisfaction, the student has the option to appeal to the Provost/Vice President of Academic Affairs.
• Please note: some departments have varying methods for processing appeals. Please contact your department for specific policies and procedures.

Grade Appeals Procedures

Appeals for a change of grade may be initiated through the head of the appropriate academic department prior to midterm of the semester after the grade was received, in accordance with their regulations of Savannah State University. A student who contests a grade will have the following line of appeal:

• The student will discuss the contested grade with the instructor involved.
• If the grade dispute remains unresolved, the student will meet with the department chair and the instructor.
• If the dispute is with the department chair, the student will meet with the dean of the college and the department chair. A memorandum for the record will be prepared by the department chair (or dean) which will include the substance of the conversations during the meeting. The student will receive a copy upon request.
• If the grade dispute remains unresolved, the student will present his or her appeal in writing to the Department chair or the dean of the college, as applicable, who will then request the Director of the Graduate Studies to appoint a review panel to hear the appeal.

Grade Appeals Resolutions/Rulings

Agreed upon specific details of resolving graduate student appeals (whether grade appeals, dismissal appeals, and/or admission appeals) must be shared (carbon-copied electronically) with Dean of the College, the Department Chair, the faculty member(s) involved, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the graduate student, in order to provide clarity and transparency to all parties involved. In addition, the final ruling on graduate student appeals (whether grade appeals, dismissal appeals, and/or admission appeals) must also be shared (carbon-copied electronically) with Dean of the College, the Department Chair, the faculty involved, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the student, to provide clarity and transparency to all parties involved.

In the case of students in the MBA program: 25

• The student will discuss the contested grade with the instructor involved.
• If the grade dispute remains unresolved, the student will meet with the Director for Graduate Business Programs and present his or her complaint in writing with all supporting evidence. The Director will review the situation.
• If the student remains unsatisfied at the Director’s level, the student may present his or her appeal in writing to the Dean of the College of Business Administration. After reviewing the issue, the Dean may request the Administrator to appoint a review committee or graduate faculty to hear the appeal.
• If the dispute is with the Director of Graduate Business Programs, the student will meet with the Dean of the College of Business Administration. After reviewing the issue, the Dean may request the Director of Graduate Studies to appoint a review committee of graduate faculty to hear the appeal.
• In either case above, a memorandum for the record will be prepared by the Director or Dean which will include the substance of the conversations during the meeting. The student will receive a copy upon request.

Financial Aid Office

Students interested in assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which must be completed each year. Federal Assistance includes:

• Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans
• Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
• Federal Grad Plus Loans
• Veteran Administration Benefits
• Federal Work Study Program

Financial Aid for graduate students would include the HOPE Teacher Scholarship Loan. Students must complete the FAFSA in order for the Financial Aid office can award both federal and state assistance. For HOPE Teacher Scholarship students must contact the Georgia Student Finance Commission at 1(770) 724-9000 or 1(800) 776-6878. Students may also refer to the Commission’s website http://www.gsfc.org.

Application for Financial Aid

Students applying for financial aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the renewal FAFSA if they have received aid before from the Federal Student Aid Programs. They must answer all questions on the form and list Savannah State University (school code - 001590) as one of the institutions they plan to attend. In approximately four weeks, they will be mailed a Student Aid Report (SAR). FAFSA on the web is available at www.fafsa.ed.gov

If the FAFSA is selected for the verification process, students must provide requested documents, records and materials promptly to the Office of Financial Aid (OFA). Students who fail to submit paperwork will not be awarded financial aid and may become ineligible to receive certain funds from a particular program. Students will be awarded financial aid upon their admittance to the University.

Federal Perkins Loan

A Perkins Loan is a low-interest (5%) loan for both undergraduate and graduate students with exceptional financial needs. Repayment for this loan begins six months after enrollment at the University ends.

Federal Direct Loan

Low-interest loans for students and parents (PLUS) are available through the Federal Direct Student Loan Program. Under this program, the federal government makes loans directly to students and parents through schools.

