Boston University Information

Tuition and Fees: Graduate Students
Housing
Graduate Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Loan Information
Employment
Registration
Sexual Harassment Policy
Administrative Policies Relating to Federal Guidelines
Student Activities
Resources and Services of Boston University

School of Music audition CDs and tapes should be sent directly to the School of Music, 855 Commonwealth Avenue, Room 244, Boston, MA 02215.

School of Visual Arts portfolios should be sent directly to the School of Visual Arts, 855 Commonwealth Avenue, Room 552, Boston, MA 02215.

School of Theatre Arts Technical Production and Design program portfolios should be sent directly to the School of Theatre Arts, 855 Commonwealth Avenue, Room 470, Boston, MA 02215.

To apply and for additional information visit the College of Fine Arts website.

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Tuition and Fees: Graduate Students

Tuition: $1,184 per credit.

Registration Fee: $40 per semester.

Graduate students in the College of Fine Arts pay tuition on a per-credit basis and are considered full time when enrolled in at least 7 credits per semester. The per-credit charge for 2009/2010 is $1,184 per credit.

School of Music students pay $592 per credit for applied music as well as an applied music fee of $1,650 for 14 one-hour lessons and $825 for 14 half-hour lessons.

Music education and art education courses held after 4 p.m. are charged at $592 per credit.

College of Fine Arts graduate students are charged tuition of approximately $15,000–$20,000, depending on the program of enrollment.

Medical Insurance

The 2009/2010 cost of the Boston University medical insurance plan for full-time students (U.S. citizens and international) is: Boston University Student Basic—$1,517; Boston University Student Plus—$2,067.

Massachusetts law requires all students carrying at least 75 percent of the full-time curriculum to be covered under a qualifying medical insurance plan. If the student does not wish to participate in the Boston University medical insurance plan, he or she must annually file a Medical Insurance Waiver form that certifies coverage under a comparable medical insurance plan. The Medical Insurance Waiver form should be returned to Student Accounting Services, 881 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215-1390.

Part-time students are also eligible to purchase Boston University medical insurance. For information, contact Student Accounting Services, 881 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215-1390.

The insurance premium is subject to change.

Other Expenses

The estimated cost of books and supplies is $940 per year. Approximately $1,772 to $3,994 should be allowed for incidental expenses, which vary with individual circumstances, such as transportation, laundry, clothing, recreation, and miscellaneous expenditures.

The following are other charges that may form part of the cost of attending Boston University:

Application for Admission: $75

Late Fee: A minimum late fee of $150 for full-time students and $75 for part-time students may be assessed to those students who complete their official registration during the late registration period.

Transcripts: To request an academic transcript of grades and coursework, a student should submit a Transcript Request form to the University Registrar’s office. Letter requests will be honored if they are signed and give complete information about attendance, including enrollment dates, college(s) of registration, and degree(s) earned. Official transcripts are mailed approximately two weeks after receipt of the request. The transcript fee is $5 per copy, and payment must accompany the request. For transcripts sent express mail, add $15 per address. The express mail charge is subject to change depending on the carrier used. Unofficial transcripts for student use may be obtained from the University Registrar’s office on a walk-in basis Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Replacement of Student Identification Cards $30

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Housing

Most graduate students choose to live in apartments off campus. There are offices at the University that will assist you in your search for housing. Off-Campus Services, located at 775 Commonwealth Avenue (617-353-3523), provides listings of available apartments in the area. You can also check for off-campus listings on the Boston University web page by selecting Orientation & Off-Campus Services.

Rental Property Management, located at 19 Deerfield Street (617-353-4101), offers University-owned apartments, most within a 5- to 10-minute walk to campus facilities.

Rental Property Management offers furnished and unfurnished apartments for full-time graduate students, faculty, and staff. Monthly rents start at: Rooms—$675 and up; studios—$1,150 and up; one-bedroom apartments—$1,275 and up; two-bedroom apartments—$1,900 and up. Most are inclusive of heat and hot water. For more information, contact Rental Property Management, 19 Deerfield Street, Boston, MA 02215; 617-353-4101, or visit Rental Property Management.

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Graduate Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Loan Information

The Graduate Financial Aid Office, at the College of Fine Arts, provides information on all sources of financial assistance. Inquiries may be addressed to 855 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215; 617-353-3350 or eburtt@bu.edu. A summary of aid granted, including scholarships, assistantships, work study, and loans, and methods of applying appears on our website.

The College of Fine Arts awards merit-based scholarships only. These awards, based on professional promise and program need, are given to a considerable number of graduate students. Awards can be merit-based scholarships for the School to which the student applied, Dean's scholarships, or named scholarship funds.

Loans

Unlike scholarships and grants, loans must be repaid. However, loans are an important source of funds for educational expenses and represent a sound investment in a student’s future. To keep loan indebtedness to a reasonable level that can be repaid after college, students are encouraged to earn as much as possible and keep expenses to a minimum. Because a loan must be repaid, students are urged to borrow no more than necessary.

Deferments and cancellations are available to recipients of Federal Perkins and Federal Direct Stafford Loans under certain conditions that vary by loan program. Conditions may include: teaching students from low-income families, other designated teaching, military and volunteer service, unemployment, and economic hardship. Additional information on deferment and cancellation provisions is included with entrance and exit counseling for federal loan borrowers and is available from the Financial Assistance office.

Federal Perkins Loan

The Federal Perkins Loan is a low-interest educational loan administered by Boston University. Available funds are provided by federal allocations, Boston University matching contributions, and the repayments of previous borrowers. Under current regulations, 5 percent annual interest and repayment obligations do not begin until after a nine-month grace period that begins when the student ceases to be enrolled at least half time. Repayment may be deferred during graduate study.

Federal Direct Stafford Loans

These loans are guaranteed by the federal government and are included in most financial aid packages.

There are two types of Stafford Loans: subsidized and unsubsidized. Federal regulations state that to qualify for a Stafford Loan, applicants must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for their eligibility to be determined. Students who demonstrate financial eligibility are eligible for a Subsidized Stafford Loan. Repayment on the subsidized loan begins six months after graduation or when the student ceases to be enrolled at least half time. No interest accrues to the student during college enrollment.

Unsubsidized Stafford Loans are available to students who do not demonstrate financial eligibility for the Subsidized Stafford Loan. Interest on an unsubsidized loan does accrue during periods of enrollment and deferment, but may be either paid or capitalized, i.e., added to the amount borrowed. Repayment of both principal and interest begins six months after graduation or when the student ceases to be enrolled at least half time.

Nearly all students are eligible for either a Subsidized or Unsubsidized Stafford Loan, regardless of family income, unless their total financial aid from all sources (including grants, scholarships, student loans, ­Federal Work-Study, tuition remission, etc.) fully meets the cost of attendance.

Students who do not receive a Stafford Loan as part of a financial aid award may contact the Financial Assistance office at finaid@ bu.edu or call 617-353-2965 to request a Stafford Loan.

