FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOK · information in your phone because you’ll need your password and email address to enroll. An umbrella and sweatshirt or light jacket; some of our

FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOKNEW STUDENT ORIENTATION & ENROLLMENT

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOKOKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOK 1

Congratulations, Oklahoma State University Class of 2019This confirmation book contains important information about academic advising and how you can stay connected before, during and after your Orientation & Enrollment program.

During orientation, you’ll meet with your academic adviser as you enroll in classes and receive your student ID. You’ll meet new friends, visit with campus departments and discover what it means to be “loyal and true” to OSU. If you’ve signed up for an overnight program, you’ll also participate in campus breakout sessions and enjoy evening activities hosted by your orientation leaders.

The OSTATE card includes your specific program details. If you’d like to change your orientation date, modify your guest list or pay a fee, please log in to the registration site at newstudents.okstate.edu to make changes. Please note that we won’t send another confirmation package if changes are made to your program.

You should take the Math Placement Exam prior to your orientation and enrollment program. The Math Placement Exam is required for enrollment in your first college-level math course and should be completed at least three days before your program.

We’re eager to meet you, answer your questions and welcome you to the OSU family. Please contact us at 405-744-3636 or email us at [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns.

Go Pokes!

Palvih Bhana Assistant Director for Orientation & Transition Programs Office of New Student Orientation & Enrollment

Oklahoma State University 321 Student Union Stillwater, OK 74078

405-744-3636 [email protected]

Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education

Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,

national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions,

employment, financial aid, and educational services. Title IX of the Education Amendments and Oklahoma State University policy prohibit discrimination in the

provision of services or benefits offered by the University based on gender. Any person (student, faculty or staff) who believes that discriminatory practices

have been engaged in based upon gender may discuss their concerns and file informal or formal complaints of possible violations of Title IX with the OSU

Title IX Coordinator, Mackenzie Wilfong, J.D., Director of Affirmative Action, 408 Whitehurst, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, (405) 744-5371 or

(405) 744-5576 (fax). This publication, issued by Oklahoma State University as authorized by the Director, New Student Orientation & Enrollment, was printed

by Western Printing at a cost of $6,670/4.8M. 01/15. #5841.

Table of ContentsCongratulations . . . . . . . . . . 1Orientation Checklist . . . . . . .2Your Orientation & Enrollment Schedule . . . . . .3Directions to Campus and Parking . . . . . . . . . . . .4Next Steps . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Where to Stay . . . . . . . . . . .6Placement Exams. . . . . . . . .7Life After Orientation& Enrollment . . . . . . . . . . .9

Academic Choices & Majors. . .10College Letters College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources . . . . . . . . 11 College of Arts & Sciences . . . . . .12 College of Education . . . . . . . .13 College of Engineering, Architecture & Technology . . . . . . . . . .14 Spears School of Business . . . . . .15 College of Human Sciences . . . . .16 University College . . . . . . . . .17 The Honors College . . . . . . . .18

First-Generation StudentsMentoring Program . . . . . . . 19Undergraduate Colleges and Majors . . . . . . . . . . 20Campus Contacts . . . . . . .21

NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION & ENROLLMENT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOK

Overnight Schedule

Day 1

8:45 - 9 a.m. Check-in (North Plaza, Student Union)

9 - 11 a.m. Math Placement & COMPASS Testing (Math Learning Success Center, Edmon Low Library)

1:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Honors College Session12:30 - 1 p.m. Check-in 12:30 - 1:15 p.m. Academic Showcase & Student ID Pictures1:15 p.m. Meet Your Orientation Leaders1:30 - 2:45 p.m. Opening Session3 - 4 p.m. Academic College Previews4:10 - 5:20 p.m. Orange Beginnings5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Dinner (provided for all participants and guests)

Day 2

8 - 9 a.m. Breakfast and Student Resource Showcase9:05 - 9:50 a.m. Breakout Sessions10:15 a.m. Advising & Enrollment (students only)

10:15 a.m. Family Transitions11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Check-out and Next Steps Showcase

One-Day Schedule8 - 8:30 a.m. Honors College Session8:30 - 9 a.m. Check-in 8:30 - 9:15 a.m. Academic Showcase & Student ID Pictures9:15 a.m. Meet Your Orientation Leaders9:30 - 10:25 a.m. Opening Session10:35 - 11:45 a.m. Orange Beginnings11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lunch (provided for all participants and guests) and

Student Resource Showcase1 p.m. Advising & Enrollment (students only)

1 p.m. Family Transitions1 - 3 p.m. Check-out and Next Steps Showcase

NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION & ENROLLMENT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOK2 3

When you registered for your Orientation & Enrollment program, you chose either an overnight program or an alternative one-day program. Family members attend Family Orientation at the same time as your program.

Overnight orientation programs benefit students and parents who’d like more time to work through the enrollment process and get a better sense of the campus experience. During the overnight program, you’ll:

• Meet with academic representatives and learn about your specific academic college on day one.

• Meet with your academic adviser on day two to enroll for classes.

• Meet with your orientation leaders in a small group.

• Attend information breakout sessions.

• Participate in evening activities with other freshmen.

The alternative one-day program is a full-day program designed for students who have attended multiple academic campus events, are certain of their academic choice and can make decisions quickly. During this day, you’ll meet with your academic adviser in the afternoon to enroll for classes while family members attend information sessions.

The Future Cowboys program is for children ages 12 to 17 who’d like to explore the OSU campus while their siblings attend orientation. Future Cowboys are guided by their own orientation leaders. They’ll learn about majors and careers, look at OSU’s academic departments and tour Gallagher-Iba Arena and Boone Pickens Stadium.

