Academic Catalog

University Services

STUDENT LIFE

UNIVERSITY DINING SERVICES

Millersville operates a comprehensive dining service program for students, faculty, staff, and guests of the University. All students are eligible to participate in the dining program. Students who reside in the University managed residence halls, are required to purchase a Meal Plan. (See Meal Plan – Description and Rates, under Expenses and Financial Aid). All Residence Hall students will automatically be setup with the 19 Ville Plan as an default. Students with 30 credit hours or more will be able to change their meal plan prior to the first day of classes. Off-campus students, including those living in Student Lodging, Millersville, and all commuters may participate in any of our Traditional and Block Meal Plans, which offer exceptional flexibility at various locations throughout the campus. All Dining locations are open to our students and campus community with or without a Meal Plan. University residents and community may dine at the Upper Deck, our “all-you-care-to-eat” dining hall, located in Gordinier Hall. Our retail dining locations are in Gordinier Hall – The Anchor and the Evergreen Café, Student Memorial Center – Galley, Lyle Hall - Cove and Starbucks at the Francine G. McNairy Learning Forum and Library. The Anchor on the first floor of Gordinier Hall features a bakery, showcasing items from our own bake shop, breakfast sandwiches and build-your and grab ‘n go and made-to-order selections, fresh fruit and yogurt bar, a convenience store, a creamery, and full range of beverages. Looking for a pre-work or post workout smoothie or protein shake, stop by the Anchor. Our newest dining opportunity is the popular “Get-Food” app, with pickup available at Starbucks. Descriptions of meal plans and dining hours are available at www.millersville.edu/dining.

For more information, see the section under Expenses and Financial Aid.

CENTER FOR COUNSELING AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

The Center for Counseling and Human Development, located on the third floor of Lyle Hall, is committed to providing quality mental health care to a diverse student body.  The Center supports the academic mission of the University by enhancing students’ emotional, social, and personal development.  Accredited by the International Association of Counseling Services, the Center seeks to engage students in counseling, consultation, and outreach to realize their potential and persist to graduation. Licensed psychologists and counselors help students reach greater self-understanding and enhance their abilities to manage immediate and future concerns. Individual counseling, crisis intervention, educational workshops, group experiences and consultation services are available to all registered Millersville University students. Alcohol and other drug counseling is provided by a Counselor with expertise in this area.  A psychiatrist is also available for medication evaluation and management once a student has been seen by a Center clinician. All services are confidential, professional and at no cost to students.  

HEALTH SERVICES

Health Services, located in the Witmer Building, provides medical care to all registered students. They have a professional staff of physicians, nurse practitioner, and registered nurses. There is no charge to be evaluated by a provider for acute illnesses or injuries. Most treatments and over-the-counter medications are free. They have a dispensary in house which has common antibiotics that can be prescribed to the students for a small fee. Services provided include treatment for minor illness and injuries, monitoring and management of chronic health conditions, sexual health, physical examinations, TB testing, and immunizations (including FREE influenza vaccines), in-house laboratory testing, and medical procedures such as EKGs, wound care, and laceration repair. Students who do not need to be seen can obtain over-the-counter medications and supplies from the Self Care Cart, located in the reception area. A health evaluation form which includes medical history, physical exam, and immunization records are required to be submitted by all students. Refer to the Health Services website, www.millersville.edu/healthservices for forms and further information. Appointments are available by calling 717-871-5250.

CENTER FOR HEALTH EDUCATION AND PROMOTION

The Elsie S. Shenk Center for Health Education and Promotion (CHEP), located in the Cumberland House, contributes to fulfilling the educational mission of Millersville University by empowering students to make informed decisions and develop lifelong skills that enhance their personal well-being. CHEP contributes to the health, academic success, and retention of students by providing current and relevant information about high-risk behaviors; raising awareness about personal decision making and the impact decisions have on an individual and their community; and engaging students in meaningful opportunities to create a healthy community where all students can achieve their personal and academic goals.

