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University of Houston-Downtown1

UNIVERSITY PARENT

GUIDE

2012University of Houston-Downtown

CAMPUS RESOURCES – LOCAL INSIGHT – HELPFUL INFORMATION

contents

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About Our GuidesUniversity Parent Media works closely with institutions around the country to bring together the most relevant, timely information into one all-inclusive resource.

We have published this guide with the mission of helping you easily navigate the University and its surrounding community. Ultimately, we hope these resources help nurture your connection and involvement in your student’s college years!

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Anna BaldwinPeregrine BoslerGrace CassaraEric HosmerKatie Williams

OFFICE MANAGER

Linsey Straugh

DESIGNER

Lee Riley

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For more information, please contact

UHD New Student Orientation One Main Street 325-North Houston, TX 77002 (713) 221-8022 www.uhd.edu/orientation

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Make the Most of Your Parent Guide

• Hang on to your Guide! Inside you’ll find information that’s useful all-year long, including important phone numbers, web sites and calendars.

• Store your copy in a purse or glove compartment for convenient reference.

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• Please recycle when finished!

• Discover more content, tips and local business information by visiting us online at: www.universityparent.com/uhd

The presence of the University of Houston-Downtown logos and marks in this Guide does not mean the school endorses the products or services offered by advertisers in this Guide.

©2012 University Parent Magazines, Inc.

6 | UHD GuideComprehensive advice, information for campus success

6 | Welcome to the University of Houston-Downtown!

7 | University Life

8 | Fast Facts (Did You Know)

9 | UHD Academics

13 | Extended Educational Opportunities

14 | Financing Your Students’ Education: Financial Information

16 | Knowing Your Students’ Rights: Student Records & Knowing the FERPA law

18 | The Gator Card: The Official UHD Student ID Card

19 | Life On Campus: Beyond the Classroom

23 | The UHD Police & Campus Safety

24 | Houston CommunityMake the most of your visit by getting to know the area

24 | Welcome to Houston & Houston for Free

26 | ResourcesMust-have knowledge to navigate your way

26 | UHD Parking Map

27 | UHD Campus Map

28 | Frequently Called Numbers

30 | Proud Supporters of UHD

University of Houston-Downtown6 www.universityparent.com/uhd 7

UHD GUIDE

Dear Parents and Families,

It is our pleasure to welcome you and your students to the gator family! We thank you for making an investment in our university and your student’s education. The administration, faculty and staff, and students share your excitement and anticipation, as you get ready to embark on a new adventure!

We believe that communication with our students’ families is essential in having a successful college experience. We hope this University Parent Guide provides you with the information needed to better assist your students with their experiences on campus. Please accept our University Parent Guide as a piece of campus-wide effort to provide excellent customer service to you and your students!

Thank you for supporting your student’s decision to attend UHD, we look forward to building long-lasting relationships with your students and your families!

Welcome to the University of Houston-Downtown! The UHD faculty and staff

celebrates student success, excellence, inclusiveness, integrity, and are committed to providing students with quality educational opportunities and helping them achieve their educational goals.

UHD is a publicly supported, urban university located in Houston’s central business district. UHD is considered one of the most ethnically diverse liberal arts institutions in the southwest, a distinction that indicates the student body accurately reflects the Houston community’s wealth of cultures, languages and nationalities. The University offers all students a tailored opportunity for quality higher education, as well as small classes and personal interest from faculty.

University Life


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?Our current president is Dr. Bill Flores.

UHD is the 2nd largest university in the UH- System which

also includes UH-Central, UH-Clear Lake and UH-Victoria.

There are 5 buildings on campus: One Main Building,

Academic Building, Commerce Street Building, Shea Street

Building, and the Jesse H. Jones Student Life Center.

UHD offers Weekend College and evening classes

for students who work full-time in the day.

The Academic Computer Labs in the One Main and

Commerce Street Building have over 630 computers

equipped with widely used software; students can check

out laptops and use the Internet anywhere on campus.

There are over 60 registered student organizations on campus

under the department of Student Activities and Events.

Commencement is held every fall and spring

semesters in Minute Maid Park!

Fast Facts (Did You Know)

College of BusinessB400, Shea St Buildingwww.uhd.edu/academic/colleges/businessThe College of Business is dedicated to prepare students for professional careers by stressing the skills and knowledge essential for success. Part of the mission of the COB is to provide education that develops an understanding and appreciation for the dynamic nature of the forces that shape business.

