Special Programs

Air Force ROTC (Aerospace Studies)

The Air Force ROTC program provides professional preparation for students considering service as officers in the U.S. Air Force. The program also offers information on Air Force career opportunities and the role of the military in the American society. Courses in AFROTC are offered to Cleveland State students through a crosstown agreement with Kent State University (KSU). Students enrolled in AFROTC receive Cleveland State credit for the courses; however, the courses are taken at KSU.

Curriculum Registering

Courses are normally taken for academic credit as part of the students’ electives. Entering freshmen and sophomores may register for Aerospace Studies courses at the same time and in the same manner as they enroll in their other college courses. Juniors and seniors wishing to enroll in AFROTC should call the AFROTC Unit Admissions Officer prior to enrollment to discuss the particular requirements.

The curriculum in Aerospace Studies is divided into two parts: the General Military Course (GMC), usually taken during the freshman and sophomore years, and the Professional Officer Course (POC), normally taken during the junior and senior years. Students who qualify will attend a four- (or five-) week Field Training Encampment, usually between their sophomore and junior years. Air Force officers are assigned as full-time faculty members and teach all Aerospace Studies courses.

Students register for an Aerospace Studies course and Leadership Laboratory. Freshmen may register for AF 101  and AF 103  for the fall term and AF 102  and AF 104  for the spring term. Sophomores may register for AF 201  and AF 203  for the fall term and AF 202  and AF 204  for the spring term. Juniors will register for AF 301  and AF 303  for the fall term and AF 302  and AF 304  for the spring term. Seniors in the AFROTC program will register for AF 401  and AF 403  for the fall term and AF 402  and AF 404  for the spring term.

Miscellaneous

Uniforms and textbooks are provided at no charge to all students enrolled in AFROTC. Textbooks are returned upon completion of each academic year or upon withdrawal from the course.

Veterans with previous honorable U.S. military service who wish to enroll in the POC may be eligible to receive a waiver of either the GMC or its equivalent as an entrance requirement. Veterans who meet all other requirements will be enrolled at the beginning of the junior year.

Financial Assistance

In-College Scholarship Program

Students who demonstrate academic and leadership potential may be nominated by the professor of Aerospace Studies to compete for scholarships. These scholarships are for three or two years, and are awarded in all majors. The scholarship award includes tuition, laboratory fees, $900 annual textbook allowance, and a monthly stipend of $300 to $500, tax-free.

Scholarship Statement of Understanding

Air Force ROTC scholarship recipients must meet and maintain certain academic and military retention standards and serve in the active-duty Air Force after graduation.

Incentive Program

Air Force ROTC students completing Field Training and successfully entering the Professional Officer Course (juniors and seniors), who are not already on scholarship, are eligible to receive $450 to $500 per-month stipend, tax free. Cadets must be in good academic standing.

Contact Information

For further information, contact the Department of Aerospace Studies, AFROTC DET 630, 104 Terrace Hall, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242 at 330-672-2182, or e-mail det630@kent.edu.

Army ROTC (Military Science)

The Department of Military Science is also known as the Army Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) department. Military Science basic courses are open to all students as electives. The department provides instruction to the student body in general on the role of the military in America. Such instruction includes military skills, leadership, adventure training, and the role of the military in society.

The department is both an academic entity of the university and an Instructor Group of the United States Army. It is staffed by the Army with approval of the university president. The instructors are professional Army Officers whose academic backgrounds meet standards set by the university.

The goal of Army ROTC is to prepare young men and women for service as Army Officers. Students will explore and evaluate the Army’s career opportunities offered upon graduation with at least a baccalaureate degree. The ROTC program also accommodates students enrolled in graduate degree programs. Courses in the Military Science Basic Program (see MSC I & MSC II below) are offered at Cleveland State University. Courses in the Military Science Advanced Program (see MSC III & MSC IV below) are offered to Cleveland State students through cross-enrollment with John Carroll University. Students enrolled in advanced Army ROTC receive Cleveland State credit for the classes; however, the instruction is given at John Carroll.

