Student Handbook

Campus Child Center exists to:

1. Provide quality childcare, at a reasonable cost, to the children of students of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
2. Provide quality childcare to children of University of Wisconsin-La Crosse staff members, on a space available basis.
3. Serve as a fieldwork site for programs including, but not limited to, Early Childhood Education, Elementary and Secondary Education, Psychology, Physical Education, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Recreation, Health Education, Management, and Social Work.
4. Serve as a work site for University of Wisconsin-La Crosse students working through the Federal Work-Study Program or as student help. 

Common student questions

1. What are the ages of children served at Campus Child Center?
2. Do I need to be a full-time student to enroll my child at Campus Child Center?
3. Is hourly care available at Campus Child Center?
4. Can I change my schedule for care needed each semester at Campus Child Center?
5. How do I apply to work at Campus Child Center?

The answers to these questions can be found by visiting the Campus Child Center webpage.

Contact information

• Dawn Hays, Director
• Phone: 608-785-8813
• Email: dhays@uwlax.edu
• Campus Child Center is located at 1601 Badger Street, adjacent to the east end of  the Recreational Eagle Center

Resources and links

Visit the Campus Child Center's website.

The UWL Financial Aid Office is committed to addressing the financial concerns of students that are unique to college life through counseling, outreach and financial literacy education. We aspire to equip students with the knowledge, skills and resources necessary to integrate and maintain lifelong financial wellness.

Common student questions

• Who is eligible to apply for financial aid?
• When is the FAFSA available?
• When do I have to file my FAFSA?
• What is UWL's School Code? 
  • UWL's Federal School Code is 003919
• When and how will I hear about my financial aid awards? 

If you have questions like those above or any other questions related to financial aid please contact the Financial Aid Office at 608-785-8604 or visit the Financial Aid webpage. 

Policies and procedures

Federal Law mandates that post-secondary institutions participating in Federal Financial Aid Programs have in place and monitor an academic progress policy for financial aid. The components to the UW-La Crosse Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy for financial aid are as follows: Grade point average (GPA), Pace (67% Rule), and Maximum Time Frame (150% Rule).  For more information visit the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy webpage. 

Contact information

Financial Aid Office

• Phone: 608-785-8604
• Fax: 608-785-8843
• Email: finaid@uwlax.edu
• Office location: 215 Graff Main Hall
• Mailing address: 1725 State Street, La Crosse, WI 54601

Resources and links

Please visit the Financial Aid Office webpage.

For more information regarding financial literacy, visit the It Make$ Cents! Money Management Center webpage.

For more information regarding scholarships, visit the Scholarship Resource Center webpage. 

For more information regarding part-time jobs, please visit the Part Time Job Board webpage. 

In the SRC, we strive to make finding and applying for scholarships as easy as possible. We do this in a number of ways. First and foremost, we have the UWL Outside Scholarship Database. This database was specifically created with UWL students in mind. It is as easy as pushing the search button to be exposed to thousands of scholarships from local, national, and international sources. Secondly, we have the Get Scholarific Survey. This survey makes finding scholarships a breeze because we do the searching for you! Just fill out the brief survey and we will send scholarships right to your school email. Lastly, we have a plethora of resources at your disposal on our website as well as events throughout the year. Stop by our office and let us help you make your application memorable.

Common student questions

• Where do I find Scholarships?
• Are there UWL’s scholarships?
• Are scholarships a waste of my time?
• What are my odds to get a scholarship?
• Where do I go for scholarship application help?

The answers to these questions can be found by visiting the Scholarship Resource Center webpage.

Contact Information

Scholarship Resource Center

• Phone: 608-785-6680
• Email: uwlscholarships@uwlax.edu; or jbonnell@uwlax.edu
• Office Location: 215 Graff Main Hall

Resources and Links

For more information, please visit the Scholarship Resource Center webpage.

The SRC creates a monthly brochure highlighting a variety of scholarships at this webpage.

We are UWL’s own financial literacy program emphasizing everything personal finance. We encourage students to get to know us and learn how we can help grow their personal financial awareness. When students leave our office, we want them to be equipped with the necessary skills to live a financial stress free life. Our goal is to prepare our students for success by helping them learn money management skills including: setting up a college spending plan, budgeting, managing credit, student loans, banking, saving, investing, protecting your identity.

Common student questions

• I am so stressed about money, I can hardly concentrate on school work or sleep at night, is there someone I can talk to?
• What can I do to investing some of the money that I have in savings?
• How do I get ahead on my credit card balance?
• Where are places I can use my student discount at in La Crosse?
• What do I do if I can’t make my rent or utility payments?
• How much should I be spending when it comes to entertainment or shopping for groceries?
• Where do I go to find out if I have a credit score and what is a good score?
• I would like to study abroad but I am not sure if I can afford to?
• I think someone stole my identity or has some of my personal information, who can I see about this?
• How do I know if my job offer will cover my living expenses?

Financial Peer Mentors

The IMC! Peer Mentors are here to talk to you about your financial questions. They are college students just like you. Learn from their financial successes and failures. Let them help you do anything from building a weekly budget to starting a retirement plan. Unanswered questions won’t help you earn or save money! Call, email or request a consultation. Walk-ins are welcome too!

Don’t forget to attend our free IMC! events that go on all semester long! You will find many ways to expand your financial knowledge, earn incentive points, and eat free food.

Contact information

• Phone Number: 608.785.8852
• Email: itmakescents@uwlax.edu
• Office location: 2103 Centennial Hall

Resources and links

• Visit It Make$ Cents!'s website
• Find It Make$ Cents! on Facebook
• Follow It Make$ Cents on Twitter

The University Police Department serves a busy and vibrant campus, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With a focus on providing a safe campus environment, officers additionally educate the campus about safety issues, work with campus offices and the community, and respond to emergencies.

