Student Handbook
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The information presented in the Student Handbook is correct to the best of the knowledge of the Dean of Students Office at the time of last editing and is presented in this format solely as a convenience to the student. It is the responsibility of the student to contact the individual office or department that hosts each policy or information piece to ensure that the policy or information is still current.
University of Louisville Resources - Alphabetical Order
Academic Advising at the University of Louisville is an on-going, intentional, educational partnership dedicated to student academic success. Your academic advisor will; give you accurate and complete information about your degree requirements; refer you to the appropriate source for the information you need to be a successful student; help you learn to make decision about your college experience; and help you investigate degree programs and careers and can be of assistance to you if you experience academic difficulty.
Students who have complaints, grievances, or concerns regarding courses or other academic matters at the University of Louisville should attempt to resolve the issue with the instructor, then the Department Chair before submitting a complaint. If the Department Chair does not adequately address the concern, a student may contact the Student Grievance Officer for assistance in resolving concerns in an expeditious, fair, and amicable manner. If you need to initiate the process, please contact the Dean of Students Office.
ADA Guidelines for Students with Disabilities
The Disability Resource Center (DRC) is your starting point for obtaining auxiliary aids and services or academic accommodations, or for requesting accessible university housing. The DRC website contains a wealth of information on UofL policies designed to further the university's ADA compliance and inclusivity.
The University fields an outstanding athletic program, providing intercollegiate competition in 21 athletic programs. Prices and schedules are available at the Ticket Office or online.
When weather conditions may affect operations, the University will announce any schedule changes—by 6 a.m. for morning classes and by 3 p.m. for evening classes (those starting at or after 4:15 p.m.). If the University remains on its normal schedule, no announcement will be made.
The BCM is a Christian organization providing opportunities for growth and fellowship. Everyone is invited to be involved in any program!
BRICC: Building Resiliency in Campus Community
BRICC, part of Campus Health Services, works with both campus and community partners to put evidence-based strategies into action. Their goal is to support every student—whether you choose to stay substance-free, want to make safer choices while using, or are in recovery—by creating a supportive, judgment-free environment across campus.
Our mission is to support and enhance students' educational experience by providing clinically excellent, affordable and confidential integrated medical, mental, health promotion and violence prevention services as well as specialized healthcare services to the general University community.
Need help finding your way around? UofL offers interactive and downloadable maps for all campuses, including buildings, and parking.
The Department of Recreation and Wellness provides a wide range of opportunities for students, faculty, staff, alumni and visiting staff to enhance their health and well-being in a judgement free zone. The Student Recreation Center (SRC), is located on the Belknap Campus, while the Health Services Campus downtown features the HSC Fitness Center. Both cardio and free weight areas, and group fitness studios.
In addition, Recreation and Wellness offers a variety of programs to support well-being, including intramural sports, personal training, outdoor recreation workshops and adventure trips, sport clubs, nutrition services, and resilience-building programs.
The University of Louisville campus store is located on the Belknap Campus. School supplies, greeting cards, convenience items, general reading, and reference books, study aids, exam materials such as Blue Books and Scantron Sheets, backpacks, school spirit gifts, and UofL merch and accessories are also available.
The Card is the official identification card for UofL students, faculty, and staff. The Cardinal Card is also used for entry into residence halls, facilities and classroom buildings, meal plan funds and on-campus dining, off-campus retail and dining, athletic tickets, library privileges, and gym/facilities, among many other uses.
The Cardinal Cupboard increases accessibility to food and health products to members of the Cardinal community that may be experiencing food insecurity and/or financial limitations. The pantry is open to all members of the Cardinal community (students, staff, and faculty). Resources are free to patrons when you show your valid Cardinal Card. Check the website for hours of operation and opportunities to donate and/or volunteer.
The University of Louisville features a student population with varied academic majors, interests and experiences. As you think about your future, we are here for you, regardless of the path you hope to travel. UofL has four separate career centers to assist you with your professional development, internships, co-ops, and full-time employment.