Basic Program (MSC I, MSC II)

Students normally take the Basic Program courses during their freshman and sophomore years. Classes are usually taken for academic credit as part of a student’s electives. The Army ROTC Basic Program consists of MSC I and MSC II. MSC I has two courses: MSC 101  (Leadership and Personal Development) in the fall semester and MSC 102  (Introduction to Tactical Leadership) in the spring semester. They will also take MSC 199  (Military Science Leadership Skills Lab) in each semester. MSC II courses include MSC 201  (Innovative Team Leadership) in the fall and MSC 202  (Foundations of Tactical Leadership) in the spring. They also take MSC 299  (Military Science Leadership Skills Lab) in conjunction with the lecture classes. Students taking any or all of the basic courses incur no military obligation and are not part of the Armed Forces. Completion of the four basic course classes (MSC 101 , MSC 102 , MSC 199 , MSC 201 , MSC 202  & MSC 299 ) is a prerequisite for acceptance into the Advanced Program (MSC III & MSC IV). Prior military service, current Army Reserve or National Guard status, or attendance at the Army ROTC Basic Camp at Fort Knox, Ky., during the summer may also fulfill the Basic Program requirements.

Advanced Program (MSC III, MSC IV)

Students normally take the Advanced Program courses during their junior and senior years. These courses include MSC 301  (Adaptive Tactical Leadership), MSC 302  (Leadership in Changing Environments), MSC 401  (Developing Adaptive Leaders), and MSC 402  (Leadership in a Complex World). Students also take MSC 399  and MSC 499  (Military Science Leadership Skills Lab) each semester. Leadership Lab emphasizes exercises in leadership, tactics, land navigation, communications, first aid, operations planning, and cultural understanding. Each course also includes a two-day field training exercise during each semester.

Students must be accepted by the chair of the Military Science Department at John Carroll University before they can enroll in the Advanced Program courses. Once accepted, each student enters into a contract to complete the courses and to accept a commission as an Army Officer upon graduation. While enrolled in the Advanced Program, each contracted student is paid a subsistence allowance of $450-500 a month during the school year. All Cadets (students) are required to attend a five-week Advanced Camp at Fort Knox, KY during the summer between their junior and senior year.

Upon satisfactory completion of the advanced courses and award of their academic degree, students are commissioned as Second Lieutenants and serve out a military obligation of at least four years. Students may request either Active Duty or Reserve Force Duty (Army Reserve/National Guard). Under certain conditions, students who have completed the baccalaureate program and their military science studies may request delayed entry into the active Army to pursue professional degrees (MD or JD). Other options available to students in Army ROTC are opportunities to attend Airborne, Air Assault, Northern Warfare, and Mountain Warfare training courses as well as the cultural understanding program in various countries around the world. 

Scholarships

The U.S. Department of the Army annually awards four-year and three-year scholarships on a competitive basis to senior high school students nationwide. Winners are announced in November, February and April. College students can apply for campus-based Army scholarships once they enroll in the Army ROTC program. Two-year scholarships are also available to graduating seniors who will be attending graduate school. In order to apply for any of these scholarships, applicants must have, as a minimum, a GPA of 2.5, an SAT score of 920 or ACT score of 19, pass the DoD qualifying physical, and meet Army fitness and weight requirements.

Army scholarships are based upon merit and are all full-tuition and fee scholarships. They also pay a book allowance of $1,200 per year and a monthly subsistence of $300 to $500 during the academic year.

Eligibility

All university students are eligible for enrollment in the basic courses (MSC I and MSC II). Students who are 18 years of age, who are American citizens or intend to become naturalized and who are physically qualified are eligible for enrollment in the advanced courses of the Military Science department. Any student may audit basic courses in the department with the approval of the chair and appropriate institutional authorities.

Point of Contact

For additional information about the Army ROTC program, contact the Department of Military Science, John Carroll University, at 216-397-4286.

Athletics

Cleveland State University’s Viking teams compete in the Division 1 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The University sponsors programs for 18 intercollegiate sports, ten women’s teams and eight men’s teams. The Vikings are members of both the Horizon League and Eastern Wrestling League, which gives Cleveland State’s student athletes the opportunity to regularly compete against some of the best athletes in the country. Cleveland State University student athletes represent the university community at local, regional, national, and international competitions, including NCAA Championship tournaments, as well as the Olympics. Over the years, more than 40 Viking student athletes have earned All-Americans honors in their respective sport.

Viking student athletes learn some of life’s most valuable lessons: sacrifice, integrity, preparation, teamwork, communication, and resiliency, all while representing Cleveland State in the classroom and the community. Cleveland State student athletes consistently earn an overall cumulative GPA above a 3.0 in the classroom. University teams regularly rank among the nation’s academic best, with many having been named Academic All-Americans. Cleveland State’s Athletic Academic Advising Office coordinates an extensive support system, which provides assistance with: course selection, registration, add/drop procedures and deadlines, and also provides general academic counseling, course monitoring, tutorial assistance, study hall, and workshops.