First-time borrowers in the student loan program at Savannah State must attend a loan counseling session before any loan funds can be credited to their account or disbursed to them. Loan counseling sessions are held each Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. All borrowers are required to show proof that they attended a loan counseling session before the cashier’s office will release loan funds.

Financial Aid’s Policy for Determining Student Withdrawals

In compliance with the Higher Education Amendments of 1998, Public law 105-244, Savannah State University will begin implementing these new provisions effective October 7, 2000. The current provisions require all schools participating in the SFA Programs to use specific refund policies when a student who receives SFA Program funds ceases attendance. In addition, the current provisions specify an order of return of unearned funds from all sources of aid, not just the SFA Programs.

Unofficial Withdrawals: If a student does not begin the withdrawal process or otherwise notify the university of his/her intent to withdraw, the withdrawal date will be the midpoint of the payment period for which SFA Program assistance was disbursed or a later date documented by the university.

Official Withdrawals: A calculation will be made on all financial aid recipients to determine whether a student who completely withdraws during a term has “earned” the monies disbursed. A student “earns” his/her aid based on the period of time they remain enrolled. During the first 60% of the term a student earns financial aid funds in direct proportion to the length of time the student remained enrolled. Beyond the 60% point all aid is considered earned. The responsibility to repay “unearned” aid is shared by the Institution and the student in proportion to the aid each is assumed to possess. For more details concerning withdrawals by students with financial aid, please contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Guidelines for Student Financial Aid

Savannah State University is required by the U.S. Department of Education to establish minimum standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to include quantitative (time frame) and qualitative (GPA) measurements. Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) means a student is proceeding in a positive manner toward fulfilling their degree requirements.

The Office of Financial Aid will measure students’ SAP at the end of each spring semester and the new status is effective with the following term. The following policy is effective for semesters beginning on or after Summer Session 2010. An academic year consists of a Fall/Spring combination-i.e., Fall Semester 2009 and Spring Semester 2010. Students that do not meet the minimum standards of SAP are ineligible for financial aid. The Satisfactory Academic Policy applies to all students, part-time, full-time, undergraduates, and graduates.

Quantitative

Students must successfully complete credit hours (earned hours) at the minimum percentage (%) of attempted hours according to the scale below. Hours attempted also include courses with a grade of I, W, F, U, WF and all accepted transfer hours. Repeated courses are counted in hours attempted. Also see section on Time Frame.

Qualitative

Students must maintain the minimum cumulative grade point average according to the scale below.

Graduate Students enrolled in a Master’s degree program have a maximum of 54 credit hours attempted to complete their degree requirements.

Appeal of Financial Aid Suspension

Failure to meet or exceed the SAP standards will result in suspension from financial aid eligibility until such time as the student fulfills quantitative and qualitative measures. In addition, if a student withdraws from one or more courses during the semester and he/she is attending based on a granted aid appeal, he/she is placed on financial aid suspension. While on suspension, a student is not eligible to receive any financial aid award including student loans.

A student wishing to appeal financial aid suspension must do so in writing with supportive documentation when possible. The type-written appeal must be attached to the Appeal for Reinstatement Form that is available online or in the Office of Financial Aid (OFA) and must be submitted by August 1st for fall, December 1st for spring, and April 1st for summer. Failure to adhere to this time line will result in the student losing the right to appeal their suspension for the pending semester.

The SAP pamphlet is mailed/emailed each year with the initial award letter. A student is expected to know the policy. The OFA attempts to notify students when they are suspended from the financial aid programs, however, sometimes students do not receive notification due to circumstances beyond the control of the OFA. If a student is not notified of the suspension, that in itself, does not excuse a student from the financial aid suspension nor does it exempt a student from appealing in a timely manner.

An Appeals Committee or quorum representation will meet to review appeals and will make its recommendation concerning the appeal. In the event it is not feasible to obtain a quorum to review appeals, the Director of Financial Aid will act on the appeals. The OFA will notify students of the committee’s decision. The committee’s decision may be appealed to the Vice President of Business and Financial Affairs, by following the guidelines below.

