Student Resources

Attendance

Students are expected to prioritize academics and attend all scheduled classes. In instances of extenuating circumstances there are options to take time to address concerns:

• Students must inform faculty of absences in advance. Instructors have the discretion to excuse student absences. In the event of extenuating circumstances lasting 3 or more days, students can request excused absences that fall within the Attendance Policy.
• Graduate students eligible to enroll may apply for a leave of absence from their graduate program for any future semester. A leave of absence may be requested for up to one academic year and may be extended once.
• If a student terminates coursework during the semester (weeks 1 through 14), registration must be formally withdrawn. Failure to submit a Student Withdrawal form to the Graduate School may result in F grades and in payment of tuition and fees that otherwise might be avoided. Withdrawals are processed according to an established refund schedule.
• Graduate students who are not able to continue their studies due to medical reasons may apply to the Graduate School for a medical withdrawal by completing a Student Withdrawal form. The request may be for medical, psychological, or substance-related conditions.
• The Graduate School Graduate Student Parental Leave Policy provides assistance to students during a pregnancy, postpartum, during an adoption process, or following a foster care placement. This policy makes it possible for students to receive time extensions for the completion of courses, exams, and other degree requirements (including the overall time to completion of the degree). This policy also makes it possible for students to be released from their teaching or research responsibilities for an excused absence period.
• International students must be enrolled full-time (9 credits) during Fall and Spring semesters. Students who do not intend to take a full course load need approval for a Reduced Course Load beforehand from the Graduate School, IPS, as well as their academic advisor.

Financial Resources and Emergency Funds

Financial insecurity can be a barrier to student success, we have several resources that may provide support for students experiencing financial difficulties.

• Volunteer-run and donation based, the Husky Food Access Network (HuskyFAN) located in Fisher Hall offers non perishable food items and basic hygiene items, emergency meals, farmers market tokens, and meal swipes for students facing food insecurity. Stop by during open hours or contact huskyfan@mtu.edu for more information.
• Parents and alumni have coordinated to create PAWS UP Helping Hands for students who do not have financial support or for those whose funding might not cover all of their non-tuition, non-fee, non-housing related (rent, utilities, etc.) costs.
• Students may request items from PAWS UP such as bedding, toiletries, snack food, school supplies, gift cards for things like pizza out with friends or a trip to Walmart, items for your residence hall rooms, or gas money to travel home during breaks.
• If you have an emergency situation and are in need of significant help, the Husky Emergency Assistance Fund can assist students experiencing extenuating circumstances up to $500 per calendar year.

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.

Health and Safety

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. Current Title IX Policy is available online. 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). 

Contact our Title IX staff for any questions or concerns. They can be found in the Administration Building on the 3rd floor. You can also email the Title IX department or visit the 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 the Title IX Department.

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.

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 students and 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 (login and access to Canvas is required) and Draft Coach are available for students to check their writing for possible plagiarism and grammar.

Career

We know that our students value finding a fulfilling career after graduation, and Career Services plays a crucial role in helping students do that.

• Every semester Career Services hosts a Career Fair along with other workshops and events to prepare you for applying and completing interviews.
• Please visit the resource page for a full list of services offered to students.
• For one-on-one advising, Make an appointment with a career advisor. For any other questions, please email career@mtu.edu. 
  
  

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 Center for Student Mental Health and Well-being (CSMHWB)offers in-person and virtual individual therapy, support and therapy groups, case management, drop-in support, workshops and events, and medication management 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. TELUS Health offers resources through chat, phone call, or video. 
  Connect with other graduate students and exchange coping ideas, gain perspective and find some balance to manage the demands of grad school through weekly facilitated Graduate Support Groups . 
• A student can schedule an appointment, contact our office at 906-487-2538 or emailing counseling@mtu.edu
• Under our Dean of Students webpage we have compiled a list of on- and off-campus health resources for students, like student health insurance, our disability services, and a number of local healthcare options.

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.

Extracurricular and Leadership

• Graduate Student Government is an organization that serves as a liaison between the University and graduate students, advocating on students’ behalf for the intellectual, social and professional lives of graduate students.
• Michigan Tech has 200+ registered student organizations (RSOs) offering a wide variety of areas and activities to get involved with.
• Student Leadership and Involvement (SLI) has developed many opportunities for students to gain leadership skills. These include HuskyGOLD, HuskyLEAD, GRIT, and Leadershape events.
• Community service can also be a great way to be involved on campus and in our community. SLI provides several opportunities for service like blood drives, alternative spring break, and Make a Difference Day. For any questions about involvement opportunities, please email activities@mtu.edu. 
• Other areas on campus can also help students foster relationships. One area to highlight is the Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI). Students can often be found hanging out in their sitting area enjoying coffee or tea and getting to know other students.
• We would also encourage students to get to know the other students in your classes. These make great study partners which can also lead to great friendships. 

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. SVF - Student Voted Fees for the Experience Tech program can be found on the Student Billing Website. 

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

            

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.

We hope you have found this information to be helpful and will take advantage of the opportunities you have here at Michigan Tech. As members of the Graduate School we are also here to assist you with the above mentioned information as well as many other situations you may encounter. Please feel free to reach out to the Graduate School at gradschool@mtu.edu, call 906-487-2327, or come visit us on the fourth floor of the Administration Building.