NMU Students view the sunset from Sugarloaf Mountain.

Registrar's Newsletter August 2023

President's Welcome

Fall Semester 2023

Welcome to NMU, new students.  Welcome back returning Wildcats.

Decisions, decisions, decisions.  As your life unfolds, there will be many of these. I am so happy – and thankful – that you’ve made the important decision to join Northern Michigan University for your university education.  

Being a student at NMU is all about inspiration and engagement. The environment here at NMU will inspire you to think, write, calculate and create in new, existing, and meaningful ways. Our programs focus on immersive learning; our students have opportunities to work in faculty research labs, use cutting edge technology and equipment, pitch their own start-up business ideas, work in our wondrous natural environment, engage in service learning throughout the community, and generally learn by “doing.” You’ll also make new friends, develop a new sense of independence, and, more importantly, learn more about your own self-defined role in the world.  The total experience of a rich and robust university education characterizes an NMU education. Engage the university; make it your own.

Northern is blessed with talented, experienced faculty and professional, caring staff. Your faculty and staff will help you learn skills and ideas that will give you many career options and help you grow as a person.  Northern is also a place where we hope a lifelong commitment to learning begins.  It is a place where you will begin to “own your own mind,” and that is one of the greatest returns on this investment you are making in you.

During your Northern Experience, please take full advantage of all that Marquette and the Upper Peninsula have to offer you in terms of community, activities and natural environment. Get to know community members. They, too, want you to succeed while you’re at NMU and in the future, wherever that may take you. Get to know the area, it truly is a special place.

Like many of you, I am relatively new to NMU, and I came here for many of the same reasons you chose Northern.  I am convinced we all made an excellent decision in picking NMU as our university of choice. I look forward to seeing you around campus and hearing about your Northern experience. We all have an exciting year of learning and growing ahead of us. I hope you’re as excited to get started as I am.

Go ‘Cats!
Brock Tessman, President

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NMU President, Brock Tessman Portrait Photo

Starting Your Semester

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Financial Aid Office at NMU

Student Services Offices Open Saturday, Aug. 26

The following offices will be open Saturday, Aug. 26, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. to provide student services prior to the beginning of the fall semester, which begins Monday, Aug. 28.

  • Career Services
  • Dean of Students (including First Generation Program)
  • Disability Services
  • Financial Aid
  • First Year Experience
  • NMU Police Department
  • Student Equity and Engagement Center
  • Student Service Center
  • Student Success Office
  • Student Support Services
  • Veteran Services
  • Wellbeing Office

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NMU Lenovo Laptop

Laptop Distribution

This year’s NMU notebook distribution will be coordinated with the Welcome Back to NMU events in the Northern Center. The pickup/exchange of your NMU issued notebook will be scheduled along other pickups (residence hall keys, parking passes, etc.) being done at the Northern Center. Please watch for your Welcome Back to NMU information. If you need to be issued or exchange a notebook, the process to do that will be included in the Welcome Back event information. 

Questions may be directed to Asset Management, thinkpad@nmu.edu or (906) 227-2822.

 

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A large number of students attend Fall Fest on a bright sunny afternoon.

Join The Hub NMU

The Hub NMU is an engagement platform that provides a complete toolkit for student organizations and NMU departments to manage their events/activities within a private campus network where students, faculty, staff and alumni can connect, share and get involved. Check it out by going to thehub.nmu.edu.

Find Your One! Pick One!

We want students to start by picking at least one thing that they are passionate about and get involved. This could mean getting an on-campus job, participating in faculty-led research, or most commonly, by joining a student organization.

Pick One encourages all students to build connections, gain friendships and get involved with the campus community so they can find at least one thing that gives them a sense of belonging at NMU.

Participate in Pick One activities - Earn Points and Win Prizes!

Parking Permit Required to Park on Campus

Students wishing to park on campus during the school year must purchase a parking permit. Students must register through their MyNMU account. Once signed in, choose the student services tab and under Police Department Services click on Vehicle Registration and Citation Appeals. You will be required to sign into the parking portal with your MyNMU credentials. This year’s parking pass distribution will be coordinated with the Welcome Back to NMU events in the Northern Center. The pickup will be scheduled along other pickups (residence hall keys, laptop, etc.) being done at the Northern Center. Please watch for your Welcome Back to NMU information.  Please register your vehicle at least two days prior to your pickup date. Permits may also be picked up at the parking office during the first week of classes. Permits will also be sold in the office.  

All tickets are valid citations including those written the first week of school. Tickets issued for failure to register a motor vehicle will not be excused after the first week of classes. Students who need to park on campus after this date and do not have a valid permit must obtain a daily permit through their MyNMU account. Temporary permits are available through the portal for up to five days a semester at no charge. Four-week temporary permits are available for $35.

