2009-2010 Undergraduate Academic Catalog | Expires Aug. 2016

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

Mission Statement

MISSION: The University creates opportunities for individuals to achieve intellectual and personal development through academic, professional, and cultural programs. By fostering an environment of inquiry and openness that respects the diversity of all whom it serves, the University prepares graduates whose leadership and expertise contribute to the advancement of a pluralistic society. The University serves as a cultural and intellectual center dedicated to the pursuit and propagation of knowledge.

VISION: The University will provide academic, professional, and cultural programs at the highest levels of quality and service; it will achieve national recognition for its programs of distinction. The University’s graduates shall distinguish themselves and their University through meritorious service, accomplishments, and leadership in the economic, cultural, and civic affairs of a diverse and global society. Through exemplary teaching, research, and engagement with the greater community, the University will also be the premier cultural and intellectual resource for the region’s schools, governments, businesses, and people.

—Adopted by the Board of Control on March 21, 2005.

The Purpose of the University

To provide a comprehensive array of baccalaureate degree programs and a select number of master’s degree programs.

• Baccalaureate degree programs are based upon a foundation in the liberal arts, the development of strong academic skills, and include studies in depth in one or more academic or professional disciplines.
• Master’s degree programs concentrate studies in fields that address the needs of the East-Central region of Michigan or take advantage of unique opportunities and particular strengths within the university. To strive for excellence in teaching, learning, research, service and creative endeavors, and to stand as an example in those regards.

To provide academic and support services that address the educational needs of a diverse student population that varies by gender, age, ability, experience, lifestyle, cultural background and economic circumstances. To represent and advance the ideals and values of higher education in a democratic society by:

• Pursuing and defending freedom of inquiry, thought and expression.
• Practicing and encouraging respect, integrity, civility, decency and fairness in human relationships.
• Promoting understanding among people and by people for their world.
• Maintaining an openness of opportunity for all people to reach their fullest personal and professional potential.

To contribute to the quality of life for the people of the region, state, and society by:

• Providing expertise, leadership, and other support in the development of ideas and strategies for addressing social, technological, and economic issues.
• Creating, sponsoring and hosting events and activities that help people understand and appreciate the varieties of human culture, art and accomplishment.
• Promoting responsible participation in a democratic society by people both within and outside of the university community.

—Adopted by the Board of Control on March 29, 1993.

Governing Board, Accreditations and Affiliations

Board of Control

Saginaw Valley State University is a public institution governed by a Board of Control appointed by the Governor of the State of Michigan. The eight members serve staggered eight-year terms. Current members are:

Accreditation
Saginaw Valley State University was accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association as a baccalaureate degree-granting institution in 1970. In 1980 the HLC/NCA continued this accreditation and granted accreditation at the master’s degree level. Both accreditations were renewed in 1986, 1994 and 2004. The business programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-AACSB International, the chemistry program by the American Chemical Society, the engineering programs by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, the education programs by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, the medical technology program by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists and American Medical Association, the nursing program by the National League for Nursing, the occupational therapy program by the American Occupational Therapy Association, the athletic training education program by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), and the social work program by the Council on Social Work Education.

Affiliations
Saginaw Valley State University is a member of:

• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-International Accreditation Council
• American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers
• American Association of State Colleges and Universities
• Council for Advancement and Support of Education
• Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Association
• Michigan Academy of Science, Arts and Letters
• Michigan Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers
• Michigan Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators
• National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators
• National Collegiate Athletic Association
• Presidents Council, State Universities of Michigan