Graduate and Law Student Handbook 2025-26

UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO

Graduate and Law Student Handbook 2025–26

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Mission We are a contemporary Catholic university, grounded in the liberal arts and anchored along an international border, advancing academic excellence to create a more inclusive, sustainable and hopeful world. Vision Strengthened by the Catholic intellectual tradition, we confront humanity’s challenges by fostering peace, working for justice and leading with love.

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Contents 4 Student Life 6 Financial Aid and Scholarships 8 Academic Resources 12 Wellness 14 Auxiliary Services 18 Identities, Spirituality and Faith 21 Housing 21 San Diego 22 Career Services 24 Additional Resources 26 School Resources 26 College of Arts and Sciences 26 Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science 28 Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies 31 Knauss School of Business 32 School of Law 34 School of Leadership and Education Sciences (SOLES) 36 Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering 36 Professional and Continuing Education

Dear Torero,

Graduate and professional students contribute significantly to the intellectual and social vibrancy of the USD community. Their impact is broad and occurs inside and outside of the classroom in ways that enrich the diverse tapestry that is USD. Opportunities for graduate study abound at USD and help distinguish USD as one of the top Catholic universities in the nation. The Knauss School of Business attracts students from across the world, as do other USD programs in the College of Arts and Sciences, Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies, Knauss School of Business, School of Law, School of Leadership and Education Sciences and Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering. The education offered is top notch and engages outstanding faculty members who excel in research and teaching. Our Catholic-centered mission also distinguishes a USD education. As a contemporary Catholic university, we embrace diversity in all its forms and support our students in finding purpose and meaning. Our alumni are making a difference across the globe, using their USD education to help address some of humanity’s most challenging issues. I hope you will consider joining the community of scholars and leaders at USD. As reflected in this handbook, our support services for graduate and professional students are extensive, and the opportunities for growth and advancement are spectacular!

With warm wishes,

Charlotte Johnson, JD Vice President for Student Affairs

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Student Life

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Graduate Student Life The Office of Graduate Student Life at the University of San Diego aims to foster community building by providing opportunities for graduate students to build community and encouraging conversations and collaboration across disciplines. Communication is supported by promoting campus services to students and helping departments share ideas on how to best serve graduate students. Advocacy is developed by growing and maintaining a graduate student presence on campus, encouraging services to be more inclusive of graduate students, and conducting regular assessments of graduate student quality of life. sandiego.edu/ grad-life Graduate Student Organizations Each year, graduate student leaders register more than 20 graduate student organizations. Students also register organizations based on identity groups, common interests and more. Prospective, new and current students are all encouraged to look at existing organizations or register a new organization if they are interested. For law students, please note that there is a different governing body and student organization system within the law school. You can learn more about law student organizations through the law school. Graduate Student Government The Graduate Student Government (GSG) is the governing body overseeing all graduate student organizations at USD. The purpose of the GSC is to represent all USD graduate and law students to the university administration with the

mission to: build and maintain a strong USD graduate student community; advocate for graduate student issues; ensure adequate graduate student representation on university committees; and work collaboratively with, and advise, university administration to improve the level of graduate studies. Each student association (organizations tied to the specific schools) has voting rights within the GSG, and all registered graduate student organizations are able to receive funding from the GSG. The GSG hosts meetings once per month and all graduate and law students are welcome to attend. This is a great space to learn about the USD community, get involved on campus, and advocate for student needs. The Student Bar Association (SBA) is the governing body that oversees all law student organizations. The SBA is also part of the GSG and has voting The Graduate and Law Student Commons is a community space available to all graduate and law students. It is located in the Student Life Pavilion on the 4th floor (SLP, Room 401). This community space has couches; tables with chairs for studying, eating or catching up with peers; a mini fridge and microwave to store and heat up meals; free communal coffee and more. Graduate Student Life also hosts many of their events in this space and it is available for graduate student organizations to use for events by contacting the office. Student Affairs The Student Affairs Division is a dynamic, student-centered learning organization. The Student Affairs Division is comprised of the following areas: Student Life, Dean rights in the GSG bylaws. Graduate and Law Commons

of Students, Wellness and Auxiliary Services. Office of Ethical Development and Restorative Practices The Office of Ethical Development and Restorative Practices in the Division of Student Affairs is responsible for the implementation of the Student Code of Rights and Responsibilities. Students will receive a Graduate and Law Student Code of Rights and Responsibilities at the Our Public Safety officers are responsible for a wide range of activities, including developing crime prevention programs, taking crime and accident reports, initiating investigations, responding to medical and fire emergencies, providing traffic control, and enforcing certain local and state laws, as well as rules developed by the university to address campus-related concerns. Emergencies on campus should be reported directly to the Department of Public Safety by dialing extension 2222 from any on-campus phone, 24 hours a day. In non-emergency situations, dial extension 7777 to reach one of our public safety dispatchers. If calling from off campus or via cell phone for an emergency, dial (619) 260-2222, and for non-emergency assistance dial (619) 260-7777. Please take the time to read this information and call Public Safety at extension 7777 if you have questions. start of the year. Public Safety