Loan limits vary by grade level. Base amounts (either subsidized or unsubsidized or a combination of each) are as follows: $3,500 for freshmen, $4,500 for sophomores, $5,500 for juniors and seniors. Beyond the base amounts above, most undergraduates are eligible to borrow an additional $2,000 of unsubsidized Stafford Loan. The cumulative maximum for undergraduate study is $31,000, of which no more than $23,000 may be subsidized. Boston University will award one-half the annual amount for students enrolled for only one semester of an academic year.

Additional Unsubsidized Stafford Loans are available to some students. Independent students may be eligible to borrow an additional $6,000 as freshmen and sophomores and $7,000 as juniors and seniors. These loans may also be available to students whose parents fail to meet credit criteria for a Federal Direct PLUS loan. These additional borrowing limits are for the Unsubsidized Stafford Loan only and are in addition to the maximum annual Stafford Loan for each class year as stated above.

Any amount borrowed for summer enrollment may reduce the amount for which a student is eligible during the next academic year.

The interest rate for the subsidized loan is fixed at 6.0 percent for the life of the loan. The rate for the unsubsidized loan is fixed at 6.8 percent for the life of the loan.

An origination fee is partially offset by an up-front rebate. The net result is that the amount disbursed is less than the amount approved.

Federal regulations require that a debt counseling session be completed by all first-time borrowers before the disbursement of a Stafford Loan. The rights and responsibilities of borrowers are reviewed at this time. Students complete the entrance counseling requirement online at www.bu.edu/finaid. Similarly, before graduating, withdrawing, or taking a leave of absence from the University, borrowers must complete an exit counseling requirement and receive information about loan repayment and deferment provisions.

Monthly Budget Program

Educational expenses can be budgeted over a 10-month period using the TuitionPay monthly payment plan. Payment typically begins four months before the first day of classes. There is an application fee for the program. Applications and additional information may be obtained by contacting TuitionPay, 1-800-635-0120.

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Employment

Graduate Teaching Fellowships and Assistantships

Awards are available to students in all three Schools of the College of Fine Arts. These awards require work in academic areas, and payment may be applied toward tuition or received in monthly or weekly installments.

Federal Work-Study (FWS)

FWS is a program that promotes access to employment for students who demonstrate financial eligibility. Available funds are provided by a federal allocation and a University matching contribution. Recipients are selected by the Financial Assistance office and must meet federal need and other criteria. The Student Employment Office provides FWS information to eligible students about available jobs in University departments as well as off-campus nonprofit agencies. FWS allocations may be used for community service programs. Undergraduate students who participate in the FWS program are paid weekly at established hourly rates. Graduate FWS students may be paid either weekly at established hourly rates or monthly at a fixed amount, depending on the nature of the job. Job assignments, which average 9–12 hours per week, are coordinated with the ­student’s class schedule. Detailed information on FWS can be found at www.bu.edu/seo. Specific inquiries about the program should be directed to the Student Employment Office, Work-Study, 881 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215; 617-353-3596; or e-mail us at wsoffice@ bu.edu.

Student Job Service

The Student Job Service, offered through the Student Employment Office, will assist any currently enrolled degree student in finding part-time and summer work to help meet­ educational expenses. Hundreds of students find employment through student job service listings. Staff members are available to assist students with their job search and to provide information on the interview process. The majority of job openings are off campus in the Greater Boston community. The Student Employment Office also directs the Quickie Job service, which places hundreds of students in temporary assignments. “Quickie Jobs” range from housework and party help to participating in research projects and assisting at conventions. The Student Employment Office is located on the second floor at 881 Commonwealth Avenue and is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 617-353-3594.

More information on the services offered by the Student Employment Office can be found at www.bu.edu/seo. Job listings can be viewed using a BU web account password at www.bu.edu/studentlink.

Fellowship Information

Fulbright Grants for Research Abroad (fall of year prior to departure);

DAAD Annual Grant Program for study in Germany (fall of year prior to departure);

Luce Scholars Program to Asia (fall); The IWM Vienna Program (fall) is administered through the Office of the President.

Information about fellowships, scholarships, and grants is also available at the reference desk at Mugar Library and through your dean’s office. Students may obtain additional information by e-mail: bufellow@bu.edu.

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Registration

An officially registered student is one who is registered for classes and who has settled all charges with Student Accounting Services.

Candidates for admission to degree programs may not register until they receive a formal statement of acceptance. Students accepted to the University register according to instructions provided by their school or college.

Continuing students register for courses in October or November for the spring semester and March or April for the fall semester. Eligible continuing students may access WebReg on the Student Link (a Web-based system) to register for courses for the semester.

The student’s account is charged tuition and fees based on the student’s status and class selection. Students can view their student account and make payment online using the Student Link. Students may also give access to their student account details to their parents, guardian, or other third party by selecting the “Share-a-view” feature on the Student Link and following the instructions.

Official registration is complete when Student Accounting Services receives full payment. A late payment fee may be assessed to those students who do not complete official registration by August 13, 2009, for Fall 2009, and December 17, 2009, for Spring 2010.

Adding or Dropping a Course

To add or drop a course, eligible students may use WebReg on the Student Link or complete a Class Adjustment form, available from their school or college. Students should consult with their advisors before adding or dropping a course.

A standard course dropped during the first five weeks of classes will not appear on the student’s permanent record. A standard course dropped after the first five weeks of classes will appear on the student’s record as W, and the student will be charged for the course.

Standard courses may be dropped up to the end of the 10th week of classes. After that point, no course may be dropped. (See the Registrar's Office.)

Grades and Course Credits

The University uses a system of letter grades and grade honor point equivalents for evaluating coursework, as shown in the chart below. Individual schools and colleges, however, may place restrictions on the use of certain grades, such as Pass/Fail. Grades cannot be changed after a student has been made an official graduate.

Grade point averages are computed by dividing the number of grade honor points earned by the number of credits attempted. The following grade symbols are not given grade honor points, and work recorded with any of these symbols is not used in calculating grade point averages: J, P, W, AU, and MG. I grades are not computed until additional required work is fulfilled and an appropriate letter grade assigned. The grades and credits of all repeated courses are calculated in the GPA. J grades are not computed until the continuing course is completed; at that time, the grade and honor points will apply to both the J-graded and continuing courses.

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Incomplete Coursework

If for reasons acceptable to the instructor a student fails to take the final examination or to complete any other required work within a course, he or she receives the I grade. Within the time limit set by the individual school or college, the student must complete the course requirements. If the student does complete the course requirements, the I grade is replaced with the appropriate letter grade.

Auditing Courses

An auditor is a student who attends a class to acquire knowledge, but not to earn credits or a grade. Audited courses do not count toward completing degree requirements. An auditor may not change his or her status after the fifth week of classes for standard courses. Auditors must attend classes regularly, complete assigned reading, and participate in discussions, but they are excused from examinations.

Auditors are admitted to a course on a space-available basis and in accordance with the rules of the school or college offering the course. Auditors are subject to the full tuition and fees of the course.

Attendance

Students are expected to attend each class session unless they have a valid reason for being absent. Students may be required at any time to account for undue irregularity in attendance, either by personal explanation to their faculty advisor or dean or by written statement from a parent or another authority. Any student who has been excessively absent from a course may be required to withdraw from that course without credit. Students who expect to be absent from class for more than five days should notify their dean promptly.