College of Humanities & Social Sciences1015-South, One Main Buildingwww.uhd.edu/academic/colleges/humanitiesThe College of Humanities and Social Sciences offers degrees in traditional liberal arts disciplines and interdisciplinary studies and in select applied programs that serve important needs in our employment and educational market.

UHD AcademicsCollege of Public ServiceC400, Commerce St Buildingwww.uhd.edu/academic/colleges/publicserviceThe College of Public Service is a community based center for higher learning dedicated to prepare students to enter professional careers in criminal justice and education. It believes that an educated society creates thoughtful policy and humanistic practices for the betterment of its diverse constituents.

College of Science & Technology723-North, One Main Buildingwww.uhd.edu/academic/colleges/sciencesThe College of Sciences and Technology prepares students for careers or post-graduate study and research in the sciences, technology, mathematics and computer science.

The UHD Scholars Academy is an academically competitive program within the College of Sciences and


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Technology that promotes scholarships and student success for undergraduate students majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

University College655-South, One Main Buildingwww.uhd.edu/academic/colleges/universityUniversity College is the port of entry for all new undergraduate students. Until you declare a major in one of our 4 degree-granting colleges, University College remains your academic home, whether you are an entering freshman or transfer student.

The College Success ProgramThe College Success Program (CSP 1101) is a one-credit course designed to introduce new students to baccalaureate study and expectations of the University. The course examines learning styles and

Majors Offered at the UHD

DEGREES AT LARGE

• Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences (BAAS)

• Applied Administration

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

• Accounting

• Computer Information Systems

• Finance

• General Business

• International Business

• Management

• Marketing

• Supply Chain Management

COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES

• Communications

• English

• Fine Arts

• History

• Humanities

• Interdisciplinary Studies

• Philosophy

• Political Science

• Professional Writing

• Psychology

• Social Work

• Social Sciences

• Sociology

• Spanish

Master of Science (MS) in:

• Professional Writing

• Technical Communication

COLLEGE OF PUBLIC SERVICE

• Criminal Justice

• Interdisciplinary Studies (Teacher Certifications)

Master of Science (MS) in Criminal JusticeMaster of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in:

• Bilingual, Elementary, & Secondary Education

• Curriculum Instruction

• Master of Security Management for Executives

COLLEGE OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

• Applied Mathematics

• Applied Statistics

• Biology

• Biological and Physical Sciences

• Biotechnology

• Chemistry

• Computer Science

• Industrial Chemistry

• Mathematics

• Microbiology

• Safety Management

Engineering Technology

• Control & Instrumentation Electronics Design

• Safety & Fire Engineering Technology

• Structural Analysis & Design

the application of learning principles to communication skills, group processes, and personal management, study skills, & test anxiety. Students develop strategies for achieving personal and academic success. CSP 1101 classes are offered long semesters (check the class schedule online www.uhd.edu/eservices).


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42-Hour Common Core RequirementsStudents in all UHD undergraduate degree programs must complete a common core of at least 42 semester credit hours. If any course taken to fulfill a core requirement has a co-requisite, the co-requisite course must be taken concurrently. Degree plans may be found in the sections of this Catalog describing the departments’ programs and in degree brochures available in departmental offices.

A student transferring to UHD who has completed the common core requirements at another Texas institution of higher education will receive credit for each of the core courses transferred and will be considered to have satisfied all of UHD’s common core requirements.

Developmental Education Requirements All UHD students must satisfy developmental education courses by initial testing or by making a C in the course. Satisfaction of developmental education prepares one for college level courses and satisfies an important part of TSI. The courses include reading, writing, and math.

As a result of placement testing, students may be required to enroll in one or all of these courses. Upon successful completion of any required developmental courses, students are required to enroll, and to continue to enroll, in their core

UHD Distance Education UHD has great opportunities for students who live or work in the suburban Houston areas. Courses taken off-campus or online may apply to any UHD degree program in which they are ordinarily accepted. Students enjoy the ability to tailor their schedule to meet individual needs by taking courses at multiple locations or using multiple formats.

Extended Educational Opportunities

curriculum course sequences in English composition and mathematics until these requirements have been satisfied.

Texas Success InitiativeOn Sept. 1, 2003, the 78th Texas State Legislature replaced the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) with the Texas Success Initiative (TSI). In order to enhance student success, this state mandated program evaluates college readiness in math, reading, and writing. Unless exempt, all students entering UHD as undergraduates for the first time are required to take one of the following tests: ACCUPLACER, ASSET, COMPASS, or THEA. Students who score below the minimum standard must enroll in the appropriate developmental courses and meet with an advisor.