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Make sure to stay on top of all the deadlines associated with FAFSA and USD’s financial aid timeline. Visit the Torero Hub sandiego.edu/torero-hub in University Center room 126, or go to their website for more information. FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are forms needed to be filled out to apply for federal grants and loans. Learn more here: sandiego.edu/torero-hub/financial aid ▪ Deadlines and guide for graduate

financial aid applications: sandiego.edu/torero-hub/ financial-aid/guide

Financial Aid and Scholarships

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Fees: Costs in addition to tuition: ▪ Facility Fee - Student Wellness Center ▪ Summer Wellness Fee (if enrolled for summer) ▪ Summer Facility Fee - Student Wellness Center (if enrolled for summer) ▪ Student Association Fee: Summer/ Intersession (if enrolled for Summer/Intersession) On-campus Employment and GAships Wellness Center: sandiego.edu/ wellness/wellness-center Recreation Programs: sandiego. edu/campus-recreation/about/ employment.php Outdoor Adventures: sandiego.edu/ outdoor-adventures On-Campus Employment sandiego. edu/soles/financial-aid/campus employment.php Auxiliary Services sandiego.edu/ auxiliary/employment.php Mulvaney Center Graduate Assistants sandiego.edu/mccasa/community engagement/youth/graduate students.php Off-campus GAships MAHEL Off-Campus Housing Assistantships: sandiego.edu/ soles/leadership-studies/ma higher-education-leadership/ assistantships.php#offcampus

Unsubsidized loan: Students may borrow up to $20,500 each academic year within cost of attendance. 4.5

Student Aid Index (SAI) The Student Aid Index (SAI) is an eligibility index number that the Office of Financial Aid uses to determine how much federal student aid you would receive if you attended the school. This number results from the financial information you and your contributor(s) provide on your FAFSA form. studentaid. gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa . This number is not a dollar amount of aid eligibility or what your family is expected to provide. A negative SAI indicates the student has a higher financial need. Appeal (FAFSA): If a student has a change in financial circumstances there are times the financial aid eligibility can be reconsidered. To review your appeal options click here. usdkb.sandiego.edu/s/article/ Special-Circumstances-Appeals-for Graduates ▪ An Additional Expenses Appeal is a request for an increase in the financial aid budget. It can be submitted anytime, but there must be a FAFSA on file to submit an appeal. This form needs to be submitted each year a student wishes to appeal for a budget increase. usdkb.sandiego.edu/s/ article/Additional-Expenses Appeal Torero Hub: The Torero Hub assists students with financial aid, student accounts, and registration questions. sandiego.edu/torero-hub Types of Financial Aid Financial aid comes in many forms, with some aid based on your work and merits, and some aid based on your FAFSA application. Learn about the different types of loans you are eligible for and be mindful of the ones you accept. After you graduate, you will have to pay back your loans at different interest rates.

credit hour minimum to apply. Private student loan: Financial Aid provided by private lenders (i.e. not state or federally funded organizations)

University grant: University grants are funds awarded to students that do not need to be repaid. Funds are awarded by the university based on student need and FAFSA information. Students must meet certain eligibility criteria to receive funds. sandiego. edu/torero-hub/financial-aid/guide Costs of Enrollment You may not be enrolled in the same amount of units every semester, and it is important to understand how that will change the cost of each semester. ▪ Tuition costs will vary based on your program of study ▪ Students must receive permission to take more than 18 units ▪ Full-Time Enrollment: Being enrolled in 9 credits or more ▪ Part-Time Enrollment: Being enrolled in 4.5-8 units ▪ Intersession: Short periods during winter and summer breaks when students may enroll in additional classes to assist with degree completion. Academic Calendar 2025-26 ▪ Satisfactory Academic Progress: There are federally mandated academic requirements that must be met when a student receives financial aid so that students can maintain eligibility for financial aid in the next academic year. usdkb.sandiego.edu/s/article/ Satisfactory-Academic-Progress

