Fitchburg State University is committed to the academic success of its students. Several programs are available to advise, assist, and support students to achieve their academic goals. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these programs throughout the academic year.
Academic Coaching and Tutoring Center
Overview of the ACT Center’s Services
The Academic Coaching and Tutoring (ACT) Center has many services to help students achieve excellence. Highly qualified and trained peer tutors offer free individual, small group, and walk-in tutoring, serving students in all majors. Professional Academic Coaches offer individualized, workshop-based, or in-class support for key student success skills, such as time management, motivation, and concentration. Peer mentors are fellow students who provide academic and social support. We promote a friendly, supportive, non-judgmental approach to success.
Our mission is to help increase your academic achievement, enhance your ability to learn, apply knowledge, develop study habits, become more self-directed learners, and build critical thinking skills.
Individual and Group Tutoring
The ACT Center has tutoring for courses in all majors and our Writing Center supports all stages of the writing process, including brainstorming, drafting (papers, presentations, projects, and more), revising, and interpreting faculty feedback.
Students can schedule a tutoring appointment on SSC (https://fitchburg.campus.eab.com/), come by 306 Hammond during drop-in hours (M-Th, 10am-7:30pm, F, 10am-4pm), or email tutorcenter@fitchburgstate.edu for help. To find an ongoing tutoring group, students can fill out a form on our website (https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/offices-services-directory/tutor-center/) and speak with our scheduler about finding a group that fits their schedule.
During the academic year, drop-in schedules are posted on our website: https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/offices-services-directory/tutor-center/tutor-center-walk-in-schedules/
Graduate Student and Professional Programs Tutoring
The ACT Center also offers writing tutoring specifically geared toward students in graduate and professional programs: https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/offices-services-directory/tutor-center/professional-online-writing-support/
Academic Coaching
Our Academic Coaches individualized, workshop-based, or in-class support for key student success skills, such as time management, motivation, and concentration. Students can schedule Academic Coaching appointments on SSC (https://fitchburg.campus.eab.com/) or email or email tutorcenter@fitchburgstate.edu for help.
Academic Success Seminars
Applying research-based college study methods save students time studying and maximizes their learning. Attending these one-hour seminars provides students with specific step-by-step strategies for academic success.
Peer Mentoring
Peer mentors are fellow students who provide academic and social support. In the fall semester, they attend class alongside new students enrolled in the First Year Experience seminars, and in the spring semester, they provide Academic Success Workshops to support a wide range of student success skills. Peer mentors lead a variety of activities throughout the year to help fellow students learn about campus resources, participate in campus social events, and develop effective study strategies.
Placement Test Center
The Placement Test Center administers the required placement tests in algebra, reading, writing and foreign languages for all new freshman and transfer students. Please visit the Web site at https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/offices-services-directory/tutor-center/placement-center/ for further information regarding waivers, test dates, test registration and test preparation resources.
Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness
The Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness (CDI) lays the foundation for Fitchburg State University to be a place that creates and nourishes a culturally diverse community by educating students, faculty and staff so that attitudes of racism, bigotry, hate, prejudice, and intolerance, on any level, are overcome. The center will provide the tools of understanding, sensitivity, and acceptance to diversity in its many varied forms. It is CDI’s charge to the Fitchburg State student and its community that they:
• Be exposed to cultural diversity
• Learn to be accepting of people and ideas not their own
• Acquire sensitivity & knowledge of cultural differences
• Develop techniques on how to best deal with diversity issues
• Advance personal skills and demonstrate competencies’ in understanding diversity.
The members of the Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness, in addition, will design, plan, and oversee the delivery of various programs such as Heritage Month Celebrations, multicultural education, and cultural activities designed to contribute to a positive campus culture of appreciation and respect for differences. The center advices active, diverse student organizations such as Black Student Union, Latin American Student Organization, World Integrated Nations African Student Association, Caribbean Student Association and Gay Straight Alliance on topics such a program planning, leadership development, heritage celebration, diversity, etc., including such multicultural events as Latin American Heritage Month, Black History Month, Native American Month, Woman’s History Month and Gay Pride Week.
The Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness, a division of Student Affairs, works diligently towards the goal of maintaining a truly diverse and engaged campus environment, where students feel comfortable, respected, appreciated and challenged. Anyone is welcomed to be a member of the Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness! The staff welcomes you to call them at (978) 665-3701 or visit the office on the G-Level of Hammond Room G04. Additional information can be found on our Web site www.fitchburgstate.edu/cdi/
TRIO SSS
TRIO SSS is a student support services program designed to promote the academic success of Fitchburg State University students who are income-eligible, families where neither parent has attained a baccalaureate degree, and/or students registered with the Disability Services Office. Funded by the federal government, TRIO SSS is part of the nationwide network of TRIO Programs, established more than 80 years ago, that have helped millions of students enter and graduate from university despite barriers due to race, ethnic background, socio-economic circumstances, or disability.