CHEP features a diverse group of trained peer educators who provide lifestyle education programs, awareness events, and outreach on topics including alcohol and other drugs, mental health, sexual responsibility/healthy relationships, stress, and sexual violence. In addition to educational programs, CHEP hosts a wellness fair each fall and spring semesters on campus to connect students with resources and information on health, well-being and wellness. College student health campaigns are designed and implemented based on data collected from Millersville students to promote healthy decision making.

Wellness Coaching is a free service provided through CHEP to students. Wellness Coaching is an individualized process for helping students achieve a higher level of well-being and performance in their academic pursuits as well as life in general when change is desired, yet difficult to achieve. It empowers students to explore health topics of stress, sleep, social support, and substance use. Students can schedule appointments by emailing wellness.coaching@millersville.edu.

CHEP has community partnerships with various Lancaster community organizations to provide students with free resources and services. Sexual assault advocacy services are provided by the YWCA Lancaster in the Cumberland House. Relationship violence advocacy services are provided by Domestic Violence Services of Lancaster. Additional information can be found on the website www.millersville.edu/chep

STUDENT CONDUCT AND COMMUNITY STANDARDS

The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards (SCCS) fosters student learning and success by balancing individual and community rights, while promoting a safe, student-centered, and inclusive community. The SCCS administers and provides education on the Student Conduct & Community Standards Handbook, advocates for students’ rights, and upholds the community standards and values of Millersville University. The office educates students about the expectations of the Millersville University community and assists them in their development. Through the discipline process, the SCCS challenges students to think ethically and critically about their decision making and role within the campus community. The SCCS teaches accountability and responsible citizenship so every student will thrive within Millersville University’s diverse and dynamic academic community. SCCS works to ensure all Millersville University students have an exceptional, productive, and challenging educational experience in a safe and civil environment. 

STUDENT ACCESS AND SUPPORT SERVICES

Millersville University provides diverse, dynamic, meaningful experiences to inspire learners to grow both intellectually and personally to enable them to contribute positively to local and global communities. The Office of Student Access and Support Services (SASS) is a home base for students and families that provides individual support through academic and personal coaching with a holistic approach.

SASS oversees academic support services for the Pre-Scholars Summer Institute, Millersville Scholars Program, Lancaster Partnership, Milton Hershey School Program, Trio Program, and the PASSHE Gear-Up Program. Our programs use the best practices and essential resources to provide excellent academic support to help students realize their full potential. Our students have the opportunity to benefit from:

  • Tutoring Services 
  • Peer Mentoring 
  • Common Structured Study Hours 
  • Intensive Outreach and Interpersonal Support 
  • Individual and Group Meetings 
  • Four-year Academic Plan for Success 
  • Monthly Library Learning Workshops 
  • Living-Learning Community for Residential Students 
  • Wellness Wednesday and Diversity Workshops 
  • Midway Motivation Package 
  • First Gems Organization
  • Community Service 
  • Graduate Assistant Opportunities 
  • Parent/Student Meeting at McCaskey HS 
  • Financial Literacy Workshops each semester 
  • Honor Roll and Dean's List recognition 
  • LPP Recognition ceremony 
  • Tri-Alpha Honor Society Ceremony 

The Milton Hershey partnership exists as a bridge between the high school college counselor and the SASS office. This partnership helps students transition to Millersville University by combining support from both the high school and the college environment. Students are provided an outreach counselor from SASS while continuing to meet with their high school college counselor to ensure student success and scholarship.

The PASSHE Gear-Up Program supports students from the Allentown, Harrisburg, and Norristown School districts. Students attending Millersville University from these school districts are provided all the services of SASS. 

The First-Generation program provides support for all first-generation staff, faculty, undergraduate, graduate and alumni at Millersville University. The program encompasses a first-generation yearly celebration, Tri Alpha (first generation honor society), and First Gems of the Ville (student organization). 

