New Student Resources

Welcome to Graduate Studies at Michigan Tech!

It is a privilege for us to provide you guidance and support as you seek to deepen your understanding and mastery in your chosen field of study. The staff in the Graduate School looks forward to working with you. Please visit us virtually or in person on the 4th floor of the Admin building.

This page outlines activities designed to facilitate your transition to graduate studies, to Michigan Tech, and to the larger Copper Country community. 

Beginning Your Graduate Studies

Prior to your first semester

Prior to the first day of classes, you will need to:

1. Arrange for housing (on campus students only)
2. Register for classes
3. Confirm enrollment and pay your bill
4. Purchase health insurance

Additional information pertinent to entering students is found online, and the Graduate School has checklists for each degree available online. Students are also encouraged to regularly check their Personalized Degree Progress Checklist to ensure they are completing degree milestones in a timely manner.

When you arrive on campus

After arriving on campus, please:

1. Obtain your HuskyCard.
   1. Remote students are not required to obtain a Michigan Tech ID, however, you can receive one as a Michigan Tech student. If you would like information about obtaining a HuskyCard, please email it-help@mtu.edu or call IT at (906) 487-1111.
2. Bring your official transcripts to the Graduate School if they were not provided during the application process. Monitor your email for additional details for drop-off times. Contact the Graduate School with any questions.

Graduate Academic Resources

As you begin your studies at Tech, these resources will provide information you will need to earn your degree:

• Student Resources - a compilation of the pages students most often refer to; includes some of the pages listed below.
• Degree Completion Timeline - a list of all the items you need to complete your degree
• Degree Requirements - a description of all the items you need to complete your degree
• Policies for Students - listing of policies for graduate students
• Grades issued by Michigan Tech
• External funding opportunities for graduate students

Technology and Tools

Graduate students have access to the following suite of tools during their graduate program:

• The Google Suite of applications is used for email, sharing files, calendars and more. Please note that your mtu.edu email is how the University will communicate with you as an enrolled student.
• IT has resources for studentsand is here to help you with technology questions.
• Canvas is the University's online course management system. Your instructors will use Canvas to share materials for your courses. The Canvas Student Guides can help you get acquainted with the platform and the Center for Teaching and Learning is also available to help.
• The MTU Events calendar lists campus events.
• Turnitin.com(login and access to Canvas is required) and Draft Coach are available for students to check their writing for possible plagiarism and grammar.

Van Pelt and Opie Library

The library is here to support your success! For assistance with library research and your assignments, visit our AskUs! Station in the library lobby or virtually. Ask us anything at library@mtu.edu.

Visit the library's website to access articles, e-books, databases, and journals. For an in-depth overview of services for Graduate Students and a virtual tour, visit the Library Resource and Services for Grad Students Portal.

Some highlights include:

• Off-campus access: On the Library's website, use the tabs for Search, Databases A-Z, or Journals to locate resources. Once you select a resource, you will be prompted to log in with your Michigan Tech username and ISO password to access the content.
• Interlibrary Loan (ILL): You can request books, articles, scans of book chapters, or other materials the library doesn’t have. We locate the materials you need from our partners, normally at no charge to you. Many articles requested are delivered to your email the same business day. Rush service on weekdays is available for Graduate Students.
• Textbooks: As a general rule, the library doesn’t purchase required textbooks. However, we have Course Reserves where instructors may place their copy on reserve for students to borrow.
• Productivity tools: The library’s Circulation Desk has useful items to borrow including cameras, chargers, headphones, scientific calculators, and more.
• Workshops: The library hosts workshops and one-on-one consultations on a range of topics including Copyright, EndNote, Zotero, Poster Design, Advanced Search Skills, Patent Searching, and more!

• 3D Printing: The library offers support for 3D printing of research designs and fixtures. The library has numerous printers and seasoned staff to assist with print assessment and training in the use of the equipment.

