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Resources for Faculty

General

Academic Affairs

Here is the page for Academic Affairs. The Division of Academic and Student Affairs at Saginaw Valley State University was created to support quality service and support to the university's students, personnel, colleges, and programs.


The Academic Calender for 2021-2025 contains important dates for year semester in the year.


The majority of faculty decide prefer to host course evaluations online, but a scannable course evaluation option is available. Information on Exam and Student Course Evaluation Scanning can be found here.


Faculty can use this resource to easily manage and submit course material adoptions each term.


These guidelines were developed to update the longstanding Office of Human Resources hiring document. The Faculty Search Committee and/or Academic Department may adjust these guidelines within the individual Colleges, in consultation with the Dean's Office, to fit the needs of the specific discipline and College. However, these guidelines are intended to ensure a high degree of uniformity in hiring practices.


Faculty Development

To register or to view workshops offered by the University, please visit the SVSU Faculty & Staff Development Calendar.


Here you can find several links for resources related to teaching and learning


Each year the university awards outstanding faculty members. The awards recognize faculty members for their outstanding efforts in teaching, research, continuous professional practices, and support of students. SVSU has long prided itself as an institution where faculty impact and inspire students through scholarship, teaching, and service. We ask that you spread the word about the awards and consider nominating outstanding faculty.


The mission of the Center for Excellence in Teaching & Learning (CETL) is to collaborate with faculty, departments, and other academic units on campus to advance and support excellence in teaching and academic innovation initiatives. The Center serves as a hub for the exchange of ideas and facilitates collaboration among faculty and departments across disciplines with a goal to foster a culture of innovation that enhances student learning.  


Research

The University Sponsored Programs office supports opportunities for faculty and staff to enhance intellectual and professional development respecting the diversity of all whom it serves.


The Instuituinal Review Board page contains information about the rules the studies on campus must follow,


The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) plays a key role in maintaining the University's adherence to relevant laws and guidelines pertaining to the use of live vertebrate animals in research and education. 


The Undergraduate Research Program integrates the University's teaching and research missions through the creation and facilitation of faculty/student research partnerships.


Curriculum & Program Development

Here you can find information about when and how to plan program assessment.


The General Education Committee shall have overall responsibility for the General Education Program, and for maintaining the quality of the program. This includes but is not limited to the approval (within the overall curriculum process), implementation and ongoing evaluation of courses to be offered for General Education credit; and the assessment of the overall program.


The Curriculum/Academic Policies Committee (CAPC) shall review and make recommendations on all proposals dealing with any change in existing curriculum, new courses, new academic programs and the academic calendar.


The Graduate Committee is responsible for the overall academic quality of the SVSU graduate programs


Colleges

The College of Arts & Behavioral Sciences is the largest and most comprehensive of the colleges at SVSU!


The Scott L. Carmona College of Business recognizes that students pursuing four-year degrees in business and economics at SVSU have two major objectives for their academic training at SVSU.


Saginaw Valley State University's College of Education offers programs in initial teacher certification, a variety of master's and specialist degree programs, special education administration approval programs, and a wide range of endorsement programs which are designed to provide quality educational opportunities for teachers and school leaders at the lowest tuition rate of any public university in Michigan.


The College of Health and Human Services offers undergraduate in health science, medical lab science, nursing, and social work as well as minors in health science, youth services, gerontology and athletic coaching and  graduate degrees in health administration and leadership, occupational therapy, and nursing (nurse administrator, nurse educator or clinical nurse leader), and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (for Family Nurse Practitioners)


The College of Science, Engineering & Technology consists of seven academic departments offering students a variety of undergraduate programs in biology, chemistry, physics, mechanical and electrical engineering, mathematics, and computer science, as well as a graduate program in energy & materials.


Miscellaneous

The Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum is a FREE museum and sculpture garden that features a unique collection of more than 200 sculptures that span the 70-year career of “America’s Public Sculptor,” Marshall M. Fredericks (1908-1998), as well as rotating exhibitions featuring artists from around the world. Fredericks is known nationally and internationally for his impressive monumental figurative sculpture, public memorials, fountains, portraits, and medals.


Saginaw Valley State University's student Newspaper since 1967.