The fee for commuters, residents and university apartment residents is $150 for the year. Motorcycle permits are $25.

Visitors and Guests - Visitors to campus can obtain temporary permits free of charge through the Parking Portal by creating a guest account at: https://nmu.t2hosted.com/Account/Portal. If you are a visitor to campus and received a citation please contact Parking Services at (906) 227-1476 or by email to parking@nmu.edu.  Campus Map

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Superior Dome and PEIF from the air.

Parking Permit Application

Current Students - If you have already registered for classes, please purchase your parking permit through your MyNMU account. The Parking Services Portal can be accessed under the Student Services Tab and under Police Department Services click on Vehicle Registration and Citation Appeals. You will be required to sign into the Parking Portal. 

Academics

Taking a Web Course?

All students taking a web course will be required to complete an on-line tutorial prior to being able to access the course. This tutorial is a one-time requirement; once you have completed it, you will not need to complete it again in the future. The tutorial is available under your list of courses in EduCat. It can be completed any time, but must be done before you can log into a web course(s). The tutorial itself is estimated to take two or three hours to fully complete, although your progress is saved along the way if you want or need to take it in smaller intervals of time.

Changing or Declaring Your Major

All changes to majors are made by the staff in the Student Success Office, C.B. Hedgcock, Room 3302, or students may submit their request on the web.

Student Success Office
3302 Hedgcock,
Phone: 906-227-2971
Email: acac@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/acac

Access to Academic Records - Proxy Access

Students have the option of sharing certain aspects of their academic record with others through our Proxy Access system. Granting access is done easily through the student's MyNMU account. All they need is the email address of the person they want to give access to. Click here for more information and instructions on how to grant someone access.

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NMU Students walk on the beach at Little Presque Isle, north of Marquette.

Withdrawal and "W" information

For full semester courses, the “100% withdrawal tuition refund” is the 9th day of the semester.  For the full guidelines, please visit: Withdrawal Deadlines | Office of the Registrar.

For full semester courses, the “drop with a W” is the Friday before the start of the examination period.  For the full guidelines, please visit Add/Drop Procedure | Office of the Registrar.
 

Final Grades

The university does not mail grade reports. Final grades will be available online at MyNMU after each semester. You can also access an unofficial transcript, order official transcripts and check your class schedule using MyNMU.

Graduating this Semester? Don't Miss the Registration Deadline!

If you are planning to graduate at the end of the fall semester, you must register for graduation so a final degree audit can be completed to verify your eligibility. Register online the same way you would for a class or contact the Student Service Center at 906-227-1221. The deadline for registering online is Thurs., Aug. 24. After Aug. 24, those students who plan to graduate at the end of the Fall semester (and did not register), will be required to complete a Request to Add Graduation form.

Ordering Transcripts

Northern Michigan University has partnered with the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) to provide transcript ordering online through your MyNMU account. Students can order official transcripts from anywhere with an internet connection and receive an electronic PDF delivered to an email address in about 15 minutes. This service also uses ETX  (Electronic Exchange) technology to securely transfer official transcripts between institutions. For institutions set up with the exchange, there is no need to provide an email address. This service also sends email and text notifications of order status to the student throughout the process which provides assurance that the transcript was delivered. 

More information about requesting a transcript can be found on the How to Request a Transcript webpage.

Non-Degree Students - If you plan on obtaining a graduate degree or certificate, you must complete a new application. You will need to meet the admission requirements and be admitted to the desired program in order to receive a graduate degree or certificate. There is no assurance that courses taken as a non-degree student will apply to your degree.

Plan of Study/CAPP - Online Curriculum, Advising and Program Planning (CAPP) is now available through MyNMU for most graduate students. CAPP is an advising tool used by both students and advisers to evaluate coursework against degree requirements and is used as a graduate program plan of study. An adviser hold will be placed on your record after the completion of eight credit hours. Note: CAPP degree evaluations are unofficial unless verified by the graduate office. Students are responsible for meeting all of the requirements specified in their graduate bulletin. If a CAPP audit is not available for your bulletin year/program, please contact the College of Graduate Studies at graduate@nmu.edu.

The 7-Year Rule - There is a seven year time limit on credits for graduate degrees. If you do not complete your degree within seven years, you will lose credits taken more than seven years ago unless you are granted an extension by the graduate office. Extensions may be granted in rare cases where unforeseen circumstances keeps the student from graduating on time and must be supported by the academic department. In no cases will courses more than ten years old by the time of graduation be counted towards the degree.