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Academic Resources

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Degree Information The title of your degree at graduation will be dependent on your program. The title may not be the most important part of your story, but it is important to understand the implications of those titles. Master of Arts: A postgraduate qualification, this degree usually takes about 1-2 additional years to earn, and it often requires students to perform original research and write a thesis. Master of Science: A postgraduate qualification, this degree usually takes about 1-2 additional years to earn, and is typically granted for studies in sciences, engineering and medicine and is usually for programs that are more focused on scientific and mathematical subjects. Master of Education: A Master of Education degree is designed for current educators who wish to expand their understanding of teaching theories, pedagogy, strategies and more. Though the degree is well-suited to teachers seeking new ways to make an even greater impact in the lives of their students, those who choose the MEd pathway often desire to expand their career beyond the classroom. Doctorate: A postgraduate qualification, this degree usually takes about 4-6 additional years to earn and is pursued once an individual has received their master’s degree. PhD students are required to produce original research that expands the boundaries of knowledge, normally in the form of a dissertation, and defend their work against experts in the field. Graduate and doctoral degrees offered: sandiego.edu/admission and-aid/graduate/explore programs/program-finder.php

Course Information In order to complete your degree, your courses will need to add up to a minimum amount of units. Unit: Most classes are 3 units, and students with 9+ units are considered full-time students CRN: A Course Reference Number is a specific class ID for registration. Add/Drop period: A short period during which students are able to add courses and drop courses at the start of the semester. Prerequisite: A course or requirement mandatory before taking a course at the next level. Co-requisite: A course or a requirement taken alongside another course or requirement. Core Requirements: The general classes or requirements needed to graduate. ▪ These are dependent on your specific program Syllabus: The course outline, assignments/exam dates instructor office hours, and defined expectations and student responsibilities. Waitlist: When classes are full, students can place themselves on a waitlist. If a space opens up, a student on the waitlist is added. ▪ Important: If taken off the waitlist you must add yourself to the class within 24 hours or your spot will go to the next student on the waitlist Withdrawal: When students need to leave a course after the add/drop period ends, they can withdraw from the course and have their grade recorded as a W. Students who leave their course(s) mid-semester without officially withdrawing will receive non-passing grades. Withdrawals have different financial and academic

consequences. Consult with Financial Aid if you are considering dropping

from full-time to part-time. Degree Completion

There are specific academic and financial requirements you must meet and administrative actions you must take in order to officially complete your degree. The terms below are important to keep in mind throughout your time at USD as you move toward graduation. Accredited: Government recognition of academic excellence. catalogs. sandiego.edu/graduate/about university-san-diego/accreditation GPA: (Grade Point Average) The average of all course grades, usually broken down per semester, or cumulative, which includes all courses since initial enrollment. Pass/Fall: Pass/Fail courses count toward credit hours without impacting GPA. Students must attain a C average or better to receive credit for a Pass/Fail course. Transcript: An official transcript is a copy of your permanent academic record and includes courses taken, dates of attendance, major, type of degree awarded, your cumulative grade point average (GPA) and all honors received at the school. Internship: Professional workplaces offer limited employment to students to supplement coursework with professional work experiences. Academic Campus Resources You are in control of your education at USD. We have a plethora of resources to ensure you feel that way too. Copley Library: The newly renovated Copley Library is a great place to study, check out course materials,

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accommodations. Services include evaluating disability documentation, arranging academic accommodations and providing disability counseling to students with disabilities. sandiego. edu/disability University Academic Calendar https://catalogs.sandiego.edu/ graduate/calendar/2023_2024 ITS Help Desk: The ITS Help Desk is your one-stop shop for technology help at USD. Whether you need assistance with Canvas, your MySanDiego portal, or issues with your personal computer, the Help Desk is available to assist you with all of your technology-related needs. sandiego.edu/its/get-help Office Hours: Specific times that faculty and staff members may be available for students to walk in without appointment for various forms of support and consultation. sandiego.edu/about/our-faculty.php How to use Office Hours effectively: ▪ Ask specific questions about how the reading relates to the course material and your assignments. ▪ Read upcoming assignment descriptions, and then go to office hours to ask questions about them. make your assignment clearer and to get more insight into the class. ▪ Ask faculty members about their research and let the chatting begin. And if you are really interested in the subject, how can graduate students get involved in departmental research? Canvas: In your program, you can think of Canvas as your virtual tool to share information with professors and peers. You will use Canvas to access your course content, find course syllabi, review your assignments, and more. Be sure to This way, you can get specific pointers from the professor to

and get assistance on research projects. sandiego.edu/library Writing Center: Serving graduate students from all programs, the USD Writing Center offers one-on one consultations, online writing resources and workshops. Services are free and by appointment with sessions usually lasting 45 minutes to one hour. sandiego.edu/cas/ centers/writing-center The SOLES Graduate Writing Center: This virtual space is designed to accommodate both online or on campus graduate students who commute or have busy schedules. The center currently serves: ▪ Knauss School of Business ▪ Kroc School of Peace Studies ▪ Franciscan School of Theology ▪ MS in Applied Artificial Intelligence ▪ MS in Applied Data Science ▪ MS in Cyber Security Engineering ▪ MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership ▪ MS in Engineering Sustainability and Health ▪ MS in Engineering Management and Leadership ▪ MS in Humanitarian Action ▪ MS in Information Technology Leadership ▪ MS in Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship ▪ MS in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership ▪ MS in Learning Design and Technology ▪ Online MS in Health Care Informatics sandiego.edu/soles/students-and alumni/current-students/writing center.php Disability and Learning Difference Resource Center (DLDRC): The DLDRC helps students with disabilities obtain meaningful academic

