Basic College Vocabulary

When you don’t know what you don’t know, it’s hard to know how to find what you need. We’ve put together a list of common college vocabulary words and terminology with the words you may hear around campus. Learn more about everything from admissions and orientation to registration and graduation.

Use the Sort Order column to see terms related to each other. Or, use the search bar below to look for a specific word. Explore related concepts and departments using the references included on the definition card.

Academic Advisor
A UVU staff member who guides students through the academic process, including course selection, registration, major selection, and graduation planning.
See also:First-Year Advising Center (FAC) Registration
academic_success
Academic Affairs
The office that oversees and manages academic programs and services at UVU.
academic_basics
Academic Calendar
The semester and deadline schedule UVU follows, including admissions deadlines, registration days, semester start dates, student breaks, and final exam schedules. Also known as the Schedule.
See also:Academic Year Semester
academic_basics
Academic Coaching and Educational Standards (ACES)
The office that upholds academic standards at UVU and supports students experiencing academic difficulty.
See also:Academic Dismissal Academic Standings
student_records_and_standards
Academic Standing
The academic status assigned to students at the end of each term they are enrolled based on their GPA and previous academic status.
See also:Academic Coaching and Educational Standards (ACES) Academic Suspension/Dismissal
student_records_and_standards
Academic Suspension/Dismissal
A period of time that a student cannot attend the university due to academic difficulties.
See also:Academic Coaching and Educational Standards (ACES) Academic Suspension Petition
student_records_and_standards
Academic Suspension Petition
A petition that students on Academic Suspension or Dismissal must submit and get approved before returning to their academic studies. Academic Suspension Tuitions are separate from the other petition forms to remove a hold or contest a grade.
See also:Petition Academic Coaching and Educational Standards (ACES) Academic Suspension/Dismissal Academic Standings
student_records_and_standards
Academic Year
The main period of teaching, also known as the school year. At UVU, the academic year is broken into three semesters: fall, spring, and summer.
See also:Academic Calendar, Academic Calendar Semester
higher_education_basics
Accessibility Services
The office that provides accommodations for students with permanent or temporary disabilities and other needs that impact their access to education.
See also:Accessible Technology Center Accommodations
uvu_programs_and_services
Accessible Technology Center
The office that provides technology, software, and alternative text formats for students with accommodations through Accessibility Services.
See also:Accessibility Services Accommodations
uvu_programs_and_services
Accommodations
Reasonable adjustments to a student’s academic experience that address barriers to education and ensure equal access. Examples of accommodations include more time to take tests, an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, and use of technology in class.
See also:Accessibility Services Accessible Technology Center
uvu_programs_and_services
Accuplacer Assessment
A placement exam that evaluates a student’s reading and writing knowledge and determines which English class best meets a student’s current knowledge.
See also:Proctored Exam Placement Test
academic_basics
Add/Drop Period
The period of time at the beginning of each semester when students can register or withdraw from classes without penalty.
See also:Registration Withdraw
classes_and_registration
Admissions
The office that recruits and helps students apply to UVU, provide university tours, adjust residency information, and navigate deferment.
higher_education_basics
Adult Learner
University students who are over 25 years old and have unique identifiers that impact their education access, including a military connection, being a parent or guardian, employed full time, and more. Also known as a nontraditional student.
student_types
Advanced Placement (AP) Classes
High school classes that offer rigorous, college-level classes and the opportunity to earn college credit by scoring well on AP exams. AP classes are separate from concurrent enrollment.
See also:Concurrent Enrollment
Advising
The ongoing process between a student and an academic advisor to set and reach academic goals, choose a major, and create a plan for graduation.
See also:Academic Advisor, First-Year Advising Center (FAC)
academic_success
ALEKS Placement Test
A proctored math exam that determines which math class best meets a student’s current knowledge.
See also:Proctored Exam Placement Test
academic_basics
Alumni
The collective group of past students of a university. Alumni is plural and refers to a group of both male and female graduates; “alumnus” means one male graduate and “alumna” means one female graduate.
See also:University
higher_education_basics
Associate Degree
A postsecondary degree awarded after an average of two years and requiring at least 60 semester credits to complete, depending on the program.
