New Student Orientation is designed to acquaint students with each other, as well as with the campus. Students meet members of the administration, faculty, staff, and students from all programs in the Northwestern community. At orientation, incoming students can also pay their fees, buy their books and get their student ID photos taken. Upcoming orientation dates are available at the Student Affairs website.
The Student Handbook is not just a manual of rules and regulations. It provides information on valuable resources, services and opportunities available to students and outlines the rights and responsibilities of all Northwestern community members. The topics contained in the Student Handbook are clarified during New Student Orientation and students are responsible for being aware of the policies contained in the Student Handbook and noting changes as they occur. The University Student Handbook is available online.
As students prepare to become leaders in the health care professions, Northwestern expects each student to exhibit maturity, integrity and concern for the rights of others. In order to provide a responsible, respectful, caring and inclusive environment, the University has outlined the standards of conduct, policies, and procedures that students are expected to adhere to in the Student Handbook.
In addition to the policies outlined in the handbook, Northwestern students are expected to adhere to all federal, state and local laws and regulations. Violations of federal, state or local laws may be reported to appropriate outside agencies for disposition in addition to any University disciplinary action.
Student Resources and Academic Support Services
Academic Advising
Academic advising services for all programs are available through the Registrar’s Office. Advising services are available to educate new and continuing students on current degree requirements and curriculum; provide individualized long-term program planning for part time and full time students; interpret academic policies and procedures; assist with the development of a personalized academic schedule; and support students in achieving their educational and vocational goals.
Peer Tutoring
Peer Tutoring Services are provided through the Registrar’s Office to facilitate the learning experience of all students. The service is provided free of charge in individual and group settings, and a current list of tutors is available in the Office of Student Affairs. Peer tutors are recruited from the student body and are selected based on their history of academic success and a desire to help others.
International Students
The Financial Aid Office provides assistance to international students seeking temporary admission to the United States to pursue a full course of study. Forms are generated and student records are continually maintained to assure proper student status and compliance with the Department of Homeland Security, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Student and Exchange Visitor Information System
Northwestern Health Sciences University has full approval from the USCIS to enroll foreign students. The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is an Internet-based application for electronically tracking and reporting on foreign students in the United States. SEVIS enables schools and program sponsors to transmit electronic information to the USCIS and United States Department of State throughout a student’s program in the United States.
SEVIS enables schools to submit school certification applications, update certification information, submit updates to the USCIS that require adjudication, and create and update F-1 (academic) student and dependent records. Designated School Officials (DSOs) maintain the SEVIS program.
Student Support Services
The Office of Student Affairs (OSA) fosters the academic development, personal growth and success of students by providing a cohesive set of support services to assist them in achieving their educational goals. The following services are offered through the OSA:
Counseling Service
The University offers counseling services for all current students who experience academic, personal or relationship concerns. Short-term counseling and educational programs are provided free of charge. Referrals will be made for certain counseling services and for longer term counseling services. The University does not cover the cost of referral services.
Counseling services available to students include help with study skills, and short-term individual counseling. Counseling services are provided with the strictest confidentiality. Unless requested by the student, no information will be released without the student’s written permission, except in the following circumstances: risk of imminent harm to self or others, a court order, the report of abuse or neglect of a minor or vulnerable adult, or an at risk pregnancy due to the use of certain classes of illicit drugs. Additional information on student rights, confidentiality, clinical record policy and emergency counseling services can be obtained in the Counseling Office.
Educational workshops are offered periodically to students who are interested in improving their performance in areas such as study skills, test anxiety, meditation and stress management. Suggestions for special interest workshops are welcomed. Appointments for counseling with the university counselor are scheduled through the Office of Student Affairs.
Students with Disabilities: Applicants and Students
Qualified persons shall receive reasonable accommodations for access to educational opportunities, programs and activities of Northwestern. Disability Services is responsible for the coordination of programs and services for qualified applicants for admission and enrolled students with disabilities. In order for the University to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities, the following process will be used:
- The Office of Admissions will notify accepted students of the procedures to receive needed support services.
- It is the responsibility of the individual student to inform Disability Services of accommodations that he/she may need as the result of a disability.
- Students must submit directly to Disability Services a written request for accommodations or auxiliary aids. Students may be required to submit medical or other diagnostic documentation of disability and/or limitations. This information will remain confidential to the Disability Services coordinator, except as permitted by the student expressly for providing support services to that student.
- As needed, Disability Services coordinator will discuss the student’s request for accommodation with the student and faculty member or department involved to determine appropriate accommodation. If there is a question about the appropriateness of a student’s requested accommodation, Disability Services will inform the student of the University’s decision. Northwestern will comply with applicable legal requirements in considering requests for accommodations. However, Northwestern will not waive requirements that are integral to the educational program.
- Requests must be made in a timely manner. Students are encouraged to submit a request for accommodation at least 30 days prior to the beginning of a course/program. Untimely requests may result in delay of accommodation.
- Complaints concerning the provision of accommodations to students with disabilities will be handled through the Student Complaint process specified in the University Student Handbook.