TRIO SSS at Fitchburg State University strives to create a smaller learning community within the larger campus community. TRIO SSS staff work with students to facilitate the adjustment to university and enhance their ability to attain their fullest academic potential. TRIO SSS offers a number of programs and services. Additionally, first-year students are paired with the TRIO SSS Student Support Squad, which consists of experienced students who are dedicated to guiding them through college.
To be eligible for TRIO SSS, a student must be a citizen or national of the United States or meet the residency requirement for federal financial assistance, be enrolled or accepted for enrollment at Fitchburg State University and have an academic need for services. In addition, students must:
- Meet federal low income guidelines
And/or
- Be a first generation college student (neither parent has achieved a baccalaureate degree)
And/or
- Be registered with Disability Services
For further information, or to be a participant in TRIO SSS, visit the office on the third floor of the Hammond Campus Center or call (978) 665-4613.The TRIO SSS application can be found at fitchburgstate.edu/triosss.
International Education Office
Fitchburg State University encourages a global perspective on campus by promoting programs for international students as well as for students who want to study in another country. Both types of students enrich the cultural and ethnic diversity of the university community. The Office of International Education benefits international students, those who wish to study in another country, and those who are interested in an on-campus international experience.
Services offered to international students include assistance with their transition to university, cultural awareness programs, and guidance when completing the necessary paperwork and communications with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Fitchburg State University encourages students to consider a semester or a year of study in another country as part of their educational experience. The university has established a number of study abroad programs with colleges and universities throughout the world. For specific information about international study possibilities, contact the Office of International Education, (978) 665-3089.
Disability Services
Hammond Campus Center, Suite 303
Hours Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Disability Services Office provides reasonable and appropriate accommodations for Fitchburg State students, allowing equal access to all university programs and services.
Disability Services provides eligible students with individually tailored support services, academic skill-building, reasonable accommodations and training in the use of adaptive technologies.
The primary objective of Disability Services is to empower students with disabilities to engage in all facets of Fitchburg State University’s academic, residential and student life.
Accommodations:
Some example of accommodations include:
Testing accommodations
(i.e, out of classroom testing and extended time testing)
Materials in alternate format (i.e., braille or electronic text)
Adaptive software and computer equipment
(i.e., text-to-speech, magnification)
Sign language interpreters
Reduced course load waiver (below 12 credits)
Residence Hall Accommodations
To be eligible for academic accommodations, qualified students must request services themselves and must provide appropriate documentation from a licensed provider to support the need for such services. Requests for accommodations must be made in a timely manner and must be reasonable for the specific disability.
For comprehensive information about obtaining accommodations, please contact the office at (978) 665-4020, via email at disabilityserviceslist@fitchburgstate.edu or visit the Web site at www.fitchburgstate.edu/disability.
Career Services and Advising Center
The Career Services and Advising Center aims to guide and support students as they navigate their academics at Fitchburg State University and discern a career path. Career advising services offered by our office are available to both students and recent alumni. The center’s staff provides a multitude of services, including:
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Handshake: Virtual Career Platform
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Career Advising
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Career Assessment
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Career Exploration
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Career Fairs
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Graduate School Support
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Internship/Job Search Support
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Major Exploration
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Mock Interviews
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Networking Opportunities
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On-Campus Recruiting
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Pre-Major Student Advising
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Transfer Student Advising
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Workshops
Academic and career advisors are available to support students in achieving their academic and career goals. Students can work with advisors as they see fit, whether it is an appointment to explore a change of major, or a series of appointments focused on career exploration. Advisors can help students get and stay on track for academic and career success. Advisors are available to meet with students in person or virtually by appointment Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The center is located on the third floor of Hammond Hall, Room 318. You may also contact the office at 978-665-3151.
Counseling Services
The Counseling Services Office provides confidential short-term counseling to students at no charge. Clinicians are available for individual, group and couples counseling, crisis intervention, educational programming, outreach workshops, and community referrals.
Counseling Services offers a variety of outreach programs to educate students in the areas of sexual assault and violence prevention, body image, stress and anger management, eating disorders, depression, and substance abuse.
The Counseling Services Office is located in Hammond Hall, Suite 317. The hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Appointments can be made by emailing counselingscheduler@fitchburgstate.edu or by calling the office at 978-665-3152. Students are strongly encouraged to schedule appointments in advance, however, the office does reserve a limited number of same-day urgent appointments from 2pm-4pm, daily. For more information, see www.fitchburgstate.edu/counseling. The Counseling Services Office provides 24-hour emergency response to the university during the regular academic year. The counselor-on-call can be reached through the University Police Department at (978) 665-3111.