R Grades Students may receive a research in progress "R" grade in a course where the primary focus is research, such as a thesis. The student has a maximum of three years from when the "R" grade is issued to complete the course requirements. Faculty may designate a deadline of less than three years if deemed appropriate. Failure to complete the specified work within the designated time frame may result in an "U" or "F" grade for the course.

Master's Capstone Project - A capstone project is required for all master's degrees and is typically identified as a thesis, a graduate research project, portfolio or file papers. For more information on this requirement, contact your adviser or the College of Graduate Studies and Research.

Electronic Thesis Submission - All theses must be submitted electronically at least 30 calendar days prior to graduation to the NMU Commons. See nmu.edu/thesis for complete instructions on how to submit your thesis.

Graduation - If you plan to graduate with any degree or certificate, you MUST register for graduation by the 4th day of the semester of graduation. Register online the same way as you would for a class (subject-Graduation) or contact the graduate office at 906-227-2300. Failure to register may result in not being awarded your degree.

College of Graduate Studies and Research
401 Cohodas Hall
Phone: 906-227-2300
Email: graduate@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/graduate

If you are repeating a course this semester, please notify the Registrar's Office, C.B. Hedgcock, room 2202, 906-227-2278, or email records@nmu.edu so your record can be properly adjusted. NMU counts the most recent grade in a course even if that grade is lower than the previous one.

Repeating courses may also affect your long-term financial aid eligibility. Please review the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy. Students attempting a course for the third time should also review how these repeats may affect their federal financial aid. See Financial Aid Repeat Policy.

While the university allows almost any course to be repeated, if you have failed a course two times at NMU, you must wait for one semester during the academic year before taking the course for the third time. Additionally, you must demonstrate to the head of the department offering the course that the factors that contributed to poor performance have been addressed and resolved.

Occasionally an error is made in the calculation or recording of a grade. If you feel that a clerical error has been made in a winter or summer grade, contact your instructor immediately. Faculty must submit grade changes for clerical errors to the Registrar's Office by the 15th working day of the semester. Students formally appealing a grade issued in winter or summer must submit a grade appeal to the respective academic department within 30 calendar days of the start of the fall semester. More details regarding the grade appeal process can be found in the Student Handbook.

Registrar's Office
2202 Hedgcock
Phone: 906-227-2278
Email: records@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/registrar

This policy allows students who qualify to delete an entire semester of NMU grades. Students must return to the university after an extended period of time, not have attended any college for at least three years before reentry, and meet certain GPA requirements. For information, contact the Academic and Career Advisement Center.

Academic and Career Advisement Center
3302 Hedgcock
Phone: 906-227-2971
Email: acac@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/acac

Communications

NMU Uses Email as the Official Way of Communicating with Students

Northern Michigan University uses a student’s NMU email account as its primary means of communicating official university business, including legally required information. As a condition of enrollment, all NMU students are required to use their assigned NMU email accounts to receive communication from the university.

NMU Offers Emergency Text-Message Alerts

Northern Michigan University offers a text-messaging program to alert students, faculty and staff to on-campus emergencies.

You are automatically signed up to the text alert system. If you change your cell phone number, make sure you update your university contact information. You can also sign up other individuals as well.

"There is talk of making this type of service a requirement for all universities," said Jeff Mincheff of the NMU Police Department. "A driving force behind this is the Clery Act and its emphasis on timely notification. It's estimated 95 percent or more of the campus population has cell phones with text-messaging capability, so it's an easy way to contact a majority of the people you're trying to reach in an urgent situation."

The program is designed to enable all types of text messaging, but NMU uses the system only for emergency notifications and announcement of inclement weather related closures.

"We already have a variety of tools that we can use to try to contact members of the NMU community in times of an emergency, such as email, voice mail, large monitors in some facilities, websites, announcements to media outlets and person-to-person communication. This is another tool that affords us one more way to try to get information out as quickly as possible," said Mincheff.

To learn more about NMU's emergency text messaging program, go to nmu.edu/alerts.

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Hammock on a Mountain top.

Network User ID and Password

Wondering how to find your network user ID and password used to access NMU network and email services?

MyUser is a web server that enables students, faculty and staff to check the status of their NMU accounts. You can also change your account password and personalize settings such as your password recovery options. MyUser also offers the ability for users to check the status of login, email, web and personal information. For more information contact the Help Desk, helpdesk@nmu.edu227-2468, 116 Harden Hall.

Northern Today is NMU's news blog, designed to keep the campus, including students, informed about the University's decision-making, changes in policies and procedures, events on campus, student/faculty/staff accomplishments and upcoming deadlines.

