Nov 02, 2024  
2022-2023 Graduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Student Services and Support


 

Bookstore

Owned and operated by the University, the University Bookstore has locations in the Jack B. Kelley Center and  the Amarillo Center. The bookstore stocks all texts and supplies required for class work, as well as personal and specialty items such as WTAMU apparel and gifts. For more information, access the website at wtbookstore.com.

Buffalo Gold Card

Buffalo Gold Card is the ID card system at WTAMU. All students receive an ID card their first semester at the University. Buffalo Gold Card works in the following ways:

  • Photo identification
  • Virgil Henson Activities Center (VHAC) access card
  • Hastings Electronic Learning Center (HELC) access card
  • Library card
  • Copy card
  • Meal card
  • Access card to residence halls
  • Athletic privilege card-Each student receives one ticket to all athletic events (except playoffs)
  • Debit card for use on and off campus-BuffCASH
  • Utilized for class attendance
  • Buff Print access

For more information, access the website at buffalogoldcard.com or the MyBuffPortal.

Office of Career and Professional Development

The Office of Career and Professional Development is part of the Student Success Center located in the Classroom Center (CC 113) and is here to assist students with choosing majors and conducting career exploration as well as finding on- and off-campus part-time employment, internships and full-time jobs. We utilize a database called Handshake to connect students with potential employers.

Career and Professional Development offers job-search assistance, workshops on career topics such as resume development, interviewing, networking, and job-search strategies; mock interviews; on-campus interviews; and a variety of job fairs and networking events throughout the academic year.

In addition to job search assistance, Career and Professional Development provides guidance to students who need help choosing their major and assists students and alumni in developing and implementing career plans.

Learn more about all of these services by contacting the Office of Career and Professional Development at 806-651-2345 or by visiting our website at https://wtamu.edu/career.

Child Care

Kids Kollege, located in Virgil Henson Activities Center, Room 116, is a state-licensed child-care facility that serves the University and surrounding communities year round. Children between the ages of 18 months and 5 years are eligible to register. Kids Kollege provides classrooms for ages 18 months to 2 years, 2 years, 3 years and 4 to 5 years. Scheduling options are flexible, and discounted rates are available for University students.

For more information regarding availability and registration, contact Kids Kollege at 806-651-2974 or wtamu.edu/kidskollege.

Computer Labs

Multiple computer labs are located across campus, some to serve specific educational departments, and others available to all WTAMU students.

The Hastings Electronic Learning Center (HELC) is home to almost 300 computers that are available to all students; included in this facility is an open-access lab and multiple computerized classrooms containing both Windows and Apple state-of-the-art computers. The HELC is open seven days a week to meet the needs of the Univesity. Semester hours are posted at the entrance to the HELC and on digital signs across campus. A valid WTAMU ID is required to use the open access lab. Software available for use meets all University needs and includes current Windows and Apple operating systems, current Microsoft Office apps, as well as department-specific specialized software. Additional Windows and Mac computers are available for student and public use in the Cornette Library.

Department-specific computer labs are located conveniently across campus for academic programs in:

  • Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematics
  • Electrical Engineering, Communications
  • Computer Information and Decision Management (CIDM)
  • Sybil B. Harrington College of Fine Arts
    • Digital Media and Design
    • Audio suites for the WT radio station (KWTS)
    • Music Lab
    • Design Lab used by the Art, Theatre and Dance Department for stage production
    • Communications, Speech and Debate practice and tutoring
    • Speech and Debate
    • The Prairie (University newspaper)
  • Bivins Nursing Learning Center (BNLC)
  • Classroom Center
    • Testing Center
    • Writing Center
    • Science, English, and Math Tutoring Center
    • Student Disability Services Testing Center
  • Veterans Lounge

In addition, WT students in Amarillo enjoy a large computer lab at WT’s Amarillo Center in downtown Amarillo. The computers and services available there are similar to those available in the HELC.