use your USD credentials to log in. If you have any difficulty logging into your course, be sure to contact ITS at (619) 260-7900 or help@sandiego. edu. Login via Canvas.sandiego.edu/ or https://sandiego.instructure.com Registrar: The Office of the Registrar safeguards the integrity of student academic records through careful oversight of student information systems and official records. sandiego.edu/torero-hub/student records USD Portal: The MySanDiego portal is the page that provides access to students’ academics, financial aid, announcements and student accounts. my.sandiego.edu ▪ Applicants and admitted students can login to the portal at my.sandiego.edu FERPA: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. sandiego. edu/registrar/ferpa Academic Integrity USD has a set of standards and rules to uphold the integrity of your degree and the degrees of all our graduates. These standards are in place so that you are set up for success once you leave USD and join the professional workforce. School of Law has its own Honor Code https://www.sandiego.edu/ law/student-affairs/handbook-and policies/honor-code.php Plagiarism: The act of taking someone else’s work or ideas as one’s own, without citation or credit to the original creator. Plagiarism is a violation of academic integrity and will be met with high consequence. catalogs.sandiego. edu/undergraduate/academic regulations/integrity-scholarship

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Academic Probation: When a student obtains lower than a C average for their semester or cumulative GPA, an administrator or faculty member will supervise their progress to improve their academic standing at USD. Generative AI Guidelines: Individual course instructors are encouraged to establish their own policies regarding the use of generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard, Copilot, DALL-E, etc.) in their courses. If a student is uncertain about the policy for any course, they should contact their instructor directly for clarity about allowable usage.

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Counseling Center The Counseling Center’s core purpose is to enhance the emotional, relational and psychological well being of students. The Counseling Center strives to facilitate students’ personal growth and enhance their academic success through accessible, culturally congruent clinical and outreach services. The center works in collaboration with other wellness and university departments and community partners. sandiego.edu/ counseling-center Center for Health and Wellness Promotion (CHWP) The CHWP provides the University of San Diego community with a

comprehensive array of health and wellness promotion initiatives and clinical alcohol and other drug services. sandiego.edu/health wellness The Disability and Learning Difference Resource Center (DLDRC) The DLDRC is committed to helping students with disabilities obtain meaningful academic accommodations and support and to help improve access to the many excellent programs and activities offered by the university. Services include evaluating disability documentation, arranging academic accommodations and providing disability management/counseling to students with disabilities. The DLDRC also coordinates with other departments —— both academic and administrative —— such as residential life, the Department of Public Safety, the School of Law and the Deans’ offices of the college and various schools on campus in order to meet students’ needs. sandiego.edu/ disability Student Health Center A wide range of free and low-cost medical services are provided by nationally board-certified and state-licensed physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants. State-licensed registered nurses and certified medical assistants also provide medical care and support. Administrative staff assure efficient scheduling and medical record maintenance. sandiego.edu/health-center Immunization Requirements sandiego.edu/health-center/ immunizations/requirements.php As part of the university’s commitment to protecting the

Wellness

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TimelyCare TimelyCare offers students a 24/7 extension of USD health and counseling center resources that is as easy and convenient as making a video or phone call. Using the TimelyCare app on their phone or another device, students can receive on-demand or appointment based medical care, as well as schedule mental health counseling or TalkNow mental health support. timelycare.com/USD Campus Assault Resources and Education (CARE) CARE is the University of San Diego’s primary effort to provide support, resources and education to the student community pertaining to sexual assault and relationship violence. The University of San Diego does not tolerate sexual assault or relationship violence and has implemented a comprehensive effort that reinforces a culture of prevention, response and accountability that ensures the safety, dignity and well-being of all members of our community. sandiego.edu/care All USD full-time undergraduate, graduate and law students are required to have health insurance. At the beginning of every academic year, students need to decide to enroll in or waive USD’s Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). This requirement ensures that students in need of health and/or mental health care beyond the scope of services provided by USD Student Wellness Services can access the appropriate care and resources in the community. To learn more about health insurance requirements and how to enroll or waive, visit the Student Health Insurance Requirement page . Student Health Insurance Plan