See also:Postsecondary Credit
degrees_and_programs
Asynchronous Learning
An online class structure in which students are not required to meet on specific days or times.
classes_and_registration
Athletics
The department that supports UVU’s sports teams, coordinates games, and hosts The Den, the official student fan organization for UVU Athletics.
campus_life_basics
Audit
An option for students to attend classes and participate in discussions without receiving a grade.
classes_and_registration
Bachelor’s Degree
A postsecondary degree awarded after an average of four years and requiring at least 120 semester credits to complete, depending on the program.
See also:Postsecondary Credit
degrees_and_programs
Block Classes
An accelerated class that takes half of a semester to complete for the same number of credits. Block classes are offered as “First Block” and “Second Block” courses.
See also:Semester Credit
classes_and_registration
Bursar’s Office
The office that oversees student tuition and fees. Also known as the Cashier’s Office.
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Campus
The location of a university’s buildings and facilities. UVU has multiple campuses in addition to Main Campus in Orem, Utah.
See also:Satellite Campus
higher_education_basics
Campus Connection
The department that covers student logistical services, including transit passes, UVID cards, the lost and found, campus signage, and more.
See also:UVID GreenBucks
uvu_programs_and_services
Canvas
A learning management system (LMS) where students access course materials, submit assignments, take quizzes, participate in class discussions, and more.
technology
CARE Hub
The UVU CARE Hub helps students access food, housing, health, and safety resources, along with other campus and community resources to help meet students’ foundational needs.
uvu_programs_and_services
Certificate
A shorter academic program that requires around 15-20 course credits or more, depending on the program. Offered as Certificates of Completion and Certificates of Proficiency.
See also:Credit
degrees_and_programs
Club
An extracurricular student group that brings together students with shared interests, hobbies, professional aspirations, and more.
See also:Extracurricular
campus_life_basics
Cohort
A group of students who begin school or a specific program at the same time and graduate together, i.e. “Class of 2025.”
higher_education_basics
Collections
The office that enforces tuition payment plans and helps students resolve their payment account balances and achieve financial stability.
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Colleges and Schools
Academic divisions within a university that group similar programs and departments together by field of study. For example, the Department of Mathematics is housed under the College of Science.
See also:College of Health and Public Service (CHPS) College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) College of Science (COS) School of Education (SOE) School of the Arts (SOA) Smith College of Engineering and Technology (CET) Woodbury School of Business (WSB)
disciplines_and_majors
College of Health and Public Service (CHPS)
The academic division that includes healthcare and public service departments, such as Nursing, Health Sciences, and Emergency Services.
See also:Colleges and Schools
disciplines_and_majors
College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS)
The academic division that includes humanities and liberal arts departments, such as Communication, English, Political Science, and Psychology.
See also:Colleges and Schools Humanities
disciplines_and_majors
College of Science (COS)
The academic division that includes STEM departments such as Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
See also:Colleges and Schools;Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
disciplines_and_majors
Commencement
The ceremony that celebrates graduating students. This ceremony is when students listen to speakers, including the president of the university.
See also:Graduation
higher_education_basics
Community College
A postsecondary institution that offers certificates, technical and vocational programs, and associate degree programs.
See also:Junior College
higher_education_basics
Community Leadership Program
A group of student leaders assigned to off-campus housing complexes to support the student experience. Community leaders live on-site or off-site depending on the program.
See also:Residential Community Leader Housing and Residence Life
Computer Lab
A space on campus with computers, software, printing, and other technology available to students.
See also:Printing
technology
Concentration or Emphasis
A more specific area of study within a program that allows students to focus on one specialized area of their field. For example, the English department offers Creative Writing, Literary Studies, and Writing Studies emphases.
See also:Major Discipline
disciplines_and_majors
Concurrent Enrollment
A program that allows high school students to take classes for credit with a specific university. Participating in concurrent enrollment creates a permanent college transcript. Concurrent enrollment is separate from Advanced Placement (AP) classes.
student_types
Continuing Education
A community education program that offers courses, trainings, and workshops for personal and professional development.
academic_success
Convocation
The ceremony that individually recognizes graduates as they walk across the stage to receive a diploma cover.
See also:Graduation
higher_education_basics
Core Requirements
The courses that provide the foundation of a degree program that are required for all students to complete.
See also:Course
academic_basics
Corequisite
A course that must be taken at the same time as another course, such as a biology lecture course and a biology lab.
See also:Course Prerequisite
classes_and_registration
Cost of Attendance
The total amount of money it costs to attend college for one year, including tuition, fees, textbooks, living expenses, and other indirect expenses.