Students’ printing needs are met using the cloud-based Buffprint system. Buffprint printers are located in most academic buildings. Students can also print on multiple high-capacity printers in the open-access lab in the Hastings Electronic Learning Center and the library. Each active student receives an abundant quantity of available prints for each semester’s printing needs.

Cornette Library

The Cornette Library was constructed on the campus of West Texas A&M University in 1974 and named after the third president of what was then West Texas State University, Dr. James P. Cornette, and his wife, Mary Elizabeth Cornette. The spacious 88,900 square-foot facility is located in the center of campus and as a facilitator of discovery, keeper of knowledge, and destination for study and reflection, offers students access to and use of private and public study spaces, computers, a coffee shop, and library resources, including nearly two million book titles in a variety of formats and over 150 databases. Cornette Library staff has as their mission to provide traditional and technology-rich academic resources and services and positive and successful library experiences that connect people at all academic levels with information and promote the development of information literacy skills. The library is also a federal depository for U.S. government documents and the home of the University Archives and the Texas Poets’ Corner.

Education Credit Union Buff $mart

Education Credit Union Buff $mart improves students’ understanding of financial literacy concepts and services, empowering students to make informed choices to improve their financial well-being. We provide money management workshops, classroom presentations, on-on-one peer financial coaching, outreach programs and online resources. Our services are for currently enrolled and prospective students and cover topics such as budgeting, understanding financial aid, credit management and money management after college.

Student Conduct

The student conduct process at West Texas A&M University is designed to hold students accountable for behavior deemed unacceptable, to educate students to make better choices and to provide students with due process, as defined by the law. The Student Handbook outlines community expectations and can be found online at (http://www.wtamu.edu/studenthandbook or hard copies are available in the Office of Student Enrollment, Engagement and Success, located in the Jack B. Kelley Student Center, Suite 102 or the Office of Title IX & Community Standards located in Old Sub 108.

Labs-Writing, Chemistry, Physics and Math

To aid in academic success, labs are available in writing, mathematics, chemistry and physics. Each lab is operated by its academic department and staffed with graduate assistants and upperclassmen who have excelled in their work. The Math Lab assists students enrolled in development-sophomore level math classes. The Writing Center serves as informed readers, providing assistance for specific challenges encountered by writers and promoting good writing across disciplines. In addition to proofreading for errors, The Writing Center can provide feedback and guidance. A combination of computer software, textbooks and one-on-one assistance is used to help students. Hours of operation vary each semester due to teaching and class schedules.

Labs and Locations

  • Chemistry & Physics Help Lab, Natural Sciences Building, Room 113.
  • Writing Center-Department of English and Modern Languages, Student Success Center, Classroom Center.
  • The Math Lab-College of Engineering, Classroom Center, Room 411.
  • Virtual Math Lab-wtamu.edu/mathlab.

Leadership Programs

Leadership skills are essential to career success and are skills that will last long after the college experience. West Texas A&M University offers multiple opportunities and programs to assist students in developing these critical skills.

The Student Leadership Relay (SLR) is a university-wide leadership track that allows students to build on their leadership potential each year. Students are allowed the opportunity to participate in leadership experiences, choosing programs based off areas of their interests, and these experiences are a step towards completing the SLR. The SLR is centered around four core objectives–Lean, Engage, Advance and Perform. Each year has a different objective and focuses on developing a different aspect of a student’s leadership potential.

Students can get credit towards their track in the SLR by getting involved with programs such as:

  • Emerging Student Leaders Academy, Part 1 and 2
  • New Professionals Academy
  • Peer Leading
  • Leadership Board
  • Student Government
  • National Society of Leadership and Success
  • BUFF Mentorship Program
  • Residential Assistant
  • Leadership Ski Retreat
  • Rogers LEAD WT
    *Plus many more

 

Students are invited to join Leadership Board, an organization devoted to promoting the value of leadership on campus. This goal is accomplished through numerous programs and retreats designed to encourage discussion and education about leadership principles. A leadership retreat is planned for each spring semester, with the spring retreat usually consisting of a snow-skiing trip.

