[an error occurred while processing this directive]Student Services

Student Services are offered to individualize and supplement university instruction. The Student Services program is based upon the principle that personal development and maturity are prerequisites to a happy and productive life. To these ends, Student Services are designed to help students gain full benefit from university life. The function of the Vice President for Student Affairs is to coordinate the enrichment program of the university and to assist each student in meeting his or her individual needs.

The Vice President for Student Affairs is responsible for the development and operation of the Student Services program and reports directly to the President of the University. Reporting to the Vice President for Student Affairs are the Office of Admissions and Records (responsible for the functions of admissions, evaluations, registration, student records, and veterans affairs); the Office of Financial Aids; the Career Planning and Placement Office; the Housing Office (responsible for both on- and off-campus residential programs); the Student Activities Office (responsible for student activities, cultural programs and foreign student services); the Counseling and Testing Center (responsible for educational, career and personal counseling, testing, and orientation); the Disabled Student Services; the Health Center; the Children’s Center; University Ombudsman; Re-Entry; the Educational Support Services (responsible for Academic Advancement Center, Educational Opportunity Program, Outreach Services, and Student Affirmative Action); and the STAAR and Educational Talent Search.

Admissions/Records

Three major sections make up the Admissions/Records Office; they are Admissions, Records and Evaluations. In addition to administering the three offices, Admissions and Records is responsible for conducting the National Student Exchange Program, and the Veterans Affairs Program.

Admissions -- Is responsible for admitting freshman, transfer and graduate students into the University. The office processes over 4,100 applications a year, provides pre-admission advising to prospective students, adults, and veterans seeking admissions into the undergraduate, graduate and credential programs of the university. The Office of Admissions, also assists the Office of Outreach Services in their recruiting efforts and works closely with school deans, superintendents, high school principals, counselors, and community colleges in providing admissions information on required course patterns and other admission changes approved by the Board of Trustees for the California State University. The Office of Admissions also provides applications to prospective students and to high schools and community colleges in the service area. Students interested in enrolling in the University should contact this office.

Records -- Is responsible for registration, works closely with faculty, school deans, and Extended University in keeping records and processing grades of students. They also process academic renewals, credit, no-credit, auditing, grade changes, transcript requests and class withdrawals for both undergraduate and graduate students.

Evaluations -- The Evaluations Office is responsible for admitting all students, providing evaluations of transfer credit, and for certification of general education breadth requirements and graduation check requirements for prospective graduating students. Transfer students enrolled in the university may check with this office to insure course credit has been given for courses taken at another institution. Students who anticipate graduation should confer with this office to insure all requirements have been met.

Graduation -- Students anticipating graduation within two quarters should submit a "grad check" application in the Admissions and Records Office.

Students must have completed at least 150 units for undergraduates and the advisor must provide the Evaluations Office the major course outline. Graduate students should request their master course outline from the department of their major and file for a "grad check."

Students who do not complete the required coursework for the quarter designated on the "grad check" will not be eligible for graduation for that specific quarter. Incomplete coursework listed as report delayed (RD), incomplete (INC), or satisfactory progress (SP) for any current or prior quarter will be denied graduation.

Campus policy does not permit changes in a student’s transcript after a final computation has been completed and a date of graduation has been established. Request for retroactive post baccalaureate credit or grade changes will not be honored after the student has completed the degree.

Transfer Credit -- Transfer students are encouraged to submit transcripts from all institutions attended at the earliest date possible, prior to their first quarter of attendance. Students who provide all transcripts may expect a completed transfer credit evaluation within ten days. Copies of the evaluation will be made available to the department of your major and personal copies will be mailed to the student’s local address.

Students who are admitted on a "conditional" basis or provide partial transcripts will not be provided a transfer credit evaluation. Transfer credit evaluations are available only to CSUB student applicants, who transfer from other institutions. Continuing students, graduates and Extended University students do not have their transcripts evaluated. Community College transfer students are encouraged to request a "full" or "partial" general education certification from the college attended. Their general education certification is available only to students attending a California Community College.