See also:Financial Need Net Price Living Expenses
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Course
A class that is taught over the course of a semester or block. Courses offer between 1-5 credit hours that contribute towards your degree’s credit requirements.
See also:Course Load Credit
classes_and_registration
Course Catalog
The course catalog that includes information about individual courses and degree requirements.
See also:Colleges and Schools Major Graduation
classes_and_registration
Course Load
The number of courses or credit hours you take each semester. At UVU, 12 credits per semester is a full-time course load.
See also:Credit Full-Time Student Part-Time Student
classes_and_registration
Credit
A measurement unit indicating the amount of coursework for a class and overall program completion, often indicating the number of hours per week dedicated to attending class and completing homework. Also called credit hours and semester credits.
See also:Course
classes_and_registration
Credit for Prior Learning
A program that assesses and awards college credit for learning gained outside of a traditional academic environment.
See also:Registrar
Curriculum
The formal plan for students’ learning outcomes, both in individual classes and throughout their degree program.
academic_basics
Dean
A senior administrator who leads a specific college or school at a university.
See also:Colleges and Schools
higher_education_basics
Dean's List
A list of students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance during a semester. UVU’s Dean’s List recognizes students who complete 12 credit hours in any semester with a semester GPA of 3.6 or higher and a cumulative GPA over 2.0.
See also:Credit Course Load GPA Semester
Dean of Students
A senior administrator who oversees student-facing resources, programs, and initiatives that support student well-being.
campus_life_basics
Deferred Admission
The process in which students can be accepted into a university and begin classes later while holding their scholarship and other benefits. Students defer for reasons including humanitarian or religious missions, military service, and family responsibilities.
See also:Admissions
admissions
Degree
A diploma or title received from a college or university after completing a program of studies.
See also:Diploma Certificate Technical Degree Associate Degree Bachelor’s Degree Master’s Degree Doctorate (Ph.D.)
degrees_and_programs
Delegate
Another person who has been given permission by the student to access student records and speak with UVU employees on the student’s behalf.
See also:Student Records Student Information Release Authorization (SIRA)
student_records_and_standards
Delivery Method
The primary way a course is taught, including face-to-face classes, livestream classes, live interactive, or fully online.
See also:Face-to-Face Course Online Course Livestream Course Independent Study Hybrid Course
classes_and_registration
Department
The subdivision of a college or school that focuses on a certain field of study.
See also:Colleges and Schools
higher_education_basics
Diploma
The document that certifies the completion of a college or university degree.
See also:Degree
degrees_and_programs
Discipline
A field of study or work.
disciplines_and_majors
Doctorate (Ph.D.)
The highest academic degree that is awarded to students who complete graduate study beyond a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree.
See also:Degree Bachelor’s Degree Master’s Degree
degrees_and_programs
Dual Degree
The conferment of two separate degrees and diplomas to a student who has taken 30 credit hours beyond their original degree.
See also:Degree Credit
degrees_and_programs
Dual Major
A degree in which students earn one degree with two different majors when there is not a 30 credit hour difference between the two majors.
See also:Degree Credit Major
disciplines_and_majors
Electives
Courses that count towards credit for graduation but are not core requirements for your degree.
See also:Credit Core Requirements Degree
academic_basics
Engaged Learning
An education method that prepares students for professional careers through hands-on experiences in their discipline.
academic_basics
Enrollment
The process of registering for and attending classes at a university. Enrollment is separate from the college admissions process.
See also:Registration Admissions
admissions
Extracurricular Activities
Nonacademic activities at a university that take place outside of a course program.
campus_life_basics
Face-to-Face Course
A course delivery method when students attend classes in-person.
See also:Course Delivery Method
classes_and_registration
Faculty
Instructors who teach university and college classes. Faculty can include professors, associate and assistant professors, and instructors.
higher_education_basics
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
A federal law that protects student records and information and requires a student’s consent for a university to release that information to parents and family members.
See also:Student Education Records Student Information Release Authorization (SIRA)
student_records_and_standards
Finals
A final exam at the end of a course that includes all materials covered throughout the term. Some courses may require a final essay or project instead of an exam.
academic_basics
Financial Aid
A broad term for all of the monetary support a student receives for their education to pay for tuition, fees, and living expenses.
See also:Student Fees Tuition Living Expenses Scholarship Student Loans
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Financial Aid Offer
The types and amounts of financial aid that are available for you to accept. Also known as an award letter.