Fitchburg Anti-Violence Education (FAVE)
Fitchburg Anti-Violence Education (FAVE) is a campus-wide initiative dedicated to preventing interpersonal and relationship violence, as well as sexual assault. In collaboration with other University departments and offices, FAVE seeks to create a safe and respectful community for all members by supporting those impacted by violence, providing educational programming and training opportunities, promoting victim/survivor services, and implementing awareness initiatives.
Emergency Funding Options
The University has the following options available for emergency funding:
- Emergency Small Loan Program. The Office of Student Affairs can provide loans, typically up to $150, to help students manage unexpected financial situations quickly. These loans are issued in the form of a check made payable to the student and are repaid through Student Accounts. Students have used these loans for purposes such as textbooks or online education materials, food during University breaks or other living expenses.
- Emergency Grants. The University has different types of emergency grants available to students, either funded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or by donations from Alumni and Friends of the University. These grants are designed to help students with expenses that are directly or indirectly related to their academics and do not require repayment. Students can contact the Office of Student Affairs for more information and the application process.
- Either process can be initiated through this form: https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/falcons-care
Student Health Services
Fitchburg State University has partnered with Community Health Connections (CHC), a highly respected, federally qualified health center that has two locations very close to our campus, to provide services to the campus community. Many of our students and employees already use one of their four locations in our area.
The ACTION Community Health Center is located close to our campus in Central Plaza at 130 Water Street (Market Basket plaza), where students can access a broad array of primary care services, behavioral health care services,* and dental care.
Click here to see a list of common questions and answers about the transition.
Medical services are provided from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The cost for accessing care will usually be determined by what type of insurance you have. For urgent care options, visit chcfhc.org/Urgent-Care.
- For students covered by most MassHealth, most of the services will be provided at no cost (students will be required to designate Community Health Connections as their primary care provider);
- For students enrolled in the University’s Blue Cross and Blue Shield student health insurance plan, the office visit copayment is $15; or
- Students under a parent’s plan should be aware that Community Health Connections participates with most insurance plans and the cost for medical visits and ancillary services will be determined by the insurance plan’s schedule of benefits.
Community Health Connections is committed to providing services regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. Access to the sliding fee discount program will allow for out of pocket costs to be as low as $15 for a primary care visit.
Fitchburg State will have a dedicated provider located at the ACTION Center with preferred appointment availability for our students. Students may also use a second location at 326 Nichols Road in Fitchburg, as well as health centers located in Gardner and Leominster. Students will be able to access additional services such as optometry and podiatry at these other locations.
The university will assist in transferring students’ medical records from Student Health Services to Community Health Connections once they have an established patient relationship. For students who may be uninsured or under-insured, Community Health Connections provides enrollment assistance to help find the right health insurance plan that fits your needs.
Students who do not wish to transfer their primary care physician to Community Health Connections may continue to access services at the three urgent care centers that are located close to our campus. Students who are on MassHealth should check the back of their insurance card to see if specific urgent care centers must be used or if there are any other restrictions.
Note that there is no special arrangement for access to care at those locations; out-of-pocket costs will be determined by individual insurance coverage.
Absences Due to Illness
It is the responsibility of students to contact their professors if they will miss classes because of illness. In the event of an extended absence, you are advised to contact the Office of Student Affairs. The Office will notify faculty with a request for excused absences and other flexibility, however the final decision will rest with each faculty member. Students are responsible for any content missed due to health related absences.
Student Health Insurance
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts mandates that all matriculated students enrolled in 9 or more undergraduate credits, must be covered by a health insurance plan comparable to the policy offered by Fitchburg State University or purchase the Fitchburg State University health insurance plan.
All eligible students will be billed for the health insurance plan provided by the university. If you have adequate insurance, a waiver form must be completed online each fall semester, available mid-June. If you are starting in the spring semester the waiver should be completed in December. In order to comply with state law, if a waiver is not completed you may be forced to enrolled in the plan and be responsible for the insurance charge.
Students enrolling in the university health insurance plan must complete an online enrollment request prior to the start of the semester. Students must be enrolled in a degree program and meet registration requirements to be eligible for enrollment.
Students who previously waived the university health insurance and then experience a qualifying event during the academic year may enroll in the student health insurance plan at a prorated charge based on the time of enrollment. Students need to contact Student Affairs within 30 days of the event to be eligible to enroll. Payment for the prorated charges is due in full at the time of enrollment.