Students who have any specific questions regarding transfer credit should make an appointment with the evaluator listed on your transfer credit letter.

Commencement -- Commencement activities are scheduled at the end of the Spring quarter. Each of the three schools now schedule their own Commencements. Students are encouraged to consult with the Dean of their school for the date, time and place for their specific major’s commencement. Policy may vary from school to school as to who may participate in the formal commencement and any exception must be approved by the specific dean’s office.

National Student Exchange Program -- The Office of Admissions and Records administers and works closely with over 130 colleges and universities in the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands in providing admissions and registration support to students enrolled in the National Student Exchange Program. Students enrolled at California State University, Bakersfield who are interested in participating in the program should contact the Registrar to obtain participation admission requirements.

Veterans Affairs -- The Veterans Office is located in the Admissions and Records Office. The Veteran Coordinator is responsible for working with the Cal State University community and the Veterans Administration to insure that certified veterans are receiving their benefits. Veterans having any questions should contact this office.
 

Counseling Center

The University offers to registered students, counseling services that are designed to help them develop their maximum potential while pursuing their educational and personal goals. Professional staff provide without charge, confidential individual and group services in the following areas:

Educational -- Emphasis is on helping students be successful in reaching their educational goals. This includes identifying obstacles to academic success and the development of strategies to improve class performance. It may include counsel about learning progress, clarification of curricular policies and procedures, help with study habits/skills, and referral to the Academic Advancement Center.

Career -- Emphasis is on assisting students in looking at themselves relative to the choice of their educational and career goals, and in choosing a major at the University. Career inventories sometimes are used to assist students in identifying interest patterns and characteristics which may affect career decisions. Referral to the Career Planning and Placement for additional information is often utilized.

Personal -- Emphasis is on the personal growth and development of students in order that they may be successful academically in pursuing their educational goals. Assistance is offered with individual concerns, anxieties, dilemmas, or problems; in finding ways to increase self-confidence, self-control and self-direction; in university adjustment; with clarifying values; and in crisis situations.

General Studies Group Courses -- Each term counselors offer a number of one credit unit courses or workshops to assist students in being more successful in reaching educational and career goals. Topics include Systems for Success, Test Anxiety, Reentry Rap, and other areas that assist students in developing strategies for academic growth.

Academic Advising -- The student’s faculty advisor assists with class scheduling and answers questions pertaining to academic policies and procedures.

New Student Orientation -- All new students are encouraged to participate in planned orientation activities prior to the start of their first term at CSUB. Held prior to every registration period, the orientation program provides an introduction to the campus, student services, academic programs and requirements, and an appointment for academic advising by faculty members. All new students are mailed Orientation information which details dates and times for each quarter’s programs and indicates which sessions include preregistration options. Every effort is made to provide new students with information and advice which will facilitate a smooth and effective beginning at CSUB.

To gain specific information about the orientation options, students can call the Orientation Office (664-3388) or the Division of Undergraduate Studies (664-3420).

Testing Center -- The Testing Center administers three general types of tests: (1) national admission and matriculation tests for undergraduates and graduates, (2) individual career interest, inventories, and (3) English and math placement tests for CSUB and other CSU campuses.

For information and registration bulletins concerning the following tests, inquire at the Testing Center located in Student Center (3373).

CSUB is not a designated test center to administer the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), but testing information and registration bulletins are available.

Services For Students With Disabilities (SSD) -- Services are available to students who have disabilities which might impede their educational process and necessitate support services. The program offers individual assistance in addition to a number of services including:

Children’s Center -- The Children’s Center is a student sponsored program through the University Foundation which is designed to provide developmental activities and care for children aged 2 through 5. The program is concerned with the personal growth of children while providing a meaningful educational experience for those participating youngsters. Included in the approach is a concern for the children’s educational needs, social learning, emotional growth and physical well-being.

While the emphasis is to provide a program for the children of California State University, Bakersfield students, other children are welcomed for admission as space permits. Interested families should contact the Director of the Center as early as possible prior to the start of each quarter in order to complete application procedures.