health and well-being of all our students, there are matriculation requirements for tuberculosis (TB) screening and certain immunizations . Registration holds are in place until the requirements are met. Required Online Training As part of the University of San Diego’s commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive and safe community, all students are required to complete an annual online education requirement. For graduate students, this requirement includes a the following two courses: Sexual Assault Prevention for Graduate Students and Diversity Inclusion and Belonging for Students. Course access is emailed to students before the start of each fall semester. Students who do not complete this requirement by the communicated deadline will receive a $250 noncompliance fine. sandiego.edu/ health-wellness/new-student education/grad-student-education. php “Be Well USD” Dedicated to developing the whole person, Be Well USD seeks to raise awareness and reduce stigma about mental health, enhance help-seeking behavior, provide students with important life skills, and create an environment that promotes the overall health and well-being of students as they strive to reach their personal and academic goals. sandiego.edu/wellness/bewellusd Outdoor Adventures (OA) OA serves the USD community with opportunities to experience outdoor activities that aim to promote personal growth, leadership development, relationship building and environmental responsibility. OA offers a variety of local, regional and international outings that include

overnight trips, outdoor recreation classes and day trips around San Diego. OA also operates a rental shop and resource center for individuals who choose to venture on their own excursions and need equipment or guidance. sandiego.edu/outdoor adventures Campus Recreation Campus Recreation offers a variety of programs, services and facilities. Programs include recreation classes, intramurals, sport clubs, fitness and outdoor adventures. Campus Recreation strives to elevate your experience at USD by offering a space for community members to have fun, de-stress and meet others. sandiego. edu/campus-recreation Campus Recreation Facilities sandiego.edu/campusrecreation With your physical student Torero ID card, you will have access to: ▪ Sports Center ▪ Manchester Field The Sports Center is a multi functional recreational facility located on the east end of campus. It houses the outdoor pool and pool deck, the outdoor tennis and pickleball courts, an outdoor TRX functional training station and an indoor basketball/volleyball gymnasium. There are also gender-specific locker rooms with free day use lockers or fee-based semester long locker rentals. Varied equipment is available for free checkout such as swim buoys, tennis racquets, pickleball paddles and more. Manchester field is an outdoor turfed field with lines for football, rugby, lacrosse, and soccer. Students may use this space informally when it is not reserved for programming.

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Wellness

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Palomar Health Student Wellness Center The Palomar Health Student Wellness Center sets the standard for inclusive wellness for our campus community. Designed to support the whole person, this three-story, state-of-the-art facility offers accessible indoor and outdoor spaces where all students, faculty, and staff can connect movement, nourishment, mental health, and belonging in meaningful ways. The center features a wide range of amenities, including a fully equipped fitness center, mindful movement studios, dedicated spaces for group fitness and strength training, and an outdoor training terrace. Beyond fitness, the Wellness Center embraces a holistic approach to wellbeing. Patrons can explore the Teaching Kitchen for interactive nutrition and culinary experiences, attend wellness workshops, engage in mental health programming, or simply find space for reflection and self-care. The center also offers opportunities for peer connection, leadership, and personal development through student-led wellness initiatives and community building programs. At its core, the Palomar Health Student Wellness Center is more than just a fitness facility — it’s a vibrant hub where every member of the campus community can nurture physical vitality, cultivate inner resilience, and strengthen their sense of belonging. Please be sure to activate your physical Student ID Card for access into the facility. sandiego.edu/ wellness/wellness-center/

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Auxiliary Services

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University Copy services include: ▪ Scanning ▪ Duplicating ▪ Color copying ▪ Complete bindery ▪ Large format poster printing ▪ Notary (call for appointment) These services are available for both the campus community and the public. High-quality printing products and services are delivered on time, at a competitive price. Orders can be placed at the online ordering portal. sandiego.edu/copy Torero Store The USD Torero Store is located in the Hahn University Center. All USD course materials and textbooks are available - including new, used, digital and rental book options. USD Torero Store price-matches new book pricing from Amazon. The store sells a variety of USD-branded apparel, along with technology and other products and services for the university community. Campus Dining is a not-for-profit auxiliary that proudly serves the campus community and annually allocates earnings back to the University of San Diego and students. USD Dining is consistently ranked among the best university dining programs in the nation. Menu items include gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free and Halal options to meet the specific dietary and lifestyle needs of every student. Enjoy an array of campus eateries open to all students, staff and visitors. Food is prepared to order at live-action cooking stations with usdtorerostore.com Dining Facilities