Community service is a cornerstone of Cleveland State University athletics. Viking student athletes, led by the university’s Student-Athlete Advisory Council, participate in a variety of community outreach initiatives. These volunteer activities include tutoring, adopt-a-school programs, and Special Olympic efforts.

Black Studies Program

The broad mission of the Cleveland State University Black Studies Program is to provide the university community and the Greater Cleveland community with opportunities to acquire greater knowledge and a broader understanding and appreciation of the history, life, arts, culture, and experiences of African peoples and peoples of African descent on the African continent, in the United States of America, and throughout the African Diaspora. The time-span that encompasses this study of Africa, Africans, and peoples of African descent extends from the beginnings of ancient African civilization to the present.

The Black Studies Program seeks to provide information, dialogue, and experiences that contribute knowledge that serves to shape attitudes and behaviors necessary for living and working effectively and harmoniously in a multiracial, multiethnic, and multicultural society.

The Black Studies Program is a member of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS). The director of Black Studies reports to the Dean of CLASS. The Black Studies staff consists of the director who oversees all operations, programs, and activities of the Black Studies Program; the coordinator of the Dr. Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center; and the secretary. The Black Studies Program provides activities and services for the enrichment, education, and enjoyment of all Cleveland State University students, faculty, and staff as well as the Greater Cleveland community.

The Black Studies Program seeks to carry out its mission through the following six instruments:

• Black Studies Academic Program
• Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center
• Howard A. Mims Lecture, Arts and Media Series
• The Jazz Heritage Orchestra
• IMAGES, a weekly Black Studies radio forum
• Black Aspirations Week

For more information and the calendar of Black Studies events, call 216-687-3655 or visit http://www.csuohio.edu/class/black-studies

Black Studies Academic Program

The Cleveland State University Black Studies Program offers an interdisciplinary major and minor in Black Studies through numerous departments that are housed in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, the College of Urban Affairs and the College of Science. These courses include the contributions of Africans and persons of African descent throughout the Diaspora to literature, arts, culture, religion, music, drama, science, technology, education, health, communication, and dance. The courses focus on information about African and African-American experiences in slavery, emancipation, segregation, desegregation, protests, and revolts, as well as the study of black institutions, organizations, businesses, and the urban experience. These courses explore the politics, philosophy, psychology, and sociology of the Black experience.

The director of Black Studies is responsible for the administration of the academic program and advising students who elect to major or minor in Black Studies. The director of Black Studies is responsible for communicating with the faculty who teach the Black Studies courses and with chairpersons of departments in which Black Studies courses are taught in order to encourage the establishment of additional courses and to facilitate the smooth functioning of the Black Studies Academic Program. For more information, contact the director of Black Studies at 216-523-7211.

Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center

The Black Studies Program operates the Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center located in Room 137 of Main Classroom. The center’s programs include Umoja Round Tables, Kuumba Arts Presentations, Curtis Wilson Colloquium Series Lectures, the Black Studies Ambassadors, as well as Bridges to Africa Panels and Celebrations. These programs feature revolving exhibits, engagements with performing artists, formal colloquia, films and video recordings about African American, African and African Diaspora history, life and culture. The Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center is also designed to assist with student retention initiatives and provides an aesthetically enhanced atmosphere where students are invited to relax, engage in formal or informal discussions, study, and receive tutoring. This space is available for meetings by students, faculty/staff groups and organizations, as well as community organizations and groups aligned with the mission of the Black Studies Program.

The Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center is open to students, staff, faculty, and the general public Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The coordinator of the Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center should be contacted for scheduling events during regular hours or for use of the center on special occasions. For more information, contact the coordinator of the Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center at 216-687-3656.

Black Studies Lecture, Arts and Media Series

The director of the Black Studies Program and other members of the Black Studies staff are responsible for bringing to the university and the Greater Cleveland community outstanding speakers, the creative work of visual and performing artists, videos, and film. The director-in conjunction with the Black Studies staff, a student advisory council, a community advisory council, and members of the interdisciplinary Black Studies faculty-is responsible for presenting this annual series, which is an extension of the Black Studies Academic Program. One purpose of the Lecture, Arts and Media Series is to preserve and perpetuate vital aspects of African, African American, and the African Diaspora cultural experiences, especially those artists and programs of high quality, which are often neglected. Cleveland State University students are especially encouraged to take advantage of these culturally enriching and highly educational activities and events which are designed to be an extremely vital part of their total college experience. Special efforts are also made to make these events of the Lecture, Arts and Media Series available to all segments of the general public. For more information, contact the Black Studies Program at 216-687-3655.