Your Orientation & Enrollment Schedule

Overnight Schedule

Day 1

8 - 8:45 a.m. Honors College Orientation Check-in

8:30 - 9 a.m. Student and Family Check-in8:30 - 9:15 a.m. Student ID Pictures and Campus Resource Showcase

9:15 - 9:35 a.m. Meet Your Orientation Leaders

9:40 - 10:50 a.m. Opening Session

11 - Noon Academic College Introduction

12:05 - 12:45 p.m. Lunch (provided for all participants and guests)

1 - 2:45 p.m. Informational Breakout Sessions or Math Placement Exam or Foreign Language Placement Exam

3 - 4:30 p.m. SIS/Orange Beginnings (students only)

3 - 4:30 p.m. Family Orange Beginnings and Transitions (families only)

4:35 - 4:50 p.m. Wrap Up (families and students)

5 p.m.Dinner on Your Own

8:30 - 10:30 p.m. Evening Activities for Students (Colvin Center)

Day 2

8:15 - 9 a.m.Breakfast (provided for all participants and guests)

9 - 9:15 a.m.Students Meet Orientation Leaders

9:15 - NoonAcademic Advising and Enrollment (students only)

9:15 - 11 a.m.Family Orange Beginnings Part 2 (families only)Family Transitions10:15 - 11:30 a.m.Check-out Showcase

One-Day Schedule8 - 8:45 a.m. Honors College Session8:30 - 9:15 a.m. Program Check-in 8:30 - 9:15 a.m. Academic Showcase & Student ID Pictures9:15 a.m. Meet Your Orientation Leaders9:40 - 10:40 a.m. Welcome & Opening Session10:50 - 11:45 a.m. Family Orange BeginningsStudent Orange Beginnings & SISNoon - 12:45 p.m. Lunch (provided for all participants and guests)

12:45 p.m. Meet Orientation Leaders for Advisement 1 p.m. Advising & Enrollment (students only)

1 p.m. Family Orange Beginnings 22:15 p.m. Check-out and Check-out Showcase

Prior to your Orientation Program

Complete your Residential Life housing application/contract. All new freshmen are required to live in university-approved housing. reslife.okstate.edu

Complete the Math Placement Exam after May 5 and at least three days prior to your scheduled orientation program. placement.okstate.edu/math

Complete your medical history and immunization record before beginning class. shots.okstate.edu

Look into potential placement, CLEP, AP and IB exams to determine if you’ll take any before enrollment. uat.okstate.edu

Request your final academic transcripts from high school and any college-level work be mailed to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, 219 Student Union, Stillwater, OK, 74078 as soon as possible after graduation. Your financial aid will be held until your final official transcript is received. If you are not eligible for financial aid, final transcripts should be submitted as soon as possible. Your enrollment for the spring semester will be held until it is received.

Checklist for your Program DateIn order to better serve you during your orientation, we recommend you bring the following:

Your O-Key email address and password. Please store this information in your phone because you’ll need your password and email address to enroll.

An umbrella and sweatshirt or light jacket; some of our meeting rooms fluctuate in temperature, and Oklahoma weather is difficult to predict.

Create an orientation folder where you can carry:

• Either an official or unofficial copy of your transcripts or list of courses taken.

• Questions for your adviser and other campus offices.

• Ideas you have about majors and/or careers.

• Receipts for university-related expenses, such as Residential Life housing, to stay organized.

Checklist for Students Attending the Overnight Orientation Program

An alarm clock or a phone charger.

Tennis shoes or other slip-resistant footwear for evening activities. Please dress comfortably as you’ll be participating in physical activities.

Your own toiletries.

Shower shoes for community showers.

The Office of Residential Life will provide basic linens such as, sheets, pillow, a blanket and a towel, but you can bring extras if you prefer.

Orientation Checklist

NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION & ENROLLMENT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOKNEW STUDENT ORIENTATION & ENROLLMENT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOK4 5

Directions to Campus and Parking

From I-35

From I-35

From Cimarron Turnpike/U.S. 177 North

From SH 51 East and U.S. 177 South

Upon arrival, orientation leaders will greet you in the parking garage and direct you to check-in. The Student Union Parking Garage has three levels and two entrances; one is located on University Avenue and the other on Hester Street. For GPS directions, enter the intersection of University Avenue and Hester Street as your destination.

From I-35

• Travel east on Oklahoma Highway 51 (6th Avenue in Stillwater).

• Turn left on Monroe Street.

• Turn right on University Avenue.

• Turn left on Hester Street.

• Turn left into the Student Union Parking Garage.

From the Cimarron Turnpike/ U.S. 177 North

• From the turnpike, continue until it ends and merges south with Washington Street/Boomer Road.

• From U.S. 177, continue south on Washington Street/Boomer Road (don’t follow U.S. 177 left on Richmond Road).

• Continue on Boomer Road, which becomes Main St.

• Turn right on Third Avenue.

• Turn right on Hester Street.


From SH 51 East and U.S. 177 South

• At the intersection of 6th Avenue and Perkins Road, continue west on 6th Avenue.

• Turn right on Hester Street.


O-Key and OSU EmailOSU uses your O-Key account to verify your identity. Your O-Key username and password also serve as login information for your OSU email account. It’s important that you check your OSU email on a regular basis. It’s your primary source of communication with the university, including the offices of Residential Life, New Student Orientation and Scholarships and Financial Aid. Your professors and advisers will use this email address to send important class information.

If you haven’t activated your O-Key account, visit okey.okstate.edu. To access your email once you’ve activated your O-Key account, visit email.okstate.edu.

Housing and Residential LifeComplete your housing application as soon as possible if you haven’t already. Your choice of housing assignment is based on the date your housing application and deposit are submitted and paid. Residential Life sends an email to students in the spring after they’ve completed this process. The email will have a specific date to complete the steps for choosing room assignments.