UHD Placement TestingUHD administers the ACCUPLACER exam for placement purposes in college-level courses. If a student has not taken the ACCUPLACER exam (TAKS exemptions or previous scores on ASSET, COMPASS, or THEA are not eligible), they are to take the UHD Placement Exam (ACCUPLACER) before their scheduled orientation program. The scores on this exam determine which college-level courses students will take their first semester at UHD. Students are given access to their scores on the second day of orientation.

UHD at Lone Star College – Cy-Fair9191 Barker Cypress Rd. Cypress, Texas 77433(281) 290-3435

UHD at Lone Star College – Kingwood20000 Kingwood Dr. Kingwood, Texas 77339(713) 221-2766

UHD NORTHWEST UHD-Northwest at Lone Star College-University ParkBuilding 1220515 SH 249 Houston, TX 77070 Telephone: (713) 237-5400Email: [email protected]

UHD Online Programswww.uhd.edu/academic/distance


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UHD Tuition & Mandatory Fees The amounts shown are provided to better assist in assessing the cost of enrolling at UHD. While this information is intended to be comprehensive, tuition and fees are subject to change without notice by action of the Texas Legislature and/or the Board of Regents of the UH-System. Students are responsible for any additional amounts due, including changes to any fees and waivers, resulting from audits and corrections. The chart below shows estimated costs for tuition and fees.

ESTIMATED Undergraduate Tuition & Fees (varies by semester)

FULL TIME STUDENT WITH 12 OR MORE CREDIT HOURS

Direct Costs Texas Resident

Non-Texas Resident

Tuition & Fees $4,604 $12,044

Books and Supplies $1,100 $1,100

Indirect Costs Texas Resident

Non-Texas Resident

Living Expenses with Parents

$4,300 $4,300

Living Expenses not with Parents

$8,600 $8,600

Transportation $3,200 $3,200

Miscellaneous $3,800 $3,800

The Cashier’s Office & Payment InformationThe Cashier Office accepts and processes payments from students for tuition, fees and miscellaneous items and handles installment plans and emergency loans.

Financing Your Students’ Education:

Financial InformationPayment DeadlinesIt is important to remember the payment deadlines so that your student can make arrangements to pay tuition and fees on time and maintain enrollment in their classes. It is the responsibility of the student to know the due dates and payment deadlines. Payment deadlines are available online at www.uhd.edu or in the registration bulletin.

Payment Options

• Full Payment –Allows students to pay their tuition and fees by check, credit card (VISA, Discover, and/or MasterCard) or cash.

• Installments – Allows students to break payments up into three separate payment dates. Installments are available for the fall and spring semesters only. Students can request the installment option and make installment payments online via student e-services or in person at the Cashier’s Office.

Payment Methods

• Web – Students may access student e-services online to make full or installment payments using a credit card.

• Mail/Fax – Students can send payments mail or fax a Credit Card Authorization Form to the Cashier’s Office for processing. If mailing, submit a check or money order (UHD-ID number must be on the face of the check/money order for payment to be processed) for the proper amount. If faxing, fax the

authorization form (online at www.uhd.edu/cashiers/forms) to (713) 221-8196 with your credit card information and Texas driver’s license printed on the form.

• In Person – Students can pay in person in the Cashier’s Office (325-North) with cash, check, money order, or credit card. There is also a drop box for checks and money orders outside the Cashier’s Office.

• Financial Aid Awards – Once a student’s file is complete, most financial aid awards will be credited to their account automatically when they register for the same number of hours for which they were awarded. It is the student’s responsibility to monitor their account to verify that financial aid has been posted by the payment deadline. They can check their account online through student e-services.

• Classes will NOT be saved with less than the minimum required amount. Payment must be received by the payment deadline for each semester. (UHD does not receive mail on Saturdays.)

Emergency Tuition LoansUHD offers emergency tuition loans during fall and spring semesters to students who are unable to make their first installment payment either because financial aid funds are not yet available or because of temporary financial hardship (emergency tuition loans are only offered to summer students in extreme cases only and must be requested in person at the Student Accounting Office).

In order to apply for an emergency tuition loan, students must be registered for all classes they intend to take, classified as a Texas resident for tuition purposes, and not have any financial holds with UHD or have any past due balances.

Students can request emergency loans online through student e-services during the period specified in the academic calendar found online (www.uhd.edu).

Scholarships & Financial AidThe UHD Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid offers a variety of financial aid programs to assist undergraduate and graduate students in meeting educational costs. The programs include scholarships, grants, loans and work-study, which may be awarded in various combinations. Because funds are limited in many programs, it is important to begin the application process early. Priority deadline is April 1 of each year.