Students absent from classes more than two days for illness should be under a doctor’s care. Students who are absent five days or more for illness should present to Student Health Services a certificate of fitness from their physician or be examined at the University Clinic.

Absence for Religious Reasons

According to Chapter 151C of the General Laws, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, any student in an educational or vocational training institution, other than a religious or denominational educational or vocational training institution, who is unable, because of his or her religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in any examination, study, or work requirements on a particular day, shall be excused from any such examination or study or work requirement, and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up such examination, study, or work requirement that may have been missed because of such absence on any particular day; provided, however, that such makeup examination or work shall not create an unreasonable burden upon such school. No fees of any kind shall be charged by the institution for making available to the said students such opportunity. No adverse or prejudicial effects shall result to students because of their availing themselves of the provisions of this section.

Transcripts

Current students may order transcripts online through the “Transcript Preview and Ordering” option on the Student Link; there is a $3 fee, payable by credit card, for each official transcript ordered online. In all other cases, requests for official transcripts must be made in writing, either by letter or by completing a Transcript Request form available online at the Office of the University Registrar. Please include the following information: full name, including any former names; signature; Boston University ID number or Social Security number; Schools attended and dates; degrees awarded; and complete addresses of transcript destinations. The fee is $5 for each transcript requested in writing, and payment must accompany the request. Processing time for transcript requests is about two business days. The Registrar’s Office does not accept faxed transcript requests. Transcripts can be sent by DHL for an additional $12 per destination to locations within the continental United States. For other destinations, please contact the Transcript Department for the cost. Unofficial transcripts can be obtained in person at the Registrar’s Office during regular business hours. There is no charge for unofficial transcripts. A valid photo ID is required to obtain unofficial and official transcripts if the request is made in person at the Registrar’s Office. Please note that the Registrar’s Office does not mail unofficial transcripts.

Classification of Students

A graduate student is one who has matriculated for an advanced degree and who holds the required undergraduate certificates as prescribed under the various programs of advanced study. CFA graduate students are considered full-time equivalents at 7 or more credits per semester. The term "special student" defines any student not enrolled in a degree program.

Withdrawal, Leave of Absence, and Reinstatement

Students who wish to withdraw from the University or take a leave of absence must submit their requests in writing; mere absence from class does not reduce financial obligations or guarantee that final grades will not be recorded. Undergraduate degree candidates submit their requests to the University Service Center; Metropolitan College part-time and non-degree students submit them to the Dean’s office of ­Metropolitan College or the University Registrar. All other students submit their requests to the Dean’s office in their school or college of enrollment. A withdrawal or leave of absence is effective on the day a signed request is received in the appropriate office; tuition and fees are canceled in accordance with the University’s refund schedule, which is published by the University Registrar and is available at www.bu.edu/reg.

Students who are voluntarily absent for one or more semesters without officially taking a leave of absence may jeopardize their privilege to return, and must contact their school or college at least eight weeks before the start of the semester to inquire about reinstatement. Students who, during their absence from the University, have enrolled as degree candidates at another institution must reapply through Admissions as transfer students. The individual schools and colleges may have additional stipulations regarding withdrawals and leaves of absence.

Students who have left the University for medical reasons may be required to provide a letter from a physician stating that they are able to return.

Academic Progress and Graduation

To obtain a bachelor’s degree, most students must have completed a minimum of 128 credits and 32 courses. As a guide for completing the four-year undergraduate program, students should keep in mind that sophomore status usually is attained by satisfactorily completing 32 credits of coursework; junior status, 64 credits; senior status, 96 credits. The number may vary depending on the college of enrollment.

The individual schools and colleges of the University have specific academic requirements and standards for determining satisfactory completio­n of a program of study (e.g., grades, concentrations, divisional studies).

To graduate, students must apply to their school or college by the deadline stipulated by the school or college.

Suspension or Dismissal

Boston University, through its various faculties and appropriate committees, reserves the right to suspend or dismiss any student for failure to maintain a satisfactory academic record, acceptable personal behavior, or satisfactory standards of health.

Copies of Boston University’s Code of Student Responsibilities are available from the Dean of Students, East Tower, George Sherman Union, 775 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215.

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Sexual Harassment Policy

Boston University is committed to the principle that no employee, student, or applicant for employment or admission should be subject to sexual harassment. The University strives to provide workplaces and learning environments that promote equal opportunity and are free from illegal discriminatory practices, including sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment is a violation of federal and state laws and University policy, as is retaliation against any individual who in good faith files a complaint of sexual harassment or cooperates in the investigation of such a complaint. Upon receipt of a complaint of sexual harassment or retaliation, Boston University will undertake a fair and thorough investigation, with due regard for the rights of all parties. Every reasonable effort will be made to protect the confidentiality of the parties during the investigation. After an investigation, any person who is found to have sexually harassed or retaliated against another will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination of employment and, if a student, expulsion from Boston University.

Definition of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is defined as sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and any other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature, whether intentional or unintentional, where:

• an individual's submission to or rejection of the conduct is made, either explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of employment or of status in a course, program or activity, or is used as a basis for an employment or academic decision; or,
• the conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work performance, academic performance, or educational experience, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or offensive working, educational or living environment.

Examples of Conduct Which May Constitute Sexual Harassment

It is not possible to list all circumstances that might constitute sexual harassment. In general, sexual harassment encompasses any sexually related conduct which causes others discomfort, embarrassment, or humiliation, and any harassing conduct, sexually related or otherwise, directed toward an individual because of that individual's sex. Such conduct is subject to this policy whenever it occurs in a context related to the employment or academic environments, or if it is imposed upon an individual by virtue of an employment or academic relationship.

A determination of whether conduct constitutes sexual harassment is dependent upon the totality of the circumstances, including the pervasiveness or severity of the conduct.

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination lists the following as examples of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment:

• Unwelcome sexual advances—whether they involve physical touching or not;
• Sexual epithets, jokes, written or oral references to sexual conduct, gossip regarding one's sex life; comment on an individual's body; comment about an individual's sexual activity, deficiencies, or prowess;
• Displaying sexually suggestive objects, pictures or cartoons;
• Unwelcome leering, whistling, brushing against the body, sexual gestures, or suggestive or insulting comments;
• Inquiries into one's sexual experiences; and
• Discussion of one's sexual activities.

In order to constitute sexual harassment, conduct must be unwelcome. Conduct is unwelcome when the person being harassed does not solicit or invite it and regards it as undesirable or offensive. The fact that a person may accept the conduct does not mean that he or she welcomes it.

As a university, Boston University, its employees and students also must be aware of the need for freedom of inquiry and openness of discussion in its educational and research programs, and must strive to create and maintain an atmosphere of intellectual seriousness and mutual tolerance in which these essential features of academic life can thrive. No university can or should guarantee that every idea expressed in its classrooms or laboratories will be inoffensive to all; pursued seriously, education and scholarship necessarily entail raising questions about received opinions and conventional interpretations. Boston University does guarantee, however, that credible accusations of inappropriate sexual remarks or actions will be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and fairly.