- The College of Business, Ulmer Career Center, located in Frazier Hall, assists undergraduate and graduate students in all business majors and minors with career counseling, internships, and job placement.
- The Speed School of Engineering, Office of Career Services and Cooperative Education, located in the Duthie Center. The office provides guidance on internships, required co-ops for the Bachelor of Science in Engineering, and career opportunities.
- The Brandeis School of Law, Office of Professional Development, students can access career planning, public service requirements, and post-graduate employment assistance at the Office of Professional Development in the Brandeis School of Law.
- The University Career Center located in the Houchens Building serves students in all the 12 other colleges. Students are offered career advising, workshops, and job search resources.
Each center is staffed by experts dedicated to providing tailored support to help you successfully transition from student to professional.
Center for Military-Connected Students
The Center serves as the institution's focal point for efforts supporting military-connected students. It creates a culture of trust and connectedness across the campus community to promote well-being and success for military-connected students. It connects military-connected students with campus and community resources, and it enables military-connected students to connect with each other.
Chalking is allowed only on open, horizontal sidewalks using light-colored chalk that can be removed by rain. Follow the link for the full policy.
The Code of Student Conduct is the University of Louisville's policy regarding non-academic misconduct for students and student organizations. Students have the responsibility to follow all regulations outlined in this policy and all other policies posted by the University.
Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities
The Code of Rights and Responsibilities aligns with and supports the Cardinal Principles. The Rights and Responsibilities is set forth in writing to provide students with general notice of their rights and responsibilities at the University of Louisville.
Volunteer opportunities are available through programs such as Alternative Service Break trips, Vote Everywhere, and MLK Day of Service, which are student-led by the Engage Lead Serve Board. Additional opportunities focused on civic engagement, community service and leadership can be found on Helper Helper. Request a Helper Helper account to search service opportunities and begin logging service hours by contacting adgill02@louisville.edu.
The University of Louisville Counseling Center provides short-term individual, group, and couples counseling, crisis intervention, and psychological testing (including LD/ADHD assessments). Most services are covered by student fees; psychological testing is provided for an additional fee on a sliding scale. Clinicians are licensed psychologists, social workers, therapists, and counselors; graduate trainees also provide services under supervision. Currently enrolled students are eligible for a triage at the Center.
The Dean of Students Office (DOS) fosters a culture of care, accountability, self-advocacy, and student development by upholding university standards, protecting student rights, encouraging collaboration, and providing support and referrals. DOS is responsible for maintaining the Code of Student Conduct, the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities, and providing students assistance with navigating barriers to matriculation.
Department of Theatre Arts/University Theatre
The Theatre Arts Department has two different venue spaces on campus. The Thrust Theatre located at 2314 South Floyd Street, and the Playhouse Theatre Located at 1911 South Third St. The Department of Theatre Arts Box Office is located in the Studio Arts Building, right in front of the Thrust Theatre.
The Digital Transformation Center (DTC) at the University of Louisville has a mission to promote and facilitate the adoption of technology-based practices, equipping the next generation of scholars with valuable workforce skills and preparing students for advanced college-level education and future job expectations.
Campus dining provides students, faculty, and staff with convenient access to a variety of on-campus food options, ranging from dining halls and cafés to grab-and-go spots. It aims to offer nutritious, affordable, and diverse meals to meet different tastes and dietary needs.
In recognition of disability as an important part of the diversity of our community, the Disability Resource Center fosters an inclusive campus climate through education, service, collaboration, and outreach to the University of Louisville community. We provide support for students with documented disabilities by promoting equal access to all programs and services. Students are encouraged to contact the Disability Resource Center to establish eligibility for services and to discuss specific accommodation needs.
Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989
The University of Louisville shares important information each year about our policies, guidelines, and resources related to alcohol and other drug (AOD) use. This helps ensure everyone stays informed and supported throughout their time here.