Our programs encourage students to question, alter, inspect and challenge their experience for the purpose of constructive self-actualization. Incoming first year students will go through a process that allows them to introspect and retool with purpose, key skills and a positive attitude towards scholarship. Students who use our services make the necessary changes to be successful at Millersville University.

CAMPUS LIFE 

Millersville University believes that the lifelong benefits of a college education are not derived solely from the classroom. Therefore, one of the University’s priorities is to develop the full potential of its students and in doing so enhance the quality of their lives. To achieve this goal, Millersville University offers a wide variety of co-curricular activities, as being involved and engaged in campus life provides students the opportunity to build connections with fellow students, faculty, staff and administrators, and plays a critical role in one’s own personal and professional development. The Department of Campus Life champions an inclusive and engaging community on campus through programs and activities that foster social belonging, personal leadership development, and campus pride. Students can find ways to get involved in areas such as: Campus Activities, Fraternity and Sorority Life, Leadership Programs, Mascot Team, Commuter and Off-Campus support and Student Organizations. 

With more than 180 student organizations, students at Millersville University can find many opportunities that align with their personal and professional interests. If a student's interests are not represented in an existing organization, a new club may be established by following the procedures set forth by the Student Government Association.

Student organizations are open to all enrolled Millersville University students and divided into several general-interest categories: academic, arts and culture, fraternity and sorority life, identity-based, service and civic engagement, sports and leisure, and spirituality. 

The first step to getting involved on campus is to activate your Get Involved account by logging into getinvolved.millersville.edu using your Millersville username and password. Once activated, you can browse the listing of student organizations, see current events and programs happening on campus, and stay connected to the campus you now call home. 

For questions about getting involved on campus, visit the Department of Campus Life, located in the Student Memorial Center, suite 118, or visit www.millersville.edu/campuslife/. 

VETERANS RESOURCE CENTER 

Designated a Military Friendly® Bronze Designation campus, Millersville University proudly serves and supports our student veterans and their dependents. The Veterans Resource Center (VRC), located on the north side of campus in the Mercer House, strives to provide the support and assistance necessary for students to achieve academic success while fostering camaraderie and engagement. The VRC is staffed by student veterans who through their shared experiences endeavor to maintain a dynamic, effective welcoming center that is responsive to the needs of our student veteran community. 

SERVICES FOR COMMUTERS 

Commuting students are an integral part of the University community and are encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities to get involved on campus. Commuter student support provided by the Department of Campus Life, engages commuter students throughout the academic year through various programs and events. Millersville has over 180 student organizations that meet throughout weekdays and on weekends, which makes it easy for commuters to become engaged during a time that works best for them. A complete listing of student organizations can be found at getinvolved.millersville.edu. The Club De’Ville, located on the lower level of the Student Memorial Center, is a space designed for students to relax. The lounge area is equipped with comfortable seating, a video gaming area, arcade games and grab-and-go food. 

BUS SERVICE

Millersville University coordinates bus service for students, faculty and staff for traveling throughout the campus and surrounding apartment complexes, and a bus route to downtown Lancaster. Schedules are available in the Student Memorial Center, at the Student Information Desk, located just inside the main entrance. The schedule plus additional information can be found at www.millersville.edu/shuttlebus.

DR. RITA SMITH WADE-EL INTERCULTURAL CENTER

The Dr. Rita Smith Wade-El Intercultural Center, also known as Intercultural Center or ICSE, is a student-centered resource that is dedicated to creating and sustaining a campus culture that aligns with the University’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and its EPPIIC Values. The Intercultural Center aims to provide students with opportunities to explore their multiple identities and learn about the background and experiences of others. Together, the hope is to create a culture of inclusion, equity and a sense of belonging here on campus and beyond. 