Complaints

If you have questions or concerns about sexual harassment, or if you wish to file a complaint of sexual harassment, you are strongly encouraged to contact immediately the appropriate office listed below:

Faculty, staff or applicants for employment: Contact the Equal Opportunity office, 25 Buick Street, 617-353-9286. Medical campus employees and applicants may also contact Medical Campus Human Resources office, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Suite 400, 617-638-4610.

Students: Contact the Dean of Students, 775 Commonwealth Avenue, 617-353-4126, or the Equal Opportunity office, 25 Buick Street, 617-353-9286. Students living in campus residences may also contact their local hall or area office.

Applicants for admission: Contact the Equal Opportunity office, 25 Buick Street, 617-353-9286.

Employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement: Specific provisions of the agreement may provide additional options for addressing a sexual harassment complaint.

Some of the schools and colleges at Boston University have also established their own procedures for handling issues of sexual harassment. Faculty, students and staff who are members of academic units may contact the office of their dean to determine whether to use these complaint procedures.

Nothing in this policy is intended to limit the authority of Boston University to take appropriate disciplinary action against any individual who violates University rules or policies, whether or not the conduct constitutes sexual harassment under law or University policy.

In addition to the above, you may file a formal complaint with the government agencies listed below:

Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination
One Ashburton Place, Room 601
Boston, Massachusetts 02108
617-994-6000

United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
John F. Kennedy Building
475 Government Center
Boston, Massachusetts 02203
800-669-4000

Office for Civil Rights
U.S. Department of Education
33 Arch Street, Suite 900
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
617-289-0111

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Administrative Policies Relating to Federal Guidelines

Veterans Information In cooperation with the Veterans Administration (VA), the University participates in numerous veterans benefits programs, including educational assistance, rehabilitation, deferred payment, and tutorial programs.

Any student who is eligible for veterans benefits or would like more information about VA rules and veterans programs should contact the Boston University University Registrar, 881 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215; 617-353-3678.

Information about students’ rights under FERPA and Boston University’s implementation of FERPA is set forth below.

Student Rights Under FERPA

In general, a student has the right to:

• inspect his or her education records;
  
• require that the University obtain his or her prior written consent before releasing personally identifiable information from education records;
  
• request that corrections be made to education records if the student believes the records are inaccurate or misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA
  

Definitions

A student is defined as one who is, or has been, officially registered, and who attends, or has attended, classes at Boston University.

With certain exceptions, education records are records relating to a student that are maintained by the University.

Personally identifiable information includes a student’s name, the name of the student’s parent or other family members, the address of the student or student’s family, or other information that would allow a student to be identified.

A dependent student is a student who meets the criteria of dependency as defined by Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

A parent means a parent of a student and includes a natural parent, a guardian, or an individual acting as a parent in the absence of a parent or guardian.

Directory information consists of the following items of information:

• Academic program (degree, major, minor)
  
• Dates of attendance, full-time/part-time status
  
• Degrees, honors, and awards received
  
• E-mail directory lookup
  
• Local address (If the University has only a home address in New England or New York, it is considered the local address) and BU directory phone number
  
• School or College
  

Privacy preferences

Unless restricted, Boston University may disclose any of the items of Directory Information without a student’s consent. Students may restrict the disclosure of any item of Directory Information by indicating this restriction on the Personal Page on the Student Link, (Personal tab, Data Restriction option). Students who have restricted their data will not be included in the yearbook unless arrangements are made with the Bostonia Office.

The right to restrict disclosure of Directory Information does not include the right to remain anonymous in class and may not be used to impede classroom communication.

Please Note: Even after graduation, privacy preferences remain in effect. As an example: If a student has restricted the disclosure of his or her degrees, honors, and awards, the Office of the University Registrar will not confirm degrees earned to prospective employers or any other party without the student’s permission.

Inspection of Educational Records

To inspect education records, a student should submit a written request identifying the records to be inspected to the appropriate University official using the Access Form. Students may obtain this form in the Office of the Dean of each school or college or in the Office of the University Registrar.

Written requests to access records will receive a response within a reasonable time, but not more than forty-five days after submission. A University official will arrange for access and will notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. The University may charge a fee for a copy of the education records requested.

If a student does not know the specific location of the record, the request may be filed with the Access Officer, Office of the University Registrar, Boston University, 881 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02215.

Information which a Student Does Not Have the Right to Inspect

A student does not have a right under FERPA to inspect information that is not an education record, such as:

• Medical Treatment records;
  
• Law enforcement records;
  
• Employment records (provided that employment is unrelated to student status);
  
• Records containing information about the individual that were created or received after he or she is no longer a student and that are not directly related to the student’s attendance at the University;
  
• Records of instructional, supervisory, and administrative personnel and educational personnel that are kept in the sole possession of the maker of the record and are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a temporary substitute for the maker of the record; and
  
• Peer-graded papers before they are collected and recorded by an instructor.
  

Note: A student may have rights to inspect such records under other laws.

In addition, a student does not have the right to access certain education records, such as:

• Confidential letters of recommendation, if the student has waived his or her right of access in writing;
  
• Financial records of the student’s parents;
  
• Admissions records for a student who does not officially attend the program of admission. If the student completed a course at the University but never officially attended as a degree candidate in the program of admission, then the student has FERPA rights with respect to that course but does not have rights with respect to the admissions records for that program;
  
• Records of a student that contain information on other students. The student may inspect, review, or be informed of only the specific information about that student.
  

Authorizing Another Person to Inspect or Receive Copies of Your Records

A current or former student who wishes to permit another person to inspect or receive copies of the student’s education records must provide a signed and dated written consent which must:

• Specify the records that may be disclosed;
  
• State the purpose of the disclosure;
  
• Identify the person or class of parties to whom the disclosure can be made.
  

When Disclosure is Permitted Without Prior Consent of the Student

In general, the University may not disclose personal information from a student’s education records without the student’s prior consent. However, the University, in compliance with the law, may disclose personal information without the student’s prior consent under these conditions:

A. To University officials, staff, and others engaged in activities on behalf of the University with a legitimate educational interest

The University discloses information to University officials, staff, and others whom the University has determined to have a legitimate educational interest. An individual has a legitimate educational interest if the individual needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities to the University. Such individuals include officers of the University, faculty, administrative staff, law enforcement and medical and legal personnel, and may include contractors, consultants and professionals engaged by the University where disclosure of the information is necessary for such individuals to fulfill their duties and responsibilities to the University. In addition, these individuals may include Boston University students, persons from outside the University, and volunteers, who are requested to serve on an authorized committee or board of the University (such as a disciplinary committee or the Board of Trustees) or to otherwise perform authorized tasks for the University.

B. The information has been designated as Directory information including:

• Academic program (degree, major, minor)
  
• Dates of attendance, full-time/part-time status
  
• Degrees, honors, and awards received
  
• E-mail directory lookup
  
• Local address (If the University has only a home address in New England or New York, it is considered the local address) and BU directory phone number
  
• School or College
  

C. In health or safety emergency situations

In the case of an emergency, the University discloses information from education records to the appropriate parties, including parents, if the University deems that knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health, safety, or well-being of the student or other individuals. Such disclosure may include any disciplinary action previously taken against the student for conduct that posed a significant risk to the safety and well-being of that student, other students, or members of the University community.