During the housing contract process, you have the option of choosing a Living Learning Community or Special Interest Housing. While you aren’t required to choose a specialized community, there may be one that fits your academic or career goals. Some benefits include:

• Building relationships with other students.

• Developing study groups with others in the same classes.

• Enrolling in reserved sections of courses pre-selected for the community.

Your adviser will discuss the benefits of choosing a learning community at your enrollment. If you haven’t completed your housing application or would like more information about the Living Learning Community or Special Interest Housing, visit reslife.okstate.edu.

PLEASE NOTE: All freshmen are required to live in university-approved housing (Residential Life, fraternity or sorority). If you plan to join a fraternity or a sorority and think you’ll live in the house, you should still complete your housing application in case you change your mind later or space is unavailable.

Scholarships and Financial AidPaying for college requires a plan. The OSU Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid (OSFA) is here to help you and your family develop that plan. You have already completed the first step by completing the application for admission and scholarships. The next step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov and have the results sent to OSU (OSU’s school code is 003170) if you haven’t already done so. It’s important to file the FAFSA as soon after Jan. 1 as possible to be considered for all types of OSU, state and federal aid.

Because funds are limited in some aid programs, you should respond as quickly as possible to requests for information from the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Check your OSU email frequently for any messages from OSFA about your financial aid.

Your award notice may include a combination of scholarships, grants, work-study, and student and parent loans. You can learn more about the process of applying for, and receiving, scholarships and financial aid by reviewing the

“Start2Finish” information on the OSFA website at financialaid.okstate.edu.

When you provide your updated GPA, class standing or ACT/SAT scores to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid will automatically determine whether you qualify for a higher-value scholarship. Submit any changes to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions by July 1. You should also notify the Office of Undergraduate Admissions if you change your academic major and/or college from the one listed on your application for admission and scholarships.

Many students choose to work part time while attending OSU. Some, but not all, of the jobs available to students are for those who qualify for the Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program, via the results of the FAFSA. You’ll be able to start your job search for both FWS and non-FWS jobs once you’ve enrolled by visiting OSU Career Services at HireOSUGrads.com.

Don’t wait until New Student Orientation & Enrollment to talk with the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Your orientation and enrollment day(s) will be very busy, so we encourage you to contact the office by email at [email protected] or by phone at 1-800-233-5019, ext. 2 or 405-744-6604 if you have any questions about your financial aid plan.

NEXT STEPS

WHERE TO STAY

StudentsStudents attending an overnight program stay in Stout Hall. Sheets, pillows, towels and a blanket are provided, but you may bring additional linen items if you’d like. Please bring your own toiletries. Students are charged $30 for the overnight program and $45 for the Power Camp Residential Life fee on their first full tuition and fee bill.

ParentsWe encourage parents and family members to stay in Stillwater. Please make reservations early as hotel rooms book quickly. For a list of accommodations in Stillwater, go to visitstillwater.org and click on “Stay” under the “Visitors” tab.

Listed below are some of the options closer to campus:• Best Western Plus Cimarron Hotel & Suites 405-372-2878

• Fairfield Inn & Suites 405-372-6300

• Hampton Inn & Suites 405-743-1306

• Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 405-372-2445

• Microtel Inn & Suites 405-372-7100

• Quality Inn 405-372-0800

• Residence Inn by Marriott 405-707-0588


Math Placement Exam (aleks) (Required)OSU gives a Mathematics Placement Exam to help ensure students have the best chance to succeed in math courses. Students who plan to take an OSU math course and don’t already have college-level math credit with a “C” or better (on a college transcript) in a prerequisite or required math course for their major must take the Math Placement Exam prior to orientation and enrollment. Every student should complete this exam sometime after May 5 and at least three days prior to their scheduled orientation program.

NOTE: Beginning and intermediate algebra do not count as college-level math.

Where do I take the exam?The best testing environment is a controlled location beneficial to the test-taker’s needs. However, OSU will allow an exception for the initial test based on ACT/SAT score.

• If your ACT math score is 19 or greater, or your SAT math score is 460 or greater, you may take your initial exam from any computer with Internet access. If you’d like to retake the exam, additional attempts must be done in a proctored setting.

• If your ACT math score is below 19, your SAT math score is below 460, or your test scores aren’t on file with OSU, you must take the exam in a proctored setting. If the exam is not proctored, the test cannot count for placement purposes.

How do I locate a proctor site?For a complete list of all approved proctor sites, including an Internet option using a webcam, visit placement.okstate.edu/proctor. In addition, you may have a local site contact University Assessment and Testing at 405-744-5958 to establish itself as a certified testing site.

May I take the test when I come for orientation?While it is in your best interest to complete the Math Placement Exam prior to attending New Student Orientation & Enrollment, we offer the exam in a proctored setting at overnight orientation sessions only. Please be aware the exam will be offered during the informational breakout sessions for those attending an overnight program. Please see the overnight program schedule on page 3 for more information. If you are required to take the COMPASS test (see page 8 for more information) you will not be able to take the Math Placement Exam during your orientation program.

How do I take the exam?Watch the informational videos at placement.okstate.edu/math and click “Next” for additional instructions. Please read all the instructions to best understand how to take the test. Do not use unapproved aids (calculators, notes, books, websites, people, etc.). It’s in your best interest to do your own work to ensure course placement matches your ability and likelihood of success.

How often may the exam be taken?You may take the exam five times without cost during an 11-month period. Second and subsequent attempts must be proctored, regardless of ACT or SAT score. A minimum of 24 hours is required between each attempt.

How can I best prepare to take the exam?Following your first completion of the placement test, you will unlock a set of learning modules to use if you plan to re-test and would like to utilize the learning components.