Guidelines for Appeal of the Financial Aid Appeals Committee:

The University’s Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy is in compliance with the regulations established by the US Department of Education. A student is required to progress towards obtaining a degree to maintain eligibility to receive federal financial aid. The policy provides an opportunity:

• to appeal
• to present information about factors that may impact your ability to be academically successful, and
• to present the actions that you have taken to eliminate the impacting factors

Requirement:

To appeal the decision rendered by the Financial Aid Appeals Committee, please submit in writing responses to the statements below:

1. Provide a valid mailing address and telephone number.
2. Provide an explanation of the factors that impacted your ability to make satisfactory academic progress.
3. Describe the changes being made that will enable you to perform better academically.
4. If you have a low percentage of courses successfully completed, you may need to contact your Academic Department Chair or Advisor to determine whether or not you can reach degree requirements with the remaining number of hours to receive federal aid. If so, please describe the plan you have developed with your Academic Department.
5. Provide any additional information you believe supports a decision different than the Financial Aid Appeals Committee’s decision.

Any further consideration for you to receive federal financial aid will be based on your appeal demonstrating that you can and have taken steps to perform at a satisfactory academic level. Please submit this information to the Financial Aid Office. If you have further questions, please call Financial Aid at (912) 358-4162 or Business and Financial Affairs at (912) 358-3000.

Auxiliary Services

The Auxiliary Services Department is an organization within the Division of Business and Financial Affairs, responsible for providing services both directly and indirectly to students, faculty, staff, and the University community. According to policies of the Board of Regents, the Department must be totally self- supporting; no state funds are allocated to the Department. The Department is subject to rules and regulations of the University System of Georgia. Auxiliary Services is committed to providing quality, value, and excellence in customer service, while assuring best uses of available resources.

Currently, Savannah State University’s Auxiliary Services Department is responsible for the following: SSU Bookstore, SSU Post Office, dining services, vending services (snack, beverage, and laundry), photocopy services, parking and transportation, and the ID Card Office. For additional information, see http://www.savannahstate.edu/fiscal-affairs/auxiliary-services.shtml .

Bookstore

The SSU Bookstore is an integral part of the academic and social life of the university. In addition to textbooks and school supplies, students can find a variety of SSU logo clothing and specialty items. There are also many products that will make their lives easier in their student living spaces, such as paper products and personal items.

The bookstore provides a book buy-back at posted times during each semester. For additional information, including hours of operation, please see the SSU Bookstore website.

The SSU Bookstore is located on the first floor of the King-Frazier Complex.

Dining Services

Savannah State University has been defined by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia as a residential institution. Therefore, the University must provide on-campus facilities for room and board. All students who live in on-campus housing must purchase a meal plan. Freshman students must purchase a full (20-meals-a-week) plan; non-freshman students must purchase at least a 14-meals-a- week plan. Students assigned to on-campus housing will be automatically billed via the Banner Student Information System accordingly. There is no refund for missed meals, and meals do not carry over from one semester to another during the meal contract period. Resident students leaving housing will be billed for meal plans on a prorated basis. Commuter meal plans are available for off-campus students. Additional information is found on the SSU Dining Services website.

Laundry

Washers and dryers are found in all of the residence halls. Resident students pay a fee each semester for laundry, and can use the machines without further charges. Laundry supplies can be purchased in the bookstore.

Parking

Resident students and commuter students who have a car on campus are required to purchase a decal which entitles them to park in one of the parking areas designated for students. Vehicles on campus without appropriate decals, or who are parked inappropriately, are subject to ticketing, booting, and/or towing.

Photocopying

Student coin-operated copiers are located throughout campus. In addition, students can have color or higher volume documents printed at the Document Center for a fee. The Document Center is located in the Morgan Annex building on Felix Alexis Circle. The phone number is 912-358-4220. Hours are 8:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

SSU Mail Center

The SSU Mail Center is located on the first floor of the King-Frazier Complex. Stamps can be purchased and letters or packages can be mailed. Resident students are each charged a nominal fee for a mailbox. The service window is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday, except for University Holidays.