Most federal and state aid is awarded on the basis of proven financial need rather than academic achievement. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic achievement, talents, and special skills rather than proven financial need.

Financial Aid does not have to be approved or awarded before a student can register classes; however, the student is responsible for meeting all payment deadlines until their financial aid is approved or awarded.


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The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (1974), also known as the Buckley Amendment, helps protect the privacy of student records. The act provides for the right to inspect and review educational records, to seek to amend those records, and to limit disclosure or information from the records. The act applies to all institutions that are the recipients of federal funding.

UHD has a policy in conformity with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) covering the release of student records. Student rights include the following:

• Students have the right to inspect and review their education records within 45 days of the day the university receives the request.

• Students have the right to request amendment of their education records that they believe are inaccurate or misleading.

• Students have the right to consent to the disclosure of personally identifiable information in their education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

• Students have the right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the university to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

Students who are currently enrolled or formerly enrolled regardless of their age or parental dependency status are protected by FERPA (FERPA does not apply to decreased students).

An educational record (with certain exceptions) is any record from which a student can be personally identified, and maintained by UHD or an authorized party. Educational records include any records in the possession of an employee that are shared with accessible to another individual. The records may be handwritten, print, magnetic tape, film, diskette, or some other medium. A student has the right to inspect and review these records.

Institutions may disclose information on a student without violating FERPA if it has designated the information as “directory information”. UHD’s directory information includes student name, addresses, telephone number and email addresses, date and place of birth, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, major and minor fields of study, most recent previous school attended, and participation in officially recognized activities. UHD notifies students annually of their rights under FERPA and what constitutes directory information.

Students may, if they desire, request that directory information not be released. The

request to withhold directory information must be submitted in writing to the Registrar’s Office. The confidentiality request form is available online at www.uhd.edu/admissions.registrar.

Gaining Access to Your Student’s RecordsStudents must authorize the Registrar’s Office to release their academic transcripts and student information. UHD do not mail grade reports or release academic information over the phone. In addition to the individual student, the following parties may have access to student information: any outside party who has the student’s written consent, school officials who have a “legitimate educational interest”, or a person in response to a lawfully issued subpoena or court order (a reasonable attempt to notify the student must be made prior to complying with the subpoena or order).

Parents may gain access to student records if the student is a dependent student as defined by the Internal Revenue Code. Parents of students termed “dependent” for income tax purposes may have access to the students’ educational records. A copy of the parents’ most recent Federal Income Tax form, indicating that the parents declared the student as a dependent, must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office to document dependency.

Disclosure of Educational RecordsIn accordance with FERPA and at its discretion, UHD will disclose information from a student’s education records without the written consent of the student to school officials who have a legitimate educational or administrative interest in the records. A school official is defined as a person employed by the university in an administrative, supervisory, academic, or support staff position (including the university’s police department and health care staff); a person or company with whom the university has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Regents; or a person assisting another school official in performing his or her official duties.

For added information regarding the FERPA law, please contact the Registrar’s Office at (713) 221-8999.

Knowing Your Students’ Rights:

Student Records & the FERPA Law


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The Gator Card is the official identification card of UHD and is required for all currently enrolled students to utilize services on campus. An additional functionality of the Gator Card is to provide those students who choose to do so a faster means by which to receive their financial aid refund or tuition reimbursement from UHD. Students need to bring a fee statement showing that an initial payment for the current or next semester has been made or a current class schedule and a valid photo ID to take their photo for the gator card.

The gator card is distributed by mail to students and looks like a credit card (it

The Gator Card:

The Official UHD Student ID Card

U-Online and E-Serviceswww.uhd.edu/eservicesIn our ongoing effort to provide better, faster and more convenient access to our students, both on and off campus, UHD has created the U-Online portal. Students can access e-services from home, work or school to look up open classes, check their registration eligibility, print their schedule of classes, pay their tuition/fee bill, access your semester grade, check the status of your financial aid, register online, change your address, request transcripts, check your university e-mail, and login to Blackboard Vista.

Gatormail: The Student Email AccountUHD assigns student e-mail accounts (accessible on e-services) as a means of communication between faculty, staff, and students. The use of e-mail services should be for legitimate educational purposes. Many departments, including Financial Aid & Scholarships, will use gatormail to contact students. This is also the way the university contacts students regarding emergency alerts, university updates and information.

Automatic Teller Machines (ATM)There are automatic teller machines located in the 3rd floor of the One Main building across from the Registrar’s Office; and three additional ATM machines in the cafeteria, the Commerce Street Building, and the Shea Street Building. Students can use the ATM to withdrawal from their GatorCard or any other banking institution.