The Intercultural Center promotes the importance of a sense of belonging and centers marginalized populations/identities in its programming efforts. ICSE engages students in the development of knowledge, awareness and skills around cultural competence, social justice and advocacy for marginalized populations to live and thrive in a diverse and global world. 

ICSE also works to support identity-based/multicultural student organizations such as the African and Caribbean Student Association (ACSA), the Asian Student Inclusivity Association (ASIA), the Black Student Union (BSU), Friends of Advocates for Native Nations (FANN), Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA), Hillel-Jewish Students Fellowship, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), National Minority Teachers Association (NMTA), National Society for Black Engineers (NSBE) and Society on Latino Affairs (SOLA). For more information about these organizations and how to get involved, visit getinvolved.millersville.edu. 

The Intercultural Center is located in the Student Memorial Center (SMC), Room 110/111. The center is open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-7p.m., and Friday 10 a.m -5 p.m. A resource room with a robust library and free printing is available while open. For more information about programs and services provided by the Intercultural Center, visit www.millersville.edu/icse and follow @mu_interculturalcenter on Instagram. 

CAMPUS RECREATION 

All students are encouraged to participate in Intramural Sports, which are planned and administered with considerable student input. Activities include basketball, flag football, indoor and outdoor soccer, softball, ultimate, volleyball, floor hockey, dodgeball, badminton, tennis, table tennis, field hockey and eSports. The Campus Recreation Department also offers special event programs like Rec the Quad, Iron Chef, NFL and NCAA watch parties. The Intramural Department has a number of student employment options available. Go to IMLeagues.com for more information. 

CLUB SPORTS 

Club sports are student organizations that offer organized, non-varsity competition and recreational activities. Club sports currently active on campus include baseball, basketball, bowling, equestrian, fencing, Division 2 and Division 3 ice hockey, mixed martial arts, men’s lacrosse, men’s and women’s rugby, men’s and women's volleyball, MU Dance, running, ultimate frisbee, and women’s soccer.

ROPES COURSE 

Millersville University offers an outdoor ropes course experience with over 30 different elements. Activities are designed for team building or adventure-based activities.

REC CENTER 

Facility within the Student Memorial Center that contains:

  • Various fitness equipment
  • Indoor track
  • Three-court field house
  • Multi-activities court - The multi-activities court (MAC) is an enclosed court featuring basketball hoops, nets for indoor soccer and roller hockey. The enclosed structure makes it the perfect location to host intramural dodgeball, indoor soccer and floor hockey leagues.
  • Two racquetball courts – one of which has been converted into a mixed martial arts room
  • Functional training room – unique space full of the latest and greatest functional training equipment, including a sled, plyo boxes, TRX, and more!
  • Dance studio

STUDENT MEMORIAL CENTER 

The Student Memorial Center (SMC) is often viewed as the living room of Millersville’s Campus and fosters community, engagement, and Marauder pride. The SMC has six furnished conference rooms and a large multipurpose room to support engagement and student success on campus and are used for weekly meetings, concerts, lectures, and other special events. Reservations for conference rooms and the multipurpose room can be made online via Ad Astra. The SMC houses the following departments:

  • Department of Campus LIfe
  • Dr. Rita Smith Wade-El Intercultural Center
  • Student Services Inc. Business Office
  • The Galley Food Court
  • Ticket Office
  • IT Technical Operations
  • PSECU Financial Education Center
  • SMC Rec Center
  • University Store
  • Student Affairs Suite

EDUCATIONAL AND POPULAR PROGRAMMING 

A wide range of programming is provided for students by the University Activities Board (UAB). Allocated by the Student Government Association, UAB is a student-run organization divided into committees, with each committee responsible for programming in their specific area (traditions, entertainment, recreation and leisure, late night and travel). 

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

To foster an atmosphere of open communication within the University, Millersville offers a number of avenues for student participation in University governance. Consultation with students is an integral step in any major decision. The aim of the Student Government Association is to encourage students to participate in sound governmental procedures and develop innovative and creative University programs. 