Campus Card Campus Card is a department within Auxiliary Services, responsible for the administration of meal plans, Torero ID cards and campus cash. Passport photos are available for a fee. Campus Cash is the key to all your purchases and campus services at USD. It is a prepaid declining balance account managed through your Torero ID card. You may also use Campus Cash off-campus at specified locations. See: sandiego. edu/campus-card Meal Plans With global food costs rising at an unprecedented rate, a meal plan gives you peace of mind. No need to worry about what the unpredictable grocery store and restaurant food prices will be next week or six months from now. A Torero meal plan provides you with a set meal budget for the entire year, as current plan rates are guaranteed for both the fall and spring semesters. Graduate and Law students may choose to purchase a voluntary meal plan . Meal plans may be purchased online via MySanDiego (My Torero The Mail Center provides the university community with the ability to communicate and conduct business with each student, staff, faculty and department through prompt, reliable, secure and economical services for the collection and delivery of mail. sandiego.edu/mail-center University Copy University Copy is your campus resource for all your copying needs. Services tab). Mail Center

recipes made from fresh, quality ingredients. Stop by a café for fair trade coffee, tea, gourmet deli sandwiches, seasonal salads, sushi and more. La Gran Terraza restaurant and O’Tooles Pub is located in the Hahn University Center. O’Tooles Pub is ages 21 and older, only in the evenings. sandiego.edu/dining USD Food Pantry The USD Food Pantry and Torero Closet in Hahn University Center, Room 116 includes food, school supplies, hygiene supplies, laundry detergent and more. The pantry has both a refrigerator and a freezer, offering fresh produce, dairy, deli meats and frozen meals. sandiego.edu/food-pantry Students can only access the pantry by appointment. Daily hours of operations vary. All USD students in need are encouraged to fill out the registration form to gain access to the space. Please email usdfoodpantry@ sandiego.edu if you would like to fill out the registration form. Zipcars Car rentals are available on campus. Reserve a car for an hour or a day. Gas and insurance are included in the rates. Sign up today: zipcar.com/usd Banking Visit the full-service U.S. Bank branch, located in the Hahn University Center, Room 125, for all of your banking needs. ATMs are located outside of the University Center and the Jenny Craig Pavilion. usbank.com/usd

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Identities, Spirituality and Faith

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Military and Veterans Program Our program provides student focused services to all USD military connected students, including student veterans, active-duty, dependent children and spouses. sandiego.edu/military Services include: ▪ Access to free printing (maximum of 10 pages per day) ▪ Two computers (available on a first-come, first-served basis) ▪ Free coffee ▪ Quiet study room and lounge area ▪ Information hub that includes scholarships and internship opportunities, on- and off-campus events, networking, resources and more ▪ Communications, including website, social media and newsletters ▪ VA certifying representative available during office hours to discuss VA educational benefits and to certify each semester. Refer to the benefits section for more information. DACAmented/ Undocumented USD’s resource landing page for DACA/undocumented students serves as a starting place for information, guidance and support for current and future and current DACAmented and undocumented USD students. This page includes names and contact information for various campus partners and allies, as well as links to resources that provide answers to common questions and concerns surrounding DACA/undocumented students. sandiego.edu/immigration dialogue/undocumented

Pregnant and Parenting Students As a Catholic institution of higher learning, the University of San Diego recognizes that the care and support of family is at the heart of Catholic social teaching. Consistent with our mission and Catholic identity, USD acknowledges the importance of supporting pregnant and parenting students by addressing their special needs and assisting them in completing their studies. sandiego. edu/pregnant-and-parenting Services available to pregnant and parenting students include the following: ▪ Campus resources ▪ Pregnancy resources ▪ Lactation spaces ▪ Financial aid ▪ Childcare solutions ▪ Part-time/leave options The Commons USD is proud to offer The Commons, a space in which students can gather with like-minded individuals who share affinities or identities. The Commons is located in the Student Life Pavilion. These spaces also offer support services to students. The commons includes: ▪ Black Student Resource Commons (BSRC) ▪ LGBTQ+ and Allies Commons ▪ United Front Multicultural Commons (UFMC) ▪ Women’s Commons Black Student Resource Commons: The Black Student Resource Commons (BSRC) seeks to enhance and increase student success and retention by building community engagement, facilitating identity development and supporting students’ college experience. This is

a space that advocates and shines light on the Black student experience through purposeful programs and services that honor diversity. The BSRC strives to support the academic, social and personal goals of all Black students at the University of San Diego. sandiego.edu/bsrc LGBTQ+ and Allies Commons: The LGBTQ+ and Allies Commons seeks to create affirming spaces for queer and trans people, while educating the entire campus community about inclusive strategies through an anti-oppression framework that is explicitly pro-Black, queer and feminist. With this goal in mind, we provide an LGBTQ+ student lounge, host identity-specific community groups and offer educational programs around LGBTQIA+ culture and concerns. sandiego.edu/lgbtq United Front Multicultural Commons (UFMC) : The United Front Multicultural Commons (UFMC) engages the University of San Diego community in exploring and affirming the unique identity of each person. The UFMC fosters an environment in which student leaders feel empowered to become change agents for social justice and build relationships with faculty, staff, students and community members to develop a foundation that honors and values diversity. The UFMC serves as an educational resource, working to contest the dominance of prejudice and intolerance, and to enact the values of the university as “a welcoming, inclusive and collaborative community ... marked by protection of the rights and dignity of the individual.” The UFMC’s work focuses on social justice, identity development and student leadership. sandiego.edu/united-front