Applicants are encouraged to review each program’s specific “Qualifications” section (listed under “Admissions Information”) to determine if he/she is able to meet the qualifications with or without reasonable accommodations. Questions regarding the accommodations process should be directed to Disability Services located within the Office of Student Affairs.
Student Short Term Leave of Absence
During times of serious illness or when extended time is needed to address a personal crisis, students have the option to take a Short Term Leave of Absence of up to seven calendar days. Short Term Leaves of Absences are requested through the Registrar. Only the College Dean can grant approval for extensions of Short Term Leaves of Absences. Once the student returns to classes, they are responsible for contacting their instructors to create a plan to complete the work that they missed.
Student Government
Student Senate
Vision
We are dedicated student leaders aiming to unify the student body through active participation, educational advancement and community involvements
Mission
Northwestern Health Sciences University Student Senate fosters the enhancement of student and university experience to prepare and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Purpose
The Student Senate represents the student body by promoting community on campus, coordinating student activities, and advocating for student concerns and needs. Senate representatives serve on many University committees and provide feedback and recommendations to the administration on various initiatives, projects and strategic goals.
Within the Senate, numerous committees exist to address a variety of student needs. Various activities are held throughout the year, giving students an opportunity to socialize and interact with one another. The Senate utilizes the student activity fee to help support these activities and organizations.
The Senate includes representatives from each class in each program, and elections for officers are held annually. To get involved or give feedback to Student Senate, go to the Student Senate website.
Values
Promises
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We maintain a supportive and collaborative atmosphere between all fields of study.
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We cultivate meaningful and respectful relationships between students, faculty, and staff.
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We commit time and provide resources to assure equitable treatment, support, and opportunity to all students.
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We act objectively as a liaison between students and the University.
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We create ambition and resolve within the University.
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We promote a positive presence and effect on the community.
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We support the student groups that meet the needs of our diverse student body.
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We integrate the campus community through educational and service opportunities.
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We aspire to build the future and prosperity of our student body.
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We nurture student leadership by providing opportunity for personal and professional development.
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We live, learn, and serve in congruence with the core values of NWHSU.
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We responsibly and transparently manage the student activity fees collected by the University.
Student Organizations
Joining a club or organization can enhance both your academic and personal development. By joining an existing club or starting a new one, you can grow and have fun with your fellow students and create a richer experience at Northwestern.
Groups of students who share a common interest, either social or professional, may organize and seek recognition as a student organization through the Office of Student Affairs. These approved organizations reflect a wide range of interests, including an array of professional, political, social and recreational groups.
Student organizations provide an opportunity for students to participate and contribute to student leadership and governance. Through involvement in student organizations, the student body enjoys the benefits of those contributions that enhance the quality of student life and improve the educational program.
Special interest student organizations plan programs, guest speakers and events with their corresponding local and national professional organizations. They work to form mutually beneficial, reciprocal relationships between students, practitioners and the general public by becoming involved in community activities. They are an important voice of leadership on issues regarding professional practice and education.
There are also a number of extracurricular clubs that provide activities throughout the year including hockey, baseball, softball, volleyball, basketball, soccer and martial arts. In addition to these activities, student activity fees are used to maintain the University Fitness Center. The Fitness Center is a facility that promotes physical and mental well-being for the campus community. The Fitness Center offers aerobic and cardio equipment, weight machines and free-weight equipment. In addition to the Fitness Center, students also have access to the gymnasium and swimming pool. For more information about our fitness facilities and their hours, go to the Fitness Facilities website.
A complete list of clubs and organizations can be found on Northwestern's website.
University Health Services
A variety of health care options are available to students, employees and their immediate family members through University Health Services, located on campus in the De Rusha Clinical Education Center. We will also be extending our services to NWHSU alumni beginning in September 2018. Chiropractic, Active Care, Acupuncture and Chinese medicine, and Massage Therapy services are available. Upper-term students under the supervision of faculty clinicians/supervisors provide the chiropractic, acupuncture and massage therapy care.
Information Technology
E-mail Policy
Northwestern students are assigned a NW Health e-mail account for the purpose of receiving official University correspondence. Students are responsible for all information, including attachments, transmitted to them via their e-mail account. E-mail accounts can be accessed at http://mail.nwhealth.edu.
The Information Technology Department provides support for NW Health e-mail users.
Personal Computer Requirement
Northwestern requires that all students have access to a computer for research, training, independent study and institutional services. Students satisfy the access requirement in a variety of ways, including the use of computers in the campus library, public libraries, various computer labs or their own personal computer.
Computer literacy is expected of all students. Computer tutoring is available from the Help Desk Training and Support Specialist. Tutoring is available on the following topics:
- Internet basics;
- Introduction to computers;
- Moodle, a course management system;
- Using Microsoft Word; and
- Creating a PowerPoint presentation.
Students are expected to use computers for various purposes, depending upon the academic program. For specific information about the expectations in your program, please consult the program office.
Qualifying students may purchase a personal computer through Title IV financial aid. Students selecting this option should consult with a representative in the Financial Aid Office. Students may only exercise this option once during their educational program at Northwestern Health Sciences University.