Engage Lead Serve Board (ELSB)
The Engage Lead Serve Board (ELSB) is the service branch of the Student Government Association. ELSB's mission is to foster an inclusive community that encourages individuals to evaluate their social location and role to society through compassionate service, activity community engagement and intentional leadership. ELSB is comprised of five committees focused on a variety of social issues and five programs (Service Programs, Vote Everywhere, Cards LEAD, Advance UofL, and the Commonwealth Credit Union Cardinal Cupboard).
Equal Employment Opportunity Policy update
The policy statement section of the Equal Opportunity Policy has been updated to comply with KRS 164.2895. The revised Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) statement below must replace any existing versions currently displayed on university websites, policies or other official materials. We ask that you review your department’s webpages and documents to ensure the updated language is implemented consistently across all platforms. Contact Employment at employment@louisville.edu for questions.
The University of Louisville is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. The university strives to provide equal employment opportunity on the basis of merit and without unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, sex, age, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, marital status or pregnancy. In accordance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Vietnam Era Veteran Readjustment Act of 1974, the university prohibits job discrimination of individuals with disabilities, Vietnam era veterans, qualified special disabled veterans, recently separated veterans and other protected veterans.
The university acknowledges its obligations to ensure affirmative steps are taken to ensure equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of the university that no employee or applicant for employment be subject to unlawful discrimination in terms of recruitment, hiring, promotion, contract, contract renewal, tenure, compensation, benefits and/or working conditions. No employee or applicant for employment is required to endorse or condemn a specific ideology, political viewpoint or social viewpoint to be eligible for hiring, contract renewal, tenure or promotion.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 affords students certain rights concerning their education records. Under FERPA, UofL students have the right: a) to inspect and review their education records; b) to seek to have their records amended; and c) to have some control over the disclosure of information from their records.
The Fort Knox Campus is part of the Center for Military-Connected Students. It serves as the institution's principal liaison with Fort Knox.
Nearly 1,500 undergraduate students are members of the 32 fraternities and sororities at the University of Louisville. Fraternity and sorority members develop leadership and organizational management skills, as well as life long friendships.
The mission of the Graduate School is to advocate and provide support for graduate education, graduate students and interdisciplinary programs, and to promote the advancement of knowledge through the teaching and training of post-baccalaureate students.
Hazing and Initiation Activities Policy
The University is dedicated to promoting a safe and healthy campus environment for its students, faculty, staff, and visitors. As such, the University does not tolerate hazing. As required by KRS 164.375, the University has adopted a policy prohibiting hazing activities that applies to the conduct of students, faculty and staff, as well as visitors, other licensees and invitees on campus.
Hazing is defined as:
Hazing. Engaging, encouraging, causing, coercing, or facilitating, by any student organization or by any individual on behalf of a student organization, or student group, or any student on behalf of a student group, or visitor within the University of Louisville community in any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally,
- endangers the mental health, physical health, or places another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm;
- creates an atmosphere of servitude;
- induces sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in small spaces, extreme calisthenics, or other similarly activity; involves dangerous, demeaning, or ridiculing activities;
- involves forced consumption of alcohol, liquid, food, drugs or other objects;
- induces another person to perform sexual acts; or
- induces another person to commit an act that is a criminal violation of local, state, or federal law.
For the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition of continued membership in, a student group or student organization. The express or implied consent of the individual will not be a defense.
Violation of this policy by any student or student group will subject the individual and/or student group to the Student Code of Conduct. University faculty or staff, are subject to disciplinary action under the provision of the Redbook. Violations of this policy are subject to referral to appropriate University, and law enforcement officials, as well as to regional and national affiliated offices, for action or prosecution.
Student Information Centers at the University of Louisville serve as convenient on-campus hubs where students can access campus maps, event details, departmental information, and answers to general questions. If you're calling U of L for information about telephone listings, campus telephone operators can help you 24 hours a day at 502-852-5555.
