Division of Student Affairs

Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs

The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs provides support and leadership for the offices of Campus Recreation and Wellness, Career Services, Counseling Services, Dean of Students, Health Services, Orientation and New Student Programs, Student Affairs at the Pearland campus, Student Advocacy, Student Diversity Equity and Inclusion, Student Housing and Residential Life, Student Involvement and Leadership, Student Publications and Veteran Services.

Campus Recreation and Wellness

The Department of Campus Recreation and Wellness serves the UHCL community through physical activity, educational programming, student engagement and overall well-being. Our core mission is to create educationally purposeful experiences through outstanding facilities, programs and services that inspire University of Houston-Clear Lake students and community towards lifelong healthy habits to improve their overall well-being. We want all Hawks to have a stronger sense of holistic well-being, which will improve your overall quality of life during and after your time at UHCL. We pride ourselves on providing an inclusive and safe space for all Hawks. Our vision is for all Hawks to soar in health and happiness during and after that time at UHCL.

The department is located in the Recreation and Wellness Center (RWC). The RWC houses 82,000 square feet of fitness, recreation and social spaces and is open seven days a week. The RWC has 10,000 square feet of fitness space, basketball and volleyball courts, a Multi-Activity Court (MAC) for indoor soccer and volleyball, badminton and table tennis, multi-purpose rooms and state-of-the-art fitness equipment. Study rooms and social spaces are located in the RWC lobby and on the academic wing of the facilities. The Hawk Energy Bar is in the lobby and has small food items as well as coffee and smoothie options during the fall and spring semesters.

All enrolled UHCL students are active members of the RWC and will have access to the facility at no additional cost. Memberships are available for non-students including faculty, staff, spouses, dependents and the greater UHCL community for a low monthly fee. All members have access to the RWC as well as all outdoor field spaces (Delta Field, Delta Tennis and basketball courts, the rec field). Fitness and recreational equipment and workout towels are available for checkout at no cost. For an additional fee, members can sign up for fitness programming (personal training packages, group fitness class semester pass, nutrition and dietetic services) as well as semester locker rentals, shower towel service and more. 

Campus Recreation and Wellness is the largest student employer on campus. We offer developmental opportunities for students interested in learning and growing their skills in fitness, customer service, management, marketing and more. Any interested students can contact campusrecreation@uhcl.edu for more information.

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Career Services

Career Services assists students in exploring, establishing and/or advancing their careers in their degree fields and provides support in securing jobs while enrolled at UHCL.

Career Services offers UHCL students:

• Vocational testing and assessment
• Career exploration resources
• Job search assistance
• Preparation for graduate school applications
• Mock interviews and resume critiques
• Resumé referrals with career services registration
• Online job listings
• On-campus recruiting
• Multiple job fairs and networking events

Individual assistance is available by appointment and during walk-in hours. All other services are available during regular office hours Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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Counseling Services

Connect • Empower • Thrive

The mission of UHCL Counseling Services is to help students fulfill their goals by fostering connections with and among members of the university community, facilitating the discovery and realization of power in their strengths and developing the ability to address emotional and psychological challenges.

The licensed professionals in Counseling Services provide a variety of free and confidential services including individual, couples and group therapy for a variety of personal concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, stress, family issues, substance abuse, grief/loss, trauma, body image, eating disorders, cultural and identity concerns and adjusting to UHCL.

Additional services include psychiatry, a 24/7 crisis line, the Mind Spa and biofeedback, outreach, consultation, support groups and presentations/workshops. Visit our website for self-help resources including instructions on how to log into WellTrack interactive self-help therapy, take a mental health screening or use relaxation exercises.

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Dean of Students

The Dean of Students Office (DOS) serves as the central hub for all on-campus, student-related issues.

When a student joins UHCL, they become part of a community that promotes civility, respect and ethical behavior toward everyone, in every situation. The Dean of Students Office strives to provide a safe and respectful educational environment that lends itself to learning by serving as an advocate and liaison for UHCL’s students, faculty, staff and parents.

The Dean of Students Office also provides referrals and support for students experiencing difficulties or in need of professional assistance. These issues include resolving concerns and conflicts; implementing student policies; and resolving disputes and disciplinary problems. Through the interpretation and facilitation of the Student Code of Conduct, the Dean of Students Office holds all students to the highest standards of honor, character and excellence.

We also offer the following support services to assist our students in achieving their academic and co-curricular objectives:

• Conflict Resolution
• Emergency Support Resources (Hawk Pantry, Hawk Emergency Grant, counseling referrals, assistance requests)
• Behavior and Conduct
• Parent and Family Resources

Student Travel Policy

The University of Houston System Travel Policy guides and directs all student travel. This policy, titled “Student Travel” (University of Houston System Administrative Memorandum - 03.E.08) is administered by the Office of the Dean of Students.