D. In compliance with a subpoena

The University will make a reasonable effort to notify the student of the subpoena before complying. However, in the case of a subpoena issued for law enforcement purposes or an ex parte order under the USA Patriot Act, the University is not required to notify the student of the existence or the contents of the subpoena, or of the information furnished in response to the subpoena, if the Court or other issuing agency has ordered that such information not be disclosed.

E. The information is a record of a campus disciplinary proceeding

Federal law requires the University to disclose to both the accuser and the accused student the outcome of all student disciplinary proceedings that involve a charge of sexual assault. In addition, the University may disclose the final results of student disciplinary proceedings regarding a crime of violence or a nonforcible sex offense in which a student has been found to have committed a violation of the University’s policies. Final results include name of the offender, violation, and any sanction imposed. The University can also inform parents about violations of the University’s drug and alcohol policy by a student under the age of 21.

F. To officials of other institutions or organizations

• To which the student seeks or intends to transfer or in which the student is already enrolled, provided the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer. The University has a policy of forwarding records to requesting institutions in these circumstances;
  
• In connection with the student’s placement or participation in internships, practica, affiliations or other programs related to the student’s courses or programs at the University;
  
• To which a student has applied for or from which he/she has received financial aid to support the student’s education, in cases where the information is related to (1) determining the eligibility for, amount of, or conditions of the aid, or (2) enforcing the terms and conditions of the aid.
  

In cases where the University has previously transmitted such information to another institution or organization in which the student has enrolled, has been placed, or has sought financial aid, the University may send corrected records if there are changes to the information previously sent.

G. To the parents of dependent students

In rare circumstances, the University may disclose information from a student’s records to the student’s parents without the student’s prior consent if the student meets the criteria of dependency as defined by the Internal Revenue Code. In cases of divorce or separation, when relying on dependency as the basis for communication, the University reserves the right to communicate with both parents unless provided with evidence that one parent’s rights have been legally revoked or otherwise limited.

H. To authorized representatives of certain government offices

The University will release information to authorized representatives of the U.S. Comptroller General’s Office, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Department of Education, and state and local educational authorities in connection with an audit or an evaluation of federal or state supported programs and to assure the enforcement of or compliance with federal or state legal requirements related to these programs.

I. In compliance with the Solomon Amendment

The University will release student information for the purposes of military recruiting to the Department of Defense.

The information released is limited to student name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, levels of education and degrees received, prior military experience, and the most recent educational institution attended unless restricted.

J. In response to complaints and legal actions involving the student and the University

If a student or parent initiates legal action or brings complaints against the University, the University may disclose education records relevant to the response to the complaint without a court order or subpoena. In addition, in the event that the University initiates legal action against a parent or student, the University may disclose education records relevant to the action without a court order or subpoena.

K. To authorized representatives of the state and local government

The University may disclose information to these authorized representatives if disclosure is allowed pursuant to a state statute concerning the juvenile justice system.

L. To accredited organizations

The University may release information to organizations that accredit colleges and universities for the purpose of assisting their accrediting functions.

M. To organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of the University

The University may disclose information to organizations seeking to improve education for or on behalf of the University (e.g., developing predictive tests or administering student aid programs).

N. In connection with notifications received under a state community notification program

The University will disclose information in connection with notifications received under a state community notification program about a student who is required to register as a sex offender.

O. To parties who provided or created a record

The University may send education records back to the creator or sender of such records for confirmation of the authenticity of the record (e.g., of a transcript or letter).

P. After removal of all personally identifiable information

If all personally identifiable information has been removed from a record and the University has made a reasonable determination that a student’s identity is not personally identifiable, the University may release information concerning a student.

Limitations of Redisclosures

Under FERPA, information disclosed by the University may be subject to restrictions against redisclosure.

Amending Educational Records

Students have the right to have their education records maintained accurately and may request amendment of records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. If the normal channels for amending education records within the University do not result in the desired corrections, students should submit a Request to Amend Education Records form to the designated records keeper. Such forms are available from the University Registrar’s Office. The University Access Officer will inform the student of the University’s decision concerning the requested amendment within forty-five (45) days from the date of receipt of the Amendment Form.

If the University decides not to amend the record as requested, it will (1) inform the student of the decision, (2) advise the student of his or her right to a hearing to challenge the content of the records on the grounds that the information contained in the record is (a) inaccurate or misleading (i.e., that the information in the records has been recorded incorrectly) or (b) violates the student’s rights under FERPA and (3) explain the procedures to request such a hearing. If, after the hearing, the University decides that the information contained in the record is not inaccurate or misleading, it will inform the student of the right to place a statement in the record commenting on the contested information or stating why the student disagrees with the University’s decision.

Note: The process of amending records or requesting hearings regards only information that has been recorded inaccurately or incorrectly or that violates the student’s rights under FERPA. It is not a process to appeal grades, disciplinary decisions, or other University decisions with which the student disagrees but which have been recorded accurately. Normal review and appeal channels must be utilized where the dispute is with the decision itself and not with the accuracy with which the decision or information has been recorded.

Complaint Procedure

A student has the right to file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office at the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. A complaint must be submitted to the Office within 180 days of the date of the alleged violation or of the date that the student knew or reasonably should have known of the alleged violation. The complaint must contain specific factual allegations giving reasonable cause to believe that a violation of the Act has occurred, and it should be forwarded to: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, S. W., Washington, DC 20202-4605.

Questions

Questions about the University’s policies and practices or about specific educational records should be addressed to the Access Officer, Office of the University Registrar, Boston University, 881 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02215.

Equal Opportunity Policy Boston University prohibits discrimination against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital, parental, or veteran status. This policy extends to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities, including admissions, financial assistance, employment, housing, athletics, and educational programs. Boston University recognizes that nondiscrimination does not ensure that equal opportunity is a reality. The University therefore will continue to take affirmative action to promote equal opportunity for all students, applicants, and employees. Inquiries regarding the application of this policy should be addressed to the Associate Vice President for Human Resources, 25 Buick Street, Boston, MA 02215; 617-353-4477.

Disability Accommodation Boston University provides reasonable accommodations to eligible individuals with disabilities in conformance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Requests for disability accommodations must be made in a timely fashion to Disability Services, 19 Deerfield Street, Boston, MA 02215; 617-353-3658 (Voice/TTY). Students seeking accommodations must submit appropriate medical documentation and comply with the policies and procedures of Disability Services.

Complaint Procedures in Cases of Alleged Unlawful Discrimination or Harassment

Boston University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ethnic origin, age, sex, disability, sexual orientation or other unlawful basis. The goal of the procedures outlined below is to ensure that non-discrimination is a reality at Boston University and that no person in the University community is subjected to such unlawful conduct. All members of the University community can assist in the furtherance of this goal by ensuring that complaints of discrimination are promptly directed to the departments or individuals who have been designated to receive them, in accordance with these procedures.