Information Technology Services
Information Technology Services (ITS) enables the academic, business, research and technology mission of the University of Louisville. We proactively support UofL's pursuit of excellence in teaching and learning, research and innovation, clinical and health care, and community and global engagement.
The University of Louisville respects the intellectual property rights of others and expects the same of the user community. Users must abide by applicable intellectual property laws and/or regulations, including but not exclusive to those pertaining to text, graphics art, art, photographs, music, software, movies and games. Users must refrain from actions or access which would violate the terms of licensing and nondisclosure agreements.
The Interfaith Center at the University of Louisville serves as a welcoming space for students of all faiths, spiritual traditions, and worldviews to gather, learn, and engage in dialogue. It hosts religious services, interfaith programs, and student organization meetings, fostering mutual respect, understanding, and community across campus.
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
ISSS, located on the second floor of Jouett Hall, promotes international students and scholar success through support, advising, and advocacy for international students. The office provides advice on immigration, cross-cultural, and personal matters, as well as fostering an inclusive environment through educational, social, and cross-cultural programming.
The Information Desk of the Student Activities Center (SAC) on the third floor in W310 serves as the main lost-and-found station in the SAC. Lost items will be stored in a locked space in W310 and disposed of at the end of each semester.
Meal plans are prepaid programs that provide students with access to campus dining facilities across campus. It offers a convenient and flexible way to enjoy a variety of dining options.
The Kentuckiana Metroversity Program is a consortium of eight colleges and universities in the Louisville, Kentucky metropolitan area, collaborating to expand educational opportunities for students, faculty, and staff. Metroversity is an option in Spring and Fall semesters only. The University reserves the right to limit participation in the Metroversity program.
The University of Louisville is dedicated to advancing knowledge, inspiring creativity, and serving our community. Guided by our commitment to academic excellence, equity, and inclusion, we prepare students to lead and make a positive impact locally and globally.
Off Campus Student Services provides services and support for off campus students at the University of Louisville. The Office of Student Involvement provides a friendly, supportive environment where students may come for information, advocacy, or a place to study or relax. Sign in to EngageUofL to connect to campus activities right away!
The Bursar's Office manages student accounts, including billing for tuition, fees, and other charges related to the cost of attendance. It oversees payments, refunds, and payment plans, and serves as the primary resource for questions about financial obligations and account holds. The office collaborates with campus departments to ensure accurate and timely processing of all student financial transactions.
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
The Admissions Office assists prospective students with the application process, evaluates their qualifications for admission, and provides information about programs, requirements, and campus opportunities to support informed enrollment decisions.
Parking and Transportation Services
Any motor vehicle parked on University property, other than in paid meter spaces and designated pay parking locations, must display a valid University of Louisville parking permit. The Parking Office issues parking permits, accepts parking fine payments, and provides a motorist assistance (MAP) program for minor vehicle problems such as flat tires, battery, and keys locked in vehicle. An evening campus mobility service (Cardinal Cruiser) is also provided to assist individuals to and from their vehicles.
PEACC: Prevention, Education, and Advocacy on Campus and in the Community
PEACC believes everyone has the right to live, learn and love free of violence and fear and every person in our campus community has a role to play in creating a learning culture where this is a reality. Toward that end, our mission to pursue excellent and inclusive service has two primary parts: First, we work to end power-based personal violence by providing the campus community with the tools and support to make that happen through the Green Dot bystander intervention training and outreach programming. Second, we advocate for anyone affected by sexual assault, partner violence and stalking on individual, organizational and public levels through our services.
Registered Student Organization (RSO)
The University of Louisville hosts over 400 student organizations covering a wide variety of student interests. These groups provide a wonderful opportunity to become involved in campus life and to connect with other students on campus.
Registered Student Organizations (RSO) Event Policy Guidelines
All RSOs and Councils are responsible for following the linked guidelines to help ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone during an event.