The blog is delivered to student NMU email addresses twice a week, usually on Mondays and Thursdays, during the fall and winter semesters. The blog includes links to news reports, special features and periodic updates from the president and vice presidents and links to the NMU calendar events.

If you have information you think should be featured in Northern Today, contact Kristi Evans, NMU news director, at kevans@nmu.edu or 906-227-2720.

Even though NMU uses email as a primary way to communicate with students, the university still needs an updated address and phone number. NMU faculty and staff or classmates may try to reach students by phone or important documents may be sent by mail.

If you have not given the university your local address, information will be sent to your permanent address. This could possibly result in a delay in receiving information that is time-sensitive.

Students can update their local and permanent address and phone number on their MyNMU account under the Student Services tab, or they can stop by the Student Service Center and fill out an address change form.

Student Service Center
2201 Hedgcock
Phone: 906-227-1221
Email: ssc@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/ssc

The following information is published each year in the Northern Michigan University online directory:

  • name
  • e-mail address
  • local telephone number
  • class standing
  • major

All students who are enrolled for the fall semester are listed in the directory unless they request non-disclosure of directory information. Students who have previously requested non-disclosure of directory information will not have their name and address published in the online campus directory.

Students may request to have their information omitted from the directory by restricting the release of directory information. Restricting directory information sets a confidentiality flag. See related article, Restricting Directory Information, for more information.

To restrict directory information, bring your picture I.D. to the Student Service Center, C.B. Hedgcock, Room 2201.

Residence Life and Commuters

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Residence Hall room with two students

Residence Hall Move-In

Students living on-campus may begin moving in on Thurs., Aug., 24. NMU will email students at their NMU email with instructions on where and how to check into your housing assignment. Due to its success and positive feedback from last year, students will sign up for a time to receive their key(s) and move in documentation along with the ability to acquire your parking pass, your university issued laptop, books, university ID, apply for on-campus jobs. 

To facilitate move-in, several unloading areas have been designated in the parking lots as close to the residence halls as possible. Note that only those individuals unloading vehicles for move-in will be permitted to park in these areas. A map indicating the unloading zones will be issued at your residence hall check in, as well as other information pertaining to move-in.  Look for the yellow signs indicating unloading zones. You can also find a campus parking map at https://www.nmu.edu/policedepartment/parking-map

Housing and Residence Life will have several wheeled moving bins available for check out under the tented areas outside of the buildings. We allow a maximum time limit of 45 minutes for each student to use these carts. 

Housing and Residence Life recommends that you consider bringing just enough of your things to feel comfortable. Once you and your roommate see what you have together and how it all fits in your room, the two of you can either shop at local Marquette stores or have other items you want or need sent to you. For more information on what to bring and not to bring, check out Housing and Residence Life's site at https://nmu.edu/housing/whattobring.

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Three student riding a bike along the lake

Commuter Students

Commuting to NMU this Fall? You are in great company! Over 3,000 students at NMU are commuters. As a commuter student, we are here to help you navigate with a wide range of support services available to you.

Learn more about parking passes, transportation options, hangout spots, and more on our website!

 

Residency

If you are originally from another state, but have made Michigan your permanent residence (living here year round and cut all ties with your previous domicile), you may apply for in-state residency status. If you are active in the military, a veteran, or the spouse or dependent of a veteran, you are automatically eligible for in-state residency status, but you will need to notify us so we may update your record. Students whose parents or grand parents are graduates of NMU are also eligible. Contact the Admissions Office at 906-227-2650 (new students) or the Registrar's Office at 906-227-2258 (continuing students) for more information.

Voter Registration and Student Employment

Voter Registration Information

Information on voting in local, state, and federal elections, including a copy of the Michigan voter registration application form, may be accessed at https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/RegisterVoter.

You only need to register to vote once. Registration is geographical, so register at the address where you plan to vote. If you move, you can update your registration.

If you are registered at your home address, you will likely need to request an absentee ballot so you can vote by mail in November when you are at school. You can request one using this form: https://www.michigan.gov/documents/AbsentVoterBallot_105377_7.pdf

If you have safety concerns about going to a polling place, you should request an absentee ballot to vote by mail.

If you are not a Michigan resident, you can search your registration here: https://www.vote.org/am-i-registered-to-vote/

If you have any questions, or are an out-of-state voter in need of assistance, please contact your ASNMU representative.

Am I eligible to vote?

To vote in the next election, you must be all of the following:

  • A U.S. Citizen;
  • At least 18 years old by Election Day (Tues., November  7, 2023);
  • A resident of the city or township where you are applying to register to vote.

In Michigan, you may register online or by mail up until 14 days before the election. Within 14 days before an election, you must register to vote in person. You may register in person at any time.

Where do I register?