UHD Dining Services3rd Floor, One Main Buildingwww.campusdish.com/en-US/cssw/UnivofHoustonDowntownOur campus dining services are located

Life On Campus:

Beyond the Classroom

has the MasterCard logo on the front). The first card is free for students and there is a $15.00 replacement card fee for all replacement cards.

Student Employment & Job OpportunitiesStudents can also apply for student assistant positions on campus. Student can do so by visiting the Office of Employment Services and Operations (www.uhd.edu/about/hr/employment.html). Students can be employed by various on-campus offices and services including the bookstore and campus dining services. Working on-campus is convenient and a great opportunity for students

on the third floor and offer a food court-like setting. We also have quick-carts in the Commerce Street and Shea Street Building. Students can enjoy familiar foods and local favorites.


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to learn and network with on-campus staff and administration. All student assistants are employed part-time in efforts to assist them in balancing their course load and job responsibilities.

Parking & Transportation354-North, One Main Building(713) 221-8127The Parking Office coordinates student, staff, and faculty parking at UHD. With the exception of the VISITORS parking area, a permit is required to park on any of the UHD parking area lots. UHD parking permits and prices, maps of parking areas and parking regulations are available in the parking office and online at www.uhd.edu.

City of Houston parking meters and private parking facilities are located within walking distance of the university and are controlled by the City of Houston. Please call (713) 247-5100 for any problems with metered parking areas including parking tickets issued in these areas.

UHD Shuttle Bus ServiceParking and Transportation Services coordinates the shuttle bus service. The shuttle bus is free for UHD students and circulates the campus every 15 - 20 minutes. The shuttles operate from the Daly St. Lot, to the One Main Building, to the Commerce St. Bldg., (corner of Franklin St. & Fannin St.), to the Shea

St. Garage. Shuttle bus hours: 6:30am - 10:45pm, Mon. - Thurs. & 6:30am - 6:00pm, Friday (shuttle buses do not operate on weekends and UHD holidays).

Metro & Metrorail @ UHD The University is served by numerous Metro bus routes. The northernmost Metrorail station is located directly in front of UHD. Schedules, map routes and a Metrorail ticket dispenser are located in the Cashier’s Office or from Metro Route Information, (713) 635-4000. The Metrolift can be reached by calling (713) 225-0119.

Locker RentalStudent can rent student lockers for books and personal belongings. UHD offers a 12 x 35 x 18 combination locker on the 2nd floor of the One Main Building. Lockers are rented at a cost of $15 for the entire semester and can be renewed at the end of the semester.

The UHD Bookstore351-North, One Main Buildingwww.uh-downtown.bkstore.comStudents can purchase textbooks for classes at the UHD Bookstore. Buying books before classes start will provide the most extensive selection of used books. If students would like to purchase their textbooks with no hassles or lines, they can use TEXT EXPRESS, for any semester or go to the bookstore’s website. By giving the bookstore staff a copy of their class

schedule, the bookstore will locate their books and notify the student when the books are available. If a student needs to return a book, a full refund for books will be given with the original receipt until a week after the first day of class and the books are in the same condition they were purchased. The bookstore will also buy back student textbooks at any time during or after the semester.

University Copy Center - Campus Biz Center354-North, One Main Buildingwww.universitycopycenter.com/uhdThe University Copy Center is a convenient on campus facility to meet all a student’s copy and printing needs. Here, students can pick up course packet or helpful supplementary printouts recommended for their classes. They offer black/white, color copiers and a professional staff ready to assist each student. The copy center is open Mon.-Thurs. 7:45 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Fri. 7:45a.m. -1:30 p.m.

Campus HousingUHD has partnered with UH-Central to offer on-campus housing to UHD students that would like to experience a traditional college living experience while studying at UH. Students interested in housing options must contact UH-Central Residential Life & Housing (www.housing.uh.edu).

Sports and Fitness Jesse H. Jones Student Life Centerwww.uhd.edu/sports&fitnessSports & Fitness provides members with programs and facilities that offer vigorous, fun-filled, health-promoting, physical activity conducive to wellness and personal development. Through a well-equipped recreational facility, fitness programs, intramural sports and club sports, members will be motivated to embrace a healthy life-style.

Student Activities & Eventswww.uhd.edu/saeThe Office of Student Activities & Events is always interested in meeting students and helping them achieve their goals inside and outside of the classroom. In addition to working with student organizations, we are responsible for several university programs including Commencement, Project Leadership, and Community Involvement Day.