Jazz Heritage Orchestra

In 1998, with a small band of supporters, the late Dr. Howard A. Mims, professor emeritus and former director of the Cleveland State Black Studies Program, founded the Jazz Heritage Orchestra (JHO). They envisioned the establishment of a world-class orchestra with a three-fold mission: primarily, to preserve and perpetuate the musical heritage of the great African American jazz masters who were its primary creators and major innovators, through the education of young people and the general public by offering educational residencies, clinics, workshops, and master classes; secondly, to present jazz to all strata of society through concert performances, festivals, and conferences; and thirdly, for the Jazz Heritage Orchestra to create its own legacy by producing new music. These professional musicians are world-class jazz performers and highly competent music educators committed to taking jazz music and its history into the schools and other learning venues. The Jazz Heritage Orchestra is a 17-piece jazz orchestra officially in-residence in the Black Studies Program at Cleveland State University. JHO offers ensembles ranging from trio to a 12-piece band. Dennis Bradley Reynolds, former lead trumpeter with the Count Basie and Clark Terry Big Bands, is the artist director. For information, call 216-687-3655.

“Images” Radio Forum

“Images” is a weekly Black Studies Program radio forum. The office of the Black Studies Program is responsible for producing the program, which is hosted by the director of the Black Studies Program and coordinator of the Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center. The director serves as executive producer. Engineering services are provided by Cleveland State’s Instructional Media Services in the IMS studio where the forums are recorded for future broadcast. “Images” is heard each week on two Cleveland area radio stations: WERE-AM (1490) on Sundays at 10:00 a.m. and WCSB-FM (89.3) on Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. In addition to discussions and conversations with local, national, and international guests, “Images” is used to promote activities and events of the Black Studies Program as well as activities of other departments and units of the university. For more information, call 216-687-3655.

Black Aspirations Week

During the spring semester, the Black Studies Program organizes and presents Black Aspirations Week to highlight the accomplishments and achievements of African/African Americans throughout the Diaspora. Speakers, artists, and scholars are brought to the Cleveland State University campus to engage and educate students and community residents regarding the diverse contributions made by African/African Americans. The Black Studies Program encourages students, faculty, staff and community residents to participate in the planning and presentation of Black Aspirations Week. Most Black Aspirations events are free and open to the public.

Continuing Education

Continuing Education has a long history at Cleveland State University, and we are very proud to offer a variety of courses and workshops through our academic units. Northeast Ohio benefits from CE’s professional development programs and offers local communities the opportunity to gain knowledge, pursue personal enrichment, and obtain licensure or CEU’s.

Please visit our website for more information: http://www.csuohio.edu/ce/

• GIS (Geographical Information Systems)
• Human Services
• Information Technology
• Languages & Culture
• Nursing
• Business Management
• Information Technology
• Test Prep
• Training & Leadership

Cooperative Education

Through the Cooperative Education Program, students can explore career and academic options, pretest career choices, put academic theories to work with professionals in their field, polish personal and professional skills, and earn money to contribute to their educational costs. Cleveland State University offers the Cooperative Education Program in all undergraduate fields of study and most graduate programs. Co-op students work in positions that are closely related to their academic areas of study and career interests. Work experiences are typically scheduled during alternate semesters beginning in the sophomore year. In some cases a parallel schedule of part-time work is available.

Eligibility

There are three basic requirements for admission to the Cooperative Education Program: Students must have earned at least 30 semester hours, be in good academic standing prior to the first assignment, and have completed the one-credit-hour CSC 121 - Career Orientation  course. Transfer students are also eligible to participate in co-op.

Application for admission usually is made in the freshman year or, in the case of a transfer student, during the first semester on campus. Application requirements are satisfied when the student completes CSC 121 , which presents detailed regulations and procedures for obtaining the greatest value from the co-op program and aids students in clarifying their career goals and sharpening their job-search skills.