University police hold themselves to high standard that includes operating in a fair, unbiased manner that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals. Certified UWL police officers have regular and extensive training in: life saving techniques, dealing with violent situations, community policing, emergency response, and investigations. Officers are equipped with the latest equipment, such as automated external defibrillators for cardiac emergencies and videos systems that record police contacts or help solve crimes. Police staff shares a strong sense of community and strives work in partnership to resolve issues before they become problematic. Social media and frequent campus programming help officers reach the campus community to show the personnel behind the uniforms to get the message out. 

Emergencies happen without warning. Take a few moments to be prepared while knowing that University Police provide a prompt and professional response. Police officers share a great sense of community and strive to work in partnership to issues that arise.   Feedback and involvement from outside the department is encouraged and provides transparency essential in today's policing.  

Common student questions

• What happens if I get a ticket off campus for drinking underage and what happens on campus?
• How do I get a copy of a police report?
• How do I register my bike and what do I do if it is stolen?
• What should I do if I think my identity has been stolen?
• What should I do if I am being harassed by a former friend through social media?
• What should I do if my friend is threatening to hurt him/herself or has over-consumed alcohol or drugs?

Contact information

University Police promote the concept of, “See something? Say something.” It’s always better to call for help if a solution or resolution is not immediately obvious. Call 9-1-1 to be sure. The non-emergency number and website are always available as well. 

• Emergency phone number: 608-789-9999
• Non-emergency phone number: 608-789-9000
• Office Location: 605 17th St. North. Located next to the parking ramp and student union. 

Resources and links

Please visit the University Police website to learn more about emergency preparedness, crime prevention, traffic, alcohol and marijuana Diversion programs, RAVE Alert System, blue lights, and other programs. 

For police reports, complete an open records request.

To learn more about police policy, visit our police policy manual here.

The mission of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse's CARE Team is to provide a proactive and supportive multidisciplinary team approach to the management, assessment and intervention of situations or individuals that may pose a physical or psychological threat to the safety and well-being of the University community, thereby helping maintain a safe campus environment conducive to learning, personal growth, and success.

Common Student Questions

• How are students referred to this team?
• Who is on the CARE Team?
• What is the purpose of the CARE Team?
• Why are students referred to this team?
• What are signs of distress or disruption?

If you have questions like those above, or related questions about the CARE Team, please contact the Student Life Office at 608-785-8062 or by email at studentlife@uwlax.edu.

Contact information

CARE Coordinator, Greg Phlegar

• Phone: 608-785-8062
• Email: gphlegar@uwlax.edu
• Office Location: 149 Graff Main Hall

Resources and links

If you are concerned about someone in the UWL community and are unsure of what to do, please take a moment to fill out the CARE Team person(s) of concern form. 

The Test Center serves as an assessment resource for UWL students and the greater La Crosse community. The Test Center is a national, regional and campus site for the administration, scoring, interpreting, and dispersal of many tests, exams and psychological inventories.

The Testing Center offers a number of high stakes exam programs for admission, certification & licensure from over a dozen test providers. Among the many exams offered are the ACT, ACTFL, CLEP, CHES, DSST, FORT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT, Miller Analogy, MTLE, Praxis, SAT and the University of Wisconsin Placement Exams.

The UWL Test Center is nationally recognized as an exceptional test center for test security, on time test delivery, and student satisfaction. As members of the National College Testing Association we subscribe to recognized best practices in testing and strive to provide a superior testing experience to all examinees so they can achieve optimum performance on any exam.

The Test Center is open year round, Monday through Saturday, from 7:30 am until 4:30 pm, except university holidays. We proctor distance exams for other colleges & universities as well as most major high stakes exams for graduate and professional school admission 

Common Student Questions

• What exams are offered at the Testing Center?
• When is the Testing Center open?
• How soon can I repeat a test if I think I can do better?
• Do you provide study resources for exams?
• Can I repeat the UW Math Placement Test?
• Are testing accommodations available?

Policies & procedures

• A government issued photo ID is required for any exam delivered in the Testing Center. It must be current and valid.
• The UWL Test Center offers secure digital lockers to store personal items during testing.
• All electronic items must be totally powered off during testing and stored in a locker.
• Most exam sessions are recorded via video surveillance to ensure test integrity and security.

Contact information

• Phone: Test Center (608) 785-8968
• Criss Gilbert, Testing Coordinator: (608) 785-8074
• Testing@uwlax.edu, cgilbert@uwlac.edu
• 2106 Centennial Hall

Resources and links to testing programs

Visit the Counseling and Testing webpage here. 

Visit the Center for Placement Testing webpage here.  

For information regarding the following tests, click the links below: 

• GRE general test
• ACT test
• CLEP exams
• LSAT test
• MCAT exam
• MAT test

For test taking tips from Pearson VUW visit this webpage.

Records and Registration maintains the integrity and security of student records, and we offer a variety of services related to a student's academic record. We help students order official transcripts and understand their official transcript, add or drop classes, verify their degree or enrollments, understand FERPA restrictions, and more. Our office can also answer questions about the academic policies of the university, including policies on repeating courses, grades and grading, Dean's Lists requirements, withdrawing from the university entirely, and re-entering the university after a break.

Common student questions

• How do I order an official transcript? Can I order it electronically?
• How do I access my unofficial transcript?
• Can you verify my enrollment for insurance, scholarship, or employment purposes?
• Where do I find my enrollment appointment to register for the next term?
• How do I add or drop a class after the semester has started? Do I need permission to add or drop?
• Is it possible to get into a closed class?
• What are the deadlines for adding or dropping a class?
• What affect does a "W" have on my record?
• What times are my final exams at?
• How can I permanently change or update the name on my record?

These questions and more can be answered in Records and Registration. Feel free to stop in at 117 Graff Main Hall, call us at 608.785.8576, email records@uwlax.edu, or visit our website here.

Requests for advice on what courses to take, whether credits will transfer, and how to deal with academic ineligibility should be directed to your assigned advisor or to your College Dean's office.