Graduate Student Government

The Graduate Student Government (GSG) of Michigan Technological University is the main governing body for graduate students at Michigan Tech, comprised of Master’s and PhD students from every department on campus. GSG serves as a liaison between the graduate students and the University administration, advocating on student’s behalf for issues including but not limited to healthcare and well-being, transportation, and academic resources. GSG also strives to promote events to foster intellectual, social, and professional well-being and growth of its constituents.

Throughout the year, GSG organizes a number of academic and professional development workshops, seminars, research events, and fun social events for graduate students. We hope you take full advantage of these events and that they enrich your experience here at Tech.

In Summer '21, GSG, working with the university administration, established a social space for the graduate students of Michigan Tech called Grad Commons. The Grad Commons serves as a nexus for collaboration, community building, and provides graduate students with a space to relax, refresh, and recharge.

The GSG office is currently located at the Grad Commons. Please feel free to reach out to us by emailing gsg@mtu.edu or your departmental representatives if you have any questions. For more information about GSG and our events, please visit the GSG website.

Language, Writing and Culture Support

GLAS: Graduate Language Assessment and Support

GLAS is a free program designed for international graduate students who speak English as a second language.

Through one-on-one or small-group conversations that matter, students gain experience participating in class discussions, responding to questions, and listening effectively. GLAS coaches work with students to help them to improve their English oral communication skills and better understand US university expectations.  GLAS students who are already teaching can practice lectures or lab presentations with their coach.

All international graduate students are welcome to participate in the program; international graduate teaching assistants are highly encouraged to participate.

Contact the GLAS Program Director, Sarah Isaacson (sisaacso@mtu.edu)for more information.

Write-D: Writing in the Discipline

Write-D, Writing in the Discipline, is a free program that provides a dedicated time and space for graduate students to get work done and receive support on writing projects within their discipline, such as manuscripts and research proposals, so that writing skills are enhanced progressively throughout the program.  Guest speakers from Michigan Tech departments or the industry visit to briefly present research, writing, and publishing tips. All graduate students are welcome to attend.  Contact the Write-D Coordinator, Sarah Isaacson (sisaacso@mtu.edu)for more information.

Canterbury House

The Canterbury House is a place for students, faculty, and staff, and their families to gather for conversation, and fellowship. Canterbury House staff and volunteers host several activities and language coaching during the academic year. The Canterbury House is the yellow house across from the Administration Building. Stop by and hang out or relax. 

Student Leadership and Involvement

Student Leadership and Involvement provides comprehensive information about the numerous registered student organizations, totaling around 250. These organizations cover a wide range of interests, including social activities, club sports, academics, community service, and more. Notably, there is a significant presence of international student organizations such as the Indian Students Association, Bangladeshi Students Association, and African Students Organization. These groups play a crucial role in providing support and creating a sense of belonging for international students while fostering cross-cultural interactions within the campus community.

In addition to supporting student organizations, the office is responsible for coordinating various Tech Traditions, such as Homecoming, K-Day, Make a Difference Day, and Afternoon on the Town. They offer leadership development programs and community service, presenting students with valuable opportunities to engage in meaningful service activities and develop their leadership skills. Students interested in exploring these programs and finding relevant opportunities can refer to the Student Scoop, a newsletter that provides information on various student-related matters.

Healthy Living

You need to be healthy and happy to get the most out of your college experience. If you find yourself under the weather or in need of help, there are resources available to you.

Health Services

Students have access to healthcare services at Upper Great Lakes Houghton Family Health Center located inside the UP-Health System University Center, attached to the Student Development Complex. The clinic has student walk-in hours every weekday morning and afternoon. Immediate care is also available at UP Health System Express Care on Sharon Avenue, less than three miles from campus. Emergency services are available at the UP-Health System Emergency Department in Hancock. Visit UP Health System - Portage to learn more.