See also:Financial Aid Financial Need FAFSA Net Price
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Financial Need
The difference between a student’s total cost of attendance and the estimated amount the student and family are expected to contribute based on federal income formulas.
See also:Cost of Attendance Net Price FAFSA, Financial Aid
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
First-Generation Student
A student whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year bachelor’s degree within the United States. Often abbreviated to “first-gen.”
student_types
First-Year Advising Center (FAC)
The academic advising office that supports first-year students and helps students navigate campus, explore majors and programs, and settle into campus life.
See also:Academic Advisor, First-Year Experience
uvu_programs_and_services
First-Year Experience and Family Programs
The department that supports freshmen and first-year students throughout their first year at UVU by connecting students to resources and encouraging participation in campus life.
See also:Freshman/First-Year Student First-Year Advising Center Freshman Convocation Orientation
Four-Year Plan
A schedule created with your academic advisor that outlines every class you need to take each semester to graduate from a degree program within four years.
See also:Academic Advisor, Semester Course Load
academic_basics
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The free federal program that students use to apply for financial aid and determines how much aid a student is eligible to receive.
See also:Financial Aid Cost of Attendance
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Freshman Convocation
A celebration at the beginning of the school year for all first-year students and their families.
uvu_programs_and_services
Freshman/First-Year Student
A student who has earned 0-29 credits and is in their first year of college.
See also:Credit
student_types
Full-Time Student
A student taking a full course load each semester. At UVU, a full-time student is someone taking 12 credits or more.
See also:Course Load Credit
student_types
Fulton Library
UVU’s library that houses computers, the Writing Center, technology and book checkouts, and subject librarians to help students with research. The library website provides students access to academic databases for finding scholarly sources.
See also:Subject Librarian
uvu_programs_and_services
General Education Courses
A shared academic curriculum that provides all students with the foundational knowledge, skills, and abilities that are expanded on in their individual disciplines.
See also:Curriculum Discipline Major
academic_basics
Global/Intercultural (GI) Engagement Course
A class that includes discipline-specific global and intercultural education in its curriculum.
classes_and_registration
Grade Point Average (GPA)
A number that indicates your overall academic performance by averaging the grades a student receives for a given semester (semester GPA) or across their entire academic career (cumulative GPA).
academic_basics
Graduate School
A program or school for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree.
See also:Degree Graduate Student
higher_education_basics
Graduate Student
A student enrolled in a program or degree beyond a bachelor’s degree.
student_types
Graduation
The act of awarding a diploma by a college, school, or other educational institution. Graduation is separate from commencement.
See also:Diploma Commencement
higher_education_basics
Grant
A type of financial aid that is a gift of money that does not need to be repaid.
See also:Financial Aid Scholarship Loan
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
GreenBucks
A financial account attached to your UVID card that can be used for purchases at select UVU locations.
See also:UVID Campus Connection
uvu_programs_and_services
Handshake
An online recruiting platform where UVU students and graduates can search for jobs through organizations with relationships with UVU.
technology
Higher Education
Postsecondary education that occurs after a student graduates from a high school or secondary school.
higher_education_basics
Holds
An administrative pause that prevents students from registering for classes. This can occur due to academic performance, unpaid tuition, or unmet prerequisites for a course.
See also:Academic Coaching & Educational Standards (ACES) Academic Suspension/Dismissal
student_records_and_standards
Homecoming
A week of events to welcome alumni back to the university, celebrate school traditions, and support a school’s flagship athletics team. At UVU, homecoming occurs in February to support the men’s basketball team.
campus_life_basics
Honors Program
A specialized academic program with additional academic and professional requirements for students seeking a more rigorous, enriching college experience.
academic_basics
Housing and Residence Life
The office that helps students locate off-campus living arrangements.
campus_life_basics
Humanities
A group of academic disciplines that study human society, culture, and experiences.
disciplines_and_majors
Hybrid Course
A delivery method that includes both in-person classes and online learning and assignments.
See also:Delivery Method
classes_and_registration
In-State Tuition
The set tuition rate for students with established Utah residency.
See also:Residency Residency Designations
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Incomplete (Grade)
A grade assigned to students who are unable to complete a class within the standard time frame because of extenuating circumstances. Incomplete grades may negatively impact a student’s GPA and scholarship eligibility.
See also:GPA
academic_basics
Independent Study
An upper-division course offered in select disciplines for students who wish to pursue a relevant, well-defined project for academic credit.