UHD Student OrganizationsUHD student organizations offer a variety of co-curricular activities. Students can enrich their learning experience by joining organizations that matches their interests or create an organization to fit their needs. For more information, visit Student Activities or the student organizations home page, www.uhd.edu/sae!

Academic Student ResourcesAcademic Computing Lab800-South, One Main Building The Academic Computing Lab provides resources and user support for instructional activities. There are more than 250 computers using the Windows operating system, including four computer-equipped classrooms. Additional computer and distance-learning classrooms are available in the Technology Teaching and Learning Center located on the 7th floor of the Academic Building. To access the lab you must be currently enrolled with a valid UHD student ID card.

Academic Support Center925-North, One Main BuildingThe Academic Support Center houses the Math Lab, Statistics Lab, and Writing/Reading Center. Each lab provides one-on-one tutoring with UHD faculty members and peer tutors. The ASC has study areas, learning aids (textbooks, calculators, videos, and pamphlets), Writing Proficiency Test (WPE) materials, and computing equipment for student use. The ASC is open to all


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currently enrolled UHD students and may attend as often as they like.

W. I. Dykes Library5th Floor, One Main Buildingwww.uhd.edu/libraryThe W. I. Dykes Library occupies the north portion of the fourth floor and the entire fifth floor of the One Main Street building. The library may be entered from the Main Street elevators or stairs. In 2008 the library opened up additional space on the north tower of the fourth floor. This new area houses the library’s computer lab, thirteen study rooms, two practice presentation rooms, two library classrooms, an events room, vending machines, and a comfortable reading room.

STUDENT SERVICE RESOURCES

Career ServicesCareer Services will help currently enrolled students and graduates of UHD with career decisions relating to which major suits them and what careers are possible with a particular major; coaching through the job search process: how to get started, how to network, how to write a resume and cover letter, and how to conduct an interview; contacting employers through the UHD job posting database, career fairs, and on-campus interviewing process; and obtaining career related experience through Field Experience, an internship program that offers academic credit.

Counseling ServicesThe UT Employee Assistance Program (UTEAP) provides counseling services to UHD students. The Student Counseling Program is designed to help students’ maximize their health and effectiveness at home, school or work. Through this program, students receive personal

support for a wide range of issues, from everyday concerns to serious problems. Students have access to both online (www.uteap.org) and in-person support. All records, including medical information, referrals and evaluations, are kept confidential in accordance with federal and state laws.

Disability ServicesDisability Services assists students with placement testing, priority registration and scheduling, academic counseling and academic accommodations. The staff also advises instructors on classroom accommodation techniques, provides assistance with locating tutors and is a faculty/student and community/agency liaison.

Student Health ServicesStudent Health Services focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and treatment of minor illnesses and injuries. Clinicians provide the same primary care found in most physicians’ offices (including women’s health) and offer referrals to specialists in the community when necessary. Routine laboratory services, pregnancy testing, and confidential HIV testing are provided. The nurse provides health counseling on a wide variety of health issues and offers select services throughout the year.

Veterans ServicesVeterans Services assists students who are eligible to receive veteran and dependent education benefits. A student must be admitted to the University and registered for courses in a degree-seeking program to be certified for veteran and dependent education benefits. The certifying official ensures that proper paperwork is completed, certified and submitted electronically to the Department of Veterans Affairs so that payment of education benefits can begin.

ON-CAMPUS EMERGENCY: (713) 221-8911

ON-CAMPUS NON-EMERGENCY: (713) 221-8065

The UHD Police & Campus Safety

The UHD Police Department provides comprehensive police services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our goal is to work with students, faculty and staff to ensure a safe and secure environment. Services provided by the police such as police escort and motor assistance are available online. Information on campus safety and security, including four-year crime statistics, is provided on the UHD Police Department website at www.uhd.edu/campus/pd. Also available are safety and crime prevention information, campus policies on alcohol, firearms and sexual assault, and crime alerts.

24 25For more info about Houston, visit: www.universityparent.com/uhd

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Miller Outdoor Theatre might be one of the best reasons to visit (and live in!) Houston. Open from March through November, the venue hosts a range of performances including classical music, ballet, dance, film, Shakespeare and more. The theater, set inside Hermann Park, also allows patrons to BYOB (no glass containers, please!), so pack a picnic and settle in for the show.

Downtown’s new 12-acre Discovery Green park has something going on all the time. In the spring and fall, spend happy hour listening to local musicians perform in the amphitheater, pick up fresh produce at the Green Market on Sundays and, in the winter, enjoy ice skating on Kinder Lake (for a small fee).