The purpose of the policy is stated as follows:

“This document outlines the policy to minimize risks of liability connected with travel by students of component universities. This policy applies to travel in excess of 25 miles that is undertaken by one or more students presently enrolled in a component university. Travel must be organized and sponsored by the component university and funded by the institution. The vehicles must be owned by the institution or an organization registered at the institution.”

Copies of the policy are available upon request at the Dean of Students’ office or online at the Dean of Students’ website.

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Division of Student Affairs at University of Houston-Clear Lake at Pearland

The Division of Student Affairs at University of Houston-Clear Lake at Pearland works in collaboration with its counterpart offices at the Clear Lake campus to coordinate services and programs that enhance the learning environment and contribute to the student’s academic and personal success. Pearland Student Affairs provides information, resources and services for the offices of Campus Recreation and Wellness, Career Services, Counseling Services, Dean of Students, Health Services, Orientation and New Student Programs, Student Advocacy, Student Diversity Equity and Inclusion, Student Housing and Residential Life, Student Involvement and Leadership, Student Publications, Veterans Services and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.

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Health Services

Licensed nurses, doctors and pharmacists provide a wide range of professional health care services to the UHCL student population. We are dedicated to promoting good health and providing short-term medical treatment to any student who becomes ill or injured.

Health Services includes both women’s health care and general medical clinics, complete laboratory services and a limited pharmacy. Students may receive flu shots, immunizations, TB screening and routine injections. Nurses are readily available to address any health questions or concerns. Nursing visits do not require appointments; however, we do ask that you call before entering the clinic. Health Services also provides prevention programs including screenings and health education. Physician examinations are also available by appointment.

Enrolled undergraduate students with six or more credit hours, or graduate students enrolled in three or more credit hours are eligible for student health insurance coverage within the posted open enrollment period. Literature detailing the approved student health insurance plan is available at the Health Services clinic and on the UHCL website page. International students are required to have health insurance, and are charged automatically at the beginning of each semester. International students may have this insurance requirement waived if documented proof of an appropriate, alternative health insurance plan is provided by the AHP Student Health Insurance Company online (see Health Services webpage for details).

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Office of Student Advocacy

The Office of Student Advocacy (OSA) offers advocacy and support to students experiencing life challenges that may affect their academic and personal goals. OSA provides students with the tools and guidance needed for self-advocacy, in addition to collaborative work with campus partners to help remove barriers to student success. OSA offers the Hawk Pantry and food access programs, support services for former foster youth/young adults, emergency assistance programs, guidance in the resolution of student complaints and grievances, notary services, and support for students experiencing academic challenges and personal hardships.

OSA Services

• Hawk Pantry & Food Access Programs - The Hawk Pantry provides free food (canned goods and non-perishables), toiletries, hygiene products, in addition to limited household/home essentials and school supplies. Food Access Programs include partnership events with local food banks and community agencies, and assistance applying for aid through community agencies.
• Former Foster Youth/Young Adult Support Services - UHCL’s foster care liaison provides advocacy and support to former foster youth/young adults in their transition into college, as well as support through graduation. OSA connects students with campus support services and resources from government and community agencies.
• Emergency Assistance Resources - Students facing personal or financial hardships may apply for emergency assistance programs through the Office of Student Advocacy. 
• Student Advocate - The student advocate provides guidance and support regarding student complaints and the process of filing a formal grievance.
• Notary Services - Notary services are provided free of charge to students. The student advocate is able to certify government, legal, travel, business, personal and most documents that require a notary seal.

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Orientation and New Student Programs

The Office of Orientation and New Student Programs facilitates orientation and transition programs to construct a bridge connecting new students to the resources and experiences needed to thrive in the university setting. Orientation and New Student Programs engages with the student population through intentional programming, ensuring students feel comfortable and welcomed at the University of Houston-Clear Lake.

Orientation is required for all undergraduate domestic and international students, incoming freshman and transfer students. These orientation programs are designed to help students make the most of their experience at UHCL. Orientation is provided prior to the start of the fall, spring and summer semesters. Students who fail to attend the entire required program will have an orientation hold placed on their accounts and will not be able to enroll in classes the following semester. 

Freshman Students - Lift-Off: New Student Orientation

Undergraduate, domestic students with 0-29 credit hours, or those attending college for the first time are required to participate in a two-step mandatory orientation process– attend a Registration Day and a New Student Orientation Lift-Off. At the Registration Day students will meet with their academic adviser team and register for classes. At Lift-Off students will explore the campus with a campus tour, engage with other incoming students in small group activities, learn campus resources and connect with faculty, staff, and other students.