What documentation of math placement is needed at orientation/enrollment?No documentation is needed if you’ve taken the placement exam at least three days prior to your enrollment. However, in the following cases, you’ll need the indicated paperwork to avoid math enrollment delays:

• If you take the Math Placement Exam within a day or two of your enrollment program, bring a copy of your score report in case your scores haven’t yet uploaded to the OSU system.

• If you’ve completed a college-level prerequisite or required course for your major with a “C” or better and haven’t already sent your official transcript to OSU, bring a copy of your transcript.

• If you’re currently enrolled in a college-level prerequisite or required math course for your major, bring a printout of your academic schedule. After you finish the course, send official transcripts to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at least one week prior to the start of class.

To access the OSU Math Placement Exam, visit placement.okstate.edu/math. If you have any questions or concerns, contact University Assessment and Testing at 405-744-5958.

PLACEMENT EXAMS

Optional Placement ExamsStudents can receive college credit at Oklahoma State University through several placement exams. With the exception of the Math Placement Exam, all placement exams are optional. For additional information regarding Math Placement, COMPASS, AP, CLEP and IB exams, contact University Assessment and Testing at 405-744-5958. For more information regarding foreign language placement exams, call the Arts & Sciences Student Success Center at 405-744-5658.

Foreign Language Advanced Standing Placement Exam If you completed at least two years of Spanish, French or German in high school and would like to continue in that language your first semester at OSU, consider taking the Foreign Language Placement Exam to determine course placement. Students who test out of course work and earn an “A” or

“B” in the course in which they are placed may earn retroactive advanced standing credit for the sections they skipped, up to 10 credit hours. For more information, visit fllcourses.okstate.edu and click on “Placement Exams.” You’ll have an opportunity to take this placement exam during your orientation program or later in the semester.

COMPASS Testing OSU evaluates each incoming student’s test scores and high school grades to ensure core course placement is the best fit for their success. In some cases, students may be required to complete a pre-college-level course before moving on in a particular subject. The COMPASS test is given during informational breakout sessions for overnight programs and in the afternoon for one-day programs. Please see the program schedules on page 3 for more detailed information. If you’re required to take the COMPASS test, you will be notified prior to your scheduled orientation. You will not be able to take the Math Placement Exam during the same time..

Advanced Placement (AP), College Level Examination Program (CLEP) & International Baccalaureate Program (IB)OSU grants credit for acceptable scores in the College Board’s Advanced Placement Program, College Level Examination and International Baccalaureate Program. Visit admissions.okstate.edu/creditbyexamination for a list of college-level credits.

Once you’ve completed your Orientation and Enrollment program, there are a few more things to consider that will better prepare you for your college career.

Camp Cowboy

Camp Cowboy is an exciting three-day experience filled with connections to other new students and current OSU student leaders. Participants engage in team-building activities, small-group discussions and campfires to help learn person strengths and find ways to get involved on campus. Participating in Camp Cowboy makes your transition to college easier by creating a support network before you move onto campus.

The camp charge is $170, but some registration waivers are available. Call 405-744-0383 or visit campcowboy.okstate.edu for more information about Camp Cowboy and/or registration fee waivers. The 2015 dates for Camp Cowboy are:

• June 5-7 • July 17-19

• June 19-21 • July 24-26

• June 26-28 • August 7-9

• July 10-12

Preparing for Move-in

While your move-in date doesn’t happen until August, preparation begins now. As soon as you have your roommate assigned, make contact so you can begin planning who will bring which items. The Office of Residential Life website provides detailed information regarding room size, furnishings and acceptable appliances. Visit the Residential Life checklist at reslife.okstate.edu/packing_checklist.pdf.

Welcome Week

Sign up and participate in Welcome Week activities, which begin Aug. 12. Welcome Week activities continue through the first week of class. During the week, students will learn campus traditions, enhance their study skills and discover many OSU resources. In addition, there will be numerous social activities, including the RHA Block Party, ZumbaFest, Howdy Dance and New Student Convocation. Students must register for Welcome Week activities in order to receive a T-shirt and other items. All activities are free. Visit welcomeweek.okstate.edu for more information.

Life After Orientation & Enrollment



C o l l e g e o f A g r i c u l t u r a l S c i e n c e s & N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e s

To CASNR’s newest Cowboys: Greetings from Stillwater! Welcome to the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) at Oklahoma State University. We are excited you are joining us and are glad to assist you during this exciting time in your life as you transition into college. The faculty and staff in CASNR maintain an open door policy. We are committed to helping you develop your total student experience, both inside and outside the classroom. It is our goal to help you in your academic pursuits and assist you in personal and career development. With 16 majors and 57 study options, plus a variety of student organizations, CASNR is dedicated to helping you expand your horizons and pursue your dreams.

Here are some quick facts about CASNR:

• More than $1.4 million in scholarships are awarded annually to CASNR students by the college and its departments. • There are more than 60 student clubs and organizations that provide opportunities for fun, friendship and professional development. • Last year, 17 of 40 students named Top Twenty Freshmen Men and Women, and 10 of 44 students named Seniors of Significance were CASNR students.• CASNR advisers are faculty members who not only advise, but also teach courses and are professionally involved in your area of study from the minute you walk on campus. • CASNR’s study abroad program includes faculty led educational visits to locations including: Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Ireland, Argentina and Thailand. • CASNR’s Career Services staff and student Career Liaisons provide guidance with exploring career options, planning for professional success and job searching for part-time jobs, internships & full-time opportunities.

To learn more about the opportunities awaiting you in CASNR, we encourage you to visit our website, casnr.okstate.edu, or connect with us socially via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In addition, please do not hesitate to contact us at 405-744-5395 or [email protected]. We look forward to visiting with you in person during New Student Orientation and Enrollment.