For more information, call 806-651-2313 or see the website at wtamu.edu/leadership.

Medical Services

Students are covered for general primary outpatient medical care at the Office of Medical Services, located in Virgil Henson Activities Center, Suite 104. Medical Services is staffed with a board-certified family physician, two nurse practitioners, two registered nurses and a registered X-ray technician. The clinic is open Monday through Friday; appointments are required. There are minimal charges for lab, X-ray, pharmacy and minor procedures; however, there is no charge for office visits. Student Medical Services is filing insurance claims and students are encouraged to bring their insurance cards to each visit. Emergency care is available 24 hours a day to students at the student’s expense through Family Medicine Center of Canyon.

Student health insurance is available for students at a moderate cost. Information is available through the Office of Medical Services. For more information, access the website at wtamu.edu/medicalservices.

Parking

All vehicles parking on the main campus or at the Amarillo Center must have a temporary parking permit or a valid WTAMU parking permit for all parking areas. The parking regulations are in force at all times (year-round). A valid WTAMU permit allows an individual to park anywhere on campus that is not otherwise designated by a reserved parking sign, handicap parking spot, or fire lane. Temporary permits are available at the JBK Information Desk, Parking Services and after hours at UPD Dispatch. *Temporary permits will not be issued if you have an outstanding parking citation. Parking Services is located in the Old Student Union Building, and we are open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. If you have questions, please call (806)651-2309.

Permits are not transferable between assignees and may not be used by the purchaser on multiple vehicles. If you sell or purchase a new vehicle,simply remove the permit from your old vehicle and return it to Parking Services for a ten dollar transfer fee. *You can order a permit with a temporary license plate number. Once you have received you actual license plate, simply contact Parking Services and update your information.

Students have their initial parking permit paid for with their tuition and fees. Permits can be ordered by simply going to http://www.permitsales.net/WTAMU and using the student’s official WT email address. When placing an order, use the Student/Tuition Account drop down option for payment. The cost will then be $0.00, which is correct. You can then process the order and receive a temporary permit to print that will need to be placed on the front dashboard of your vehicle. Your parking permit will arrive by mail in seven to ten days. Please be sure the mailing address that you provide is where you want the permit to be mailed. If you do not receive a parking permit, please contact Parking Services at (806)651-2309. Additional parking permits are available for $40.00 per vehicle, but they cannot be ordered online. If you are a returning student, please be sure if you have any unpaid perking citations that those are taken care of. A new parking permit cannot be purchased until your account is clear. Parking permits are not required at the First United Bank Center (FUBC).

Police

The University Police Department (UPD) is a full-service police department dedicated to serving the needs of the University community. UPD is recognized with state accreditation through the Texas Police Chiefs Association Accreditation Program. Highly trained police officers investigate all offenses occurring on University property and have jurisdiction locally in both Randall and Potter counties. UPD officers are available to assist with any problem 24 hours a day, seven days a week. UPD officers and administrators are available upon request to present proactive programs relating to sexual assault, domestic/dating violence, stalking, self-defense, crime prevention and active shooter.

Students, faculty and staff members are required to register their vehicles and obtain a parking permit. Parking rules and regulations are made available in the online process or a copy may be received by visiting Parking Services. The Uniform Traffic Act is strictly enforced at WTAMU and blatant moving violations will be issued state citations and handled by courts.

UPD may be contacted 24 hours a day at 806-651-2300.

Post Office

The WTAMU Post Office is located in the area between the Jack B. Kelley Student Center Food Court and the University Bookstore. It is a full-service post office.