• College of Business Administration - 138 Wimberly Hall
• College of Liberal Studies/School of Arts & Communication - 260 Morris Hall
• College of Science and Health - 205 Graff Main Hall
• School of Education - 145 Graff Main Hall

Policies & procedures 

FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that requires colleges and universities to protect the educational record of current and former students. This means that we can't release educational information about you to anyone besides you without your consent. There are two important exceptions: if the 3^rd party has an educational right to know (for instance, your instructors and your College Dean) or if the information is directory information and has not been restricted by you. See our website on FERPA here for details on what directory information is and how you can restrict it.

Add/Drop policy

Students can drop classes on their own up through the first 10 days of class and add open classes without instructor permission up through the first 5 days of class. Please be aware that there are deadlines for the last day to drop a class that may affect receiving any refunds, whether or not the course is on your transcript permanently, and whether or not you will receive a grade that affects your GPA. These deadlines can be found on our Records and Registration website here.

Transcripts

The fee for ordering an official transcript is $10 for each copy. Paper copies or electronic copies are available. Electronic transcripts can only be ordered online through the vendor's secure site. Transcripts cannot be sent through ordinary campus email. Visit the transcript request procedure webpage here.

Contact Information 

Records and Registration

• Phone: 608.785.8576
• Email: records@uwlax.edu
• Office location: 117 Graff Main Hall

Resources and Links

Visit our frequently asked questions webpage here.

For more information regarding add/drop dates and deadlines, visit the Records and Registration's dates and deadlines page here. 

To order transcripts, visit our transcript request procedure page here.

For directions and tips on how to register visit our registration webpage here.

For a WINGS tutorial, visit the Records and Registration WINGS webpage here.

For more information regarding student privacy, visit our webpage on FERPA here. 

The Murphy Library is the campus center for academic inquiry. The library provides access to a vast and diverse collection of electronic and print resources; facilities designed to accommodate in a flexible manner a variety of learning needs; technologies that complement and enhance the acquisition, synthesis, and use of information; and staff to help students find and use the quality information they need. 

Common student questions

• How can I find credible articles, books, and other resources for my papers and research?
• Where can I get help with information research or just using the library?
• How can I quickly find online articles, books, and other resources that relate specifically to my topic?
• How can I get articles or books that are not available at UWL?
• What are the library hours?
• Where can I find study spaces in the library, including quiet study areas?
• How can I check online to see what I have checked out and if I have fines?

Find the answers to these questions and more at the Murphy Library website, at refemail@uwlax.edu, or call 608.785.8507.

Policies & procedures

The vast collection of online resources is available throughout campus using the UWL wireless networks as well as UWL computers. Students may also access these resources from off campus using their NetID and password to log in.

Students may check out an unlimited number of books and other physical items from the general collection using their barcoded UW-La Crosse ID card. Reference books, bound periodicals, and material housed in Special Collections do not circulate. Students can also check out a variety of technology items including laptops and iPads. Details about loan times, renewals, and fines can be found at the library website.

The library has a food and drink policy that states that food and drink are permitted throughout the library except in Special Collections and any other area posted as "NO FOOD OR DRINK," as long as it does not bother other library users. Care must be taken around computers and other library equipment. Beverages must be in containers that have lids or are spill resistant. If any food if delivered to the library, you must meet the delivery person by the entrance to the library. See more details and other library policies at this webpage.

Contact information

Murphy Library

• Phone: 608-785-8505
• Email: libraryoffice@uwlax.edu
• Office Location: 130 Murphy

Resources and links

Visit the Murphy Library webpage! 

For library resources arranged by subject, visit our library guides webpage. 

For online or in-person reference services, visit this webpage. 

Wellness and Health Advocacy provides students with culturally competent health education and health promotion programming that supports and empowers students to make healthy choices and create lifelong habits that promote health and well-being across all dimensions. Wellness and Health Advocacy works collaboratively with many academic and administrative departments on campus and in the community to promote balanced lifestyles and to advocate for a healthy learning and living environment so that all students can achieve their full potential.

As each individual is unique, with different goals, values, strengths, and experiences, so too are their perceptions of and potentials for wellness. The goal of Wellness and Health Advocacy is to provide tools, education, guidance, and support, and to cultivate an environment in which the potential for health flourishes.

Common student questions

• What are common health concerns for students?
• What if I need additional services?
• Do wellness programs cost anything?
• Can I talk to someone about my substance use and sexual health without fear of judgement?
• How can I get help managing my stress levels?
• What are ways to be social and meet new people without partying?

If you have questions like those above or any questions regarding your health and wellbeing while at UW-L, please contact Wellness and Health Advocacy at 608-785-8062 or by email at wellness@uwlax.edu.

Policies and procedures

Responsible action policy:  In order to encourage students to call for help if someone may be in danger from alcohol or drug use, Responsible Action protects the caller from Police citation and/or university discipline for alcohol-related offenses. For example, if an underage person is intoxicated from alcohol use, and calls 911 because a friend has passed out and is unresponsive after drinking too much, the caller will not get an underage drinking ticket if that person stays with the impaired individual, cooperates with responders, and follows through with programs deemed necessary by the Dean of Students office.  https://www.uwlax.edu/wellness/alcohol-prevention-and-education/responsible-action-policy/

Contact information

• Student Life: Wellness and Health Advocacy
  • Phone: 608-785-8062
  • Email: wellness@uwlax.edu
  • Office Location: 149 Graff Main Hall

Resources and links

• For more information please visit the Wellness Resource Center's webpage! 

The mission of the UWL Counseling & Testing Center (CTC) is to promote students’ emotional, academic, social, and cultural growth through counseling, crisis intervention, and outreach within an atmosphere of confidentiality and inclusivity. To meet the needs of UWL and the region, we provide comprehensive testing services that adhere to nationally recognized standards.