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follows: At the time a student has completed high school or high school equivalency, their custodial parent(s) or legal guardian(s) had not earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. This means you are the first to attend a four-year college or university and earn a bachelor’s degree. Please know that we welcome anyone who self-identifies as a first-generation college student. Spirituality and Faith University Ministry: The University Ministry team is enthusiastically interested in serving students during their time on campus. We hope you will explore the many options for spiritual growth already available, as well as collaborate with us to respond to the emerging needs of our university community. Whatever form your USD involvement takes, we hope that your intellectual and social development will be complemented by your equally robust spiritual growth. People of all religious traditions and those still searching for their religious identity are invited to take part in University Ministry’s liturgies, immersion trips, local service opportunities, retreats, faith-sharing communities, pastoral counseling and companionship, Scripture study and All Faith Services. No matter who you are, where you come from, or what your background, you are welcome on our campus and are welcome to participate in all that University Ministry does. sandiego. edu/ministry Mass Services: We come together in prayer each Sunday evening at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., each Wednesday at 9 p.m. for the Mass for Peace, as well as at major university celebrations, receiving strength from the presence of God in the Word, Sacrament and community. During these dynamic celebrations the campus community

is renewed and refreshed to put our faith into action. sandiego.edu/ ministry/worship Retreats: University Ministry offers a variety of retreats to all USD students during which they are invited to reflect on how and where they are experiencing God, and to discern the form and direction of the fullness of life to which they are called. sandiego.edu/ministry/retreats Service and Social Justice: There are many opportunities for community engagement in the San Diego and Tijuana regions. sandiego.edu/ ministry/service-and-social-justice

Women’s Commons: Located on the 4th floor of the Student Life Pavilion, the Women’s Commons offers programs and events designed to build authentic relationships, explore who we are and develop skills for transformation. Whether attending events or hanging out in our lounge space, you are sure to find community. Programs such as the Women of Color Summit, Empower Leadership Retreat and Gender Equity Awards are designed to build community and elevate the experiences of women here at USD. sandiego.edu/womens-commons International Center: The International Center supports the USD university community in advancing global citizenship. The graduate and professional programs offer extensive international opportunities for working professionals as well as full-time graduate students. Our campus is enriched by having students and scholars from more than 70 countries. The International Center includes the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS), as well as study abroad resources. sandiego.edu/ international First-Generation Students: The University of San Diego understands the unique experience of first generation students. Experiencing USD as a first-generation student is both exciting and challenging. This website is where first-generation students and their families can learn about the resources offered to them and is also intended for any member of the USD community to identify key resources to better support the growing campus first-generation student population. sandiego.edu/ first-gen/graduate.php The University of San Diego defines first-generation students as

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Housing Graduate and Law Housing On-campus graduate and law housing is VERY limited. The vast majority of graduate and law students live off-campus. If you have a particular need to live on campus, please contact Residential Life at housing@sandiego.edu or (619) 260-4777. Off-Campus Housing Page The off-campus housing page is a resource to support graduate and law students living off campus in San Diego. Includes information on:

In addition to year-round sunshine and near-perfect weather, San Diego is home to more than 70 miles of sparkling coastline, friendly locals, a vibrant downtown and an endless assortment of unique neighborhoods to explore. San Diego has something to discover for everyone! Check out our Discover San Diego Guide with recommendations from students and staff to help you get acquainted with this wonderful city. docs.google.com/document/d/ 1OCjc5i7I4QPLDnXtpDpwLaiL4sQtHc1akWRt5xafy fU/edit San Diego

▪ Preparing to be a renter ▪ Maps and neighborhoods ▪ Transportation and parking ▪ Roommate finder list ▪ Apartment search resources Very Apt Housing Guide

The Graduate and Law Student Housing Guide was designed with reviews and advice from current USD students. The guide includes: ▪ Housing data ▪ Neighborhoods explained ▪ Apartment ratings ▪ Top properties ▪ Landlord information ▪ Renter resources