Academic Credit

All co-op students are required to register their co-op experience with the university. CSC 300  provides for academic credit in recognition of the educational value of the cooperative education experience. In this way, one credit is given for each co-op experience completed. This credit is not counted toward the number of hours needed for graduation, but it will add academic hours to a student’s credit total. The academic credit maintains a student’s full-time status while on a co-op job. CSC 400 , a non-credit option, is also available. However, CSC 400  does not maintain a student’s full-time status.

Administration

The Cooperative Education Program is administered by the Career Services Center. During the Career Orientation course, students are assigned to a career coordinator. The coordinator acts as a liaison between the university and the working community, developing co-op opportunities and maintaining an effective rapport with all program participants.

Co-op Job Placement and Scheduling

Co-op employers include a wide range of businesses and industries, governmental, social service agencies, and school systems. Jobs are developed with employers who will provide a meaningful work experience, the standard rate of pay for the work being performed, and a careful evaluation of the student at the completion of the work semester.

Coordinators help students in the entire placement process providing counseling and contacts. Students then apply directly to the employer and are hired on their own merits. Students must register for CSC 300  or CSC 400  (Co-op Field Experience) during each semester in which they have a work assignment.

The co-op schedule, showing the semesters the student will be in school and when the student will be at work, is prepared by the coordinator in consultation with the student and the appropriate academic adviser. The coop student typically alternates periods of being at work and at school from the end of the freshman year to the beginning of the senior year. Two students are often paired with the same employer, thereby keeping a designated co-op position filled at all times. Variations in length and pattern of co-op schedules are considered on an individual basis with many factors being considered.

Students enrolled in the Cooperative Education Program are expected to comply with all of the policies, rules, and procedures governing the program, which are explained further in the Career Orientation course.

Departmental Programs

Students with high grade point averages and a desire for academic challenge should be aware that several departments offer separate departmental honors programs for their students. These include: Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences; Chemistry; Economics; Health Sciences; History; Modern Languages; Pharmaceutical Sciences; Physics; Psychology; Sociology; and Speech & Hearing. Details can be found in the program descriptions for these departments.

International Student Services (CISP)

The Center for International Services and Programs (CISP) provides specifically designed services to meet the needs of more than 800 international students from 72 different nations who are enrolled in academic programs at the undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral level.

CISP provides a variety of services to international students and international visitors to foster a positive learning experience for both their academic and personal growth.

Arrival. CISP provides an airport pickup service for first-semester international students. Students notify CISP with their arrival information submitted via the Arrival Form that students receive with their I-20 or DS2019. The Arrival Form is also available for download from the CISP website and can be e-mailed to CISP at intadvisor@csuohio.edu, or faxed to CISP at 216-687-3965. Another option is to fill out and submit the Arrival Form online at the CISP website. A CISP representative will meet the student at the airport or other transit station.

Orientation. CISP conducts a mandatory orientation at the beginning of each academic term. The orientation takes place approximately 10 days before the term begins. These programs address important issues which new international students face such as adjustment, language difficulties, safety, housing, immigration regulations, and university academic policies and procedures.

Individual Advising. Advising services include personal, academic, and cross-cultural advising. Advising is available by appointment and on a walk-in basis for short-term assistance.

Immigration Advising. CISP provides immigration advising for students on F-l and J-l visas. Questions concerning student visas, duration of status, practical training, and on-campus and off-campus work permission are among the topics covered. The center also conducts weekly work permission seminars.

Academic Advising. For students who face academic difficulty, academic advising is available. This advising is meant to assist students with difficulties not addressed by academic departments on campus. Students who face academic dismissal are advised on how to strategically complete their remaining coursework and on the immigration implications they may face.

Social Programming. International students at Cleveland State have many opportunities for social interaction with American students, fellow nationals, and individuals from many countries.

International Day. Each fall, the international students on campus unite to celebrate International Day, a part of International Education Week, which is celebrated around the world. Numerous nationality groups participate in bringing a day of cultural exchanges, through ethnic food, music, and authentic dance performances. The event is organized by CISP.

International Student Organizations. There are several international student groups on the campus. They represent countries in Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. New groups are formed every year. Each nationality group on campus is encouraged to establish its own student organization.

National Student Exchange

The National Student Exchange (NSE) offers Cleveland State University students the opportunity to take course work at one of approximately 190 participating colleges and universities throughout the United States as well as Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and Canada. Students may attend a host institution for up to one calendar year while continuing their progress toward a Cleveland State University degree. Students have the option of paying CSU tuition or the in-state tuition of their exchange school.