The CTC provides client-centered mental health and academic skills services to our UWL campus community.  The philosophy of the CTC is derived from a strengths-based, student-centered, and developmental approach. Our clinicians promote growth by assisting clients in identifying their personal strengths and resources, as well as the resources that are available in their support network in the greater campus and surrounding community.  Clinicians also focus on enhancing the client’s ability to make decisions and developing their ability to resolve difficulties in their lives. The CTC has an ongoing commitment to recognizing and valuing the needs of a diverse population within a university setting. 

Common student questions

• I’m not sure if I need counseling – how do I know?
• What types of services does the CTC provide?
• What do services at the CTC cost?
• I think I need to talk with a counselor – how do I get started?
• What if I am in crisis?
• Will you tell my parents that I am in counseling?
• What is group counseling all about?
• I’m concerned about a friend. What should I do?
• I need help with study skills – how do I get started?
• How do I register to take the PRAXIS, GRE, TOEFL, etc.?

If you have questions like those above, please check out our website at this webpage. You can also contact the Counseling & Testing Center at 608.785.8073 or stop in 2106 Centennial.

Contact information

Counseling and Testing Center

• Phone: 608.785.8073
• Office Location: 2106 Centennial

Resources and links

Visit this webpage for self-help resources from the Counseling and Testing Center. 

For a list of other resources from the Counseling and Testing Center, please visit this webpage.

UWL students study hard, work hard and play hard!  Once you put down your books, check out what the Rec Sports Department has to offer.  We have programs and facilities designed to help you stay active, meet new friends and reduce your stress levels.  We also employ over 250 students every year who have the opportunity to provide positive recreation experiences for students, faculty, staff and community members while developing skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, organization, and conflict resolution while having FUN!

Common student questions

• What is the REC (Recreational Eagle Center)?
• Does it cost to use the REC?
• Do I have to bring my own equipment to the REC?
• Do I need my ID?
• Is there a pool on campus?
• Is there a place to lift weights in the REC?
• Can I get a tour of the REC?
• How do I join an intramural team?
• How do I sign up for a group fitness class?
• What are sport clubs, what sports do you offer and how do I join?
• What kind of outdoor equipment do you rent?
• Is there a climbing wall in the REC?
• Can I bring a friend who is not a UWL student?
• Can I reserve a space in the REC?
• How do I get a job at the REC?
• Are there lockers in the REC that I can use?
• When are you open?

If you have questions like those above, or related questions to campus recreation, please stop by the REC, call us at 608-785-5225 or visit the Recreational Sports webpage.

Policies & procedures

Student memberships to the REC are included in your student fees and are based on term(s) of enrollment.  You must be paying student fees and enrolled in a minimum of 1 (one) credit to gain access (exception:  summer and winter session).  Daily guest passes can be purchased for $8 and require a current UWL student sponsor.  Students must present their UWL ID to gain access to the REC.

Contact information

Recreational Sports Departments

• Phone: 608-785-5225
• Email: recsports@uwlax.edu
• Office Location: 130 Recreational Eagle Center

Resources and links

Visit this webpage for more information regarding Rec hours. 

Learn more about the Rec Sports climbing wall by visiting this webpage. 

Learn more about employment opportunities by visiting this webpage.

Interested in group fitness classes? Visit our group fitness classes webpage.

For more information about Intramural Sports, visit this webpage. 

Want a personal trainer? Learn more at this webpage. 

Want to incorporate swimming or other water recreation in your routine? Visit the pool webpage. 

Want to reserve a space through Rec Sports? Visit this webpage to learn more. 

Learn more about Rec Sports Special Events by visiting this webpage. 

Get more information about our Sports Club at this webpage. 

Learn more about our Strength (Fitness) Center at this webpage. 

For more information about Trip Offerings with Rec Sports, visit this webpage. 

The Student Health Center is dedicated to providing cost-effective, evidence-based, student-centered healthcare that promotes wellness and academic success in an atmosphere of kindness, inclusivity and respect.

All currently enrolled UWL or Western students who’ve paid the Health Center User Fee are eligible to use the Health Center. We provide acute care, urgent care, consultations, referrals, allergy injections, gynecological and reproductive services, sexually transmitted infections testing, immunizations, laboratory services, LGBTQ+ health and sexuality services, medical evaluation and treatment, physical therapy, and much more!  

Common Student Questions

• Who can use the Student Health Center?
• How much does it cost to use the Student Health Center?
• Do I need an appointment to us the Student Health Center?
• What should I bring to my appointment?
• What about health insurance?
• How do I fill/refill a medication prescription?
• What should I do for healthcare when the Student Health Center is closed?
  
  For answers to these questions and many more, please visit the Student Health Center webpage.

Policies & Procedures

• Student Health Center Policy on Appointment Cancellations and “No Shows”
• Policy on MMR & Varicella Titers
• Policy on Personal Health Information Privacy
• Policy on Providing Letters for Emotional Support Animals
• Policy on Providing Medical Excuses
• Policy on Scheduling Appointments for ADD/ADHD

Contact Information

• Phone Number: 608-785-8558
• Fax Number: 608-785-8746
• Email Address: shcnetworking@uwlax.edu
• Office location: Health Science Center, Suite 1030, 1300 Badger Street

Resources and Links

• Please visit our Important links, handouts & videos webpage!

The Equity and Affirmative Action office oversees UWL’s policies against discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, and retaliation; we work in coordination with Student Life to ensure that students who experience any of these things receive the support they need. We also work with the ACCESS Center to ensure that students with disabilities have the support and accommodations they are entitled to.

Common student questions

• Where should I go if I, or someone I know, is sexually assaulted or experiences some other form of sexual misconduct?

• What I feel I have been treated unfairly or harassed because of my race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, etc.?

Sexual misconduct

A good starting point is Ingrid Peterson, the Violence Prevention Specialist in Student Life, who can provide confidential support and advice. The Counseling & Testing Center and the Student Health Center can also serve as a confidential resource.