International Students - New International Student Orientation

Undergraduate international students are required to participate in the mandatory New International Student Orientation (NISO) program. At NISO, students will join other international students and will receive valuable information to assist with their transition to UHCL and life in the United States. Additionally, students will be able to connect with their fellow students, learn from UHCL staff administrators, and understand what it means to be a UHCL Hawk.

Transfer Students - Transfer Student Orientation

Undergraduate students having 30 or more credit hours are required to participate in the mandatory Transfer Student Orientation (TSO) program. At TSO, students will receive a snapshot of UHCL resources, an overview of services and an understanding of academic policies. Students will also connect with their faculty members, fellow students and UHCL administrators.

New Student Programs

Orientation and New Student Programs also collaborates with different resources across campus to offer intentional activities that support student success. This on-going support is provided through a variety of transition programs including Welcome Back Bash, Weeks of Welcome, Global Buddies and much more.

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Student Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (SDEI)

The Student Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office (SDEI) team provides advocacy, guidance and support for underrepresented students to enhance their academic and personal success. SDEI strives to further the persistence and empowerment of our diverse student population, regardless of race, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, genetic information or sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, first-generation and all other historically underrepresented student populations. Through its educational programming and services, SDEI facilitates the growth of culturally responsible and conscious global citizens.

UHCL SDEI Signature Programs and Resources

• Cultural Resource Center - SDEI maintains a collection of periodicals, books, training manuals, newsletters, audiotapes and videos on a variety of cultural topics.
• First-Generation Student Resources and Programming - SDEI staff members provide support and resources to help first-generation students transition, adjust, and negotiate the campus environment, promoting successful academic and social experiences. Programming includes First-Gen Fridays, where students can participate in discussions, resource sharing, as well as hear from various presenters. 
• Identity and Heritage Celebrations - During the academic year we celebrate and honor various identity and heritage groups represented throughout the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL)community. While we understand the importance of the daily intersectional approach of our work, we believe these times provide us the opportunity to learn more about and honor the history/herstory, innovations, culture, diversity, challenges and triumphs of various identity groups.
• LGBTQ+ Resources and Programming - The UHCL is committed to providing an environment free from discrimination on the basis of sex and gender and aims to be an inclusive place for LGBTQ+ individuals. Various programs that highlight LGBTQ+ experiences include Pride Week and activities honoring days of recognition such as National Coming Out Day and Trans Day of Remembrance.
• Student Advocacy - Any student seeking general advice or assistance with concerns or problems, may request assistance from the SDEI staff. Staff members serve as an advisory resource to all individuals and groups of students, including underrepresented, first-generation, marginalized, international, LGBTQ+, and women populations.
• Women’s Resources and Programming - Because approximately 62% of the UHCL population identifies as female, there is a significant need to support our women student population. Programming for women includes increasing awareness of sexual assault, the contributions of women throughout their story; and, health issues including breast cancer and heart disease.

UHCL SDEI Training and Education -The SDEI Office offers training workshops including those that promote cultural competency for leaders, social justice awareness, allyship, and diversity, equity and inclusion. These trainings examine the meaning social identities hold for us as individuals, explore the dynamics of the difference as they relate to diversity and social justice, and focus on inclusion, diversity and multicultural issues prevalent in higher education. These training workshops provide participants with the tools needed to reduce barriers and create a more inclusive environment at UHCL. All workshops are open to UHCL faculty, staff and students.

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Student Housing

Hunter Residence Hall

Living on campus involves much more than just having a place to sleep. Student Housing and Residential Life provides a “home away from home” environment and experience that fosters academic excellence and personal development in an inclusive and engaged community.

We have recently expanded our student housing options with an exclusive traditional on-campus living community. Located in the heart of the UHCL campus, Hunter Residence Hall offers students a safe and secure (electronic swipe access) living and learning environment with 24-hour, on-site staff available to assist you. With nearby access to many campus resources including Bayou, SSCB, and the STEM and Classroom building, you are steps away from your classes and on-campus dining.

Hunter Residence Hall offers a variety of room and suite layouts, including private singles, semi-shared singles, and traditional doubles (with a roommate). Residents have access to a fully furnished room, comfy study lounges, a community kitchen, high-speed Wi-Fi, all-inclusive utilities, free printing, on-site laundry facilities (unlimited use) and an outside patio area. In everything we do, we strive to meet your needs as a student and whole person.