Student Counseling Services

Student Counseling Services is located in the Student Success Center of the Classroom Center, Suite 116. It is staffed with licensed mental-health professionals who are available for regular appointments as well as for crisis intervention sessions. Any student who is experiencing emotional difficulties, such as worry, anxiety, depressed mood, grief, relationship issues, or any other emotional problem, is eligible for 10 free counseling sessions per year. Career counseling is also available.

For more information, contact Student Counseling Services at 806-651-2340 or access the website at http://www.wtamu.edu/counseling.

Student Disability Services

Students with documented special needs or disabilities should contact the Office of Student Disability Services for assistance. Accommodations are determined on an individual basis. Accommodations provided may include:

  • Extended time on tests
  • Distraction-reduced environment for testing
  • Note-taking assistance
  • Oral Testing
  • Audio textbooks
  • Sign language interpreters
  • Physical arrangement to ensure classroom accessibility

For more information, contact the Office of Student Disability Services, located in the Student Success Center of the Classroom Center Room 106, at 806-651-2335 or wtamu.edu/disability.

Student Success Center

The Student Success Center is a one-stop, student-centered support community located on the first floor of the Classroom Center, just down the hall from the University Bookstore. Services and programs within the Student Success Center include:

  • Advising and Transfer Services, CC Room 110
  • Office of Career and Professional Development, CC Room 113
  • Testing and Tutoring Services (tutoring, testing, supplemental instruction, and study skills), CC Room 108E
  • Education Credit Union Buff $mart, CC Room 115D
  • Military and Veteran Services, CC Room 108K
  • Student Counseling Services, CC Room 116
  • Student Disability Services, CC Room 106
  • Study Abroad, CC Room 115A
  • Writing Center, CC Room 107

For more information, call 806-651-CARE (2273) or come by the “Hub” (front counter of the Student Success Center).

Educational Services

Educational Services is located in the Student Success Center (CC 108), or you may contact us at 806-651-2341 for more information on the following services:

Testing

Testing Services is responsible for coordination and administration of standardized tests. Registration materials for many standardized tests are available online for easy registration via our web page. Tests include ACT, CLEP, DANTES, GRE, LSAT, TSI Assessment, Residual ACT, Practice TExES, TExES and TOEFL. The Residual ACT is offered at the beginning of each semester to serve students who have not taken the examination or need to improve previous scores for admission purposes. Correspondence examinations are administered through the department for WTAMU students and students needing to take correspondence examinations from other universities. For all testing and registration information go to wtamu.edu/testing.

Tutoring-TAP

Tutoring is available free of charge through the Office of Educational Services. Tutors are generally juniors, seniors or graduate students who have demonstrated exceptional knowledge in their subject area. Pair, group, and some individual tutoring is available primarily in core curriculum courses. Placement with a tutor is not guaranteed, as placement is dependent upon tutor availability. We also provide Math, Science, and Accounting Tutoring Centers. To request a tutor or for tutoring center operating hours go to wtamu.edu/tutoring.

Supplemental Instruction-SI

Supplemental Instruction is an academic assistance program designed to increase student grades through the use of group study techniques. SI sessions are held for the following subject areas (but not limited to): Science, Agriculture, Engineering, and Math. Attendance at SI sessions is open to all students in the class but is strictly voluntary.

For the SI schedule go to wtamu.edu/si.

Military and Veteran Services

Military and Veteran Services provides services and programs that support the personal and academic successes of current and prospective student veterans, active military, and military dependents. A veterans administration (VA) certifying official is on staff to help complete and submit the educational benefits paperwork. 

Military and Veteran Services is available to veterans:

  • Help with application for either state (Hazlewood Exemption) or federal (GI Bill) benefits;
  • Help complete educational benefit paperwork and course certifications;
  • Review degree plans;
  • Issue referrals if needed;
  • Transition to the educational environment.

Veterans are eligible for priority registration.

Military and Veteran Services is located in the Student Success Center, Classroom Center, Suite 108, 806-651-4930 or by email at veteranbenefits@wtamu.edu.