See also:Upper Division Credit
classes_and_registration
Innovation Academy
The office that partners with external groups to provide engaged learning opportunities for students.
See also:Engaged Learning
uvu_programs_and_services
Instructor
The faculty member who teaches a course.
higher_education_basics
Integrated University
A higher education institution that operates as a community college and a university, with both two-year and four-year degrees.
See also:Community College, University Degree
higher_education_basics
International Student
A student studying at a college or university outside of their home country.
See also:International Student Services (ISS)
student_types
International Student Services (ISS)
The office that oversees International Admissions and connects international students to local resources, each other, and the university as a whole.
See also:International Student
uvu_programs_and_services
Internship
A temporary work position that provides hands-on, engaged learning experience and professional development.
See also:Engaged Learning
academic_success
Job Fair
A networking event where multiple employers from the community and different industries meet with students to pitch job opportunities, discuss career growth, and practice networking and interviewing skills.
academic_success
Jumpstart
An orientation program for first-time college students that sets students up to successfully navigate UVU campus.
See also:Orientation
uvu_programs_and_services
Junior
A student who has earned 60-89 credits and is usually in their third year of college.
See also:Credit
student_types
Junior College
A higher education institution that offers associate degree programs, certificates, and technical programs.
See also:Community College
higher_education_basics
Lab
A corequisite or standalone course where students learn about their discipline through hands-on work, usually in scientific disciplines.
See also:Corequisite; Course; Engaged Learning; Discipline; Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
classes_and_registration
Language Requirement
The required language learning credits for an associate in art (A.A.) and bachelor of arts (B.A.) degrees. Associate and bachelor of science degrees do not have a language requirement.
academic_basics
Leave of Absence
A period of time when a student is not enrolled in classes but intends to re-enroll.
admissions
Lecture
A course structure where an instructor teaches the curriculum in a presentation format for a large number of students.
See also:Course
classes_and_registration
Letter of Recommendation
A document from a teacher, mentor, or employer that recommends a student for a college program or job opportunity.
academic_success
Liberal Arts
An approach to education that includes multiple disciplines such as the humanities and social sciences to foster critical thinking and communication skills.
See also:Higher Education, General Education Humanities
disciplines_and_majors
Living Expenses
The additional cost of college attendance, including housing, meals, transportation, and other personal and foundational expenses.
See also:Cost of Attendance
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Livestream Course
An online class that is streamed online at a specific time. Attendance may be part of the course’s grade.
See also:Online Course Synchronous Learning
classes_and_registration
Lower Division
The 1000 and 2000 level classes included in general education courses and within a specific discipline, usually completed during a student’s freshman and sophomore years.
See also:General Education, Upper Division Freshman/First-Year Student Sophomore
academic_basics
Major
A field of study within a discipline, often including a further concentration or emphasis.
See also:Discipline Concentration or Emphasis
disciplines_and_majors
Master’s Degree
A postgraduate degree awarded for completing a program beyond a bachelor’s degree, typically for a 1-2 year program.
See also:Degree
degrees_and_programs
Matriculation
The formal process of enrolling as a student at a college or university, or when applying for admission to a specific major after meeting prerequisite requirements.
See also:Wolverine TrackEnrollment
admissions
Merit Scholarship
A scholarship awarded based on a student’s achievements in academics, leadership, athletics, or other merits and talents.
See also:Scholarship
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Microsoft Outlook
The program used to access a student’s UVU email.
technology
Microsoft Teams
An online communication tool for group messaging, video calls, and document collaboration.
technology
Midterms
A test given or a project due at the halfway point of the semester that covers all class material taught so far.
academic_basics
Military-Affiliated Student Hub (MASH)
The program that supports student veterans, service members, and military-affiliated students access GI Bill® and related benefits and access resources specific to military-affiliated students.
uvu_programs_and_services
Minor
A secondary concentration or field of study that a student pursues in addition to their major. Students must declare their minor and have it listed in Wolverine Track prior to graduation.
See also:Discipline Major Wolverine Track
disciplines_and_majors
myUVU
The student portal at UVU that provides access to class registration, student records, upcoming deadlines, important announcements, and more.
See also:UVID Wolverine Track
technology
Net Price
The amount of money a student pays to attend college after scholarships and other financial aid are awarded.
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Non-Degree Seeking
A student who enrolls and participates in classes but does not plan to complete a degree of any kind.
student_types
Nonresident
A student whose primary residence is out of state, and who is subject to paying nonresident tuition.