The program allows students an opportunity to explore and learn from different regional and cultural perspectives and to broaden their backgrounds, often through courses not available at their home campus. All pre-approved courses will transfer back to Cleveland State.

Eligible students must maintain full-time enrollment before and during exchange, be of at least sophomore status, and have a 2.5 minimum GPA.

The application deadline is February 1 for the following academic year.

Interested students should contact Julie Good at 216-523-7531 or e-mail her at j.a.good88@csuohio.edu. More information is also available at www.nse.org.

Study Abroad

Studying abroad provides students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a foreign learning environment in order to further develop their foreign language skills and/or their understanding of the world and its people. The study abroad staff assists students in identifying study abroad programs that fit their academic and personal goals.

One-to-One Exchanges: A Cleveland State University student can study abroad for a semester or year in Chile (Universidad de Concepción), China (Dalian School of Foreign Languages), England (University of Sunderland), France (ESC Clermont Ferrand or University of Rouen), Germany (Baden-Wuerttemberg Cooperative State University Heidenheim or University of Erlangen-Nuremberg ), South Korea (Chung Ang University), or Sweden (Umeå University) as a part of a direct exchange program. CSU tuition is paid for the term abroad.

Faculty-Led Short-Term Programs: Every year several academic departments offer short-term study abroad programs facilitated by CISP. These programs are led by one faculty director from the department and typically include ten to twenty students. Grades earned on these programs are recorded on the transcript and included in the calculation of the grade point average. Previous programs have traveled to India (Social Work); France, Spain, Mexico (Modern Languages); Netherlands (History); Chile, England, Germany, and Italy (Business).

Independent Programs: CISP will consider applications for direct enrollment in any overseas university as well as abroad programs established by other American colleges and universities. Students can choose to study abroad for a semester, summer, or a year. In most cases, financial aid can be applied for approved study abroad programs and course credits can be transferred in. Grades from these programs are not factored into a students’ CSU academic record.

Work, Intern, Volunteer Abroad: CISP offers internships in Germany for business and engineering majors. The study abroad staff will assist students in identifying and applying to these and other programs.

Scholarships: Students can apply through CISP for study abroad scholarships. Awards range from $200 to $1,000. The Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs also offers a study abroad scholarship for up to $500 for summer study and up to $1,000 for semester or year-long programs. In addition, CISP can assist students with applications for national study abroad scholarship competitions like the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship or a Boren Award.

For further information and to apply to the programs, contact the Study Abroad Manager at the Center for International Services and Programs (CISP) in Main Classroom 106 studyabroad@csuohio.edu Call 216-687-3910, Fax 216-687-3965, or visit http://www.csuohio.edu/international/education-abroad

TRIO/Student Support Services Program

The TRIO/Student Support Services (SSS) Program is grant funded through the U.S. Department of Education and has been part of the Cleveland State University Campus for over 47 years. TRIO/SSS works in cooperation with all offices at Cleveland State University and continues to be committed to helping first-generation and/or low-income college students progress towards graduation and beyond.

TRIO/SSS provides opportunities for academic development, assists students with basic college requirements, and serves to support and motivate students toward the successful completion of their postsecondary education. The goal of TRIO/SSS is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of its participants and help students make the transition from one level of higher education to the next.

TRIO/SSS participants have benefited from services such as:

• Academic Advising
• Academic Skills Development Workshops
• Book Loan Program
• Career Planning Seminars
• Cultural and Social Enrichment Activities
• Financial Aid Guidance
• Financial Literacy Workshops
• Graduate and Professional School Preparation
• Leadership Development
• Study Abroad and National Student Exchange Scholarships
• Success Coaching
• Summer Enrichment Program
• Tutorial Services

Eligibility Requirements

• First-generation college student: Neither parent nor guardian received a bachelor’s degree; and/or
• Low-income: based on federal income guidelines
• U.S. citizen and/or legal permanent resident
• Demonstrated academic need as determined by TRIO/SSS

For more information, visit http://www.csuohio.edu/trio or call 216-687-5244.

Student Activities

http://www.csuohio.edu/studentlife/

At Cleveland State University we provide a wide array of campus wide programs for students to enjoy outside the classroom. Frequently sponsored by Campus Life or the Campus Activities Board those events include social events, lectures, dances, holiday celebrations, cultural festivals, and concerts. Some examples are Welcome Week, Camp Vike, Magnus Fest, Glow Party, Springfest, Homecoming, Family Weekend, and many more. If you are interested in volunteering to help plan these events, or if you want more information about attending them, contact the Student Life staff at (216) 687-2048 or e-mail at studentlife@csuohio.edu. Most events are free with your CSU Student ID.