SSU ID Card Office

The SSU ID Card Office is on the first floor of the King-Frazier Complex. All students must carry their SSU ID Card at all times while they are on campus. SSU ID Cards can be used for meal plans, residence hall access, computer lab, printing, and photocopying and mail center purchases. Funds can be placed on the card using the PHIL (machine closest to the window outside the Savannah Ballroom) in the King-Frazier Student Center.

Health Services

Harris-McDew Student Health Center is located on campus, Jasmine Street, behind Payne Hall.

All full-time undergraduate and graduate students pay a student health fee that covers the unlimited use of student health center services without additional cost for services provided by the staff. Services provided include:

Medical and nursing examination and care; Alcohol and Drug Awareness Resource Center; limited pharmacy services; information, consultation and referrals; wellness and wholesome mental and physical health habits programs; day beds for temporary observation and care; and The center, which is staffed by nurses, is open Monday through Friday. Part-time physician (Monday through Friday).

A resident student suffering from an injury or sudden illness during hours when the health center is closed should contact the resident hall staff, resident assistant, or the Department of Public Safety. An ambulance or paramedic unit may be dispatched to campus for an immediate evaluation or transportation to the hospital as needed at the student’s expense. Students are responsible for the cost of all services provided by any other community health care provider. All students are encouraged to secure coverage by an adequate health insurance plan and should follow its directions for emergency or crisis care. Information on a current student health insurance plan is maintained in the Student Health Center. Participation in the student health insurance plan is voluntary and the student is responsible for the cost.

Health Insurance Requirements for Graduate Students

The following students are required to have student health insurance that meets the minimum standards set by the University System of Georgia. Students in these categories who are not covered by a policy held by a parent, spouse, employer or if the policy does not meet the minimum standards will be charged for a USG Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) policy.

• All undergraduate, and ESL international students holding F or J visa status.
• All undergraduate students enrolled in programs that require proof of health insurance.
• All graduate students receiving a Full Tuition Waiver as part of their graduate assistantship award.
• All graduate international students holding F or J visas status.
• All graduate students enrolled in programs that require proof of health insurance.
• All graduate students who are required to do fieldwork or internships
• All graduate students receiving fellowships that fully fund their tuition.
• International Scholars holding J visa status.

Students who fall into one of these categories and are already covered by an insurance policy (i.e. through parent plans, family plans or employer-sponsored plans) can easily opt out of the plan through a secure on-line process. Once the information has been verified, all charges will be waived. Students (both undergraduate and graduate) who fail to submit creditable health insurance information will automatically be enrolled in and billed for the system-wide student health insurance plan. Check the SSU SHIP webpage: https://www.savannahstate.edu/graduate/guide/health-insurance.shtml for the exact deadline dates for submitting a waiver.

Note: The waiver periods at SSU are strictly enforced.

Graduate Mandatory Health Plan: https://studentcenter.uhcsr.com/savannahstate

Counseling and Disability Services

The Office of Counseling and Disability Services, located in King Frazier 233, provides free, professional, confidential counseling to all students at SSU. We know that college life is a transitional period marked by change, pressure and stress. Therefore, our goal is to help students understand this period, find ways of coping and grow from their experiences. Areas of counseling include but are not limited to: relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management, eating disorders, problem gambling, pregnancies, anger management, depression and suicide, home-sickness, self-injurious behaviors and substance abuse. Please call 912-358-3129 to set up an appointment with one of our counselors or come by our office. We are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 P.M. If you are having a mental health emergency after hours, you can also call the GA Crisis Access Line 24 hours a day from any location in GA at 1-800-715-4225.

Disability accommodations are academic services or adjustments that allow a student with a disability to have full access to academic information and access to demonstrate they mastered the information. Students with learning disabilities, ADD, psychological disorders, acquired brain injuries, autism spectrum disorders, sensory loss, mobility impairment or significant chronic medical conditions may be eligible. Accommodations do not guarantee success, but they provide equal access. Accommodations do not compromise academic standards or the mastery of essential course elements. Students with disabilities who receive accommodations must still meet all admission and academic standards, including attendance requirements. Students who want to apply for accommodations should contact Tadisha Sams-Young, Coordinator of Disability Services at (912) 358- 3115 to set up an intake appointment. Students must provide medical or educational documentation of their disability. Ms. Sams-Young can provide assistance in obtaining documentation.