See also:Residency Out-of-State Tuition
admissions
Notarization
The certification by a public official that a document or statement is true and authentic.
admissions
Office Hours
A set time for students to meet with instructors and teaching assistants outside of their normal class schedule. Office hours are set by individual instructors and usually announced ahead of time in class, on Canvas, or in the syllabus.
See also:Instructor Teaching Assistant Canvas, Syllabus
academic_success
Ombuds
A neutral party who acts as a confidential resource to resolve conflicts between a student and their instructor, advisor, another student, or other university individuals or groups.
higher_education_basics
Online Course
A class that is fully taught online through Canvas or another online platform.
See also:Livestream Course, Online Programs
classes_and_registration
Online-Only Tuition
The tuition rate for nonresidents living outside of Utah who are enrolled in an entirely online program.
See also:Nonresident Online Programs Online Out-Of-State Student
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Online Out-of-State Student
A student who lives outside of Utah who is enrolled in an entirely online program.
See also:Online Programs Nonresident Online-Only Tuition
admissions
Online Program
A degree program that takes place fully online, whether through livestream classes, asynchronous learning, or other online delivery methods.
See also:Asynchronous Learning Delivery Method Online Course
degrees_and_programs
Open Admissions
A nonselective admissions policy that accepts all university applicants with a high school diploma or GED.
See also:Admissions
admissions
Orientation
An online or in-person program that welcomes new students to the university and helps them successfully transition to campus life.
See also:Jumpstart
uvu_programs_and_services
Out-of-State Tuition
The tuition rate paid by nonresident students.
See also:Residency Nonresident Tuition
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Parking Permit
The authorization for an individual to park in designated areas on campus. UVU’s parking permits are fully virtual and tied to your license plate.
campus_life_basics
Part-Time Student
A student who is taking under the set full-time course load. At UVU, students taking fewer than 12 credit hours are considered part-time students.
See also:Course Load Credit
student_types
Pass/Fail
A course that does not grant letter grades and instead awards credit or no credit. Also known as a “credit/no credit” course.
academic_basics
Passphrase
A verbal phrase given to university employees to verify a student’s identity when discussing academic records.
See also:Student Information Release and Authorization (SIRA)
student_records_and_standards
Pell Grant
A need-based federal grant that helps undergraduate students pay for college and does not need to be repaid, unlike a loan.
See also:Financial Aid Financial Need Grant Student Loan
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Petition
An online form that allows a student to contest a hold, request late withdrawal, or adjust their records based on qualifying extenuating circumstances.
See also:Hold Withdrawal Student Records
student_records_and_standards
Placement Test
A proctored exam that determines a student’s existing knowledge on a subject and recommends placing them in the appropriate course for their skill level.
See also:Testing Services, Proctored Exam ALEKS Placement Test Accuplacer Assessment
academic_basics
Plagiarism
The act of using the exact words, general ideas, or work of another person, a website, or generative AI.
student_records_and_standards
Postgraduate Student
A student enrolled in a degree program beyond a bachelor’s degree.
See also:Bachelor’s Degree
student_types
Postsecondary Education
Any further education received after graduating high school, whether it is from a college, university, or technical school.
See also:Higher Education
higher_education_basics
Pre-Professional Advisor
An advisor who specializes in providing guidance, support, and counseling to students pursuing a career in healthcare or law.
academic_success
Prerequisite
A program, course, or other requirement that must be completed in order to enroll in a more advanced course.
classes_and_registration
President
The chief officer of a college or university that oversees all university operations.
higher_education_basics
Printing
There are printers across campus for printing assignments. Students are given a set number of printing credits each semester.
technology
Priority Registration
The process of allowing students with more completed credits enroll for classes before students who have fewer credits, often across several days.
classes_and_registration
Proctored Exam
A test hosted at the Testing Services that is supervised by a person or proctoring system to observe students while taking the test.
See also:Testing Services
Provost
The senior academic officer of a college or university that oversees all educational programs.
higher_education_basics
Registrar
The administrative office that facilitates class registration and student records.
See also:Registration Student Records Priority Registration
classes_and_registration
Registration
The process of choosing which classes to take during a semester and reserving a spot.
See also:Course Waitlist
classes_and_registration
Resident
A student whose permanent resident is in the same state they attend school.