Cardinal Radio is Saginaw Valley State University's internet radio station. We broadcast 24/7 at svsuradio.weebly.com and frequently mobile DJ events around campus. Past events include: Coop's Birthday, Halloween in the Marketplace, and 90s night.


REFLECTIONS is an award-winning publication featuring stories and imagery that spotlights the community and culture of Saginaw Valley State University as well as the region it supports. Publishing its first edition in 2006, the bi-annual magazine today mails its print editions to more than 40,000 SVSU alumni worldwide while also distributing copies both on campus and across the region. The digital magazine features content from the print edition as well as content exclusively for online audiences.


Cardinal Sins publishes work from writers and artists all around the world. It is a student-run literary arts journal based out of Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan.


The mission of Saginaw Valley State University’s Testing Center is to provide quality testing services to students that adhere to the National College Testing Association (NCTA) Professional Standards and Guidelines.


Reference

This page contains information about SVSU's Mission, Vision, Values, and Strategic Goals


SVSU's Strategic Plan page highlights the goals of SVSU now and in the future.


The Board of Control is the governing body of Saginaw Valley State University.  It was established when the State of Michigan ratified Act 278 of 1965.
Michigan Legislature - Act 278 of 1965 


Established in 1966, the Board of Fellows is an advisory group for the President of Saginaw Valley State University.


Highlights Saginaw Valley State Univiersity's Office of the President.


This page contains an archive with SVSU's previous publications



University

Health & Safety

Here you can find information about the Employee Assistance Program.


The University Health Center, located inside Saginaw Valley HealthCare, provides walk-in primary medical care, disease prevention, health education and various specialty services to SVSU students, faculty and staff, and the surrounding community.


SVSU Campus Recreation is committed to building a stronger student body by providing diverse and intentional recreational activities for the campus community. Our vision is to promote health awareness, sense of community and a lifelong appreciation for fitness and wellness.


The Ryder Center for Health and Physical Education is an athletics and recreational complex located on the campus of Saginaw Valley State University.



The SVSU Police Department is staff by certified police officers 24/7 and participates in a mutual aid agreement with other local law enforcement agencies serving to expedite assistance from these agencies should their services be required.


Here you can register for emergency notifications pertaining to SVSU.


Student Wellness Programs goals are to empower students to lead healthy lifestyles through education-based programs.  We strive to promote health awareness for all individuals, generate a sense of community, and help create a lifelong appreciation for health & wellness.


Employment

Humans Resources mission is to support a fair and ethical work environment by providing the tools and guidance needed to achieve personal and professional success. Our vision is to be a trusted partner that empowers every employee to reach their full potential where their contributions and innovations advance Saginaw Valley State University.


Here you can find Collective Bargaining Agreements and Operations Manual / University Policies


Current job postings at SVSU


Whether you are a new faculty or staff member, this website will serve as a key resource for you. The Human Resources team is here to support you as you become a Cardinal. 


Administrative Professional Benefits


Faculty Benefits


Support Staff Benefits


The following categories of forms & documents can be found here:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • Retirement
  • Payroll/Tax
  • Additional General HR
  • Supervision/Management
  • Annual Notifications
  • Contracts


Here is the reporting hierarchy for SVSU.


Handbooks & Policies


The Saginaw Valley State University Operations Manual includes those operating policies and procedures which govern the actions of employees, students, contractors and visitors.


This policy pertains to the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, Subtitle D, Section 5152, it requires that Saginaw Valley State University maintain a workplace free from the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of controlled substances. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of drugs and narcotics is prohibited on any property under the control of and governed by the Board of Control of Saginaw Valley State University, and at any site where work is performed by individuals on behalf of Saginaw Valley State University.


This policy is established to promote public health and provide compliance with the Michigan Indoor Clean Air Act (P.A. 1986, No.84, MCLA 333.12601 et. Seq.); P.A. 368 of 1978 as amended, MCLA 333.12905; and sec. 20 of P.A. 227 or 1967, MCLA 408.820 and the University's Clean Indoor Air Policy adopted 3/13/78 with revisions made 2/9/89 and 8/11/97:




This section contains information that will help students navigate the policies and procedures of Saginaw Valley State University. If the information you're looking for is not found, please feel free to reach out to the Student Affairs office via 989.964.4410.