Students participate in University governance through the Student Government Association and Faculty Senate committees such as the Undergraduate Course and Program Review Committee, and the Academic Policies Committee. As the governmental body of the students, the Student Government Association is an integral component in the governance of the University and works with the faculty and administration on major University policies. The Student Government Association approves the constitution of every campus organization, delegates responsibility to its constituent groups, recommends the allocation of activity fee funds and makes emergency allocations to recognized University organizations when necessary. These decisions are subject to approval by the University president. 

STUDENT COMMUNICATIONS MEDIA 

The Snapper, MUTV 99 and WIXQ-FM are the official student communications media of Millersville University. 

The Snapper is the University’s student-run newspaper, published weekly during the academic year. For many years the paper has won the highest awards given by major press associations. 

MUTV 99, the student-operated campus cable TV station, provides the University with 24/7 programming throughout the school year. 

WIXQ-FM, the campus radio station, provides the University and local community with educational programming, news, sports, talk shows and music. The station adheres to all Federal Communications Commission regulations and is student operated.

FAITH AND SPIRITUALITY 

Millersville University has students from many different backgrounds and faith traditions. We offer a welcoming environment for students to practice or explore these faiths in an open-minded setting while promoting appreciation and respect for religious and spiritual diversity. 

Student Organizations offer faith and spirituality programs and services, including Athletes Bible Fellowship, Bible Campus Ministries, College Bible Fellowship, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Hillel, John Newman Association (Roman Catholic), Navigators, Orthodox Christian Fellowship, Reformed University Fellowship, United Campus Ministry, University Christian Fellowship, and Young Life. 

The Inter-Faith Council of Ministers is made up of campus ministers who serve the University community by providing faith-based counsel, assisting during times of crisis, and participating in faith and spirituality events throughout campus. 

Millersville-area churches welcome students to their services and often sponsor programming specifically for students. Students who do not find a place of worship in Millersville will find many options available in the nearby city of Lancaster. Three synagogues in Lancaster represent the Reform, Conservative and Orthodox branches of Judaism. Seven Muslim mosques are located in the Harrisburg area; a Buddhist association is in Columbia; and a Hindu temple is in New Cumberland. For more information, please visit the Faith and Spirituality link on the Student Affairs and Enrollment Management page at www.millersville.edu/studentaffairs. 

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Information Technology provides a wide variety of services for faculty, staff and students that enhance the processes of research, instruction and learning. These services include training materials relating to software products, maintenance and support for classroom technology, documentation and how-to instructional materials, assistance in statistical analysis of data, and advice on purchasing decisions.

Over a dozen general-purpose and specialized computer laboratories located throughout the campus, and housing more than 475 computers, provide students with convenient access to the University network, email and the internet. These labs are multimedia-capable and may be used by faculty as technology classrooms to enhance students’ learning experiences. The labs are available during daytime and evening hours.

Millersville University has a robust, high-speed, campus-wide network that connects all major buildings and residence halls to campus network services and the internet. Every Millersville student automatically gets a myVille account and an email account upon admission to the University. myVille is the student portal to the University’s computing and networking systems—the student access point to Millersville University’s online services. Residence hall students must have valid myVille accounts to access the internet from their residence hall rooms. This is also true for all students using computers in the various computer labs around campus. Network and internet usage are governed by the Millersville University Policy for Responsible Use of Electronic Resources.

Wireless access to the internet is available throughout the campus.

Assistance for any type of technology question is provided by the Technology Assistance Center (TAC). The TAC, located in the Boyer Building, provides telephone support for hardware and software questions, as well as walk-in support for faculty, staff and students. Visit the Information Technology web page, www.millersville.edu/infotech, for the TAC’s available hours.

For complete details about the Information Technology staff, services provided, equipment in labs and much more, visit the Information Technology web page, www.millersville.edu/infotech, or phone (717) 871-7777.