See also:Residency Designations
admissions
Residency
Where a student’s permanent residence is. Students pay different tuition rates if they are in-state residents or out-of-state students.
See also:Admissions In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition
admissions
Residency Designations
The official record of a student’s residency. Also known as a residency status.
See also:Resident Nonresident Online Out-of-State Student
admissions
Residential Community Leadership Program (RCL)
A student leader living in an off-campus housing complex who supports student involvement.
See also:Community Leadership Program Housing and Residence Life
Returning Student
A student who has not been enrolled for two or more semesters who is coming back to the university.
student_types
Satellite Campus
An additional campus location beyond the main Orem campus, such as West Campus across I-15, Wasatch Campus between Park City and Heber City, and the Provo Airport Campus.
higher_education_basics
Scholarship
A form of financial aid that does not need to be repaid and may take the form of a tuition waiver or a grant. Scholarships can be funded through the university or a private entity and may be granted based on merit, extracurricular involvement, financial need, and other factors.
See also:Financial Aid Grant ScholarshipUniverse, Merit Scholarship Financial Need
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
ScholarshipUniverse
A program that allows students to set up their profile and discover scholarship opportunities that they are eligible for.
See also:Scholarship
technology
School of Education (SOE)
The academic division that includes departments such as Elementary Education and Secondary and Special Education.
See also:Colleges and Schools
disciplines_and_majors
School of the Arts (SOA)
The academic division that includes visual and performance art departments such as Art and Design, Music, and Theatre.
See also:Colleges and Schools
disciplines_and_majors
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
A group of disciplines that share skills like critical thinking and problem solving.
disciplines_and_majors
Section
A specific class time and delivery method within a course. For example, students who are both enrolled in MATH 1010 but attend class at different times are enrolled in different sections.
See also:Course Delivery Method
classes_and_registration
Semester
An academic term or period of time that lasts for approximately half of the academic year.
See also:Term Academic Calendar
academic_basics
Seminar
A course structure that focuses on small group instruction and specialized research and discussion.
See also:Course
classes_and_registration
Senior
A student who has earned over 90 credits and is usually in their fourth year of college.
See also:Credit
student_types
Service Desk
The center that answers support questions about the university and troubleshoots IT problems.
technology
Service Learning Course
A form of engaged learning that combines community service and course curriculum.
See also:Engaged Learning, Curriculum
classes_and_registration
Smith College of Engineering and Technology (CET)
The academic division that includes STEM departments such as Computer Science, Mechanical and Civil Engineering, and Information Systems and Technology
See also:Colleges and Schools;Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
disciplines_and_majors
Social Sciences
A group of disciplines that studies human behavior and society.
disciplines_and_majors
Social Security Number (SSN)
A unique identifier used by universities and government agencies to track student records and verify financial aid eligibility.
See also:Student Records
admissions
Sophomore
A student who has earned 30-59 credits and is usually in their second year of college.
See also:Credit
student_types
Sorensen Center
The main student center at UVU, home to the food court, the UVU Store, Campus Connection, and multiple event venues.
See also:Campus Connection, UVU Store
uvu_programs_and_services
Standardized Test
An exam that covers the same questions, is graded consistently, and is used to compare student performance during college admissions.
admissions
Student Affairs
The office that oversees and runs student-facing programs at a university that are not related to academics.
campus_life_basics
Student Code of Conduct
The behavior standards that students agree to follow while enrolled at a university. A code of conduct includes guidelines around cheating, plagiarism, and the disciplinary process.
See also:Academic Coaching and Educational Standards (ACES)
student_records_and_standards
Student Fees
Any additional charges from a university on top of tuition that cover services and activities like student events and technology use.
See also:Tuition
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Student Health Services
The campus department that helps students access medical and psychiatric care.
uvu_programs_and_services
Student Information Release Authorization (SIRA)
A tool that allows students to manage information records and who they are shared with, including parents and guardians.
See also:Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Student Records Delegate Passphrase
Student Life and Wellness Center (SLWC)
The campus recreation center that has gym equipment and fitness classes available to students, along with a variety of wellness programs.
uvu_programs_and_services
Student Loan
Money that a student borrows for their education that must be paid back with interest.
See also:Financial Aid Grant Scholarship Subsidized Loan Unsubsidized Loan
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Student Records
The personally identifiable information a university maintains about a student, including academic records, financial aid information, and disciplinary records. Student records are protected by FERPA.