University Services


The Business Services mission is to provide high value goods and services through logistical efficiencies in support of sound University operations.


The purpose of this policy is to define equipment acquisitions and set forth guidelines for signature authority for the purchase of said equipment.


Here is the link to the SVSU bookstore.


Here you can find information about SVSU's Dining Services



The Office of University Communications serves as the university’s public information center, communicating the university’s mission, programs and services to on- and off-campus audiences through publications, news media, social media, websites and other outlets.


Teaching

Preparing a Course






Managing a Course

A FERPA form must be signed and submitted before accessing class rosters. This is the only roster you will receive. Please read the FERPA in its entirety to know what kinds of student information must remain confidential and under which circumstances you can disclose such information. To access your course roster, log in to mysvsu using your username and password. Click on the faculty link, select the appropriate semester in the pull-down menu, and select the corresponding course.

Review Canvas


Canvas is the learning management system used at SVSU. Canvas allows instructors to organize their courses and course content so students can find the materials they need quickly and easily. Canvas includes tools for announcements, assignments, quizzes, grades, discussion and more. Here you can access help to manage Canvas


Grading Policy

  • No course may be dropped after the eleventh week of the semester except in cases of documented personal emergency. Proportional dates will be used for courses of shorter duration.
  • A grade of "D" is not a passing grade for any required course. Regarding prerequisites, students must obtain at least a "C" grade in all prerequisite courses before being permitted to enroll in subsequent courses.
  • Grade changes may be made only for a certified error on the part of University faculty or staff.
  • A course may be repeated at SVSU to raise a grade. All grades shall remain on the student's academic record (transcript), but in computing the GPA, the better grade will be counted.
  • A course taken at SVSU may only be repeated at another institution if the course is an equivalent course at SVSU, the initial course grade at SVSU was a D, F, WF, or a grade of C or better is earned in the repeated course. There will be no transfer of the grade earned from the other institution and no recalculation of the SVSU GPA.
  • No course can be repeated at SVSU more than twice for a grade. Appeals for additional repeats may be made to the dean of the appropriate college.
  • In specified courses, students have the option of being graded on a pass/fail basis. This option requires the permission of the instructor and must be recorded in the Registrar's Office by the end of the second week of the semester or proportional times for shorter semesters.

Grades in transferred courses are not included in calculating the SVSU grade point average. Transfer credit will be removed if equivalent course work is taken through SVSU or any other transfer institution.


A few weeks before the end of the semester, the Registrar's office mails optic grade sheets to the faculty.  On these sheets, you are asked to write in each student's grade and to also fill in the appropriate circle for the grade.  If a student receives a failing grade (F), it is the responsibility of the faculty member to write in the designated area the last date of class this student attended.  Each sheet must be signed and dated as well.  When you return the grade sheets to the Registrar's Office (Wickes 151), one of the assistants will check them to make certain that it has been accurately completed. 

Grade sheet due dates vary by the semester.  To check for these due dates consult the calendar.


Teaching General Education

General education refers to that part of a student’s education that contributes to the breadth of knowledge needed to be a more effective citizen of a complex and culturally diverse world. It supports the student with the skills and perspectives that will not always be gained from a specialized program of study and provides a basis for a common educational experience all students and graduates of the University can share



General Education: Category Criteria - The infusion of technology to enhance teaching and learning in General Education courses will be encouraged. For further information, see the catalog description of  the program, the table of categories and courses, and the criteria for Communication-Intensive courses.


Teaching and ITS

Technology and ITS

Here you can find out information about what ITS does around campus and access various ITS services.


The Office of Adjunct Faculty Support Programs is now part of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. We will continue our work in providing professional development, teaching workshops, and other resources for all SVSU faculty.



Helping Students

Academic

This catalog contains comprehensive information about Saginaw Valley State University, its academic programs and requirements for earning bachelor’s degrees from SVSU. It can serve as your guide to admission and graduation requirements, and for various academic options. Brief descriptions of all courses are listed by department, as well as programs of study for each major and minor currently offered. Refer to this catalog for information you’ll need to successfully complete a degree program at SVSU. Additional assistance is available from academic advisors and faculty. You may also refer to our online Course Schedule Lookup, which lists all courses, locations and meeting times for fall, winter and spring/summer semesters.


mySVSU Self-Service Registration is open to all students Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-10:59 PM, and 8:00AM - 9:59PM on Saturday


Welcome to your online resource for undergraduate advising!  Please review our online resources and if you have additional questions you can stop by our office or make an appointment. 