Professional staff and Resident Advisers (highly-trained student staff) live on site throughout the hall. Our staff is here to help assist you succeed both academically and socially. From offering hands-on guidance and valuable life skills to providing fun and engaging high-impact programs, our staff is here to serve challenge, and support you. We want you to find your place at UHCL.

We hope you will take advantage of this exclusive on-campus housing opportunity to live in a safe and inclusive community of your peers; learn more about yourself; and, engage with the campus community as a whole. Hunter Residence Hall is here to help you live, learn and stay engaged on campus.

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University Forest Apartments (UFA)

UFA is located adjacent to campus, just a short walk to classes and campus activities. UFA accommodates a community of 288 students, and offers apartment-style living with various private or semi-private floorplans. Each apartment has a full kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, dishwasher, stove and oven. The housing installment includes wireless internet, furniture (select floor plans), electricity allowance and water/sewer. Residents also have access to on site amenities such as a study room, clubhouse, barbeque pavilion and much more within the gated community.

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Student Involvement and Leadership

The Office of Student Involvement and Leadership provides programs and services designed to enrich and support educational experiences through opportunities to express ideas, develop leadership skills and meet new people. The department provides students with a variety of campus activities, community service experiences, civic engagement education, leadership development programs, as well as support for registered student organizations.  The department also provides direct oversight for the following organizations: Campus Activities Board, Hawk Spirit and Traditions Council, Hawks for Community, Student Government Association and The Mascot Program.

Student Organizations

There are over 100 registered student organizations at UHCL. These organizations represent a variety of academic areas, cultures, identities, as well as social and recreational interests of students at UHCL. 

Student Government Association

The Student Government Association (SGA) advocates on behalf of the UHCL students.  SGA provides registered student organizations with financial assistance, appoints students to university committees to ensure student representation, and conveys student concerns and initiatives to the university administration.

Campus Activities, Spirit and Traditions

There are a variety of events hosted by the Campus Activities Board and the Hawk Spirit and Traditions Council. These events include: Spirit Week, I HEART UHCL Day, Lighting of the Letters, our oldest campus tradition- the annual Chili Cook-Off, and more!

The Office of Student Involvement and Leadership also provides the following services:

• Flyer posting approval
• Space request assistance
• Student organization locker rentals

Leadership and Community Engagement

The Office of Student Involvement and Leadership encourages all students to develop their leadership skills, explore community service opportunities and enhance their civic engagement. Through our long-standing programs, including the Servant Leader Scholars Program, the Leadership Experience Development Series, the Big Event, and UHCL Cares Day, students can become the well-rounded leaders of tomorrow!    

Honor Societies

Honor societies at UHCL recognize a student’s academic excellence and achievement. The honor societies are affiliated with national organizations, where students are invited to become members based on the standards established by the chartering organization. Some societies recognize accomplishments within specific academic disciplines, while others recognize students from all academic disciplines.

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Student Publications

The student newspaper, The Signal, is a digital newspaper published through the joint efforts of a paid and volunteer student staff and the contributions of an engaged student, faculty and staff campus community. All UHCL students may join The Signal staff even without previous experience. The Signal is published year-round to provide news, features, entertainment and opinion pieces concerning university events and issues. The newspaper serves as a public forum and encourages students, faculty and staff to submit articles, essays, visuals, story ideas and comments.

The Signal has received numerous awards in state and national collegiate competitions from the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association, College Media Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and Associated Collegiate Press Association. The Signal can be read online at www.uhclthesignal.com, and submission guidelines are available at www.uhclthesignal.com/wordpress/contributorspage/. The Signal can be found on social media as @uhclthesignal.

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Veteran Services (Overview)

It is the mission of the Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Office of Veteran Services to help veterans and their dependents flourish in their higher education pursuits. We act as a liaison between the military-connected student, the school, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and the Texas Veterans Commission in order to ensure these goals are reached. Our staff members are committed to assisting veterans and their eligible dependents with federal or state education benefits gained through military service.

Military-connected students entering UHCL should contact the Capt. Wendell M. Wilson Office of Veteran Services immediately to establish their benefits in a timely manner. For one-on-one counseling regarding your benefits, contact us directly at vso@uhcl.edu or by phone at 281-283-3071.

Services include:

• Providing certification of enrollment for the following federal benefits: Post 9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, Reservist Educational Assistance, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program and Dependent Educational Assistance.
• Processing of Hazlewood Exemptions and Hazlewood Legacy Act.
• Determining eligibility for House Bill 269 (military service credit).
• Establishing residency for those who are receiving federal or state veteran education benefits.

For information regarding veteran services for undergraduate students, see Undergraduate Information -Veteran Services

For information regarding veteran services for graduate students, see Graduate Information - Veteran Service

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