Health Services -- The Health Service provides on-campus health care for all currently enrolled students on an out-patient basis, funded by the mandatory student health fee. The objective of Health Services is to produce and maintain an optimum state of physical and emotional health.

Students planning to enroll at the university should note that a Medical Self-Evaluation and Health History must be submitted to the Health Center before any type of medical treatment is provided. Students under age 18 must have the form signed by a parent or guardian and should request a form from the Health Center prior to enrollment.

Proper identification is required to be shown prior to each visit. A California State University, Bakersfield Identification Card with the appropriate sticker or a current Fee receipt and driver’s license will be accepted.

Basic services rendered in support of actual illness or injury are free of charge. Pharmacy services, services to Extension Students, and services requested, but not related to a current illness, are Augmented Services, and a small fee will be charged. A complete fee schedule is posted in the Health Center. Students are advised to read the Health Center Information Booklet for information on services available.

All charges for health care given off-campus are the responsibility of the individual student. For this reason, students are urged to enroll in supplementary health insurance plans to meet major medical expenses not available at the Health Center. For those not otherwise covered, medical plans are available through the Associated Students.
 

Career Planning And Placement Services

The Office of Career Planning and Placement Services may furnish, upon request, information about the employment of students who graduate from programs or courses of study preparing students for a particular career field. This information includes data concerning the average starting salary and the percentage of previously enrolled students who obtained employment. The information may include data collected from either graduates of the campus or graduates of all campuses in The California State University.

The University maintains a centralized placement service through the Career Planning and Placement Center which has the primary responsibility for career counseling on the CSUB campus. This service functions as a part of the total educational process of the University, in its cooperation with the various academic departments and as a part of the Student Services Program. Students are encouraged to discuss their educational and career plans with the Placement Center staff, in order that realistic objectives may be formulated for successful professional careers after graduation.

Immigration Requirements for Licensure -- On August 27, 1996, Governor Pete Wilson issued Executive Order W-135-96 which requested that the CSU and other state agencies implement "as expeditiously as reasonably practicable" the provision of The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRAWORA) of 1996 (P.L. 104-193). The Act, also known as the Welfare Reform Act, included provisions to eliminate eligibility for federal and state public benefits for certain categories of lawful immigrants as well as benefits for all illegal immigrants.

Students who will require a professional or commercial license provided by a local, state, or federal government agency in order to engage in an occupation for which the CSU may be training them must meet the immigration requirements of the new Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act to achieve licensure.

Career Placement -- Career Planning and Placement maintains an active program of relations with business, industry, government, and education in order that seniors and qualified alumni may find positions for which they are appropriately qualified.

Part-Time and Summer Placement -- This service is available to all currently enrolled students. It provides a way to help students defray some of the expense of a college education and in many cases provides valuable work experience, which can be an asset when seeking full-time employment.

Career Counseling -- The primary responsibility for career counseling of CSUB students is housed in career planning and placement. Emphasis is placed on assisting students in looking at themselves and appraising their strengths and weaknesses relative to career goals and aspirations. Career inventories are used to assist students in identifying interest patterns and characteristics which may help them make sound career decisions.

Career Placement Information -- The campus may furnish, upon request, information including data concerning average starting salaries, and projections of employment for specific careers. The information provided may include data collected from either graduates of the campus or graduates of all campuses in the California State University system.

Career Library -- A career library is maintained to provide information in regards to careers, employment trends, and job search skills. Information concerning individual companies and agencies in addition to graduate school information is available. In addition video tapes on careers and job search skills are available for viewing in the Placement Center.

On-Campus Interviews -- A program providing on-campus interviews for seniors and graduates is offered. Recruiting visits have been conducted on campus by a variety of organizations, including private companies, school districts, state and federal agencies. In addition, the Placement Center hosts an Annual Career Day. Employers are invited to visit our campus, giving students the opportunity to explore career paths and meet potential employers.

