
This digital handbook is intended to provide information about university resources, policies, and procedures for students. Students should also refer to other official university publications, such as the Youngstown State University Catalog, class schedules, or communications from university officials, for additional information. The handbook is reviewed and updated annually.
Individuals with suggestions for amending or revising any information contained in this handbook are encouraged to submit those suggestions in writing to the Division of Student Affairs at studentaffairs@ysu.edu.
The contents of this digital handbook do not constitute a contract between any student and Youngstown State University. The University reserves the right to change policies, rules, regulations, and standards of conduct at any time, as deemed necessary in the best interest of the University. The University also reserves the right to modify or discontinue any services, programs, or activities described herein.
If you are a student at the main YSU Campus - check out this handbook instead!
An Institution of Opportunity: YSU inspires individuals, enhances futures, and enriches lives.
As a student-centered university, Youngstown State University’s mission is to provide innovative lifelong learning opportunities that will inspire individuals, enhance futures and enrich lives. YSU inspires individuals by cultivating a curiosity for life-long learning; enhances the futures of our students by empowering them to discover, disseminate and apply their knowledge; and enriches the region by fostering collaboration and the advancement of civic, scientific, and technological development. YSU’s culture of enrichment flourishes in our diverse, accessible, and quality education.
Youngstown State University is where students thrive in their educational and career pursuits, where scholarship creates innovative solutions, and where community engagement is a cornerstone of collaboration that collectively contribute to the sustainable prosperity of the region and beyond.
We—the faculty, staff, administrators, and students of Youngstown State University—hold the following values essential to achieving the mission and realizing the vision.
Centrality of Students – We put students first, fostering their holistic and lifelong success.
Excellence and Innovation – We bring academic excellence and innovation to learning and life for all stakeholders.
Integrity and Human Dignity – We root all behaviors, decisions and actions in the achievement of integrity, mutual respect, collegiality, equity and inclusion.
Collaboration and Public Engagement – We embrace collaboration and create innovative partnerships to foster sustainability and enrich our university, our culture, and our region.
Youngstown State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, disability, age, religion, or veteran/military status in its programs or activities. Please visit the Digital Accessibility page for contact information for persons designated to handle questions about this policy.
Youngstown State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The Association was founded in 1895 as a membership organization for educational institutions. It is committed to developing and maintaining high standards of excellence.
Security officers are on-site during the Steubenville Building during regular operating hours, Monday through Friday, to help maintain a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and visitors.
Students who require security assistance while the building is open should contact Security at 330-719-1372.
For emergencies requiring Police, Fire, or EMS services, call 330-719-1372 or 911 immediately.
For emergency response procedures, please visit the Emergency Response webpage. This page provides important information to help you respond quickly and effectively in an emergency on campus. For any environmental, safety, security, or medical emergency, contact YSU Police immediately at 330-941-3527, available 24/7. The information below outlines key procedures for evacuation, lockdown, shelter-in-place, and medical emergencies, along with guidance for supporting individuals with disabilities and preparing for various situations. Familiarizing yourself with these protocols in advance will help ensure a safe and coordinated response during an emergency.
Academic advising at Youngstown State University helps students develop and maintain effective academic plans while progressing toward degree completion. Advisors provide guidance on course selection, degree requirements, and university policies, while also helping students understand their academic progress, make informed decisions, and navigate the university experience. Through advising, students build the knowledge and skills needed to take an active role in their education and achieve their academic and career goals.
Key Pillars of Our Philosophy:
Students enrolled at the YSU Steubenville location will work with a professional academic advisor based at the Youngstown campus. Students may schedule either in-person appointments in Youngstown or virtual meetings with their assigned academic advisor for assistance with academic planning, course selection, registration, academic success strategies, and other advising-related needs.
Your assigned advisor's contact information can be found on the advisor card within your Penguin Portal and on your student profile page in the Penguin Portal. We encourage students to connect with their advisor regularly and schedule appointments as needed throughout the semester to support their academic success.
Accessibility Services provides support to students with physical, medical, learning, hearing, visual and psychological disabilities. The office works in conjunction with students and faculty in the process to establish accommodations, services, and access to academic programs. Accessibility Services strives to create an accessible community where people are judged on their ability, not their disability. They are also committed to fostering a positive attitude toward individuals with disabilities.