General education refers to that part of a student’s education that contributes to the breadth of knowledge needed to be a more effective citizen of a complex and culturally diverse world. It supports the student with the skills and perspectives that will not always be gained from a specialized program of study and provides a basis for a common educational experience all students and graduates of the University can share. It is intended to help students become more broadly knowledgeable, adaptable, and capable in their many life roles. By graduation, students will have been given opportunities to develop their insight, creativity and intellectual curiosity, as well as analytical and critical skills. The General Education Program is designed to develop in each student:


Undergraduate Majors at SVSU- Our students aren't lost in the audience of a giant lecture hall; they are standing center stage presenting research to Ph.D.'s and graduate students around the world- from Oxford university's Global Conference on business and economics to the National Neurotrauma Society Symposium. Faculty across the five colleges include you in their work and seek out experiences to help you grow.


Graduate Programs- You are living life. And you want more. You work hard, play hard, and you have people who are depending on you. A few late nights, early mornings, and prioritizing don't scare you. You are a contender. You rise to the challenge. Now is your time to defy.


Here are the important dates for each semeseter in the year


Office of the Registrar - The goal of our office is to provide outstanding service and educational resources while preserving the academic records of our students within well-established protocols. These records include but are not limited to, student academic information, records of enrollment, academic status, degree completion, commencement and transcripts. We strive to provide the best possible service through both web technology and personal interaction. This is your assurance that you will receive timely, accurate, and professional assistance from our office.


Melvin J. Zahnow Library - The Melvin J. Zahnow Library provides information resources and services to support the teaching and research needs of the students, faculty and staff of Saginaw Valley State University (View Mission and Goals).


Honors Program - The Honors Program encourages academically gifted students to develop life-long qualities, like curiosity and engagement, by giving them access to research, travel and service experiences. Within the program, students receive the necessary support to be successful leaders in a diverse world where all strands of knowledge are interdependent upon one another.


The Roberts Gilbertson Fellowship Program engages a select group of approximately 10 outstanding SVSU students from a wide range of disciplines for an entire academic year in three-hour weekly seminars, a year-long service project of their own creation, and interactions with campus and community leaders.


The UGRP integrates the University's teaching and research missions through the creation and facilitation of faculty/student research partnerships. Select from the appropriate picture box below to learn more about the UGRP and all the opportunities waiting for you.


Multicultural Student Affairs - The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs is responsible for the leadership and direction of meaningful learning and engagement opportunities for the campus community. The office will support the university's strategic goals of increasing enrollment, retention and graduation rates for underrepresented populations.


Academic Help

The purpose of the Office of Accessibility Resources and Accommodations (ARA) at SVSU is to support our students’ educational experience by helping them access accommodations and services.


The Math & Physics Resource Center provides free drop-in and by-appointment tutoring support for students in MATH 081 - MATH 262 and PHYS 107-212. It is located on the second floor of the Zahnow Library. We also provide study materials for math placement testing* and the MTTC, and Course Pages with test review materials for selected math courses.


SVSU Writing Center - Encouraging more thoughtful writers, a tool for thinking about writing through conversations that matter.


 The mission of Saginaw Valley State University’s Testing Center is to provide quality testing services to students that adhere to the National College Testing Association (NCTA) Professional Standards and Guidelines.


The Center for Academic Acheivement (CAA) is here to help students succeed in their college careers.


Colleges

College of Arts and Behavioral Sciences - We are SVSU and we are changing our local and global communities through the arts, humanities, and social sciences.


The Scott L. Cormona College of Business - We are SVSU, and we are innovative business leaders and entrepreneurs in the Great Lakes Bay Region and around the globe.


College of Education - We are SVSU, and we go beyond teaching the basics. We prepare our teachers to inspire students to be the leaders and thinkers of tomorrow.