The Menil Collection - a local treasure, global destination and one of the top free attractions in Houston - opened to the public in June 1987 to house the art collection of philanthropists John and Dominique de Menil. Widely considered one of the greatest of the twentieth century, the collection consists of more than 16,000 works dating from the Paleolithic era to the present day. Although historically vast, it uniquely resists the conventional museum model of the encyclopedia. Instead, within the four areas that largely define the collection - Antiquity, Byzantine and Medieval, Tribal, and Twentieth-Century Art (with a concentration in Surrealism) - one finds a selective - and even wonderfully eccentric - approach to collecting and displaying art.

Dubbed the Garage Mahal, the Art Car Museum is unlike anything you’ve ever imagined. It’s the only place you’ll find the antennae and wing-cloaked Roachster or the Honda motorcycle that has been transformed into a shiny red rolling stiletto art car.

The Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark is the creme de la creme of the grinding and boarding world. The $2.2 million, state-of-the-art facility - thought to contain the largest cradle in the world - is located close to downtown, near Eleanor Tinsley Park.

Tucked on the west side of Memorial park is the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, a 155-acre nature sanctuary that educates visitors on how to protect native plants and animals in the city. Walk the center’s five miles of trails and visit the sanctuary’s interactive exhibits free of charge. Dogs on leashes are welcome.

Designed by architect Philip Johnson more than 20 years ago, the Galleria-area Water Wall offers a refreshing respite for visitors seeking a mid-afternoon break. The 64-foot-tall fountain - built to look like a “horseshoe of running water” - sits among 1,118 oak trees at the base of the 64-story Williams Tower.

Set sail on a free, 90-minute boat tour of the Port of Houston. While on board the 90-passenger boat, you’ll learn about the history of the seaport and be able to watch ocean freighters and barges navigate the 50-mile channel. The tour is free, but reservations are required.

Houston’s Contemporary Arts Museum focuses on showing new work from national and international artists. In addition to hosting exhibits, the CAMH also offers lectures, special programs and a stellar shop chock-full of unique books and gifts.

Dedicated to remembering victims of the Holocaust and honoring the survivors, the Holocaust Museum Houston works to educate future generations about the

dangers of hate and prejudice. Check out the education center and the permanent exhibit, Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers, which focuses on stories of Holocaust survivors living in the Houston area.

See the work of local and national artists who focus on using materials like fiber, metal, glass, clay and wood at the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft. Located next door to Lawndale Art Center, the HCCC has innovative exhibits and unique gifts in the Asher Gallery. Admission is always free.

Located in the Museum District, the Lawndale Art Center is a staple of Houston’s art scene. Four galleries are contained in the art deco structure, which serves as a backdrop for annually changing exhibits and events like Dia de los Muertos and The Big Show.

Set in Houston’s Third Ward, Project Row Houses is a nonprofit art initiative aimed at creating a positive place for local artists to work. Some of the shotgun-style houses are dedicated to art and photography, while others are devoted to the literary and performing arts.

Rothko Chapel is a serene place to meditate in the middle of Houston’s Museum District. Founded by John and Dominque de Menil (of Menil Collection fame), Rothko is a non-denominational chapel and exhibit space for modern art that draws thousands of visitors each year. Visit T’afia any Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evening for free appetizers with the purchase of a cocktail. Dine on tasty dishes like chickpea fries and sliders while sipping blojitos and ratafias, T’afia’s namesake cocktail.

Tour the city with the help of a personal Houston Greeter. The program, made up of local volunteers, provides two-to-four hour hosts that are able to show newcomers or visitors local attractions that might be of interest to them. The service is free, and METRORail provides free passes for visitors and greeters, www.houstongreeters.org.

Welcome to HoustonAmerica’s fourth-largest city is a cosmopolitan destination, filled with world-class dining, arts, hotels, shopping and nightlife. Take a stroll through the historic Heights, spend the day exploring the Museum District or head down to Space Center Houston. Later on, grab a bite in one of dozens of award-winning restaurants, or hang out with the cool kids on Washington Avenue. There’s always something to do in this Southern hospitality meets urban chic city. Come explore YOUR Houston!

It’s easy to enjoy budget-friendly sights that make cents.

Spend your day exploring Houston’s hotspots, while saving big with a well-edited list of the city’s most-loved free things to do. Fortunately, for locals and visitors alike, several of Houston’s most memorable attractions won’t break the bank, in fact they won’t even cost a dime. In Houston, it’s easy to enjoy budget-friendly sights that make cents.