Go Pokes!

Dr. Cynda ClaryAssociate Dean of Academic Programs

Dr. W. Stephen Damron Interim Assistant Dean of Academic Programs

Many people probably have asked what major you’ve chosen. Choosing an academic path before you’ve even entered college can be hard. There are many things to consider as you plan your path to graduation.

Example 1 Sometimes your career path seems mapped out for you already. Your grandfather was a doctor, your father is a doctor and your sister is in medical school. You feel pressure to follow the family profession. However, math may not be your best subject, you may be worried about taking multiple lab science courses, or you may not be excited about the competition for medical school admission.

Action Now is the time to research your profession, test your interests and find a path that better fits you.

Example 2 There are multiple directions related to your interests. You may want a degree related to computers, but have no idea which area to pursue. OSU has three distinct computer degree areas: Management Science and Information Systems (Business), Computer Science (Arts & Sciences) and Computer Engineering (Engineering, Architecture and Technology).

Action Your choice depends on your personal and career goals. If you have a specific career in mind, research it and learn what degree paths usually support it. There are many options.

• Visit a specific OSU department website for each degree and discover the areas on which each degree focuses.

• Read the course descriptions listed in the university catalog.

• Talk to others working in the field or in related areas and ask how they earned their positions and what they studied (or wish they had studied).

Discovering Your OptionsOSU divides degree programs into six academic colleges. We encourage you to explore those colleges. You can find a list of majors divided by academic college on page 20. If you’re still undecided about your major and cannot determine a single academic college that houses most of your areas of interest, you can begin your academics in the University College. University College advises students across the university rather than within a specific college. Once an academic course of study is declared, students will transition to the appropriate college to complete their degree. For more information about University College, visit uca.okstate.edu.

Academic Choices and Majors


C o l l e g e o f E d u c a t i o n

Dear new College of Education student:We’re pleased that you’ve chosen Oklahoma State University and the College of Education. Our office, the Watson Family Student Academic Success Center, is here to support and guide you toward your educational and professional goals. We invite you to explore the Watson Family Student Academic Success Center online at education.okstate.edu. This website has a variety of useful links, including an introduction to our staff, descriptions of our degree programs, four-year plans for many of our degrees and information about student organizations within the College of Education.

Living Learning Communities

If you’re a teacher education major, you’ll have the opportunity to be involved in a Living Learning Community (LLC). This is your opportunity to get to know your classmates and program faculty by living in the same housing community on campus and enrolling in some of the same courses. You’ll study, attend student organization meetings, hang out and get to know your program faculty, all right where you live. For more information, contact Todd Snethen at [email protected] or 405-744-6350. Visit OSU’s College of Education online at education.okstate.edu.

Todd SnethenSenior Academic Counselor

[email protected]

C o l l e g e o f A r t s & S c i e n c e s

Reminders before Orientation

Advanced Placement, CLEP and Concurrent Credits: While we take your word for previous college credits earned and don’t want you to re-enroll in an OSU course for which you already have college credit, enrollment in many OSU courses including English, mathematics and science requires proof of completion/enrollment in the prerequisite course.

• Request official score reports and college transcripts be sent to OSU, AND

• Bring copies of transcripts and reports with you to advising to avoid enrollment delays due to prerequisites.

Mathematics Placement: Enrollment in any OSU math course requires an appropriate math placement score or proof of prior credit for current enrollment in the prerequisite math course. Math placement also affects science placement, so all students, especially science- and mathematics-oriented majors, must take the Math Placement Exam prior to enrollment unless they:

• Have concurrent credit for or are currently enrolled in a prerequisite college math class, or

• Took AP Calculus AB or BC and already have a score result of 3 or higher (bring your report for documentation).

NOTE: Official transcript showing prerequisite course/grade must be received/recorded in SIS at OSU the week before a student’s OSU math class begins or the student will be removed from the course. AP scores for senior year tests aren’t available until mid-July so students in science- and math-related majors must take the Math Placement Exam and enroll in the appropriate math class if they don’t receive AP credit. When AP scores arrive, contact your adviser and adjust your schedule if needed.

Notes About Advising

Academic Advising: During orientation and for at least the first OSU semester, you will work with a freshman academic adviser to choose courses toward your major(s) of interest. After one or two semesters, you will transition to an adviser in the major department. Your academic adviser serves as the central resource for information on academic programs and policies and referral to services across the university. Students in the Honors College, student-athletes, students with disabilities and students interested in health professions or law have supplemental advisers in each of these areas. Get to know your advisers and let them get to know you.

Pre-Professional Advising for Health Professions and Law: OSU offers solid course preparation and advising for students preparing for a health profession or law school. According to these professional schools, there are no degrees designated as “pre-med” or “pre-law.” You may choose any OSU major and incorporate the prerequisite courses for health professions or the skill-developing courses for law school preparation. Advising for these professional school goals includes individual advising, workshops and a communication network to keep you on track starting with choosing a major through application and admission. Early admission programs are offered for medical school and veterinary medicine as well as the new 3+3 Law Option. Learn more at prehealth.okstate.edu and prelaw.okstate.edu.

Admission to an A&S Major

Among the Arts & Sciences major choices, a few departments/schools require performance beyond the university/college minimum in order to declare a major:

• Art-Graphic Design – 12 hours completed and 2.75 GPA required for admission. ART 1103 and 1113 must be taken freshman year to be eligible for ART 2403, 2413 or 2423 sophomore year. Sophomore spring portfolio review determines those admitted to junior/senior courses.

• Communication Sciences and Disorders – 15 hours completed and 2.5 GPA required for admission. A 2.75 GPA is needed for graduation, and a master’s degree is required for Speech-Language Pathology licensure.