You have the right to file a police report and to file an official complaint with the university. Complaints against students will be handled by Student Life, and complaints against UWL employees will be handled by Affirmative Action.

Discrimination and/or harrassment 

You are invited to contact Student Life or Affirmative Action. We will work together to provide the support and recourse. Everyone at UWL has an equal right to a safe learning environment.

Policies & procedures

Visit the UWL Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Retaliation webpage. 

Contact information

Affirmative Action

• Phone: 608-785-8541
• Email: aad@uwlax.edu
• Office Location: 131 Graff Main Hall
• Website: www.uwlax.edu/equity

Student Life

• Phone: 608-785-8062
• Email: studentlife@uwlax.edu
• Office Location: 149 Graff Main Hall

UWL prohibits all forms of sexual misconduct, including sexual assault/rape, sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, sexual harassment, and/or discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.

UWL is committed to preventing and responding to sexual misconduct in order to ensure a safe and equitable educational environment for all.  We do so in compliance with Title IX and other federal and state laws, and in keeping with UWL's mission to provide "a challenging, dynamic, and diverse learning environment in which the entire university community is fully engaged in supporting student success."

The Student Life Violence Prevention Specialist is available to assist you with advocacy, information, and support, so that you can make informed choices about the options available to you in these situations. Services are free, confidential, and available to all UWL students, faculty, and/or staff members, visit the Violence Prevention webpage here.  

Common student questions

• What are my options following a sexual assault?
• How can I report any type of sexual misconduct?
• What happens once an assault is reported?
• How can I help someone who has been sexually assaulted?
• How can I apply for a restraining order?

To get answers to questions like these, learn more about UWL policies and procedures regarding sexual misconduct, and get additional resources, visit UWL's sexual misconduct webpage here or the Violence Prevention webpage here.

Contact information

• Phone: (608)785-8062
• Email: ipeterson@uwlax.edu
• Office Location: Student Life Office, 149 Graff Main Hall

Resources and links

In addition to advocacy, the Violence Prevention Specialist is available to provide education and training on campus.  To learn more and view upcoming events, visit the Violence Prevention webpage here. 

Academic policies at UWL can be found in UWL’s Catalog at this webpage.

For undergraduate students, you can find Academic Policies at this webpage.

• Some examples of policy areas include: academic eligibility, academic records, course information, fees, grading system, grading and credit policies, and final exams, graduation, registration, and withdrawal policies.

For graduate students, you can find Academic Policies at this webpage.

• Some examples of policy areas include: academic eligibility, academic records, course information, grading system and policies, graduation, registration, transferring, completion policies, and withdrawal policies.

For specific questions regarding the course catalog, please contact the Records and Registration Office by phone at 608-785-8951, by email at records@uwlax.edu, or by coming to the office at 117 Graff Main Hall. You can visit the Records and Registration webpage here.

Wisconsin State Statute

Per Wisconsin Statute 125.07(4) the consumption of alcohol is restricted to individuals who are 21 years of age or older.

This is strictly enforced by the University Police and the La Crosse Police Departments Sanctions are applied from UWL Residence Life and/or Student Life if students are found to have violated drug policies and/or laws. Information about fines can be found 

UWS Chapters 17 and 18

• 17.09 (6) Illegal Use, Manufacture, Distribution of Alcohol or Controlled Substances
• 18.09 (1) Alcohol (a. Use/Possession b. Procuring/Selling/ Dispensing)
• 18.10 (2) Containers in Spectator Facilities

Residence Life Policies

The following activities are not permitted:

Under 21 years of age:

a)    Possessing and/or consuming alcoholic beverages

• State law prohibits the possession or consumption of alcohol by persons under the age of 21.

b)    Possessing or displaying empty alcohol containers

• Residents are not allowed to have empty alcohol containers, defined as: cans, bottles, caps boxes used for transportation, or items with alcohol residue.

21 years of age and older:

c)     Providing alcoholic beverages to students under the age of 21

d)    Transporting unconcealed alcoholic beverages and/or consuming alcoholic beverages in public areas within the residence halls

e)    Having more than one open standard alcoholic beverage per of age occupant

f)      Consuming alcohol in the presence of minors

• In the event one roommate is 21 years of age or older while the other is not, the resident who is of legal drinking age may consume alcohol in their room, but may not furnish alcoholic beverages to those under the age of 21. Guests who are of legal drinking age may consume alcohol only if the resident who is 21 years of age or older is present and if each individual of legal drinking age possesses only one alcoholic beverage (UW-La Crosse enforces the Wisconsin law of underage drinking).

Alcohol Policies Regardless of Age:

g)    Hosting a gathering where alcohol is consumed and violates other alcohol policies

h)    Participating in high-risk alcohol consumption. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Kegs or significant amounts of alcohol.
• Beer pong, flip cup, and/or other drinking games.
• Inability to function without assistance, incoherent, disoriented, unconsciousness.
• Loss of control of bodily functions.
• Community disruption or endangering others.

i)      Possessing devices to rapidly consume alcohol

• Residents are not allowed to have devices used to rapidly consume alcohol (beer bongs, funnels, etc.).

Residence Life does honor UWL's Responsible Action Policy which encourages students to report medical emergencies. 

Responsible Action Policy

On college campuses there is a significant trend of students choosing not report medical emergencies due to fear of repercussions received from being caught underage drinking. 

What is Responsible Action?

In order to encourage students to call for help if someone may be in danger from alcohol or drug use, Responsible Action protects the caller from Police citation and/or university discipline for alcohol-related offenses. For example, if an underage person is intoxicated from alcohol use, and calls 911 because a friend has passed out and is unresponsive after drinking too much, the caller will not get an underage drinking ticket if that person stays with the impaired individual, cooperates with responders, and follows through with programs deemed necessary by the Dean of Students office. 

