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Student Academic Services

Two male students studying together
Academic Support Services

Student academic success at VCSU is our top priority. We offer services and spaces to enhance learning, and have professionals on staff to assist with any academic roadblocks and ensure your goals are met. Our academic support services help students from the time they enroll until graduation.

We are committed to helping each and every student succeed in their classes, activities, and other roles on campus. If you are finding it hard to balance your class load, are unsure which classes to take, or just need some general academic guidance, our Student Academic Services office is here to help.

Viking Learning Commons 

The Viking Learning Commons is a relaxed, student-focused atmosphere where students can:

  • Focus on personal study
  • Receive free tutoring
  • Join a study group
  • Fulfill required athletic study hours
  • And more

Staffed by knowledgeable professionals, educators, and student tutors, the Viking Learning Commons is a place where students feel comfortable asking questions and engaging in coursework. The Viking Learning Commons serves as the central hub for student support.

Testing Center 

The VCSU Testing Center offers testing services for students with disability accommodations, Accuplacer placement testing, and testing at the request of instructors in order to maximize class time for teaching. We also provide test proctoring for other institutions. The Testing Center is a quiet, distraction-free space that is monitored by proctors.

 

Student Support Services

Academic Advising at Valley City State University lies with the faculty in each department. Faculty members are the experts in their areas and are best-suited to guide students through the various nuances that may exist in each program. Advisors assist students in developing four-year program plans, assisting students with academic challenges they may face, and helping them register for classes each semester. Advisors also provide support for career planning, help students set up internships and practicums, and visit with students about their academic progress.

The Director for Student Academic Services is the academic advisor for students in the University Studies major and Undeclared students. The Director also provides advising support for any VCSU student that may want to change majors or academic advisors.

The Student Academic Services team supports academic advising by providing data and integrating services.

Kaleen Peterson
Director for Student Academic Services
kaleen.peterson@vcsu.edu
(701) 845-7302

Valley City State University provides reasonable accommodations, promotes an inclusive campus environment, and encourages student independence for our students with documented disabilities. We align our practices with federal law to help our students reach their goals no matter the obstacle. Examples of accommodations include:

  • Testing in a distraction-free environment
  • Extended time on testing and major assignments
  • Audio or alternative texts

Students who have met eligibility requirements (IEP, 504) in high school are encouraged to self-identify for Disability Support Services as soon as they get to campus. The process is simple, and students can choose to utilize services as needed throughout their time at VCSU. Students who did not meet disability eligibility requirements in high school may still qualify for accommodations under some circumstances.

Ann Dorman
Disability Support Services & Testing Coordinator
ann.dorman@vcsu.edu

VCSU Housing Accommodations Overview

Valley City State University utilizes Starfish, an innovative early-alert system that captures student performance and raises warning flags when students need academic support. Warning flags include attendance concerns, low grades, and in danger of failing. Student Academic Services staff collaborate with faculty to provide necessary and timely outreach services. Outreach services include academic coaching, tutoring, time-management guidance, and personalized monitoring.

Kaleen Peterson
Director for Student Academic Services
kaleen.peterson@vcsu.edu
(701) 845-7302

meet our staff