Career Services

Career Services are designed to assist students and other designated clients through all phases of their career development. The Office of Career Services offers services and resources which include, but are not limited to: career focus checklist for all students, job fairs, computer career guidance, employment bulletins, internship guidance, interviewing and job searching programs, on-campus recruiting and outreach programs, referral services, résumé development.

Department of Student Life & The Office of Student Programs and Organizations

The Office of Student Programs and Organizations, which is part of the Department of Student Life, is responsible for enhancing student life through co-curricular activities, which are an integral part of the physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual growth of students. Student activities at Savannah State University consist of:

Clubs and Organizations
Game Room and Recreational Activities
Movies
Campus-wide and Informal Activities
Departmental Activities

Student organizations provide opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to interact with one another during cultural, recreational, spiritual, and social activities either in formal or informal settings.

Intramural Sports and Wellness Programs

The Intramural Sports and Wellness Program (ISWP) is designed to foster both competitive and leisure sports and fitness activities for both men and women. The purpose of the Savannah State University Intramural Sports & Wellness Program is to promote student learning and development by encouraging outcomes such as intellectual growth; ability to communicate effectively, realistic self-appraisal, enhanced self-esteem, clarification of values, leadership development, physical fitness, meaningful interpersonal relations, ability to work independently and collaboratively, social responsibility, satisfying and productive lifestyles, appreciation of aesthetic and cultural diversity, and achievement of personal goals.

Office of Student Ethics

The Office of Student Ethics, which is part of the Department of Student Life, mission is to promote the development character, conscience, citizenship, civility, individual and social responsibilities of students and student organizations at Savannah State University. The office provides programs that promote the obligations of citizenship in the University community. Students and student organizations are also provided with the tools necessary for success in a pluralistic society by providing feedback about behaviors that both enhance and harm the academic community, as well as assistance and opportunities in modifying such behaviors.

Student Conduct Code

Students enrolled at Savannah State University are expected at all times to exemplify civility, respect and integrity. The University reserves the right to exclude at any time students whose conduct is deemed improper or prejudicial to the welfare of the University community.

Disruptive Behavior

The following statement is the policy of the Board of Regents regarding disruptive behavior at any institution of the University System. The rights, responsibilities, and prohibitions described in this statement are incorporated as a part of these regulations:

The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia reaffirms its policies to fully support freedom of expression by each member of the academic community and to preserve and protect the rights and freedoms of its faculty and student members to engage in debate, discussion, and peaceful and non- disruptive protest and dissent. The following statement relates specifically to the problem described herein. It does not change or in any way infringe upon the Board’s existing policies and practices in support of freedom of expression and action. Rather it is considered necessary to combat the ultimate effect of irresponsible, disruptive, and obstructive actions by students and faculty who tend to destroy academic freedom and the institutional structures through which it operates. In recent years a new and serious problem has appeared on many college campuses in the nation. Some students, faculty members, and others have on occasion engaged in demonstrations, sit-ins, and other activities that have clearly and deliberately interfered with the regular orderly operation of the institution concerned. Typically, these actions have been the physical occupation of a building or campus area for a protracted period of time or the use of verbal or written obscenities involving indecent or disorderly conduct.

Violations of the Student Conduct Code

Students may receive disciplinary action, including suspension and dismissal for a number of acts of misconduct committed on or away from University property. (For additional details, see the Savannah State University Code of Student Ethics which is listed in the Student Handbook). Examples of these actions are listed below.

Disciplinary Procedures

A charge of misconduct originates with the accuser filing a written charge with the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. Any person may refer a student suspected of violating the student conduct code.

Upon receipt of the charge, the Vice President’s designee conducts an informal investigation to determine whether to drop the case or send a letter of notification to the accused student.