Any employee, student or applicant for employment or admission, who believes that he or she has been subjected to any form of unlawful discrimination may make a complaint. Unlawful discrimination includes sexual harassment as well as harassment based on an individual's membership in any other legally protected category. Boston University will conduct a fair and impartial investigation of all such complaints, with due regard for the rights of all parties. Retaliation against any individual who has made a complaint of discrimination, or who has cooperated in the investigation of such a complaint, is unlawful and in violation of Boston University policy. The purpose of these procedures is to ensure that all complaints of discrimination are thoroughly and fairly investigated by authorized University officials who have the necessary expertise.

Any complaint of discrimination should be referred to one of the schools, departments, or individuals who are responsible for receiving or investigating such complaints. Any employee who receives a complaint but who is not specifically designated to formally handle such a complaint is responsible for directing the complainant or otherwise referring the complaint to the appropriate individual. All complaints, either verbal or written, must be referred to the appropriate office, as set forth below.

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The process outlined in this section applies to all complaints of discrimination, except those brought by students on the basis of disability. Students who wish to file a complaint alleging discrimination based on disability should file with Disability Services, in accordance with the procedures set forth in the last section of this document.

An employee, student or applicant for employment or admission who believes that unlawful discrimination has occurred may initiate a complaint either by meeting with the appropriate individual in one of the offices listed below, or by submitting a written complaint to that individual or office. The information provided in the complaint should be as specific as possible regarding the circumstances that precipitated the complaint. The complaint should include the dates and places of the incidents at issue, the individuals involved, the names of any witnesses, any efforts to resolve the matter informally and their results, and any other pertinent information.

There are a variety of offices available to receive complaints from students, faculty, and staff who believe they have been subjected to unlawful discrimination.

Complaints by Students Students may initiate a complaint by speaking to the designated individual in the Dean's office of the student's school or college, by speaking to a representative in the Dean of Students' office, or by contacting the Equal Opportunity office.

Complaints by Members of the Faculty or Staff Faculty or Staff may initiate a complaint by contacting the Equal Opportunity office, or by contacting Human Resources. Employees in academic units may also initiate a complaint with the designated individual in the Dean's office. Employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement may have additional options under that agreement for addressing complaints.

Complaints from applicants for employment or admission, visitors, or other non-affiliated individuals may be initiated in the Equal Opportunity office.

Complaints from students, faculty or staff at off-site locations Any individual at an off-site location, such as Tyngsboro, Washington, D.C., overseas programs, etc., may bring a complaint to any of the above offices as appropriate, or to the on-site Director of the program.

The address and phone number for each of these offices is listed at the end of this document. Names of the designated individuals in the Dean's offices of the schools and colleges may be obtained from the Dean's office or the Equal Opportunity office.

Investigation and Resolution of Complaints The individuals and offices available to receive complaints, noted above, were selected to give all members of the University community the opportunity to initiate a complaint in a place in which they will feel comfortable doing so. These individuals and offices have the responsibility, after speaking with the complainant and/or reviewing a written complaint, to ensure that the complaint is directed to the proper office or individual for investigation.

Depending upon whether the individual accused of engaging in discrimination is a student, a member of the faculty, or a member of the staff, the investigation will be conducted by the designated office or individual with the appropriate expertise and jurisdiction to do so. The offices and individuals responsible for investigating complaints of discrimination are set forth below. In any particular case, the Provost or the Executive Vice President may designate which office or individual will investigate a complaint. The University will ensure that no person who is the subject of a complaint will be assigned to investigate that complaint. The Equal Opportunity office, if it is not conducting the investigation, and/or the General Counsel will provide advice or assistance to the investigation process.

The investigation may involve meeting with the parties, interviewing witnesses, requesting written statements from the parties, informing the person whose actions are the subject of the complaint of the allegations and/or providing to that person a copy of the complainant's statement, and/or making any other appropriate inquiries. Before any adverse determination is made, the individual whose actions are the subject of the complaint will be informed as to the nature of the complaint, and will have the opportunity to respond.

The investigation should be completed promptly so that a decision can be rendered within 45 days of receipt of the complaint. If this is not possible, the complainant will be informed of the status of the investigation within 45 days.

A confidential record of all complaints, including their disposition, will be maintained by the investigating unit. The Equal Opportunity office will be informed of, and maintain a confidential record of, the nature of all complaints of discrimination investigated by other units, the names of complaining parties and respondents, and the final disposition of all complaints.

Complaints Against Students The person who receives a complaint against a student will generally refer the matter for investigation to the Dean of Students' office, though if a school or college has an established internal process for investigation of complaints it receives against its students, the Dean of that school or college will decide if the complaint will be investigated in accordance with that process or by the Dean of Students' office. The investigating office will take any action that might be-appropriate based on the results of the investigation, consistent with the applicable provisions in the Code of Student Responsibilities or the disciplinary procedures of the school or college.

Complaints Against Faculty Members The person who receives a complaint against a member of the faculty will refer the matter to the Director of Equal Opportunity, who will inform the Dean of the faculty member's school or college. If the school or college has an established internal process for investigation of complaints against faculty, the Dean of that school or college will decide if the complaint will be investigated in accordance with that process or by the Director of Equal Opportunity in consultation with the Dean or the Dean's designee. If the complaint also involves academic matters such as grades, curriculum, etc., the investigator will ensure that those matters are addressed by the appropriate officials within the school or college. The Dean of the school or college will be informed of the findings of the investigation and will determine whether further action is appropriate. Any action involving faculty will be consistent with the procedures outlined in the Faculty Handbook.

Complaints Against Staff Members The person who receives a complaint against a member of the staff will refer the matter for investigation to the Director of Equal Opportunity, who will inform the appropriate Dean or administrative head and Human Resources. The complaint will generally be investigated by the Director of Equal Opportunity. The Director of Equal Opportunity (or other designated investigator) will provide findings, in writing, to the Dean or administrative head, who will determine what action, if any, is appropriate. Action involving staff will be consistent with any applicable collective bargaining agreement and University policies.

Confidentiality

Every reasonable effort will be made to protect the privacy and confidentiality of all parties during the investigation, consistent with and subject to the University's need to investigate the complaint and/or implement decisions made in order to resolve the complaint. It must be understood that in order to permit the University to carry out its obligation to investigate all complaints fairly, and to ensure that non-discrimination is a reality within the University community, no representative of the University is authorized to promise complete confidentiality to any person who possesses information relevant to the investigation of a complaint, including the complainant.

Any individual who requests confidentiality before disclosing a complaint must be informed that because any apparent violation of Boston University Policy must be addressed, complete confidentiality may not be possible. An individual who insists on confidentiality as a condition of disclosing a complaint may be advised of the opportunity to consult with one of the University's medical or mental health professionals, with whom such matters may be discussed in confidence. However, consulting with these professionals does not constitute the initiation of a complaint. Medical and mental health professionals are not representatives of the University for this purpose and are not authorized to investigate or respond to complaints of discrimination.