See also:Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Student Information Release Authorization (SIRA)
student_records_and_standards
Study Abroad
A program where students take classes and have educational experiences in another country for credit.
academic_basics
Subject
A specific area of study within a discipline.
See also:Discipline
disciplines_and_majors
Subject Librarian
A library staff member who specializes in one or more subjects or disciplines and helps students conduct research, find articles and books, and use academic databases.
See also:Fulton Library
academic_success
Subsidized Loan
A loan that does not accrue interest while a student is still attending school at least half-time or during a deferment.
See also:Student Loan Unsubsidized Loan Financial Aid
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Syllabus
The outline of topics, assignments, and expectations for a class.
academic_basics
Synchronous Learning
An online class structure in which students meet online during a set day or time, similar to an in-person class.
See also:Online Course Asynchronous Learning
classes_and_registration
Teaching Assistant (TA)
A graduate student acting as an instructor for an undergraduate course who may assist with lectures and grading.
See also:Graduate Student
academic_basics
Technical Degree
A postsecondary degree program that prepares students for a specific career path. Also known as a vocational degree.
See also:Trade School
degrees_and_programs
Testing Services
The office where students take proctored exams in a secure, monitored environment.
See also:Midterms Finals Proctored Exam
academic_basics
Title IX
A federal law that prohibits educational discrimination based on sex, including sexual harassment and assault.
higher_education_basics
Trade School
A technical school that focuses on hands-on learning and education in specific trades.
See also:Technical Degree
higher_education_basics
Transcript
A certified copy of a student’s educational record.
See also:Transfer Credit
admissions
Transfer Credit
The office that helps students transfer transcripts to and from the university and determines which previous credits will apply to a student’s degree.
See also:Transcript Transfer Student
admissions
Transfer Student
A student who previously attended a separate college or university who is transferring credits to apply towards a degree at a new institution.
See also:Transcript Transfer Credit
student_types
TRIO Programs
A group of federal programs that offer support to students and community members who might face challenges in education.
uvu_programs_and_services
Tuition
The money that a university charges for enrollment, not including student fees and other cost of living expenses.
See also:Student FeesLiving Expenses
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Tutoring
Programs where students receive support from peer tutors for help with assignments and building independent learning skills.
academic_success
Undeclared/Undecided
A student who has not chosen their major.
See also:Major Discipline
disciplines_and_majors
Undergraduate
A student attending college for an associate or bachelor’s degree.
student_types
University or College
A postsecondary educational institution that offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Separate from “Colleges and Schools” as academic divisions within a university.
See also:Colleges and Schools
higher_education_basics
Unsubsidized Loan
A loan that accrues interest even while the borrower is in school.
See also:Student Loan Subsidized Loan Financial Aid
tuition_scholarships_and_financial_aid
Upper Division
The 3000 and 4000 level classes that provide more advanced instruction in a student’s discipline, usually completed during a student’s junior and senior years.
See also:Lower Division Junior Senior Discipline
academic_basics
UVID
The student identification number used to access UVU accounts and services and acts as a free UTA pass for transportation.
technology
UVU Police
The on-campus police department that responds to emergencies on campus and provides safety escorts and event security.
uvu_programs_and_services
UVUSA Student Government
The student leadership program at UVU in which the student body president and their vice presidents support the student body and represent student interests to university administration.
uvu_programs_and_services
UVU Store
The campus store that sells school supplies, technology, textbook access, and UVU apparel and merchandise.
uvu_programs_and_services
UVU Student App
A cell phone app that includes easy access to student information, campus maps, student email, and more.
See also:Microsoft Outlook, myUVU
technology
Waitlist
The line a student is placed in when they wish to enroll in a class that is currently full so they can be notified if space becomes available.
classes_and_registration
Withdraw
The formal process of dropping a class or leaving the university.
classes_and_registration
Wolverine Access
The program through the UVU Store that provides students with all required textbooks each semester for a flat fee. Students are automatically opted in.
See also:UVU Store
uvu_programs_and_services
Wolverine Track
The online portal students and academic advisors use to plan a student’s academic journey and track graduation requirements.
See also:Four-Year Plan Academic Advisor
technology
Woodbury School of Business (WSB)
The academic division that includes departments such as Marketing, Accounting, and Finance and Economics
See also:Colleges and Schools
disciplines_and_majors
Work-Study
A form of financial aid in which students earn money through a part-time job on campus.
See also:Financial Aid
academic_success