If a formal charge is made to the accused, either by certified letter or in person, the Vice President’s designee will instruct the accused to contact the Office of Student Affairs to arrange an administrative interview to discuss the complaint. Copies of all pertinent documents known at that time will be attached to the letter. The Vice President’s designee will request a meeting with other necessary relevant parties on an individual basis. However, the Vice President’s designee or the accused may ask to have more than one relevant party present at the interview. The purposes of the administrative interview are two-fold: first, to determine whether probable cause exists to believe the accused may have committed the charged offenses; and second, to determine whether to have the case heard by the Vice President’s designee or the University’s Student Ethics Board.

The Vice President for Student Affairs will notify all persons of the time and place when they are to appear before the Board. The Vice President will also notify students about the specific charges against them.

Rights of the Accused Hearings

Accused students have specific rights, including

• The right to a non-legal advisor of their choice. (An attorney may be present only when it appears that the hearing also relates to a potential, or actual, criminal charge against the accused);
• The right to question the accuser(s);
• The right to present evidence;
• The right to call witnesses;
• The right to remain silent and have no inference of guilt drawn from such silence;
• The right of cross-examination;
• The right to appeal an adverse decision to the President; and
• The right to attend classes and required University functions until a hearing is held and a decision is rendered against the accused by the Vice President or Discipline Committee. (The accused may remain at the Institution pending an appeal to the President, if his or her presence is judged not to be a clear and present danger to the normal operation of the University. If the President upholds the suspension or expulsion, the student must depart, notwithstanding the student’s subsequent application for review to the Board of Regents.)

Student Ethics Board

Unless the accused elects to have the case decided by the Vice President for Student Affairs’ designee, the Student Ethics Board (comprised of faculty, staff, students and the Chief Justice) will adjudicate the case. If the accused chooses a hearing by the Student Ethics Board, the Vice President shall select a member of the staff to present the case on behalf of the person bringing charges, including cases where the Office of Student Affairs files the charges.

Basis for Review (Appeals to the President)

All appeals to the President or his/her designee must be made in writing within five business days of the original decision. The original decision is final on the day it is rendered by the Vice President for Student Affairs and the Hearing Body (Hearing Officer, Student Ethics Board or Administrative Hearing Officer). The filing of an appeal to the President or his/her designee will not postpone punishments imposed there under, by the Vice President for Student Affairs or the Hearing Body.

The accused may appeal to the President or his/her designee from a decision of the Vice President for Student Affairs or the Discipline Committee on the grounds listed below. Additional grounds may be asserted by the appellant, as appropriate.

The proceeding failed to follow procedures; including observing the rights of the accused, but only if such failure actually resulted in preventing the accused from adequately defending against the charge.

The findings are not supported by substantial evidence, or the recommendations are not supported by the findings.

One or more members of the adjudicating body demonstrated bias. “Bias” requires more than merely knowing the accused or knowing something about the case. Disqualification occurs only where it can be established that the Vice President or Student Ethics Board member was incapable of rendering a fair decision.

In light of the nature of the offense and the student’s disciplinary record, the sanctions imposed by the adjudicating body were excessive.

Article IX Appeal to Board of Regents

A student dissatisfied with the President’s decision has the right to appeal to the Board of Regents. The appeal to the Board shall be submitted in writing to the executive secretary of the Board through the Chancellor, within twenty calendar days after the President’s decision and shall cite all the reasons for dissatisfaction with the previous decision.

Drugs

Possession or use (without valid medical or dental prescription), manufacture, transportation, storage, furnishing, or sale of any narcotic or dangerous drug controlled by federal or Georgia law is prohibited. Students convicted of violation Section II (Drugs and Alcohol) of the student conduct code may lose academic credit and/or federal financial aid and/or be suspended from the University.

Weapons

Persons found in possession of weapons will be subject to disciplinary action by the University and/or local courts. Violators will be subject to arrest and prosecution by University and/or local, state, and federal courts. It is against University rules and regulations for students to possess, use, or store weapons such as guns, blackjacks, bow and arrows, taser guns, BB guns, air guns, ammunition, hunting slingshots, martial arts weapons, chemical weapons, medieval weapons, darts, knives or mace. Carrying a weapon onto or within 1,000 feet of property owned, controlled, or leased by the University is strictly prohibited.