At its core, Responsible Action seeks to encourage students to call for emergency medical assistance by providing immunity from police citation and university discipline for alcohol-related offenses. This policy has been instituted at University of Wisconsin – La Crosse as a result of an active collaboration between the Office of Student Life, University Police, and the Student Association. This policy is currently active, starting with the 2014-2015 academic year.

How does it Work?

This policy applies only to disciplinary actions related to the caller’s personal consumption of alcohol. They do not apply to supplying of alcohol, use or possession of other drugs illegally, or other crimes, and they may not apply to students involved in repeated violations of university alcohol policies. Failure to attend any required educational program may result in issuance of a citation or additional judicial consequences.

1. Victims of Crime – In cases where a student believes they have been a victim of a sexual assault and/or violent crime while under the influence of alcohol, the university will not pursue disciplinary action against the student for his or her improper use of alcohol. Students are strongly encouraged to utilize university resources and assistance if they believe they are the victims of a crime.

2. Person in Need of Medical Attention – When a student requires emergency evaluation and/or treatment at a medical facility for an overdose of alcohol, that student, as part of a disciplinary response, may be required to complete an alcohol education program through the University. In addition, a parent/guardian may be contacted after repeated calls for emergency medical assistance from a single student showing a pattern of risky behavior at the discretion of the Dean of Students.

3. Caller – When a student calls on behalf of an individual who requires emergency evaluation, the caller will not be subject to disciplinary actions from the university if the following conditions are met: 

1. Caller must remain with the impaired individual until assistance arrives.
2. Caller must be completely cooperative with emergency responders.
3. Caller must complete any programs deemed necessary by the Dean of Student’s Office.

4. Student Organizations – Representatives of a student organization hosting an event is expected to call for assistance if they become aware of an emergency. Failure to do so will be considered an aggravating circumstance and be factored into any decision making regarding further disciplinary action.

Why was this Developed?

• In the International Journal of Drug Policy, a 2006 study by Cornell University found that emergency calls increased after their own Responsible Action policy was implemented even though rates of drinking remained constant.
• Fear of police involvement is the most common reason for not calling 911 during an overdose. After the policy was implemented at Cornell, students were much less likely to report this as a barrier to calling for help.
• Students who are aware that a Responsible Action policy is in effect are 2.5 times more likely than students who expect to face disciplinary actions to call for help when they see a medical emergency.
• After the state of Washington implemented a Responsible Action policy, 88% indicated that they were more likely to call 911 during future overdoes.

Questions or Comments?

If you have any questions regarding this policy- including how it functions or any additional comments, please feel free to email our Wellness Coordinator at wellness@uwlax.edu.

Alcohol Related Fines

Common on-campus violations often involving alcohol and Subsequent Fines per state statutes: 

 *Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Marijuana, and consumption/possession of alcohol are mandatory court appearances

In addition, students who are cited for the following violations by the La Crosse Police Department off-campus are subject to city ordinance fines: 

For more information regarding policies and procedures managed affecting Equity and Affirmative Action, please visit the Policies and Procedures webpage.

Please visit the Equity and Affirmative Action’s Discrimination webpage for UWL’s nondiscrimination statement, procedures for grievances and hate/bias incident reporting.

Please visit Equity and Affirmative Action’s Sexual Misconduct webpage for more information regarding Title IX.

Information about UWL’s policies and guidelines about Individuals with Disabilities can be found at this webpage.

If you have any questions, please contact Equity and Affirmative Action by phone at 608-785-8541 or by email at aad@uwlax.edu.

Informal Complaints: 

If a student has a concern or a complaint about a faculty member or course, the general process for making informal complaints is outlined in steps 1-3 below. Students are welcome to bring a friend or a UWL staff member with them during the following steps. Students who report concerns/complaints/grievances, whether informally or formally, will be protected from retaliation and have the right to expect an investigation and the option to have regular updates on the investigation: 

1. The student should speak directly to the instructor.
2. If the student is uncomfortable speaking with the instructor, or they are unsatisfied with the solution, they should go to the chair of the faculty member’s home department. 
3. If the student is uncomfortable speaking with the department chair, or the chair is the faculty member in question, or they are unsatisfied with the solution, the student should speak with their college dean. 

Depending on the specifics of the student's concern, it may be helpful for them to reach out to additional offices: 

• Complaints/concerns/grievances about grades, teaching performance, course requirements, course content, incivility, or professional ethics should follow the process outlined above. Students may also wish to seek support from the Student Life office. 
• Complaints/concerns/grievances related to hate/bias and discrimination may follow the process outlined above, and in addition or instead students may contact the Center for Transformative Justice office and/or submit a hate/bias incident report. 
• Complaints/concerns/grievances related to sexual misconduct may begin with the process outlined above, but will also need to involve the Office of Title IX. Students should know that faculty members are mandatory reporters of sexual misconduct, but that confidential resources, including Violence Prevention are available to them.  

Formal Complaints: 

If the student is unsatisfied with the solution of their informal complaint, they have the right to file a formal institutional complaint with the Student Life office, as described below under Institutional Complaint Process.

What is the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)? 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.

FERPA identifies the rights of students and their families with respect to student educational records kept by institutions.

What are education records? 

Education records are any record maintained by the university which is directly related to the student, such as individually identifiable transcript information.

Some exceptions include:

• “Sole possession” records made by faculty and staff for their own use as reference and not shared with others
• Personal observations
• Employment records if the employment is not contingent on the fact that the employee is a student, and the record is used only in relationship to that individual’s employment.
• Police services records if the record is maintained solely for law enforcement purposes and revealed only to law enforcement agencies of the same jurisdiction.
• Health Center records if the records relate only to treatment of the student.
• Alumni records that contain information about a student after the student is no longer in attendance at the University and that do not relate to the person as a student.