College of Health & Human Services - We are SVSU, and we are healing the minds, hearts and bodies of people in our region and beyond.


College of Science, Engineering & Technology - We are SVSU. We question the obvious and seek to make the world better for the next generation.


Student Life

Student Organizations and Events - What's an RSO? RSOs are Registered Student Organizations that are formed with a common objective. The topics of the organizations are boundless. Some RSOs are focused on academic and professional pursuits, others concentrate on real-world issues such as service and volunteerism, and others are more social in nature and exist simply to meet every week and bond over their shared interests.


Here is a calendar of the events calendar here at SVSU.


SVSU offers monthly service projects and special events sponsored by the Volunteer Center. We have opportunities for one time or long term engagements with various organizations in Bay, Midland and Saginaw counties. Any student interested in performing community service should visit the Volunteer Center in the Student Center. 


Here you can find out about all of SVSU's Food and Dining information and options.


Residential Life/Housing - With modern facilities, exceptional dining options, and vast recreational opportunities, it is no surprise that when compared to other public universities, SVSU is ranked #1 IN THE NATION for the best college dorms among public universities and #1 IN MICHIGAN for the best college campus!


The Student Association serves as the voice of the student body, and it is their duty to serve the students at Saginaw Valley State University.


SVSU's Campus Recreation is committed to building a stronger student body by providing diverse and intentional recreational activities for the campus community. Our vision is to promote health awareness, sense of community and a lifelong appreciation for fitness and wellness.


Intramurals Sports are your go-to programs for the entire academic year at Saginaw Valley. Whether you're looking to continue playing a sport you played your entire life or looking to take on new sports, Intramurals hosts the level of competition you're looking for. All skill levels are welcome and there is a wide variety of leagues offered each year.


Here you can find all of the information about varsity athletics.


We are an on campus organization at SVSU streaming live here. We are a station made and run by the students for the students.


Jobs and Careers

The following pages contain numerous student resources that will help you develop as a career professional. You will find resume and cover letter templates that are crucial for making a good first impression on an employer. We also provide electronic versions of our Senior Newsletter and Career Guide, which contain a brief overview of how to prepare for life after SVSU and the services that Career Services provides to our graduates. You will also learn how to apply to our Co-op and Internship Program, how to create a LinkedIn account, steps to take if you're undecided and professional tips. 


The Office of Career Services' mission is to support both the economic vitality of the region and the professional development of our students and alumni by assisting in matching top-quality interns, co-op students and graduates with local organizations to meet the needs of the community. Career Services at SVSU is dedicated to providing the professional development resources to every student throughout their college career and beyond -- free of charge. 


The co-op and internship program at Saginaw Valley State University provides students with the opportunity to work for local businesses and receive real-world experience. 


Saginaw Valley State University’s Career Services office is excited to announce our transition to Handshake, a modern career services platform designed to connect students and employers to each other, events, and opportunities.


Health & Safety

The Campus Mental Health & Wellness Center is here to support the Saginaw Valley State University student body through counseling, groups, workshops and consultation services for faculty and staff.  College years can bring a great deal of excitement and transition.  Oftentimes, students experience new pressures and experiences, feeling uncertain, overwhelmed or down. Our staff members are licensed and experienced mental health professionals ready to help guide our students' wellness.  Please reach out -- we are here to help.


The University Health Center, located inside Saginaw Valley HealthCare, provides walk-in primary medical care, disease prevention, health education and various specialty services to SVSU students, faculty and staff, and the surrounding community.


SVSU Campus Recreation is committed to building a stronger student body by providing diverse and intentional recreational activities for the campus community. Our vision is to promote health awareness, sense of community and a lifelong appreciation for fitness and wellness.


SVSU's Wellness Programs goal is to empower students to lead healthy lifestyles through education-based programs.  We strive to promote health awareness for all individuals, generate a sense of community, and help create a lifelong appreciation for health & wellness.


The Ryder Center for Health and Physical Education is an athletics and recreational complex located on the campus of SVSU.



The SVSU Police Department is staff by certified police officers 24/7 and participates in a mutual aid agreement with other local law enforcement agencies serving to expedite assistance from these agencies should their services be required. 


Here you can register for alert notifications relating to SVSU.