Houston for Free


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RESOURCES

OFF-CAMPUS DIAL 713 - 221 - EXTENSION

ON-CAMPUS DIAL THE EXTENSION

Academic Advising S370 8006

Academic Computing Lab S800 8540

Admissions (Freshman and Transfer) S350 8522

Admissions (International and Graduate) N325 8555

Bookstore (Barnes & Noble) S351 8025

Business, College of B400 8017

Career Services N340 8980

Cashier’s S310 8198

Copy Center (Campus Biz) S351 8155

Counseling Services N320 8248

Disability Services S409 5227

Humanities & Social Sciences, College of S1015 8009

Information Hotline N355 8000

Library S500 8182

Math & Writing Lab N925 8669

Parking N354 8127

Police N118 8065

Public Service, College of C400 8194

Registrar’s N330 8999

Scholars Academy N723 5354

Scholarships & Financial Aid (FAX 8648) S330 8041

Sciences & Technology, College of N723 8019

Sports & Fitness (Student Life Center) SLC 8225

Student Accounting & Collections S310 8601

Student Activities S204 8573

Student Health Services N320 8137

Study Abroad Programs S950 8003

Testing Services S280 8027

University College S655 8007

Veterans Affairs N330 8622

University of Houston – Central (713) 743-1000

University of Houston – Clear Lake (281) 283-7600

University of Houston – Victoria (512) 576-3151

Frequently Called Numbers

www.universityparent.com/uhd 3130

Harris County Federal Credit Union 1400 Franklin St.Houston, TX 77002(713) 755-5160www.hcfcu.com Whatever your lifestyle and financial goals, Harris County FCU checking accounts have it all-convenience, flexibility, and a choice of features. Please see ad on p. 18.

St. Luke’s Community Emergency Centers®2727 W. Holcombe Blvd.Houston, TX 77025(832) 355-7525www.stlukesemergency.com Emergency care for adults and children 24/7/365. On site lab, x-ray and C.T. Scan. Five convenient locations serving the Houston area.Please see ad on p. 23.

St. Joseph Medical Center 1401 St. Joseph Pkwy.Houston, TX 77002(713)757-1000www.sjmctx.com Full service, general acute care facility with emergency and trauma care.Please see ad on p. 29.

Wells Fargo www.backstage.wellsfargo.com Your student’s path to financial stability starts here. Please see ad on back cover.

Dellwww.Dell.com/UHouston University of Houston Students get the best price on consumer PCs from Dell. Plus, get 10% off Dellmobility products.Please see ad on p. 3.

Where to Shop

Best Western Plus - Downtown Inn & Suites 915 W. DallasHouston, TX 77019(713) 571-7733www.bwdowntown.com Hotel is conveniently located less then 1 mile from campus. Complimentary Full Hot Breakfast, Parking, Wifi, Large Rooms & Pool.Please see ad on p. 8.

Crowne Plaza Houston Downtown 1700 Smith St.Houston, TX 77002(713) 739-8800www.cpdowntown.com We offer special rates for UH events including Commencement, Homecoming, sporting events or just a special trip to visit your student!Please see our ad on p. 26.

Embassy Suites1515 Dallas St.Houston, TX 77010(713) 739-9100www.embassysuites1.hilton.comAll-suite high-rise hotel, overlooking Discovery Green Park and adjacent to the Houston Rockets’ Toyota Center.Please see ad on p. 13.

Hyatt Regency Houston1200 Louisiana St.Houston, TX 77002(713) 654-1234www.houstonregency.hyatt.com Take advantage of our special graduation rate of $69 per night. Request corporate #91932. To book, call or visit us online.Please see ad on p. 10.

Places to Stay

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Bayou Oaks 5019 Calhoun Rd.Houston, TX 77004(713) 747-3834www.bayouoaks-uh.comCombines state-of-the-art amenities with a unique community feel to provide a premier student living experience for University of Houston Downtown students.Please see ad on inside front cover.

Camden Living Houston 3 Greenway PlazaHouston, TX 77046(713) 354-2500www.camdenliving.com Living Excellence is why so many people call Camden home. Please visit our website or call one of our 15 Houston communities.Please see ad on p. 7.

Places to Live

Parque Del Oro Apartments 8380 El MundoHouston, TX 77054(713) 747-2698www.parquedeloroliving.com Minutes away from campus! Call about our student specials today!Please see ad on p. 27.

Parque View1800 El Paseo St.Houston, TX 77054(713) 799-9044www.parqueviewapartments.comLarge distinctive floor plans and pet-friendly! Visit our website today!Please see our ad on p. 25.

Student Services

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