What information can be released about a student? (Disclosure of Education Records Policy)

UW-La Crosse will disclose information from a student’s education records only with the written consent of the student, except:

1. To school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the records.

A school official is:

• A person employed by UW-La Crosse in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, support staff position, or a student assisting an employee of the university.
•  
• A person employed by or under contract to the university to perform a special task, such as the attorney or auditor.
•  
• A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official is:
• Performing a task that is specified in his or her position description or by a contract agreement.
  • Performing a task related to a student’s education.
  • Performing a task related to the discipline of a student.
  • Conducting research that benefits students and/or the University

Note: A college or university is required to specify the criteria for school officials and for legitimate educational interests.

2. To certain officials of the U.S. Department of Education, the Comptroller General, and state and local educational authorities, in connection with certain state or federally supported education programs.

3. To organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the university.

4. To accrediting organizations to carry out their functions.

5. To comply with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena. 

6. To appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency. 

7. To an alleged victim of any crime of violence the results of any institutional disciplinary proceeding against the alleged perpetrator of that crime with respect to that crime.

How does FERPA apply to students? 

Some of the rights of students under FERPA include:

• Right to inspect and review education records.
• Right to provide guidelines for the correction of inaccurate or misleading information in the record through informal and formal hearings.
• Right to file complaints with the FERPA Office concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the Act.

Under the right to inspect and review their education records, students may not view:

• Parent’s financial records, even though the student may have provided them.
• Letters of recommendation that the student has waived the right to access.
• Portions of records that pertain to other students.
• Records connected with an application to attend any component of UWL if that application was denied.

It is important to note that the FERPA rights transfer from the parent to the student when the student turns 18 or when the student begins attending a postsecondary institution, regardless of age. Students can grant guest access to specific individuals to their WINGS (student information) accounts.

How does FERPA apply to parents? 

When the student reaches the age of 18 or begins attending a postsecondary institution, regardless of age, FERPA rights transfer from the parent to the student.

Students may grant access to their WINGS account to “guest users,” including parents. Students can control what the guest users see and do, including viewing class schedules and grades and viewing financial aid information and pay bills. The process for doing so is linked here.

If I'm a student, do I need to do anything to protect my information? (Directory Information Policy)

Students are notified annually of their rights under FERPA through an email from the Office of Student Life, in the academic catalog, and in the student handbook.

Directory Information Policy

Students have the right to restrict their directory information under FERPA. Directory information is that information that is designated as public by the university, and it can be released by the institution for any purpose, at its discretion.

Students can use WINGS to restrict their directory information at any point. The student can also decide which elements of directory information to restrict.

The following data elements are considered directory information at UWL:

• Name(s)
• Local and home addresses
• Local and home telephone numbers
• UWL email address
• School/college
• Full-time or part-time enrollment
• Academic level (first year, sophomore, junior, senior)
• Previous institution(s) attended
• Past and present participation in officially recognized sports and activities
• Physical factors (height, weight for athletes)
• Major/minor field of study
• Awards and honors (such as Dean’s List)
• Expected graduation date
• Degree(s) conferred
• Date of degree conferral

If the student chooses to restrict some or all of their directory information, some university processes may be affected:

• Student name/address may be excluded from the UWL online directory.
• Verification of enrollment, graduation, or degrees awarded may not be provided to third parties, including potential employers and insurance companies.
• Student name may not appear in the commencement program.
• Dean’s List and graduation notifications may not be sent to local newspapers.

In addition to student data elements, UWL has designated photographs and video that are taken of students on campus and at university-sponsored activities as information that may appear in university publications, brochures, websites, social media, etc., without the written consent of students.

FERPA Quick Guide

Download the FERPA: Quick Guide for Faculty and Staff.

**Adopted from Pennsylvania State University FERPA website**

UWL’s Office of Financial Aid has the below policies:

• Code of Conduct policy
• Consortium agreements
• Consumer information
• General eligibility requirements
• Information Release policy
• NCAA and Financial Aid
• Preferred lender list
• Preparatory coursework
• Repeat Credits policy
• Return of Federal Financial Aid Funds policy
• Satisfactory Academic Progress policy
• Statement of ethical principles
• Student rights and responsibilities
• Unofficial withdrawal policy
• MSARA
• Residency Appeals

If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Office of Financial Aid by phone at 608-785-8604, by email at finaid@uwlax.edu, or by coming to the office in 215 Graff Main Hall. You can also visit the Office of Financial Aid’s webpage here.

Students can file formal institutional complaints with UWL. 

Only formal, written complaints, signed by a student or sent through the student's official UW-L email, and addressed to the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs/Dean of Students will be accepted as Official Complaints. In the complaint, it will be necessary for the student to demonstrate that they have already attempted and not achieved resolution through other University procedures as documented in the Student Handbook.

For more information regarding Institutional Student Complaints please visit this webpage. 

UWL is committed to preventing and responding to sexual misconduct in order to ensure a safe and equitable educational environment for all.

Policies that apply to various forms of sexual misconduct in the context of UWL programs and activities can be found at UWL’s Sexual Misconduct’s website at the Learn More: Policies tab here.  

The Sexual Misconduct Definitions webpage, provides more specific information regarding the definitions of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and retaliation.

Information for Faculty and Staff can be found at this webpage.

To talk with a confidential source, please contact UWL’s Violence Prevention specialist or any of our confidential resources found at this webpage.

Residence Life Code of Conduct and Policies

When you sign the contract to live on campus you agree to the Residence Life Policies and Procedures. All Residence Life Policies and Procedures can be found at: https://www.uwlax.edu/reslife/orl-resources/policies--procedures/

For the 2018-2019 Contract please see this PDF.

Questions or concerns regarding policies or procedures can be directed to your Resident Assistant, Hall Director, or Office of Residence Life Staff.