THE CITY IS OUR CAMPUS TICKET PROGRAM

https://www.csuohio.edu/studentlife/city-our-campus

The city is YOUR campus so take advantage of all the engaging opportunities Cleveland offers by purchasing discounted tickets with your CSU Student ID. Please check out our current semester calendar of events on our website. Any questions about upcoming ticket sales can be directed to cityisourcampus@csuohio.edu. If you have suggestions for a future ticket sale don’t hesitate to email, suggestions are ALWAYS welcome!  

CAMPUS ACTIVITIES BOARD

https://www.csucab.com/

The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is a student organization whose primary function is to plan and facilitate cultural, social, recreational, and educational events for the CSU community. Annually they plan around 70 events for campus that include but are not limited to, concerts, comedians, outdoor festivals, cultural celebrations, movie nights, and everything in-between. CAB is responsive to student interests, with a primary goal of fostering campus community and unity.

CAB is always looking for students to assist with events and also have several leadership opportunities available for students. If you are interested in joining CAB or have a question for them they can be reached at cab@csuohio.edu. You can also fill out there “work with us” tab on their website and the Vice President will be in touch. Feel free to stop by their office, SC 332 to learn more about the organization.

Center for Student Involvement

http://www.csuohio.edu/student-involvement

Located in the Student Center, room 343, The Center for Student Involvement (CSI) is a unit in the Department of Student Life within the Division of Student Affairs. Our priority is to cultivate an environment for building a vibrant, engaging community through leadership development, programming, and learning opportunities.

At CSI, we directly support all Cleveland State Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs), oversee the Fraternity & Sorority Community, support Leadership Development programs, advise the General Fee Advisory Committee (GFAC), and manage the Jeffrey A. Kalista Student Organization Center Office Suite.

The Center for Student Involvement is the university’s go to place for students wanting to get involved on campus, serve the community, and develop their leadership skills. Research demonstrates that students who are active participants in the life of the institution are much more likely to persist and have successful academic careers. Getting involved in campus life provides students the opportunity to build connections with fellow students, faculty and staff and to develop lifelong friends and mentors. CSI provides a plethora of outstanding opportunities for students to “Get Involved”, no matter what their interests are throughout their time pursuing their dreams at Cleveland State.

Orgsync

https://orgsync.com/login/csuohio

OrgSync is CSU’s online student organization management system and a fantastic way to discover what recognized student organizations on campus are doing. All currently registered CSU students simply log in using their CSU ID number and CampusNet password. Students can send messages to any of the 200+ student organizations on campus, connect with other students with similar interests, see what’s going on using the event calendar, and much more! 

Student Organizations

Cleveland State students possess the ability to engage in multiple interests. There are over 200 student organizations on campus recognized by the Center for Student Involvement that enrich the social, cultural and educational experiences of CSU students. In general, the clubs and organizations at CSU span the following areas:

• Academic
• Professional & Honorary
• Cultural & Ethnic
• Athletic & Club Sports
• Fraternity & Sorority
• Leadership & Governing
• Media
• Political
• Religious & Faith Based
• Special Interest

List of Recognized Student Organizations

As part of the annual renewal process, all Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) at CSU must be registered in our online system, OrgSync. To search for student organizations, simply go to: http://csuohio.orgsync.com/organizations. The Center for Student Involvement also publishes a list of organizations once a semester for students to pick up. These are available in SC 343.

Fraternities & Sororities

https://www.csuohio.edu/student-involvement/fraternity-sorority-life-0

CSU is proud to host a community comprised of several national collegiate fraternal organizations that stress the mission and vision of the American Fraternity Movement. It is our sincere hope that you will become part of our future and leave your legacy at CSU.

Members of the Fraternity & Sorority Community at Cleveland State create smaller communities within the larger university environment and are committed to the basic principles of membership within the American Fraternity Movement:

• Leadership Development
• Academic Excellence
• Community Service & Philanthropy
• A Home Away from Home
• Brotherhood & Sisterhood
• Learning outside of the classroom
• Spiritual, Intellectual, & Social Growth & Development
• Alumni Involvement

Building lifelong friendships through collaborative and meaningful relationships is also a major component to the fraternity and sorority experience at Cleveland State.