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Appeals

In the event that the complainant believes that the resolution of the complaint has not rectified the situation, an appeal may be made. The appeal should be filed with the Director of Equal Opportunity. In the case of complaints against students and staff members, the Director of Equal Opportunity will direct the appeal to the appropriate officer of the University for review and disposition. In the case of complaints against faculty, the Director of Equal Opportunity will consult with either the Dean of the school or college in which the faculty member is appointed (if the Dean did not make the decision being appealed) or the Provost to determine the appropriate officer of the University to whom the appeal should be directed.

An individual whose action(s) are the subject of a complaint may appeal adverse action taken as a result of the complaint. Students disciplined under the Code of Student Responsibilities should follow the appeal procedures outlined in that document. Faculty members should follow the procedures in the Faculty Handbook. Other employees should follow the grievance procedures outlined in the Personnel Policy Manual, or their collective bargaining agreement, whichever is appropriate.

These procedures shall constitute the grievance procedure mandated by the regulations implementing Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and, for employees, the grievance procedure mandated by the regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The procedure for student grievances under Section 504 is set forth in the Student Grievance Procedure In Cases of Alleged Disability Discrimination. The University's Director of Equal Opportunity, 25 Buick Street, 2nd Floor, tel. 617-353-9286, is the designated coordinator for complaints arising under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. The Director of Disability Services, tel. 617-353-3658, is the designated compliance officer for complaints arising under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Questions about the University's Complaint Procedures in Cases of Alleged Unlawful Discrimination or Harassment may be addressed to the Equal Opportunity office.

Exceptions to these procedures may be granted by the President, Provost, Executive Vice President, Medical Campus Provost, or the General Counsel.

Offices where complaints may be initiated:

Equal Opportunity
25 Buick St.
Boston, MA 02215
617-353-9286

Dean's office in the individual's school or college

Dean of Students
775 Commonwealth Ave.
Boston, MA 02215
617-353-4126

Human Resources, Charles River Campus
Employee Relations Representatives
25 Buick St., Boston, MA 02215
617-353-4044

Human Resources, Medical Campus
Director of Human Resources
Location: 801 Massachusetts Ave.
Suite 400, Boston, MA
Mailing Address:
715 Albany St., 560
Boston, MA 02118
617-638-4610

Student Grievance Procedure in Cases of Alleged Disability Discrimination

Boston University prohibits discrimination against any individual on the basis of physical or mental disability. This policy extends to all rights, privileges, programs and activities, including housing, employment, admissions, financial assistance, educational and athletic programs. It is also the policy of Boston University to provide reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities unless such accommodations would impose an undue burden or fundamental alteration to the program in question. The purpose of these procedures is to ensure that all complaints of discrimination based on disability are thoroughly and fairly investigated by the authorized units of the University. Boston University will conduct a fair and impartial investigation of all allegations of discrimination, with due regard for the rights of all parties. Retaliation against any individual who has filed a complaint of discrimination, or who has cooperated in the investigation of such a complaint, is unlawful and in violation of Boston University policy.

When a student believes that he or she has been discriminated against on the basis of disability, he or she may file, in writing a formal grievance with the Director of Disability Services, who is the University's compliance officer for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The statement should be as specific as possible regarding the actions(s) or inaction(s) that precipitated the grievance: date, place, persons involved, efforts made to settle the matter informally, and the remedy sought.

If a student with a grievance alleging disability discrimination is also employed by the University, and the grievance arises out of the student's employment, the grievance may be filed under the University's Complaint Procedures in Cases of Alleged Unlawful Discrimination or Harassment. If the Director of Disability Services receives a grievance which appears to allege disability discrimination arising out of a student's employment, the grievance may be referred to the appropriate office to be handled under the policy applicable to employees.

Where the grievance arises out of a decision made by Disability Services regarding a student's eligibility for academic or other accommodations, the grievance will be forwarded for investigation to the Provost. Grievances otherwise involving academic matters, for example, cases in which grades are disputed, will also be forwarded to the Provost, who will determine which office(s) should conduct the investigation. Otherwise, the Director of Disability Services shall investigate the matters set forth in the written grievance. In conducting this investigation, the investigator may forward a copy of the grievance statement to the persons whose actions (or inactions) are the subject of the grievance, and may request a written response from appropriate individuals in the University. The investigator may also choose to interview witnesses, to meet with concerned parties, to receive oral or written statements, and to make other appropriate inquiries.

After completing the investigation, the investigator will forward a copy of a report and recommendation to the appropriate University official. If the complaint arises out of an academic unit, the report will be forwarded to the dean of the appropriate school or college, unless he is the subject of the grievance. In such cases, the report will be sent to the Provost. If the complaint arises from a nonacademic unit, the report will be forwarded to the administrative head of the unit, unless he is the subject of the grievance. In such cases, the report will be forwarded to the Dean of Students, who will forward it to the appropriate officer of the University.

Within forty-five (45) days of the filing of the grievance, the Provost, dean, or administrative head will render a decision on the merits of the student's complaint. If resolution is not possible within forty-five (45) days, the Provost, dean, or administrative head shall inform the student of the status of the investigation.

Copies of the decision by the Provost, dean, or administrative head will be sent to the student, the Provost (when not issued by him), and the Director of Disability Services. A copy may also be sent to the department and/or the persons whose actions (or inactions) are the subject of the grievance, as appropriate.

In the event that the student is not satisfied with the resolution of the grievance, an appeal may be made. The appeal should be filed with Disability Services, who will direct the appeal and all appropriate records to the appropriate office of the University for review and disposition.

Copies of the decision will be maintained in the Office of the Provost and Disability Services.

These procedures shall constitute the grievance procedure mandated by regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Questions about the University's Student Grievance Procedures in Cases of Alleged Disability Discrimination should be addressed to Disability Services.

Exceptions to these procedures may be granted by the President, University Provost, Executive Vice President, Medical Campus Provost, or the General Counsel.

Student Retention Information

Statistics for the student retention rate at Boston University are available on request from Institutional Research, 25 Buick Street, in accordance with the Education Amendments of 1976, Section 493A.

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Student Activities

Boston University is dedicated to providing an unmatched climate for growth. Most of this development takes place in the classrooms, the libraries, and the laboratories, but Boston University is equally committed to supporting a complete environment for academic, physical, social, and spiritual learning. A few of these centers of activity are described below.

Recreation

Facilities and Programs The Department of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance offers a broad spectrum of programs, classes, and facilities to interested students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

Physical Education credit-courses, non-credit instruction, and Summer Term Recreation provide structured experiences in more than 100 activities in aquatics, climbing wall, court sports, dance, emergency medical response, fitness and weight training, group exercise, individual sports, martial arts, outdoor sports, rowing, sailing, skating, tennis, and yoga. The department also offers Family Recreation Programs and Summer Day Camps for children.

Through collaboration with the College of Fine Arts, the department offers a dance minor that is available to students enrolled in the College of Fine Arts, the School of Education, Sargent College, and the School of Management.

Intramural sports, club sports, special events, and open recreation provide opportunities involving different levels of participation and commitment. Students are encouraged to pursue fitness activities in formats that meet their interests, abilities, and schedules.