Bursar’s Office

The Bursar’s Office is responsible for student billing and revenue collection. The office is also responsible for collecting and posting payments on student’s accounts, processing refunds from overpayments, and calculating university withdrawals. The Bursar’s Office contains two major components to carry out its functions, the Cashier’s Office and Student Accounts.

Cost to Attend Savannah State University

https://www.savannahstate.edu/bursar/documents/tuition-and-fees-2018.pdf

Student Fees and Financial Policies

Refund Policy

Formal withdrawal must begin with a written request in the Office of Academic Affairs. Failure to officially withdraw from the institution will result in the assessment of charges up to the date the university becomes aware of non-attendance. No refunds for reduction in academic loads or student services are allowed unless such reductions are necessitated by schedule changes initiated by the University. Students suspended or expelled for disciplinary reasons are not entitled to a refund of any deposits or fees paid.

Students who are members of the Georgia National Guard or other reserve components of the armed forces who receive emergency orders to active duty are entitled to a full refund of matriculation fees paid for that semester, in accordance with guidelines promulgated by the chancellor. Military personnel on active duty in the armed forces who, before the end of their present station assignment, receive emergency orders for a temporary or permanent change of duty location are entitled to a full refund of tuition paid for that semester, in accordance with guidelines promulgated by the chancellor.

The refund amount for students withdrawing from the institution shall be based on a pro rata percentage determined by dividing the number of calendar days in the semester that the student has completed by the total calendar days in the semester. The total calendar days in a semester includes weekends, but excludes scheduled breaks of five or more days and any days that a student was on an approved leave of absence. The unearned portion shall be refunded up to the point in time that the amount earned equals 60%.

Students that withdraw from the institution when the calculated percentage of completion is greater than 60% are not entitled to a refund of any portion of institutional charges.

Refund of elective charges (room and board) for withdrawing from the institution during a semester will be made on a prorated basis determined by the date of withdrawal. Commuter meal plans may not be refunded.

A refund of all matriculation fees and other mandatory fees shall be made in the event of the death of a student at any time during the academic session.

Refunds to students who are recipients of Title IV funds will be made in accordance with federal laws and regulations in effect at that time.

The refund amount returned to SFA Programs will be distributed in the following order: Federal Unsubsidized Direct Stafford Loan, Federal Subsidized Direct Stafford Loan, Federal PLUS Loan, Federal Perkins Loan, Federal Pell Grant, FSEOG, Other Federal, State, Private, Institutional Aid and the Student.

Computer Services and Information Technology

Computers and technology are integral parts of the University. They facilitate teaching, learning (both online and traditional) and administrative functions. The University maintains a state of the art local-area network through state and federal funding.

The University’s infrastructure is supported by a campus-wide fiber optics backbone and wireless network, connecting campus users to speeds up to 1 gigabit (GB). Internet connectivity is supported by PeachNet, supplying a 50-megabit (MB) Internet path for faculty, staff, and administrators and a dedicated 100-megabit Internet path for the residential network. The University’s supporting applications include electronic mail; a campus-wide distributed messaging system, a university web site (http://www.savannahstate.edu), door card access, and communication support and remote access services.

Teaching and learning is supported through the establishment of general purpose and specialized computer labs, in both PC and MAC formats, in academic and residential facilities. The University offers distance education through Video Conferencing and Blackboard Vista to deliver distributed e-learning. The Center for Academic Success (CAS) supports the design and development of online and web- enhanced courses as well as faculty training for course navigation. The University’s library offers online services with access to Galileo Interconnected Libraries (GIL) - a Board of Regents supported Web-based virtual library, satellite down links, a SSU/GTECH Regional Engineering Program (GTREP), and local centralized application support.

The University’s administrative functions are supported through SunGard’s Banner - a student information system, PeopleSoft Financials and Human Resources systems, an automated work order system, electronic building security, and Blackbaud - an alumni financial system.