You may register to vote at one of the following:

  • Online at: https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/RegisterVoter/Index 
         Register up until 14 days prior to the Michigan election. Note: Michigan also has same day voter registration;
  • Voter registration drives;
  • Your local county, city, or township clerk's office;
  • Your local Secretary of State branch office
  • Offices of several state agencies, like the Department of Human Services, the Department of Community Health, and the Department of Labor and Economic Growth;
  • Military recruitment centers.

When do I vote?

The next national general election is on Tuesday, November 7.

Next Election DateDeadline to register onlineDeadline to register in person
November 7, 2023October 23, 2023
(14 days prior to election)
November 7, 2023 by 8 p.m. 
(Election Day)

How do I vote?

You can vote in person at your polling place on the day of the election.

Search for that here: https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/ under “Your Voter Information”.

If you cannot be at home to vote on Tuesday, November 7, you need to request an absentee ballot so you can vote by mail. You can also arrange a time to be at your polling location for early voting. In Michigan, early voting runs for the 45 days prior to election day.

If you have any questions, please contact the Marquette City Clerk's office or the clerk's office in the city or township that you reside.

Marquette City Clerk
300 W. Baraga Ave.
Marquette, MI 49855
906-228-0430
Email: clerk@mqtcty.org

Many questions can also be answered by the Michigan Voter Information Center, https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/

You can also contact your student government representative, at asnmu@nmu.edu.

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NMU Student working in a kitchen

Student Employment

Looking for student employment opportunities on or off-campus? Career Services can help! We use "Handshake", which is a University-based, online, career and professional development platform to manage your job search, both for student employment opportunities, and as you plan for long term employment post-graduation. Search and apply for jobs, check out career related events, and build your professional network on Handshake.

To access this system, activate your account by logging in through MyNMU clicking on the Student Services tab, and clicking on "Handshake" under "Additional Student Resources". To learn more about Handshake, click here.

Log in today to view available job openings, both on and off-campus. Both work-study and regular employment positions are posted here, as well as graduate assistant positions, internships, fellowships and more! For one-on-one assistance, please schedule an appointment in Handshake under "Career Center", call (906) 227-2800, or stop into Career Services in 3302.3 Hedgcock.

Have Federal Work Study? You can filter for jobs requiring work-study using the "all filters" feature in Handshake under "Jobs". You are eligible to apply for all on-campus jobs that interest you, so feel free to apply for any available job! 

On-campus applications and other resources (sample resumes, job search help, etc.) are available in the Resource Library under "Career Center" in Handshake and also on the Career Services website. As you get settled, know that we are here for long term career and professional development support, to include career coaching, resume creation and development, and so much more!

Financial Aid and Tuition Information

The Financial Aid Office uses students' NMU email accounts for communicating important information. Notifications regarding missing information, financial aid eligibility notices and any required adjustments are sent to students' NMU email addresses.

Students are prompted to go to MyNMU to access their financial aid account information. Reminders about important dates such as those for filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, finalizing enrollment for financial aid purposes, turning in requested documents, and availability of summer applications will also be sent to students electronically. In addition, most required forms can be printed from nmu.edu/financialaid/printableforms.

Students should check their NMU email regularly. Additional information about the Financial Aid Office can be found at nmu.edu/finaid. The site also contains financial aid rights and responsibilities information, resources for finding scholarships and alternative loan contacts.

A notice will be sent to your NMU email address when your overage (refund) is available. Sign up to have your overage directly deposited to your checking account. Log into eBill at MyNMU and click the Refund tab to enroll. For more information contact the Student Service Center.

Student Service Center
2201 Hedgcock
Phone: 906-227-1221
Email: ssc@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/ssc

Federal law requires all students who receive financial aid to make Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) toward their degrees. The intent of this policy is to ensure that students who are receiving federal financial aid for their education are making measurable progress toward completion of a degree in a reasonable period of time. This policy affects federal, state and NMU institutional aid. The policy is available on the Financial Aid website at: nmu.edu/finaidsap.

Financial Aid Office
2107 Hedgcock
Phone: 906-227-2327
Email: sap@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/finaid

Student Service Center

The Student Service Center was established to create a one-stop office where students can address a variety of issues. Students can receive many services and get answers to a wide range of questions about payments, registration, housing and financial aid, among other things.

Tuition and fee billing statements are available online at MyNMU. Payments can also be made at: payment.nmu.edu/ebill.

The due date for tuition, fees, room and board is Wed., Aug. 16. Log into MyNMU, go to the Student Services tab and go to the eBill Payment System link. For questions about tuition and fees, financial aid or general “start of the semester” matters, contact the Student Service Center.