SERVICES FOR NONTRADITIONAL AND ADULT STUDENTS

While the majority of Millersville undergraduates are full-time residential students of traditional college age, an increasing number of students are working professionals, commuters, age 23 or older, attending part-time and/or parents of young children. Millersville is working to meet the needs of these students through a variety of services.

For information on admission to Millersville as a nontraditional or adult student, see the section on Admission to Millersville University. For more information on services for adult students, contact graduate.admissions@millersville.edu, or call (717) 871-4723.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES

LANGUAGE AND CULTURE STUDIES MEDIA CENTER

The Language and Culture Studies media center in McComsey Hall includes the instructional digital language lab with 30 student stations. The department also has a collection of visual, audio, games and print materials for the study and teaching of French, German and Spanish.

FRANCINE G. MCNAIRY LIBRARY AND LEARNING FORUM

The Francine G. McNairy Library and Learning Forum is a learner-centered hub for the University community, dedicated to educating, inspiring and connecting people with ideas, information and each other. Librarians and information professionals are available to assist students with online and in-person research, information literacy and accessing information resources appropriate for their studies.

Students and members of the University community can access library resources by visiting the library or the library’s website, www.library.millersville.edu. Library collections include electronic journals, databases, streaming video and eBooks, as well as physical collections and collections of books, films, and curriculum kits. The Archives and Special Collections is a repository for unique historical documents and records focused on the University and local region. The library features spaces for research and learning, including the Digital Learning Studio, where students can seek assistance with digital content creation, 3D printing and other current technologies. Flexible spaces for group and individual study and meetings are available for any member of the Millersville University community to use.

In addition, the Francine G. McNairy Library and Learning Forum is home to the Writing Center, an advising center, the Integrated Studies office and the Starbucks Café.

STUDENT POLICIES

Students are expected to familiarize themselves with and abide by all student conduct regulations found in this catalog and other University publications, including the Student Code of Conduct, the Living on Campus Handbook and the Student Handbook. Please refer to the Student Handbook for information on student discrimination grievance procedures, sexual-harassment policy, and policy on sales and vendors.

IDENTIFICATION CARD

Enrolled students are required to have a Millersville University identification card. The card is needed for facility access and for the use of many campus services and activities.

Identification cards may be obtained at the campus I.D. office in the lobby of the Boyer Building. There is no charge for the first card, and the current fee for replacement is posted in the campus I.D. office.

Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Extended hours for the beginning of fall and spring semesters are posted at the I.D. office.

MOTOR VEHICLES

All vehicles parked on the properties of Millersville University must display a valid University-issued parking permit. Permits may be secured at the University Police Parking Division, located at Lebanon House (237 N. George St., rear lower level).

Violations of University parking regulations may result in parking violation tickets and possible disciplinary action, including cancellation of parking privileges, the withholding of grades and the denial of registration privileges. Parking sections of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code (Title 75) are also enforced on the properties of Millersville University.

The Parking Division will utilize a waiting list in the event resident student parking reaches capacity for students who live in University residence halls. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Hours are extended at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters and are posted at the University Police Department.

PRIVACY OF STUDENT RECORDS

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 was amended in December 2008 by the U.S. Department of Education. It gives students the right to review their academic records, to challenge their contents and to protect their confidentiality. Basic directory information may be disclosed without prior consent of the student. In the event of an alcohol-related incident or a health/safety emergency, parents may be considered appropriate parties to whom a nonconsensual disclosure may be made.

Millersville’s policy on the confidentiality of student records is available from the Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. Directory information is used to report student achievements in academic, athletic and extracurricular activities through appropriate media. Students may request that such information not be released by filing a written request during the first two weeks of each semester with the Office of the Registrar, Lyle Hall.

Annual notification of the University’s policy on confidentiality of student records is also posted on the registrar’s website.

Students may file complaints about the contents of their records or alleged wrongful disclosures of information with the Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.

SMOKING

Smoking is prohibited inside all campus buildings.