University of Wisconsin System Student Code of Conduct

All students within the University of Wisconsin System are held accountable utilizing UWS Chapters 14, 17, and 18. Specifically, these codes govern academic and non-academic conduct and outline student rights and responsibilities. Links provided go directly to the State of Wisconsin 

Academic Misconduct

Chapter UWS 14 provides guidance for academic misconduct including plagiarism and cheating. At UWL, typically instructors will initiate communication with the student when academic misconduct is suspected. For more information, visit Chapter UWS 14 link below and/or contact the Student Life Office for questions.

View Chapter UWS 14

Nonacademic Misconduct

Chapter UWS 17 provides guidance for any nonacademic misconduct for students in the University of Wisconsin system. This includes students at UWL and provides universities opportunities to hold students accountable and provide educational opportunities through the Student Life Office. To learn more about UWS 17, visit the below link:

View Chapter UWS 17

Chapter UWS 18 is utilized for nonacademic misconduct that occurs on university lands. If misconduct occurs on campus, students should expect to see charges from both UWS 17 and 18. UWS 18 is also utilized by University Policy for conduct that occurs on campus. For more information, see the below link:

View Chapter UWS 18

Questions regarding UWS Chapters 14, 17, or 18 can be directed to the Student Life Office, 149 Graff Main Hall, 608.785.8062, studentlife@uwlax.edu. 

If you are a student employee, there are policies you must follow: 

• For information regarding Employment Eligibility, please visit this site.
• For information about your Federal Work-Study award, please visit this site.
• For information about Human Resources onboarding, please visit this site.
• Information about Getting Paid can be found here. 

All student employees must be informed about the following: 

• Emergency response plan
• Executive Order #54 - Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect & UW-La Crosse Policy
• FERPA - Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

Other Policies: 

• Student Employment Guidelines
• Student Appointments and Wages Policy
• Criminal Background Check Policy
• Drug-free Workplace Policy

Information about Student Organization resources, policies and procedures can be found at The COVE webpage. The COVE stands for the Center for Organizations, Vision, and Engagement.  They are your campus Student Organization and Leadership Hub. They are located on the second floor of the Student Union.

Specific resources and policies affected Student Organizations include:

• COVE Conference Room Reservations
• Film & Copyright Information
• Fundraising & Event Funding Assistance
• Mass Email Policy
• Publicity on Campus
• Trademark & Licensing
• Window Painting
• COVE Chalk Calendar

If you have any questions please visit the COVE at 2200 Student Union, by calling 608-785-8866, or by emailing thecove@uwlax.edu.

UWL_FERPA Authorization.pdf

Health Care Provider Letter Requirements.pdf

For more information regarding the Medical Withdrawal Process, please contact the Student Life Office at 608-785-8062. 

UWL offers students who have experienced a significant medical condition, which has hindered their attendance or academic success, the opportunity to pursue a medical withdraw. Medical withdraws are considered up until the last day of classes and are initiated at the student life office. Students who are seeking a medical withdraw must initiate the process before the end of the semester in question. The medical withdraw process gives students the ability to withdraw from the university without academic penalty.

The medical withdraw process is a partnership between the university and a licensed healthcare provider in determining the need for a medical withdraw and how the student will use the time to seek treatment for the condition in question. Students who are considering a medical withdraw are highly encouraged to meet with Student Life staff as soon as possible to discuss options and the next steps in accordance with their situation. If a student is unable to meet with the Student Life Office a designated person (i.e. parent, spouse, sibling, guardian, etc.) to initiate the process on their behalf.

Common Student Questions

• I am unsure whether my situation would be considered as a significant medical condition?
• I have experience exacerbated symptoms from a chronic illness, would a medical withdraw be appropriate for me?
• I am taking longer to recover from a routine surgery, would a medical withdraw be appropriate?
• How would a medical withdraw appear on my transcript?
• Should I take a medical withdraw or regular withdrawal from UWL?
• How long do I have to wait before returning to UWL after taking a medical withdraw?

These are all really important questions to consider before medically withdrawing from the university. Please visit the Student Life Office by scheduling an appointment at 608-785-8062 or by email at studentlife@uwlax.edu.

Policies & Procedures

For more information regarding the withdrawal process, please view the above section. The medical withdraw process utilizes similar policies and procedures to withdraw from the university. 

In order for a student to initiate the medical withdraw process, the student will need to meet with Student Life Staff to discuss the situation and how to move forward through the process. Student Life staff will work with each student to begin communication with a licensed healthcare provider and develop a plan for reentry depending on the student’s situation.

Once a student is prepared to return to the university, Student Life staff will require a follow-up letter from a licensed healthcare provider. Student Life staff will be able to provide information about the specific information required for both the medical withdraw letter and the letter for re-entry.

Contact Information

Student Life Office

• Phone Number: 608-785-8062
• Email Address: studentlife@uwlax.edu
• Office location: 149 Graff Main Hall 

Resources and Links

The ACCESS Center serves any student with a documented disability (e.g. ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Acquired Brain Injury, PTSD, Physical, Sensory, Psychological, or Learning Disability) who needs to arrange academic accommodations. Visit the ACCESS Center website for more information. 

If you are looking to come back to UWL after withdrawing from the university, please visit the Re-entry Student Admissions page. 

The UWL Alumni Association’s mission is to build and maintain relationships among students, alumni, friends and the university.  Alumni volunteers speak in the classroom, provide internships and job opportunities, contribute their time, talent and resources to help students be successful.  In addition, the Alumni Association sponsors more than 60 events throughout the year to provide networking and educational programs for alumni.

Common student questions

• What does the Alumni Association do?
• Is there a fee to join the Alumni Association?
• What are the benefits?
• Can I attend events without being a member?
• How do I volunteer once I graduate?
• Can I use the Cleary Alumni & Friends Center?

Visit the UWL Alumni & Friends Foundation webpage here. 

Contact information

Alumni Association

• Phone: 608-785-8489
• Email: alumni@uwlax.edu
• Office location: Cleary Alumni & Friends Center

Resources and links

Stop by the Cleary Alumni & Friends Center and say hello! Our staff would like to meet you and hear about your experience at UWL.