NMU offers three options for the payment of tuition and fees and housing charges. The options are designed to assist students and their families to meet their financial obligations to the university. More information is posted on the web at nmu.edu/paymentplans or the Student Service Center.

Student Service Center
2201 Hedgcock
Phone: 906-227-1221
Email: ssc@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/ssc

Northern has partnered with GradGuard to offer tuition protection. More than 20 million college students are getting ready to head to campus this fall. With so much financially at stake, many college parents want to plan for the unexpected. If you do, Northern and GradGuard have your back. Visit nmu.edu/tuition to see the plan now available at NMU.

Terms, conditions, and exclusions (including for pre-existing conditions) apply. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Insurance benefits are underwritten by Jefferson Insurance Company. GradGuard, a service of Next Generation Insurance Group, LLC (NGI), is the licensed agent for all insurance programs. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Non-insurance benefits/services, and claims administration, are provided by AGA Service Company.

Student Service Center
2201 Hedgcock
Phone: 906-227-1221
Email: ssc@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/ssc

Required Notices

Disability Services provides assistance for students who qualify under the American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) to receive accommodations.

Students interested in requesting accommodations should contact Disability Services.

Disability Services
(located in the Dean of Students Office)
2101 Hedgcock
Phone: 906-227-1737
Email: disability@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/disabilityservices

Human Resources provides assistance for employees of the university and applicants for employment who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act and amendments to receive accommodations.

An employee or applicant interested in requesting accommodations should contact Human Resources.

Human Resources
105 Cohodas Hall
Phone: 906-227-2330
Email: hr@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/hr

Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, the university may release—without your authorization—certain information about you. This information is called "directory information."

However, you have the right to restrict the release of all directory information by completing a form available from the Student Service Center, C.B. Hedgcock, Room 2201. This may be done at any time during the semester.

You may also request to withhold directory information from the university online directory.

The following information may be released unless you specifically request otherwise:

  • name
  • local address, local telephone number, permanent address, permanent telephone number
  • NMU email address
  • dates of attendance at the university, enrollment status, degrees earned, honors, awards, participation in officially recognized university activities and sports(includes height and weight of student athletes), current term candidacy for degrees and/or teaching certification
  • program level, class standing, major/minor
  • photographs

Requesting a restriction of any of the above categories of information will result in a confidentiality indicator being set on your record. If your name is restricted, this means that you must transact all business in person or via the web. NMU staff will not be able to assist you over the phone, nor will the university acknowledge your presence as a student to outside agencies or in university publications.

Implications of Restricting Your Information

Exercising your right under FERPA to restrict your information has implications university-wide. If you restrict your name, you are telling the university that you do not want NMU to acknowledge your presence as a student to any outside agency in any way. This means that you will have to conduct all business either in person with proper photo identification or on your computer at MyNMU. Staff members cannot assist you over the telephone.

Restricting all directory information results in several issues students don't often realize. It means that your enrollment cannot be verified to any outside source such as potential employers, colleges or universities or medical insurance companies. Your name will not appear in any official university publication distributed to the public, such as the Dean's List, a theater or commencement program, and no information concerning your accomplishments can be provided to the media including academic, extra curricular, or athletic recognition.

A restriction that you place on your information lasts until you remove it, even though you may no longer be a student. If you leave the university with the restrictions in place, the university may not be able to verify to a future employer or anyone else that you had attended or graduated from NMU.

A full report on athletic program participation rates and financial support data can be found at:

https://nmuwildcats.com/sports/2021/8/16/information-policies-procedures-reports.aspx

A paper copy is available upon request at the Financial Aid Office or the Intercollegiate Athletics Office.

Financial Aid Office
2107 Hedgcock,
Phone: 906-227-2327
Email: fao@nmu.edu
Website: nmu.edu/finaid

Intercollegiate Athletics Office
B109 Superior Dom
Phone: 906-227-2105
Website: NMUWildcats.com

Federal regulations require that institutions provide enrolled and prospective students specific consumer information about financial aid, campus, facilities, student athletes, important resources and disclosures, as well as information to promote campus security and fire safety, and to prevent drug and alcohol abuse. Because of the nature of federal, state and institution guidelines affecting financial aid programs, the information contained in the consumer and safety section is subject to change.

Northern Michigan University is an equal opportunity institution and an equal opportunity employer.

NMU is committed to administering all employment, admission and educational policies and practices without unlawful discrimination, according to state and federal laws. These laws and policies are intended to ensure fairness in hiring, employee relations and benefits, student admissions, the provision of student services, and workplace and classroom accommodations.