• Media & Strategic Communication (includes Multimedia Journalism, Strategic Communications and Sports Media) – 28 hours completed and 2.5 GPA required for admission. ENGL 1113 and 1213 must be completed to enroll in MC 2003. A “C” or better in MC 2003 and a passing grade on the Language Proficiency Exam is required to enroll in junior/senior courses.

• Music (includes Music, BA and BFA degrees in Music-Elective Studies in Business, Music-Performance, Music Education-Instrumental/Vocal Certification) – Audition is required for admission to all major and minor options and most music organizations. Contact the department at 405-744-8997 about auditioning. Without audition, students may begin undeclared while taking MUSI 1531 and 1533, aural skills and theory.

• Psychology – 28 hours completed including PSYC 1113 with “C” or better required for admission.

Undecided Students: With six undergraduate colleges and nearly 200 degree sheets from which to choose, many students begin school not sure of which major to select. If most of your interests fit within the College of Arts & Sciences, we welcome you to explore your goals with us. Our freshman advisers will identify if any courses must be taken freshman year to graduate in four years. They’ll help you plan schedules that test your interests and meet general education requirements. Begin by checking out “What To Do With a Degree In…” at ascareers.okstate.edu.

A&S Freshman Orientation

During the first semester, Arts & Sciences freshmen enroll in a one-credit hour orientation class that meets twice a week for the first eight weeks. Transition to college, time-management and study skills, campus resources, university policies and procedures and academic planning are addressed in the course. Many orientation classes are targeted toward one major or a group of similar majors, so you quickly meet others with the same interests as yourself.

Call us at 405-744-5658 if you’ve any questions prior to enrollment. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Arts & Sciences Student Academic Services

cas.okstate.edu

Welcome to the College of Arts and Sciences. We look forward to working with you during New Student Orientation and Enrollment


S p e a r s S c h o o l o f B u s i n e s sC o l l e g e o f E n g i n e e r i n g , A r c h i t e c t u r e & T e c h n o l o g y

Dear new CEAT student:Welcome to the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at Oklahoma State University. You’re beginning a career that will make an incredible impact on the world. Look around you — advances in energy, infrastructure, medicine, communications, transportation and computers have revolutionized our lives. Graduates of our college tackle big challenges and make life more enjoyable. You and your classmates will develop innovations that we can only imagine today. We’re glad that you’ve chosen OSU to prepare you for this endeavor.

We’re excited to meet you and discuss your first step on this journey — enrollment for the fall semester. Please keep a few things in mind as you prepare for New Student Orientation & Enrollment:

• Before you arrive, you must take an online placement exam for mathematics. Please refer to the information in this booklet regarding Math Placement Exam instructions.

• We’d also like you to prepare a list of college-level credits you’ve received through concurrent enrollment, dual-credit and Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams. Please bring this information with you to New Student Orientation & Enrollment.

• Please visit our website at studentservices.okstate.edu. It has information on a number of special programs coordinated by our Office of Student Academic Services. This is also an excellent resource if you’re unsure about your major selection.

We look forward to having you in the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology. Please contact our office if you have any questions.

Best regards,

College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology Student Services405-744-5276www.ceat.okstate.edu

Dear new Spears School of Business student:Welcome to OSU and to the Spears School of Business. We’re thrilled to have you join us. This is an exciting time that will be full of new experiences, new opportunities and new challenges. Our aim is to help you achieve your personal and career goals and to have you leave here equipped to make a positive difference in the world.

We know that you’re much more likely to be happy here and to finish your degree if you form meaningful relationships, have a supportive relationship with your adviser and aren’t overwhelmed with financial difficulties. To help you in this regard, consider taking advantage of the following services and opportunities:

Our Business Student Success Center is staffed with academic advisers who are eager to help you create your academic plan of action and guide you toward university resources that may be helpful. In addition, we have career advisers who will shepherd you through career selection, building your résumé, preparing for interviews, taking on internships and ultimately finding the right job.

The Spears Living Learning Community is a residence hall reserved for business students that fosters an opportunity to interact extensively with others who share your career interests and to participate in related activities. Freshmen have a valuable opportunity to be mentored by upperclassmen.

The Eastin Center for Talent Development is a brand-new endeavor in the Spears School that’s designed to give you the extra polish that can lead to long-term career success. While you’ll learn many necessary technical skills in your classes, this center will place a strong emphasis on helping you develop the professionalism that is critical to your long-term career growth.

Please consider joining the Freshmen Business Student Leaders as your first student organization. This group will connect you with the academic departments and other student organizations in the Spears School. These connections can help you build relationships and also build your résumé.

Finally, we know that your family may have sacrificed a lot to help you earn your college degree. We try hard to support your efforts and theirs with scholarships. Last year, the Spears School provided more than $1 million dollars in scholarships to our students. These awards are supplemented by scholarships provided by OSU and by our individual academic departments. Please watch your student newsletters from the Spears School (Inside the Walls and Headline News) for information about scholarship application deadlines. Work hard academically and get involved in at least one student organization (but don’t over-do it) to make yourself a strong candidate for these scholarships.

We’re looking forward to this adventure with you. You’ll have some great days and maybe a few tough ones. If you need assistance, don’t be afraid to ask and ask early. Contact the Business Student Success Center at 405-744-2772 for help. We’re successful when you’re successful.

Warm regards,

Karen Flaherty, Ph.D.Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs

Marissa McIntyreDirector, Student Academic Services


u n i v e r s i t y c o l l e g e ( f o r m e r ly L A S S O c e n t e r )

Greetings University College Students:Hello from Cowboy Country and welcome to University College. We are excited you have chosen OSU and look forward to meeting you during New Student Orientation & Enrollment this summer.