Student Mental Health and Well-being

The staff at the Center for Student Mental Health and Well-being is here to help you gain perspective and be successful, personally and academically.  Our professional staff of licensed therapists works closely with all student support services at Michigan Tech and with mental health professionals both locally and in student's home areas.  Services are free and confidential.  In addition, 24-hour emergency services are available by calling TELUS Health Student Support at 877-376-7896.  For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our office at 906-487-2538 or counseling@mtu.edu

Fitness and Sports

Michigan Tech's Student Development Complex (SDC) provides four seasons of recreation and fitness activities for students, faculty, staff, and the community. The SDC features a variety of high‐quality facilities/amenities, including youth and adult classes, plus regularly scheduled fitness, and recreational opportunities. Michigan Tech student spouse/partner and dependents also have access to the facilities at a discounted price.

Michigan Tech Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP)

The Michigan Tech Outdoor Adventure Program (OAP) rents tents, sleeping bags, bikes, and kayaks and they also offer a wide variety of trips and outdoor experiences for everyone, such as kayaking, canoeing, backpacking, and climbing. The OAP strives to get students, faculty, staff, and community members outside and active!

Conflict Resolution

Conflict is a normal part of life, and healthy resolutions lead to better relationships on campus. If you need help with a conflict, you can reach out to the Conflict Resolution Network, report a concern to campus, or reach out to the Ombuds for confidential resources.

Health and Safety

HuskyFAN Food Pantry

The HuskyFAN Food Pantry is open to all students, no eligibility information required. Students can fill out an order form to pick up specific food items or visit during walk-in hours to browse what is in stock. HuskyFAN also supplies meal packs to Public Safety & Police Services so students can pick up meals whenever they may need to. If you would like more information or have questions please visit the HuskyFAN webpage.

Student Disability Services

Student Disability Services at Michigan Tech is committed to assisting students with documented disabilities by providing accommodations and/or modifications. Information is available at Students Disability Services or by calling 906-487-3558.

Public Safety and Police Services

Public Safety at Michigan Technological University is staffed by trained, certified state of Michigan police officers who have full law enforcement authority (including the power of arrest) throughout Houghton County.

Michigan Tech has strategically installed security and emergency phones on campus designated by an illuminated blue light. "Blue light" phones connect directly to Public Safety and Police Services Dispatch. Once contacted, Public Safety and Police Services Dispatch will send an officer and any other necessary (fire, EMS) services to assist.

Elevators are equipped with emergency phones that also connect directly with Public Safety and Police Services. The purpose of these phones is to communicate that either the elevator has failed and needs assistance, or that it is serving as an area of refuge during a building emergency or alarm activation. If you are trapped in an elevator, remain calm, use the emergency phone, and assistance will arrive shortly.

Michigan Tech is a small community where people respect others. The Public Safety building is right on campus, and the campus police are always around if you need them. The department is staffed and operates 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

Title IX

Michigan Technological University (Michigan Tech) is committed to creating and maintaining a learning and working environment that is free from unlawful discrimination based on sex in accordance with Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or activities; Title VII of the Civil Rights act of 1964 (Title VII), which prohibits sex discrimination in employment; and the Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act, Clery Act, and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Sexual Harassment and Retaliation under this Policy will not be tolerated by Michigan Tech and is grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including, permanent dismissal from Michigan Tech and/or termination of employment.

Reports of misconduct, questions regarding Title IX, and concerns about noncompliance must be directed to the Title IX Coordinator. Click here for a complete copy of the policy. If you are interested in more information, please contact the Title IX Coordinator or the Assistant Secretary of Education within the Office of Civil Rights (OCR). 

Abbi Halkola, Title IX Coordinator, 310 Administration Building, 906-487-3310

Beth Lunde-Stockero, Title IX Deputy Coordinator, 310 Administration Building, 906-487-3310

mailto:titleix@mtu.edu Michigan Tech Title IX Website

Becoming a Part of our Community – Vector Training

All new Michigan Tech graduate students are required to complete an online course on Sexual Assault Prevention. This course provides information about critical topics affecting graduate and professional students everywhere—relationship abuse, sexual harassment, and sexual assault. It’s important to remember that these issues can impact anyone, regardless of their job or position, marital status, age, race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity or expression, religion, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. Chances are, you know or will know someone affected by these issues and this course prepares you to be a positive influence in addressing these topics both in your personal life and in your graduate program. 