Northern Michigan University does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of ancestry, race, national origin, immigration status (unless restricted by State or Federal law and regulations), color, ethnicity, religion or creed, sex or gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, age, height, weight, marital status, familial status, pregnancy, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law in employment or the provision of services. NMU provides, upon request, reasonable accommodation including auxiliary aids and services necessary to afford individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in all programs and activities.

In addition, Northern is committed to ongoing efforts that increase the diversity of its faculty, staff and students.

The Dean of Students Office, 2001 Hedgcock, 906-227-1700, handles student-on-student discrimination/harassment complaints.

The Equal Opportunity Office, 105 Cohodas, 906-227-2420, handles employee, applicant, and student employee discrimination/harassment complaints.

If you have questions, or if you believe that a violation or potential violation of state or federal non-discrimination laws has occurred, is occurring or will occur, please notify the Equal Opportunity Office or the Dean of Students, as appropriate.

Dean of Students
2001 Hedgcock
906-227-1700
Website: nmu.edu/dso

Christine Greer
Associate Vice President and Dean of Students
ADA 504 Coordinator - Students
Email: cgreer@nmu.edu

Equal Opportunity Office
105 Cohodas Hall
906-227-2420
Website: nmu.edu/equalopportunity

Janet Koski
Executive Director of Equal Opportunity and Title IX, Equal Opportunity Officer
ADA 504 Coordinator - Employees
Email: jakoski@nmu.edu

Institutions of higher education have been directed by the federal government to share information regarding student graduation rates.

Below are Northern Michigan University’s graduation rates by cohort based on the year that the students enrolled at NMU. These rates represent all first-time, full-time baccalaureate degree seeking new freshmen in their given cohort year. Cells with “n/a” are empty because those points in time have not yet passed.

Data for 2023 graduates will be available at the end of summer 2023 and can be requested from the Institutional Effectiveness Office by emailing kschoonv@nmu.edu or calling 906-227-2675.

Cohort 4 year 5 year 6 year 7 year 8 year
2017 33.0% 49.4% n/a n/a n/a
2016 36.1% 53.2% 56.5% n/a n/a
2015 32.4% 50.5% 52.4% 53.6% n/a
2014 28.4% 45.1% 49.7% 50.9% 51.5%
2013 29.4% 48.1% 52.5% 54.3% 54.7%
2012 25.5% 44.1% 49.3% 50.8% 51.7%
2011 25.3% 45.1% 49.8% 51.6% 52.5%
2010 22.1% 40.7% 46.7% 48.5% 49.3%
2009 21.5% 43.6% 49.4% 51.1% 51.9%
2008 21.6% 42.1% 49.8% 51.5% 52.6%

For more information on NMU graduation rates or other statistical data, check out the NMU Institutional Research website at: https://www.nmu.edu/institutionalresearch/graduation-rates.

Notice of Availability of Annual Security Report

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires the university to report certain crime statistics on a yearly basis. Northern Michigan University's Annual Security Report includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus; in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by Northern Michigan University; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus.

The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus safety, such as policies concerning sexual assault and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this report by contacting NMU Police Department or by accessing the NMU Police Department website at: https://nmu.edu/policedepartment/clery-act-requirements. For additional information or questions about the Jeanne Clery Act, please contact Jeffrey Mincheff, Chief and Clery Compliance Officer.

In accordance with the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, Northern Michigan University is providing a link to the Michigan Public Sex Offender Registration Website: mipsor.state.mi.us. A link to this registry is also available on NMU's Police Department Website: nmu.edu/police.

This act requires Northern Michigan University to issue a statement advising the campus community where law enforcement information provided by the state of Michigan concerning registered sex offenders may be obtained. It also requires sex offenders already required to register in the state to provide notice to each institution of higher education in the state at which the person is employed, carries on a vocation or is a student.

NMU complies with the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 668.43 for the implementation of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended which requires disclosures about our programs that lead to licensure/certification by states. NMU established a landing page with links to basic information for all colleges. If there are applicable licensure disclosures, the link to the department page with 668.43-compliant information is found by expanding the unit, then scrolling to the “Licensure Disclosures” section (after “Bylaws”) at: https://nmu.edu/academicaffairs/colleges.

The following are the NMU programs that have been identified as leading to state authorization (licensure or certification) that is required to practice the profession students would expect the academic program to prepare them to practice. Most of the NMU programs subject to this regulation are in the College of Health Sciences & Professional Studies:

  • Numerous programs in the School of Clinical Sciences.
  • Department of Criminal Justice 
  • School of Education, Leadership & Public Service (including secondary education programs offered in partnership with other colleges)
  • School of Health & Human Performance master’s in Athletic Training
  • School of Nursing 
  • Department of Social Work

Additionally, one program, in Dept. of Psychological Sciences, in the College of Arts & Sciences; the College of Business prepares students for professional practice as Certified Public Accountants (CPA); and the College of Technology & Occupational Sciences has numerous programs that lead to various optional and/or certifications by professional organizations, but only one that leads to required state licensure, Cosmetology.