Enrollment and waiver information may be found on the Student Health Insurance Page.
Immunization Requirements
The following immunizations are required by Massachusetts State Law: Immunization requirements apply to all full-time undergraduate and graduate students, all health science students, all students here on a visa and all residential students.
- Tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis (Tdap) Tdap needs to be within the last 10 years.
- Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) - 2 doses on or after first birthday. People born before 1957 are considered immune and are not required to have 2 doses. I am not sure we need this if students over 30 are exempt from the immunization requirement. If unable to document 2 doses, laboratory evidence of immune titers is required.
- Hepatitis B - 3 doses or 2 doses with the Heplisav-b vaccine. If unable to provide documentation, laboratory evidence of immune titer is required.
- Varicella Vaccine - 2 doses or documented proof of disease or laboratory evidence of immune titer.
- Meningococcal vaccine - “Required for students 21yrs and under. The vaccination must be given on or after the 16th birthday.”
- within 5 years (for newly entering residence students) or a signed Massachusetts waiver that acknowledges the risk but declines the immunization.
- Tuberculosis test performed in the USA is required if you answer “yes” to any of the three questions on the TB Risk Assessment Form. If the TB test is positive, a report of the chest x-ray is required.
- All Immunizations are due by the start of your first semester - July 15 for the fall; December 15 for the spring.
Fitchburg State University requires the following:
- TB test performed in the USA is required if you answer “yes” to any of the three questions on the TB Risk Assessment Form. If the TB test is positive, a report of the chest x-ray is required.
- All medical information is due by the start of your first semester - July 15 for the fall; December 15 for the spring.
Confidentiality
Health Services is legally and ethically obligated to protect the patient’s right to privacy. Student medical records are strictly confidential. All Fitchburg State University Health Services staff are required to sign a statement of adherence to confidentiality policies. No one other than Health Services staff has access to student medical records without a patient’s prior written permission. This restriction includes parents, faculty and staff or outside agencies. In life-threatening emergencies, only pertinent information will be released to appropriate parties.
If a student is younger than 18 years of age, any care that is sought or provided related to reproductive health is also a confidential matter and will not be disclosed to a parent unless Health Services has prior written permission from the student. In the event that a student reports abuse or there is suspected abuse the providers at Health Services are mandated to report the abuse to the Massachusetts Department of Social Services.
If a student wishes to have their records released to themselves or another facility, they must sign the medical release of records form that is available in Health Services.
Limited Exceptions
Certain communicable diseases need to be reported to the Department of Public Health and patients will be informed of this action prior to Health Services notifying the department.
University Police Department
The Fitchburg State University Police Department is located at 32 Clinton Street, directly across from the Athletics and Recreation Center. The department operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week utilizing vehicular, bicycle, and foot patrols.
Our mission is to reduce the incidence and fear of crime, to partner with the community to solve problems, to enhance public safety in a manner that is reasonable, unbiased, and transparent, to support students in their development and academic endeavors, and to be a collaborative resource for faculty, staff, and students.
The University Police Department strives to provide exemplary community-oriented policing services by creating partnerships and problem-solving strategies that promote the safety, security, and well-being of our community.
Safety Escorts
Between the hours of 8:00 pm and 1:00 am, our student security officers assist University Police Officers in providing safety escorts to and from any point on campus. In addition, our police officers will provide escorts outside of those times. Students are encouraged to take advantage of our escort program by calling our dispatch center at 978-665-3111.
Community members may also use our virtual safety escort service, though our personal safety mobile app, RAVE Guardian. Once downloaded to your mobile device, you can log into RAVE Guardian with your university credentials.
Emergency Call Boxes
Emergency call boxes with blue lights connect directly to the University Police Department and are strategically located throughout campus. When used, an officer will immediately be dispatched to that location.
Crime Prevention Programs and Presentations
The University Police Department provides several personal safety training programs for the university community, which include:
We also assign liaison officers to certain residence halls, groups, clubs, organizations, and departments.
Fitchburg State Alert (alert.fitchburgstate.edu)
Fitchburg State Alert the university to notify the campus of important announcements, such as local and regional emergencies, snow closures/delays, and faculty absences.
Fitchburg State Alert is set up to send notifications to student email accounts by default. Mobile phones, landlines, and additional email addresses must be entered by the user by visiting: alert.fitchburgstate.edu.
To opt in to receive university emergency notifications text FSUAlerts to 67283 or 2266787, or text STOP to un-enroll.
Motorist Assists
Dead batteries and keys locked in vehicles are events with which University Police can assist. Call (978) 665-3111 or use an emergency call box.
University Police Website
For additional information about the University Police Department, please visit the Website at www.fitchburgstate.edu/police.
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