Placement File Service -- The Placement Center provides a central location for establishing professional files for registered seniors and graduates. These files are sent to prospective employers at the request of the student. The placement file is especially necessary for all candidates planning to teach at the elementary or secondary level.

Vacancy Listings and Referrals -- Each year over 7,000 jobs are listed with the Career Planning and Placement Center. Along with this service, direct referrals are made of seniors and graduates who have specific qualifications which are sought by individual employers.

Presentations and Seminars -- Presentations are made to classes providing a broad overview of the basic elements of the job search process including resume writing and interview preparation. Seminars are also held relative to careers for specific curriculum areas.

Career Guidance -- EUREKA (The California Career Information System) is available for use in the Career Planning and Placement Center. EUREKA is a library of occupational and educational information which is up-to-date and localized to our area (California). The Campbell Interest and Skill Inventory can help you evaluate your present interests and skills systematically. Results of the interest inventory will provide insight as to which careers most closely match your skills and interests.

Housing -- The campus residence hall complex opened in September, 1972 and contains six three-story buildings. Each building accommodates a total of fifty-five students in both double and triple rooms. A large living room area is located on the ground floor with color television, study carrel room, and recreational space. All living space is fully carpeted; and each room has individualized heating and air conditioning. Freshmen who do not live at home or with legal guardians are encouraged to live on campus.

The Housing Office sponsors numerous co-curricular programs in the areas of human sexuality, music, arts and crafts, and special living-learning environments.

A limited listing of off-campus apartments and rooms in the Bakersfield community is available.

Student Activities -- Assists students, faculty and staff in the development and coordination of social, cultural, educational and recreational activities and programs for the college. Extracurricular activities and programs are planned to enhance instructional offerings and to provide opportunities for student involvement.

These activities and programs include: campus clubs and organizations, fraternities and sororities, special interest programs, recreational and leisure activities, intramural sports, pep band, pep squad and mascot program and student government. Each year Student Activities sponsors special events such as Runnerfest, the campus’ spring fair.

In addition, Student Activities is responsible for the International Study Abroad program which involves 36 foreign universities in 16 countries around the world.

Student Activities is also concerned with the development and training of student leaders. All students are encouraged to become involved in the planning of various student activities and to serve on the numerous campus committees.

Student Activities is interested in student ideas for new activities and programs for suggestions for improving the existing ones. Students who have ideas for activities and programs or who want to get involved are encouraged to visit the Office of Student Activities.

International Study Abroad Program -- Information concerning study opportunities for American students in foreign universities is available from the Office of Student Activities. This office organizes the selection of U.S. students applying to one of the International Programs operated by the California State Universities in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, Republic of China, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and Zimbabwe. For additional information, refer to the section on International Programs under Academic Information.

International Students and Programs -- International (foreign) student assistance is available in the (MB2 211, 664-2014) to help students regarding their academic concerns, personal, and cultural requirements. A variety of special programs and services are also available to assist international students to become better acquainted and adjusted to university life, including an orientation for new students, special interest programs, the Nations (a monthly newsletter) and conversation/discussion groups.
 

Educational Support Services

The Educational Opportunity Program at California State University, Bakersfield is designed to help those students who are disadvantaged because of their economic or educational background, but who have the potential and motivation to succeed in a college environment. The Educational Opportunity Program serves California residents who do not meet regular admission criteria, as well as those who qualify for regular admission, if they have a history of low income and need academic and financial aid assistance.

All EOP applicant documents and forms must be completed and returned as soon as possible since there are a limited number of spaces allocated for the Educational Opportunity Program. Deadline dates are:

Academic Advancement Center -- Under the aegis of Educational Support Services and with the cooperation of the entire campus, an academic support program is available for students experiencing scholastic difficulties or simply interested in strengthening their academic skills. Courses, programs, and activities are especially designed to assist in the retention of the underrepresented student on campus. Services provided by the Academic Advancement Center include, but are not limited to, the following:

Subject Tutorials -- Tutors are available in most academic disciplines. The tutors work closely together with the faculty in their academic departments and are trained to provide academic assistance outside of the classroom. Small groups and individual tutoring are both successfully utilized.