Faculty, staff, and students practice a variety of religious and spiritual traditions, which enhance the diversity of our campus community. NMU acknowledges that scheduling conflicts between required academic activities and religious and spiritual obligations are inevitable.

When an exam, assignment, or class conflicts with a religious or spiritual obligation, students should contact their instructors as soon as possible prior to the schedule conflict (generally a minimum of two weeks prior to the date or as specified by the instructor).

If advance notice is given by a student, faculty should work with the student to provide a reasonable accommodation to the request. The specific accommodations employed may vary from course to course depending upon factors such as the size of the class, nature of the course content, and mode of instruction. Students are not exempt from meeting course requirements or completing assignments in a timely manner as determined by the instructor. If applicable, students are responsible for making arrangements with a placement site (e.g., internship, practicum) to meet required obligations or responsibilities.

Northern Michigan University works diligently to maintain the highest level of integrity in all areas of its mission and daily operations. However, it is important that students, faculty, staff, alumni, community members and other consumers of NMU's services know what to do in the event of a situation that involves suspected fraud, illegal, or unethical behaviors regarding consumer protection. In addition to the university's internal policy for reporting fraud and other consumer protection violations, NMU follows the federal guideline of providing a state contact where complaints can be filed. For information on filing a complaint, go to nmu.edu/consumer protection.

Northern Michigan University is committed to providing education and support services that empower students, faculty, and staff. NMU is dedicated to creating a safe and respectful community that does not tolerate relationship violence (dating violence/domestic violence), sexual misconduct (sexual assault, sexual exploitation and sexual or gender-based harassment), and stalking, collectively referred to as "Prohibited Conduct." NMU seeks to cultivate and support a community of sexual respect and safety.

If you or someone you know has experienced relationship violence, sexual misconduct or stalking, please contact staff in the Title IX Office. The complaint will be handled in accordance with the complaint/grievance procedures outlined in the NMU Relationship Violence, Sexual Misconduct and Stalking Polcy/Procedures. 

Harger Boal
Assistant Director of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Coordinator
105 Cohodas Hall
phone: 906-227-2416, email: hboal@nmu.edu 

Janet Koski
Executive Director of Equal Opportunity and Title IX, and Equal Opportunity Officer
105 Cohodas Hall
phone: 906-227-2420, email: jakoski@nmu.edu

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights are:

The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days from the day the university receives a request for access.Students should submit a written request to the office housing the records, identifying the record(s) he or she wishes to inspect.

The right to request an amendment to the student's education record that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Students should write the university official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record he or she wants changed, and specify why they believe it is inaccurate or misleading.

The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without written consent. One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. A school official may include those who contract with the university to provide services.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the university to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20202.

NMU's complete FERPA policy can be viewed at nmu.edu/registrar/ferpa.

Northern Michigan University has always maintained a zero tolerance policy for copyright infringement; it is an integral part of the university's Acceptable Use Policy that all users of the NMU community must read and agree to before being granted access to the university network.

NMU purchased a software tool to monitor the network for illegal sharing of copyrighted materials (audio, video, and software), and has been using the software since August 2007.

A first infraction will result in a pop-up screen and warning email that will be sent to the offending network user informing them to stop the illegal activity; this will include a listing of the copyrighted material that was detected. In addition, the user will lose Internet access for a period of 48 hours from the time the infraction is recorded. Once the 48 hours has passed, the user will need to re-register their computer for access to the NMU network.

A second infraction will result in a pop-up screen and warning email that will be sent to the offending network user informing them to stop the illegal activity; this will include a listing of the copyrighted material that was detected. In addition, the user will lose Internet access for a minimum of 48 hours, and until the user resolves all infractions with the NMU HelpDesk. Once the infractions are resolved and a minimum of 48 hours have elapsed, the user will need to re-register their computer for access to the NMU network.

A third infraction will result in a pop-up screen and warning email that will be sent to the offending network user informing them to stop the illegal activity; this will include a listing of the copyrighted material that was detected. In addition, the user will lose Internet access for a 60-day period. Third infractions by students will result in Student Code charges and will be processed through the Dean of Students Office. Once the 60-day period has passed, the user will need to re-register their computer for access to the NMU network. Human Resources will handle third infractions for faculty and staff.

Those with questions regarding acceptable network and computer use should contact the NMU HelpDesk at 906-227-2468 or helpdesk@nmu.edu.