Boston University has one of the most advanced and comprehensive fitness facilities in the nation. The Fitness & Recreation Center is a 270,000-square-foot facility that provides world-class amenities and service to the entire Boston University community. The facility features an aquatics center with competition and recreation pools, a two-story cardiovascular fitness and weight training center, an indoor 1/8-mile elevated jogging track, a 35-foot-high rock climbing wall, a dance theater, seven multipurpose courts of gymnasia, racquetball and squash courts, access to individualized fitness and nutrition counseling with full-service sports medicine and rehabilitation services provided by trained professionals, a juice bar and lounge, seven multipurpose rooms for classes in dance, yoga, fencing, cardio fitness, and much, much more. The facility is used for credit and non-credit programming, Intramural and Club Sports, and recreational use. This state-of-the-art facility also serves as a venue for educational and community events, summer camps, conferences, workshops, and alumni functions.

Numerous other facilities offer opportunities for informal recreation. Sailing and kayaking docks are located on the Charles River. Rowing takes place out of the DeWolfe Boathouse on the Charles River. The Track & Tennis Center features an indoor track and indoor tennis courts. Walter Brown Arena hosts skating classes and programs.

For more information about the Department of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, stop by the Fitness & Recreation Center at 915 Commonwealth Avenue, call 617-353-2748, e-mail fitrec@bu.edu, or visit www.bu.edu/fitrec.

Student Union

George Sherman Union

The Boston University George Sherman Union (GSU), located at the center of campus, is headquarters for student programs and services. Located on the Lower Level is The Howard Thurman Center for intercultural programming and its lounge, the Orientation office, and the Terrier Card office. Also located here is BUCentral, the University’s late-night programming venue. Each weekend night, and most nights during the week, events are scheduled here, which are open to the entire University Community.

The GSU offers a variety of other services including a U.S. Post Office, several study lounges for group and quiet study, 
e-mail terminals, two banks, several dining areas, and the Union Information Center. The University Reservations office is located on the second floor. The office 
helps to secure space on campus for all 
non-academic programs.

The Educational Resource Center, located on the fourth floor, coordinates peer tutoring, workshops, language groups, and the writing center.

The University Community Service Center is also located on the fourth floor. Students are able to get information on all of the Service programs at the University and sign up for Alternative Spring Break programs.

For further information regarding these and other George Sherman Union events, visit 775 Commonwealth Avenue, or phone GSU Information at 617-353-5498.

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Bands

The BU Bands offer music making opportunities for all students of the University regardless of major or concentration of study. Over 400 students from all eleven undergraduate colleges participate in more than 12 different ensembles under the BU Band umbrella. These groups include: Marching Band, Pep Band, Winter Percussion Ensemble, Concert Band, All Campus Orchestra, Flute Ensemble, Big Band, Jazz Combo, Jazz Workshop, and Vocal Jazz. For more information regarding participation in any of these ensembles visit the BU Bands website at or contact the Band office at 617-358-BAND (2263).

Religion

Boston University recognizes that spiritual development is as vital to its community as academic, cultural, physical, and social development. The University actively sponsors a wide variety of programs and options to help facilitate that development. A few of these programs are outlined below. For a more comprehensive list of religious programs and denominations served on campus, please consult the Lifebook online at lifebook.

Marsh Chapel, in the heart of the Charles River Campus, 735 Commonwealth Avenue, offers programs of Christian worship, Bible study, pastoral counseling, music, and educational and outreach programs. An all-University service of worship is held each Sunday morning at 11 a.m. and is broadcast over WBUR-FM (90.9). Catholic masses are held at Marsh Chapel every Sunday when school is in session at 12:30 p.m., 6 p.m., and 10 p.m.

Marsh Chapel is generally open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Chapel office is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays. The Dean of the Chapel, Rev. Dr. Robert Allan Hill, and other campus ministers in the Marsh program are available daily. The Catholic Chaplain is Father Paul Helfrich. Feel free to contact them or obtain further information by calling Marsh Chapel at 617-353-3560, e-mail chapel@bu.edu, or visit the website at www.bu.edu/chapel.

The Florence & Chafetz Hillel House, BU Hillel’s building located at 213 Bay State Road, is the center for Jewish life at Boston University! Students, faculty, and staff are involved in the cultural, religious, educational, and social activities sponsored by Hillel throughout the year. Hillel’s state-of-the-art building, with beautiful views of the Charles River, is a 34,000-square-foot home that includes wireless internet connections, a coffee bar, an art gallery, TV lounges and study areas, three chapels, a game room, a large dining room, a library, and student offices.

Hillel is one of the largest student organizations on campus and has over 30 different interest groups, including Community Service groups, a theatre group, an art gallery committee, an a cappella group, the Holocaust Education Committee, Boston University Students for Israel, a graduate student group, a Latin American Jewish student group, an Israeli student group, sports groups, and more. Students plan and organize these interest groups and activities, including social events such as boat cruises, parties, dances, trips, movies, and more. All activities are open to everyone.

Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox Shabbat services are held every Friday night, as well as Shabbat morning services and a daily minyan. All Jewish holidays are celebrated. A wide variety of programs relating to Israel and contemporary moral issues take place weekly. Various mini-courses such as Jewish Thought, Basic Judaism, and Jewish Medical Ethics are taught throughout the year. In addition, counseling by the rabbis and the director of student activities is available.

Boston University maintains an award-winning kosher dining facility at Hillel, with lunch and dinner served Monday through Friday, and lunch on Saturday. For further information about kosher dining, call 617-353-2947. For further information about Hillel, call 617-353-7200 or visit the Hillel website. Make BU Hillel your home away from home!

The Catholic Center, at Newman House, 211 Bay State Road, is the office of Roman Catholic campus ministry for the Boston University community. Sunday liturgies are celebrated in Marsh Chapel at 12:30 p.m., 6 p.m., and 10 p.m. Daily liturgies are celebrated in the Catholic Center Chapel at 12:10 p.m. on Tuesdays–Fridays. (For mass times, when classes are not in session or during the summer, please check with the Catholic Center.) Many and varied spiritual, social, and service activities, as well as sacramental preparation programs are offered throughout the academic year for both undergraduate and graduate students. The Catholic University Chaplain is Fr. Paul Helfrich, BH. For further information call 617-353-3632, e-mail catholic@bu.edu, or visit the Catholic Center website.

Other Protestant Campus Ministries Individuals to contact and their phone numbers include: the Multidenominational Protestant Ministry, Dean, Rev. Dr. Robert Allan Hill, 617-353-3560; University Chaplain Br. Lawrence A.Whitney, 617-358-3392; the Episcopal Chaplain Rev. John de Beer, 617-277-5523; and the Lutheran Ministry, the Rev. Joanne Engquist, 617-876-3256. A number of Evangelical churches are also affiliated with the campus ministries. For general information or guidance relating to these or other religious groups at Boston University, call 617-353-3560.

Christian Orthodox Campus Ministry For information, please contact Orthodox Chaplain, Fr. Patrick Tishel at 617-787-7625.

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Published by Trustees of Boston University
One Silber Way
Boston, MA 02215

22 October 2009
Boston University
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