Basic Skills Development -- In addition to the subject tutorials, the Academic Advancement Center provides assistance in basic skills development in the following areas:

Additional Preparatory Workshops -- These include CBEST and ELM preparation.

Counseling Services -- Counseling services include: academic assistance, career counseling and goal setting, personal counseling, peer counseling, cultural enrichment activities, bilingual counseling, special services for physically or educationally handicapped students.

The Office of Outreach Services -- consolidated the outreach efforts of the Office of School Relations, Student Affirmative Action program and the Educational Opportunity Program and serves as a liaison between high schools, community colleges and California State University, Bakersfield. The office coordinates a number of services designed to assist academic preparation, access, and transition for junior high school, high school, and community college students. Through its Early Outreach efforts, junior high school students are provided career awareness and intensive academic support services. The immediate Outreach efforts are directed toward juniors and seniors at the service area high schools and provide admission information to prospective students. California State University, Bakersfield‘s Transfer Center assists transfer-eligible community college students in making the transition to the California State University, Bakersfield campus.

Campus tours are available for prospective students and their parents. Appointments can also be made with faculty and staff concerning their educational goals. These tours and appointments may be arranged by contacting the Office of Outreach Services (661) 664-3138.

Student Affirmative Action -- The Student Affirmative Action Program is designed to increase the enrollment of regularly eligible women, ethnic minority, the disabled, and other underrepresented groups in postsecondary education.

The Student Affirmative Action Program’s main emphasis is on outreach in the local area, with some statewide efforts as well. Locally the program focuses on those high schools and community colleges with high enrollments of underrepresented students. At these selected schools, students and parents are provided with information and assistance on admissions, financial aid, scholarship, and special programs. Through its Early Outreach efforts the Student Affirmative Action Program helps minority/disadvantaged 7th and 8th grade students become better prepared to pursue the high school pre-college curriculum, thereby increasing the pool of regularly eligible minority/disadvantaged students.
 

Other Special Programs

TRIO Programs

Student Achievement, Academic, & Retention Program (STAAR) -- The STAAR Program is a federally funded program committed to providing services to 450 first generation, low income, or physically and/or learning disabled students. From the Program's 20 years of experience in Student Support Services, we have realized that developing academic skills and confidence are essential for retention and academic success. STAAR's professional staff and paraprofessionals help students succeed by utilizing both traditional and non-traditional methods of instruction and counseling. The utilization of culture, background experience, motivation, and counseling support is what makes all of STAAR's support services different from mainstream academic assistance.

All one needs to do to become a participant of the STAAR Program is to come by the program and fill out an application. The application is then reviewed. If you qualify, an intake interview is performed.

Throughout the year, STAAR offers many services that are both academically and socially driven. These services include, but are not limited to, the following:

Classes sponsored by the STAAR Program: These classes are all two units and meet once or twice a week. To find out more information about these General Studies classes or to find out when they meet, please stop by the STAAR Program or call 664-2281.

Activities sponsored by STAAR & SAC (Student Activities Club)

There are Math Assistants through the STAAR Program to help you with any math needs you or a friend may have. They hold various hours throughout the week to help you with any of the following: To find out the MA's hours or more information about getting help, please call 664-2281, or come by the STAAR Program.

The STAAR Program has Reading Assistants throughout the year to help you or someone you know with any reading or writing difficulties. The services they provide are as follows:

To find out the RA's hours or more information about getting help, please call 664-2281, or come by the STAAR Program.

Educational Talent Search Program -- The purpose of the Educational Talent Search Program is to identify low-income and potential first generation college students who have potential for postsecondary education; to encourage them to continue in and graduate from secondary schools; and to enroll them in programs of postsecondary education. The program provides information regarding postsecondary educational opportunities, academic assistance, career options, and the availability of student financial aid; technical assistance in applying for college admissions and/or student financial aid; preparation workshops for college admissions tests; and workshops on personal growth and development.