Watch your Michigan Tech email account in September for the information you will need to start the course. For more information, contact titleix@mtu.edu.

Career Services

Career services connects students, employers, parents, alumni, faculty, and staff through collaborative programming and individual coaching. They hold many events throughout the academic year, including fall and spring career fairs, CareerFEST Days with companies, resume reviews, mock interviews, and a variety of career workshops.

The Michigan Tech Career Fair is one of the largest in the country, bringing more than 400 companies each year. Our biannual Career Fair is open to students of all majors.

Center for Diversity and Inclusion

The Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI) is dedicated to enhancing the academic and co-curricular experience of all Michigan Tech students, with an emphasis on those historically underrepresented and underserved (Native American/Indigenous, African-American/Black, Hispanic/Latino/a/e/x, Asian-American and Pacific Islanders, LGBTQIA+, women, disabled, first generation, low-income, and other intercultural and multicultural identities). At the CDI, we are committed to your academic and graduation success and are here to help you build your path at Michigan Tech and beyond. The CDI is composed of passionate staff and amazing student leaders who engage, educate, empower, and amplify the voices, opportunities, and development of students. Our ultimate goal is to help you create a home away from home where you can thrive and find your sense of belonging.

Experience Tech

The Experience Tech program is funded by a student fee that provides you with access to recreational facilities and performing arts events. The program includes downhill skiing and snowboarding at Mont Ripley, Husky Hockey games, tennis at the Gates Tennis Center, golfing at Portage Lake Golf Course, visual and performing arts events, Tech Trails and Recreational Forest, Rozsa Center events, intramural sports, Outdoor Adventure Program, and Student Health and Wellness. See Experience Tech's website for more information.

Events are on a first come first serve basis. To ensure a seat, you can pre-order a $5 student ticket. Student ID will be required upon entry.

Student Voted Fees 2022-2023 Academic Year

• Student Activity Fee—Fall and Spring $60.00
• Student Activity Fee—Summer $10.00
• Experience Tech Fee—Fall and Spring $80.00

Ticket Information

• Michigan Tech Hockey is part of the Experience Tech program and is available on a first come first serve basis to the first 750 Michigan Tech students. Please visit the Experience Tech website for details. Men’s Basketball, Women’s Basketball, Football, and Volleyball are free to Michigan Tech students with a student ID. Michigan Tech student spouse/partner and dependents also have access to athletics tickets at a discounted price. Please reach out with any questions to the Michigan Tech Central Ticket Office (906-487-2073) or go to www.buyhuskiestickets.com

Contact

• By Phone: 906-487-2073 
• By Email: tickets@mtu.edu
• By Visiting the Ticket Office
  • The Central Ticketing Office is located on the first floor of the Student Development Complex, office hours are as follows:
    • Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
    • Saturday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
    • Sunday: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Social Media

• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• Snapchat

Transportation

Michigan Tech Shuttle Services

During the fall and spring semesters, Michigan Tech’s Transportation Services provides free shuttle service around campus, throughout downtown Houghton and Hancock. You can find more information on routes and schedules on the Michigan Tech's Transportation Services Site.

Houghton Public Transit

The Houghton Public Transit provides an on-demand bus service for Houghton City and surrounding areas Monday-Friday from 7AM-5PM. The cost is $3 per student in the city, and $4 out of the city limits. You can find more information on the City of Houghton's Public Transit site.

Hancock Public Transit

The Hancock Public Transit provides an on-demand bus service to the cities of Hancock and Houghton, 7am-5pm, Monday-Friday. Student fee is $3. More information can be found at the City of Hancocks' Public Transit site.

Taxi Service

• A2B Cab 906-369-4041
• Superior Transportation 906-369-3285
• Copper Country Limo 906-370-4761
• Lyft (Ride share service, download the app from your phone’s app store) 

Parking

All vehicles parked on campus must be registered with Transportation Services. Parking permits are required to park in any campus lot and can be purchased at the Transportation Services Office or online. Permits are only valid for the vehicles registered to the permit, visit Michigan Tech's Transportation Services.