This office is responsible for registration, drop/add, class schedule information, Undergraduate catalog, academic records, official and unofficial transcripts, enrollment certifications and degree verifications, recording of grades, visiting student letters, and diplomas.
Resources for Academic Achievement (REACH)
REACH is the university's centralized academic support unit for undergraduate students. REACH conducts multiple services and programs from the Belknap Academic Classroom Building (BACB), Ekstrom Library, and the Academic & Leadership Center (JB Speed 107). REACH provides tutoring for a variety of 100, 200, and some 300 level courses. These academic support services and retention programs offer students the opportunity to better prepare and adapt to college life and to improve their academic skills and performance in college courses.
The University of Louisville offers both Air Force and Army ROTC programs, giving students the opportunity to combine their college education with world-class leadership training and career development.
College students are a vulnerable population for scammers. There are scams that have been created specifically to target the college population. Scammers want you to make decisions in a hurry, and they might even threaten you once they have your money. Before you give up your money or personal information to anyone, slow down, check out the story, do an online search, consult an expert, or discuss it with a family member or friend.
Student Activities Board (SAB)
The purpose of the SAB is to provide social, multicultural, recreational, and educational activities which are sensitive to and serve the needs of the entire campus and surrounding community, with an emphasis on the student body. Such activities include the Floyd Theater movies, comedy shows, daytime activities, concerts, and homecoming festivities.
Before accessing any of UofL’s online services, you must first activate your student accounts. Your UofL email is the primary way the University will communicate with you about important matters such as financial aid, campus housing, and course information from your professors. Through ULink, you can register for classes, view your financial aid and tuition balance, and more. Blackboard is the platform used for in-person and online courses, where you can access syllabi, grades, assignments, and other class materials. CardSmart allows you to find your academic advisor and schedule advising appointments; however, traditional first-time freshmen will not need to use CardSmart before attending freshman orientation.
The Financial Aid Office disburses over $300 million annually in grants, scholarships, Federal Work-Study, and loans to UofL students. General questions can be answered by the Call Center (502-852-5511), with counseling available by phone, walk-in, or appointment for more specialized assistance.
Student Government Association (SGA)
The Student Government Association (SGA) is the student governing body of the University of Louisville. SGA works to be a voice for fellow students on campus and in the Commonwealth. Our mission is to provide students with representation within the university structure.
Students interested in serving as a student leader should consider applying for organizations such as the Student Activities Board, Engage Lead Serve Board, Student Organization Advisory Board, or any of the over 400 student-led organizations. The focus of all these groups is to develop your skills and training for leadership, as well as assist other students in finding ways to get involved on campus.
Student Orientation Staff (SOS)
This staff is hired each year to help direct summer orientation programs for new students. They work with incoming freshmen in a variety of areas including small groups, academic advising and overall acclimation to the University.
The Student Success Center provides support to students throughout their academic journey. Its goal is to keep everyone on a path to graduation, even if the path takes a few turns along the way. The SSC includes peer mentoring, first- and second-year experience programming, and first-generation student support all aimed at promoting student success; academic advising and support to students who have not selected a major, are transitioning between majors, or who have not been admitted into their program of choice; and student success coordinators, who are available to help students overcome obstacles and complete the path to graduation.
Study Abroad and International Travel
The Office of Study Abroad and International Travel is located on the first floor of the International Center. The office provides support, resources, and services to the University of Louisville faculty, staff, and students who travel and study abroad.
Testing Services provides institutional, national, and professional level assessment services in a secure and comfortable, distraction-free testing environment. Our certified proctors administer Math, Reading and Latin placement exams, in-person and distance learning course make-up exams, CLEP (College Level Examination Program) exams, and hundreds of certification and licensure exams to students and community members.
The Louisville Cardinal is the independent student news source at the University of Louisville. It is now exclusively online. The Cardinal serves as an outlet for aspiring student journalists.