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Career Services

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Career Development Center The Career Development Center supports all University of San Diego students and alumni in developing and achieving career goals that lead to meaningful lives. Whether you are exploring options for your future, applying for jobs, further advancing your education, networking, or practicing for an interview, the center has resources and tools that can help prepare you for your career. The Career Development team guides students as they explore majors and define purposeful career paths, teaching students how to articulate their strengths and provide opportunities to build professional networks. sandiego.edu/careers Job and internship search tools sandiego.edu/careers/graduate/ grad-resources.php ▪ Handshake ▪ CareerShift ▪ GoinGlobal ▪ Immigrants Rising ▪ Interstride ▪ Industry-Specific Job Search Resources The Knauss School of Business and the School of Law offer supplemental career development support offices for their student and alumni groups. youtube.com/ watch?v=UnyhWVJzn_w TEAM The Torero Employer and Alumni Mentors ( TEAM ) platform was created as a way for USD alumni, students, parents, faculty, employees and employers to connect virtually. Through its vibrant network, in person and flash mentoring, as well as career opportunities are shared to support Toreros. Discussion boards also let Toreros ask questions

and exchange ideas. View this informational overview about TEAM . This platform supports: ▪ Finding mentors/mentees ▪ Identifying/sharing job listings ▪ Joining affinity groups ▪ Posting/answering discussion questions Office of Career and Professional Development (Law) The Office of Career and Professional Development works closely with students and alumni to offer career guidance and support for in-school and post-graduate employment. The office also works closely with all types of employers to meet their ever-changing hiring needs. sandiego.edu/law/careers USD law students have access to hundreds of resources and programs to help them gain legal experience while attending law school. To help students explore the possibilities, the Office of Career and Professional Development provides myriad services, such as the Field Placement Program, Spring Recruiting Program and job fairs, and pro bono work. Additionally, many of our law student volunteer opportunities are arranged by the Office of Career and Professional Development

and through our various student organizations.

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Additional Resources

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The International Center The International Center supports the USD community in advancing global citizenship. Graduate and professional programs offer extensive international opportunities for working professionals as well as full-time graduate students. Our campus is enriched by having students and scholars from more than 70 countries. sandiego.edu/ Alumni can list jobs and internships on the Torero Employer and Alumni Mentors (TEAM) platform, as well as volunteer to speak on panels, connect with students and other alumni and access career resources to guide their own career transitions. toreronetwork.sandiego.edu The USD alumni mission is to engage and enrich the Torero community for life while the alumni vision is toward an actively engaged and supportive global network of USD alumni. The Mulvaney Center for Community Awareness and Action The Mulvaney Center supports the University of San Diego as an anchor institution in the community with community service learning. Through deep partnership and capacity building alongside community organizations, students are able to cultivate the necessary skills and leadership. sandiego.edu/mccasa international/oiss Alumni Center

Copley Library The newly-renovated Copley Library includes places for active learning, teaching, collaboration and research, as well as spaces for classes, group projects, discussions, events and exhibits. There are also new spaces for individual study, casual gathering and outdoor gatherings. There are 38 small-group study rooms and seating for 1,000 in its event and outdoor spaces. Also of note are expanded exhibit, gallery and display spaces, three library instruction rooms, two seminar rooms and a presentation room, as well as a faculty reading room, a journal reading room and university archives and special collections. Legal Research Center The Katherine M. and George M. Pardee Jr. Legal Research Center is the region’s premier law library. The library collection is available to law students and faculty, members of the USD community and other legal researchers. Librarians trained in the law provide reference service during a majority of the library’s operating hours. Students have access to individual and group study areas, two computer labs with black-and-white laser printing, dedicated computers for research, laptop computers available for checkout, photocopy machines and microform readers/printers. The library offers great historical depth in its microforms and documents collection and subscribes to a wide array of online research databases for current and historical domestic, foreign and international legal materials.

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School Resources

College of Arts and Sciences sandiego.edu/cas

Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science sandiego.edu/nursing Student Organizations and Professional Resources The Graduate Nursing Student Association (GNSA) promotes interaction among graduate nursing and healthcare informatics students, faculty, alumni, and the healthcare community. The GNSA sponsors activities to enhance professional growth, provides an atmosphere for the exchange of ideas, facilitates collegiality among members and faculty, and assists student members by being a source of information. These objectives are achieved through sponsorship of conferences, speakers, instructional material, leadership with local projects, and

through officer and committee representation on the various committees within the School of Nursing and the University. The Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society’s Zeta Mu chapter recognizes superior achievement and the development of leadership qualities, to foster high professional standards, to encourage creative work and to strengthen commitment to the ideals and purpose of the profession. Eligible students are invited to join annually. Additional career and professional resources are available on the SON website to guide students and alumni toward a fulfilling career in the health sciences.

Master of Fine Arts in Acting sandiego.edu/cas/academics/ graduate-programs.php Master of Science in Environmental and Ocean Sciences sandiego.edu/cas/environmental ocean-sciences/master-of-science ▪ Careers and internships ▪ Research opportunities ▪ Scholarships Master of Arts in International Relations sandiego.edu/cas/political-science/ ma-international-relations ▪ Scholarships ▪ Navy/military information ▪ Research

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