Metered parking is available for a fee between 7am - 4pm, Monday through Friday.

• Meters: can be paid with US Quarters ($0.25/20 minutes) or via ParkMobile.
• Daily Permits: $5.00
• Weekly Permits: $20.00

Meter/Visitor Zone locations can be viewed online.

Vehicles may be registered on the Michigan Tech Parking Portal or by bringing your vehicle registration to our office in the Administration Building, Room 100.

Required vehicle registration information:

• License Plate Number/State
• VIN
• Vehicle Make/Model/Style
• Year
• Color

Free Motorist Assist Program

Free to anyone on campus: Battery boosts, flat tires, out of gas, frozen door locks, and stuck vehicles

Free 30-minute load/unload permits

Outside of move-in day, Transportation Services offers those wishing to park closer to a building a 30-minute Loading/Unloading permit that is free of charge. You can request a 30-minute Loading/Unloading permit at the Transportation Services Office or all Residential Hall reception desks.

Houghton and Hancock Communities

You will find your new home to be very safe with a friendly and welcoming community.

The Keweenaw Peninsula (KEE-win-naw) or Copper Country is the most northern part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula and was the most important location in the world for pure native copper. Michigan Tech began as the Michigan Mining school in 1885 with four faculty members and 23 students. Back then, the school was on the second floor of a building a few blocks from the current campus. Copper mining ended in 1968 but many small towns and ancient relics still exist today.

Embrace your new community and environment, and soon you will know why Houghton is one of the best 100 places to live, according to "The 100 Best Small Towns In America," by Norman Crampton.

Take advantage of learning the culture that surrounds MTU. Tech will feel like home.

Grocery Stores Within Walking Distance

• Jim’s Food Mart: 906-482-4080. Located at 300 Pearl St, Houghton, MI 49931

Restaurants Within Walking Distance

• Ambassador Restaurant
• Armando’s Restaurant
• Biggby Coffee
• Bonfire Restaurant
• Camp Coffee Co.
• Cyberia Cafe
• Domino’s Pizza
• Downtowner Lounge
• Four Seasons Tea Room
• Hunan Garden
• Jimmy John’s
• JJ’s Wok N Grill
• Joey’s Seafood & Grill
• Library Restaurant
• Rodeo Mexican Kitchen
• Sky Sushi
• Subway
• Suomi (authentic Finnish dishes)
• The Den
• Victoria's Kitchen

Restaurants that Deliver

• Domino’s Pizza: 906-482‐6060
• Jimmy John’s (sandwiches): 906-483‐0768
• Pizza Hut: 906-482‐0978
• Studio Pizza: 906-482-5100
• Nutini’s Supper Club: 906-482-2711

Prepare for Winter

Houghton winters are very snowy and can be very cold. Make sure you are prepared! It is not unusual to get 12 inches of snow in a day, so warm walking boots are important, as is a heavier coat, fleece-lined gloves, thick scarf, and a hat. Layering clothes will keep you comfortable outside, and will allow you to remove some layers to avoid getting overheated once inside.

MTU is a winter wonderland! If you are willing to embrace the winters, recreational opportunities are plentiful, both indoors and outdoors. Every winter outdoor activity is at your fingertips from sledding, hockey, broomball, ice skating, downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, snowboarding, snow tubing, to ice fishing. In addition, the annual Winter Carnival, held in February, is the biggest annual winter celebration in the nation. Winter Carnival is known for large artistic snow statues that require scaffolding to build!

Michigan Tech is the only university in the country that owns its own ski hill. Students can enjoy free downhill skiing at Mont Ripley across from campus in Hancock.

Tech also owns 35 kilometers of trails that are nationally recognized for quality, variety of terrain, and maintenance. With Houghton’s average snowfall approaching 250 inches, the winter season usually opens in early December and continues into April. During the winter, grooming takes place daily and the system includes 7.5 kilometers of lighted trails, making an after-class ski trip convenient for students. The trails are open for biking and hiking the rest of the year.