The Passport Place at UofL is located on the lower level of Jouett Hall. The Passport Place is authorized to accept Passport applications from eligible U.S. citizens on behalf of the Department of State.
Thorntons Academic Center of Excellence
The State-of-the-art Thornton Academic Center of Excellence houses academic operations and provides a central location for all student-athletes and academic staff, further assisting UofL student-athletes to excel in the classroom.
Title IX Student Sexual Misconduct Policy
The Student Sexual Misconduct Policy outlines options for a student who believes they may have been or currently is a victim of sexual misconduct by a student, university visitor or employee within the university community.
TRIO Student Support Services (SSS)
TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and the University of Louisville. TRIO SSS is committed to helping low-income, first-generation college students and students with disabilities achieve a bachelor’s degree.
University Administration and Deans
Our leadership team, including administrators and deans, is committed to excellence, innovation, and service. A full organizational chart is available to help you see how our leadership is structured.
University Housing and the Resident Experience
University Housing and the Resident Experience offers a community atmosphere that supports students as they successfully transition from high school to college and beyond. It is a place where everyone can belong and make life-long connections. Students are sure to find a home in one of our twelve residence halls or in our affiliated apartment properties.
The University of Louisville Libraries provide students, faculty, and staff with extensive academic resources, research support, and collaborative spaces. The system includes several specialized libraries:
- Ekstrom Library (main campus library and research hub),
- Kornhauser Health Sciences Library (health sciences and medical resources),
- Dwight Anderson Memorial Music Library (music collections and archives),
- Brandeis Law Library (legal research materials), and the
- Bridwell Art Library (art, design, and visual studies).
The libraries also house the University Archives and Special Collections, which preserve and provide access to rare books, historical documents, photographs, and other materials that document the university’s history and the cultural heritage of the region.
University of Louisville Police Department
The welfare of both people and property are the primary concerns of the University of Louisville Police Department (ULPD) and the Department of Public Safety. ULPD is the law enforcement agency within the University and seeks to educate the campus community regarding personal security and crime prevention, offering educational programs and safety materials. DPS offers complimentary safety escorts to any member of the UL community from sunset to sunrise every day of the year.
All mail and package services are handled by Canon, the University of Louisville’s print and mail services vendor, located in the Student Activities Center, Suite 119 West. Students should pick up mail directly from Canon. For packages, an email notification will be sent to your university account when they arrive. For details, visit the Canon website. Use the following address for all deliveries:
Hall Name
Student Name
2100 S. Floyd Street, Suite W119
Louisville, KY 40292
University Print Services powered by Canon
Printing Services at the University of Louisville provide students with access to printers, copiers, and scanners across campus, including in libraries, computer labs, and residence halls. Students can print from campus computers or send jobs from personal devices using the University’s wireless printing system, with charges applied to their printing accounts.
This policy applies to activities and/or events that take place on the outdoor areas of the University of Louisville campuses and that are sponsored by university community members, including registered student organizations, faculty, staff, students, and departments. This policy is intended to provide the university with sufficient notice of activities and events to be held on the university grounds, ensuring that the relevant community members are aware of appropriate university policies. The university can then prepare to support the activity or event, as appropriate.
The University of Louisville does not discriminate on the basis of an individual’s political or social viewpoint and promotes intellectual diversity within the University. No individual shall be required to endorse or condemn a specific ideology, political viewpoint, or social viewpoint to be eligible for hiring, contract renewal, tenure, promotion, admission, or graduation.
Nothing in this policy is intended to impede the members of the university community in the exercise of their rights to free speech and the provisions should be interpreted consistent with the Campus Free Speech Protection Act, KRS 164.348.
Deadly weapons are prohibited on any property owned, leased, operated or controlled by the University, including but not limited to the following: classrooms, laboratories, residence halls, clinics, office buildings, performance halls, museums, athletics and recreation facilities, parking lots and structures, University owned vehicles, and all outdoor areas of any campus of the University.