Student Media

Student publications provide students with excellent opportunities for experience in writing and editing a literary magazine or newspaper. These publications are financed in part by general fees and are edited by students who are selected by the publication staff members. Publications include:

The Cauldron, a bi-weekly newspaper offering news, sports, culture, and opinions that impact CSU students and the surrounding community. Students are needed as writers, editors, photographers, advertising reps, and more. 216-687-2270. www.csucauldron.com. The Cauldron office is located in MC 470.

The Vindicator, a monthly multicultural magazine presenting in-depth articles, news and opinions about our diverse campus and Cleveland community. Students are needed as writers, editors, photographers, advertising reps, and more. https://www.thevindi.com. The Vindicator office is located in MC 472.

Whiskey Island Magazine, a bi-annual literary publication featuring poetry, prose, graphic arts, and photography. Students are needed as editors and readers. http://www.whiskeyisland-magazine.com. Whiskey Island Magazine office is located in RT 1636.

The Gavel, Cleveland-Marshall’s award-winning monthly newspaper covering the issues that affect law students at CSU. The Gavel office is located in the Law Building, room 13. https://www.law.csuohio.edu/academics/curriculum/studentpublications/gavel.

WCSB Radio Station, In addition to the publications, CSU also boasts WCSB 89.3 FM, the student-run radio station. For over 40 years, WCSB has offered the Cleveland community a wide variety of alternative music programming, ranging from indie rock to classical, reggae to fusion and anything else not found on commercial radio. In addition to music, WCSB airs a variety of public affairs shows offering insight into the issues of the day. Students interested in alternative programming are encouraged to apply, http://www.wcsb.org. WCSB is located on the fourth floor of the Cole Center, 3100 Chester Avenue.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

http://csuohio.orgsync.com/org/sga

The Cleveland State University Student Government Association provides an open forum for students to formulate their beliefs and voice their concerns to the University Board of Trustees, administration and faculty. SGA also offers funding to CSU student organizations and selects students to serve on university committees. Student Government offices are located in SC 217 & 218, stop by and see them.

Service/Volunteer Program

http://www.csuve.org

Viking Expeditions is a student-led service organization that partners with a variety of agencies in the Greater Cleveland area to address the needs of the local community. VE provides Cleveland State University students with both national and international service opportunities by offering affordable alternative break trips around the globe. The goal of these trips is to give students valuable life experiences while broadening their worldview. Viking Expeditions office is located in the Student Center, room 338.

Leadership Development

CSI offers several leadership development opportunities to student organization officers and any student wishing to expand their leadership skills. Current semester events can be found at https://www.csuohio.edu/student-involvement/leadership-programs-0 or contact studentlife@csuohio.edu for more information.

Support Programs

Lift Up Vikes! Resource Center & Food Pantry

Lift Up Vikes! Resource Center & Food Pantry (Recreation Center 168) connects students with food and other basic needs so they can focus on school and progress toward graduation. The program is open to all CSU students, with an emphasis on food- and housing-insecure students. Students can visit the Pantry weekly to receive fresh food and personal care items as well as connect with other resources. For a full list of programs and services, please call 216.687.5105 or visit www.csuohio.edu/liftupvikes. Not sure if we can help? Ask!

Mareyjoyce Green Women’s Center

The Mareyjoyce Green Women’s Center (Main Classroom 142) is dedicated to cultivating a culture of equity for women of the CSU community through programs and services that educate, empower, support and inspire. The Women’s Center serves the entire CSU Community, with an emphasis on women, student-parents and returning learners. We’re the go-to place to meet new people, study, hang out, connect with on and off-campus resources, learn what CSU has to offer, learn something new and so much more. We’re for broadening horizons, equal pay, fresh starts, overcoming obstacles, achieving goals, becoming a Viking and realizing your potential. Not sure if we can help you? Ask! For information on Women’s Center programs and services please call 216.687.4674 or visit: www.csuohio.edu/womenscenter

Student Advocacy & Conduct

Judicial Affairs

http://www.csuohio.edu/sites/default/files/StudentCodeOfConduct.pdf

The Judicial Affairs Office helps to support a safe environment for the entire campus community, through the Board of Trustee-approved policies called the Student Conduct Code. The Student Conduct Code thoroughly explains the due process procedures for incidents that violate University policies. A copy of the Code is available in the Department of Student Life, located in the Student Center, Room 319.