We are eager to help you with your academic needs, whether through planning your semester schedule, exploring different major options, or helping you bridge the gap between student life and academic success. University College is your place for getting the answers you need and any additional assistance to help you succeed.

University College Advising works with you to facilitate a successful transition through individualized services tailored to fit your needs and encourage you to take advantage of OSU’s many resources, including LASSO’s (Learning and Student Success Opportunity) free tutoring and Academic Success Coaches. You will likely work with us through your first academic year before declaring your major and completing your degree in one of OSU’s six academic colleges.

We know that some students advised through University College have already decided on a major, while others come to explore major and career options. University College advisers work with students interested in pursuing any major across campus, as we help you evaluate which program(s) play to your strengths and help meet your long-term goals.

As a first semester University College freshman, you will enroll in UNIV 1111, a Freshman Orientation course to help you adjust to college life, learn how to become academically successful, and explore various major options and campus resources. This course is taught by University College advisers and select members of the University community in conjunction with the Student Academic Mentor (SAM) and the Academic Success Coach Program.

Student Academic Mentors are carefully selected upperclassmen who connect with new students to answer questions or concerns and provide peer-to-peer advice. Academic Success Coaches assist students in areas of time management, academic and extracurricular balance, study skills and other areas needed to provide added guidance, mentorship and assistance in your Freshman Orientation class throughout the fall semester.

For more information about University College advising, see uca.okstate.edu. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and New Students pages or contact us at 405-744-5333.

Go Pokes!

Your University College advising staff

C o l l e g e o f H u m a n S c i e n c e s

Dear new College of Human Sciences student:Welcome to Oklahoma State University and the College of Human Sciences. Founded more than 110 years ago, the college has highly successful alumni throughout the world with the common goal of “solving human problems and enhancing human lives.” We have four outstanding academic units that offer 11 academic programs:

• Allied Health • Family and Consumer Sciences Education• Apparel Design and Production • Hotel and Restaurant Administration• Child and Family Services • Human Nutrition/Pre-medical Sciences• Community Nutrition • Interior Design• Dietetics • Merchandising• Early Childhood Education

Why are we different from other programs?

Our accredited programs and outstanding faculty ensure the opportunity for a quality education. To further enhance your skills, you will have the opportunity to actively participate in:

• Required professional internship programs.• Global learning or study abroad learning.• DestinationU personal and professional experiences.• PETE Project Living Learning Community in Village Human Sciences.• Human Sciences collegewide leadership organizations.

The Human Sciences’ Patricia Kain Knaub Center for Student Success supports your educational and personal development needs. Your academic adviser, who specializes in your chosen major, is ready to guide you through the enrollment process each semester and provide advice to help you succeed.

Our career services consultant is ready to assist you with career education and information. As a Human Sciences student, you will be involved in several first-year experiences, including our highly successful Freshman Reading Program which helps you immediately form connections with other students in your major.

We are looking forward to meeting you. Find us during New Student Orientation or contact us by phone at 405-744-5053. To learn more about our unique opportunities, connect with us on: Facebook – search for Oklahoma State University College of Human Sciences

Our website at humansciences.okstate.edu

Twitter – @OSUHumanScience


First-generation students are individuals whose parents haven’t completed a bachelor’s degree. Because navigating a college environment can be confusing, the First2Go program provides a safe and comfortable atmosphere for these students to ask questions and become knowledgeable on the various aspects of the student experience.

First2Go helps first-generation students create a deeper sense of belonging to the OSU community by providing support through programming and mentoring. Faculty, staff and graduate students provide resources, encouragement and direction as students transition to OSU. Mentors are available to any first-generation student.

The mentor relationship can last a lifetime. Should you choose to participate in this program, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with a supportive member of the university community and work one-on-one with a professional.

First-generation students will also have the opportunity to engage with other first-generation students by participating in the First2Go Living Learning Community (LLC). The First2Go LLC provides unique programs that will focus on transitional needs (i.e. transition from high school to college for the freshmen) with the help of consistent access to resources for academic and social success. If you’d like to learn more or participate in this program, email [email protected] or call 405-744-5333.

First-Generation Students Mentoring Program

T h e H o n o r s C o l l e g e

Dear new Honors College student:The Honors College offers approximately 80 honors courses each semester in a variety of curricular areas. Honors classes are typically 20-22 students, and the small class size contributes to a discussion-based, engaging learning environment. Active participants in the Honors College earn priority enrollment for the subsequent semester, enjoy access to the honors study lounge and computer lab in historic Old Central, have extended library checkout privileges, and may choose to live in honors housing in Stout Hall or West Bennett (if

space is available). The Honors College offers three different awards, the General Honors Award, the College or Departmental Honors Award, and the Honors College Degree, the highest academic distinction awarded to undergraduates at Oklahoma State University. All three awards can be completed within your academic major’s degree requirements. New freshmen are considered for Honors College admission on the basis of high school grade point average (3.75 or higher, weighted or unweighted) and standardized test scores (ACT composite score of 27 or higher or an SAT score [critical reading and math] of 1220 or higher). Honors College applications must be submitted electronically by Feb. 1 to be considered for normal admission. Applications submitted after this date will be considered only if space is available. If you do not meet these requirements but are interested in joining The Honors College, or if you meet initial eligibility requirements but have not yet applied, we would like to extend an invitation to attend the Honors College information session during New Student Orientation. We will work with

eligible students on a space-available basis, and if you are not currently eligibleyou may be able to join The Honors College after your first semester at OSU. If you have been admitted to The Honors College, you are required to attend the Honors College information session during New Student Orientation. You will also meet with an honors adviser in addition to meeting with an academic adviser in your college. I am pleased to welcome you to our supportive community of scholars. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Keith Garbutt, Ph.D.Dean, The Honors CollegeProfessor of Botany

NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION & ENROLLMENT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOK

College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural ResourcesAgribusiness• Agricultural Communications Double Major• Crop and Soil Sciences• Farm and Ranch Management• Finance• International• Management• Marketing• Pre-Law• Pre-Veterinary Business Management

Agricultural Communications• Agribusiness Double Major • Animal Science Double Major

Agricultural Economics• Accounting Double Major

Agricultural Education • Agricultural Business and Economics• Agricultural Communications Double Major• Animal Agriculture• Horticulture Double Major• Horticultural Sciences• Natural Resources• Teaching

Agricultural Leadership• Extension Education• General• International Studies

Animal Science• Agricultural Communications Double Major• Agricultural Education Double Major• Animal Biotechnology• Business• International• Livestock Merchandising• Pre-Veterinary Animal Science• Production• Ranch Operations

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology• Pre-Medical or Pre-Veterinary Science

Entomology • Bioforensics• Pre-Veterinary and Pre-Medical Sciences• Insect Biology and Ecology

Environmental Science • Environmental Policy • Natural Resources • Water Resources

Food Science• Industry • Meat Science• Science

Horticulture• Horticultural Business • Horticultural Science • Public Horticulture • Turf Management

Landscape Architecture

Landscape Management

Natural Resource Ecology and Management• Fire Ecology and Management• Fisheries and Aquatic Ecology• Forest Ecology and Management• Natural History and Conservation• Rangeland Ecology and Management• Wildlife Biology and Pre-Veterinary Science• Wildlife Ecology and Management

Plant and Soil Sciences• Agronomic Business • Crop Production and Management• Plant Biotechnology and Improvement• Soil and Water Resources

College of Arts & SciencesAmerican Studies

Art• Art History• Studio• Graphic Design• Studio Art

Biochemistry

Biological Science• Secondary Teacher Certification

Botany

Chemistry• ACS Approved • Departmental Degree• Secondary Teacher Certification

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Computer Science

Economics• General • International Economic Relations

English• Creative Writing• Professional Writing• Screen Studies

French

Geography

Geology • Secondary Teacher Certification

German

History

Liberal Studies

Mathematics• Actuarial and Financial Mathematics• Secondary Teacher Certification

Microbiology, Cell and Molecular Biology• Biomedical Science • Clinical Laboratory Science • Microbial Ecology/Environmental • Microbial Pathogenesis • Molecular Genetics

Multimedia Journalism

Music

• Elective Studies in Business • Performance

Music Education• Instrumental/Vocal Certification

Philosophy

Physics• Applied Physics• General• Secondary Teacher Certification

Physiology

Political Science

Psychology

Russian Language and Literature

Sociology• Anthropology • Applied Sociology

Spanish

Sports Media

Statistics

Strategic Communication

Theatre

Zoology

College of EducationAerospace Administration and Operations• Aerospace Logistics • Aerospace Security • Aviation Management • Professional Pilot • Technical Service Management

Career and Technical Education• Business and Information Technology Education• Certification • Health Occupations Education • Marketing Education • Non-Certification • Technology Education

Elementary Education

Health Education and Promotion• Community Health Education • Exercise and Health

Physical Education• Teacher Education

Recreation Management and Therapeutic Recreation • Recreation Management • Therapeutic Recreation

Secondary Education• English • Foreign Language • Social Studies

College of Engineering, Architecture & TechnologyAerospace Engineering

Architectural Engineering • Structures

Architecture

Biosystems Engineering• Biomechanical• Bioprocessing and Food Processing• Environmental and Natural Resources

Chemical Engineering• Biomedical/Biochemical • Environmental• Pre-Medical

Civil Engineering • Environmental

Computer Engineering

Construction Management Technology • Building • Heavy

Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering Technology• Computer

Fire Protection and Safety Technology

Industrial Engineering and Management

Mechanical Engineering• Pre-Medical

Mechanical Engineering Technology

College of Human SciencesDesign, Housing and Merchandising• Apparel Design and Production • Interior Design • Merchandising

Hotel and Restaurant Administration

Human Development and Family Science• Child and Family Services • Early Childhood Education • Family and Consumer Sciences Education

Nutritional Sciences• Allied Health • Community Nutrition • Dietetics • Human Nutrition/Pre-Medical Sciences

Spears School of BusinessAccounting

Economics• Business Economics and Quantitative Studies• Pre-Law

Entrepreneurship

Finance• Commercial Bank Management • General

General Business• Pre-Law

International Business

Management

• Business Sustainability• Human Resource Management • Sports Management

Management Information Systems• Information Assurance • Management Science and Computer Systems

Marketing

Undergraduate Colleges and Majors

NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION & ENROLLMENT20 OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOK 21

Frequently CalledDining Services 405-744-4424

Fraternity & Sorority Affairs 405-744-5490

Housing and Residential Life 405-744-5592

Institutional Diversity 405-744-5372

New Student Orientation & Enrollment 405-744-3636

Scholarships & Financial Aid 405-744-6604

Student Disability Services 405-744-7116

Undergraduate Admissions 405-744-5358

University Counseling 405-744-5458

University Health Services 405-744-7665

University Parking & Transportation 405-744-6525

College Advising OfficesAgricultural Sciences & Natural Resources 405-744-5395

Arts & Sciences 405-744-5658

Education 405-744-6350

Engineering, Architecture and Technology 405-744-5276

Honors College 405-744-6799

Human Sciences 405-744-5053

University College 405-744-5333

Spears School of Business 405-744-2772

campus contacts

Documents

FRESHMAN CONFIRMATION HANDBOOK · information in your phone because you’ll need your password and email address to enroll. An umbrella and sweatshirt or light jacket; some of our