Accessible Parking and Building Access
Students who require accessible parking accommodations should register with Accessibility Services. Eligible students will receive access to the entrance located adjacent to the accessible parking area.
Barnes & Noble is proud to be the official bookstore of Youngstown State University. Visit our online store to order books, supplies, Penguin gear, and more — or take a road trip to Youngstown to visit us in person!
YSU Campus Recreation is committed to promoting a holistic approach to wellness and developing healthier lifestyle choices that lead to personal and professional growth. We are developing relationships with partners in the Steubenville area to support student access to wellness and recreation. If you’re interested in buying a student membership to use the YSU Andrews Student Recreation and Wellness Center in Youngstown, visit our website.
The Testing Center offers exams for students with approved accommodations, such as extended time, reduced-distraction environments and audio/visual testing needs. The Testing Center also proctors required Mathematics and Writing Placement Tests to new and returning students as well as offering the TEAS exam to Nursing and Radiology program applicants.
The Office of First Year Student Services supports new students in transitioning successfully to the Youngstown State University community. It provides programs, mentorship, and opportunities that help students build connections, explore their interests, and feel a sense of belonging on campus. The office also offers resources focused on student success, leadership development, and engagement for both students and their families.
The IT Service Desk serves as initial contact for over 12,000 students, faculty and staff, providing first level technical support for PCs (both Windows and Mac-based systems), software, printers, smart phones and tablets. They assist with installing academic software, providing loaner devices, configuring devices to connect to the YSU network, and resolving technology-related questions and problems to remove obstacles that impede academic progress on a first contact basis.
Students at YSU Steubenville have remote access to all electronic library resources such as research databases, e-books, government documents, and digital collections. Users can authenticate by using their name and YSU ID number. Steubenville students can request physical items from any of the OhioLINK libraries with weekly deliveries to that location. Additional information can be found at Online/Distance Learning Library Guide.
For library and research help, use the Ask A Librarian email service, Request a Virtual Research Appointment, or call 330-941-3678.
The Office of Admissions is the starting point for all students seeking to pursue an associate degree or certificate at Youngstown State University. Our primary goal is to assist students on their path toward realizing their academic goals. We will guide you through the application process and provide information about the opportunities at YSU. The Office of Admissions processes applications and reviews supporting documents such as transcripts, test scores, etc. to determine a student's eligibility for admission.
The Office of Career Exploration & Development supports students as they prepare for their
future goals, whether that is employment or graduate studies. Students are empowered to navigate the ever-changing job market, employment practices, and employer communication. Whether through individual appointments or special programs, students develop skills and knowledge related to career exploration, resume development, internship and job search strategies, interview techniques, and networking. Our end goal is to ensure that all graduates are career-ready.
The university also offers two additional career support offices. The WCBA Center for Career Management assists students in business-related majors, and STEM Professional Services provides career support for students in STEM-related majors. These offices can be accessed through the website below.
The Office of Community Standards & Student Conduct upholds the expectations of the student code of conduct which governs student behavior at YSU. We are committed to providing a fair, structured, timely, and educationally-based student conduct process.
The Office of the Dean of Students assists students in navigating challenges that may affect their academic experience. YSU-S students can meet virtually with case management staff to develop a strategy, connect with local resources, or get assistance with university policies and procedures. To start the conversation, email dos@ysu.edu or submit a Penguin of Concern form.
The Office of Equal Opportunity, Policy Development & Title IX supports Youngstown State University’s commitment to promote human and intellectual diversity by fostering an inclusive environment for all members of the University community. The office also promotes university success by administering the University's Policy against discrimination/harassment, sexual misconduct, and retaliation. The Office of Equal Opportunity, Policy Development & Title IX oversees the University’s compliance with federal and state laws, including Title VI, Title VII, Title IX and ADA, that prohibit discrimination and harassment based on race, sex, pregnancy, religion, color, age, national origin, veteran and/or military status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status or parental status. The Office of Equal Opportunity, Policy Development & Title IX is the campus home of the university’s Title IX Coordinator.
The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships is committed to helping students navigate the financial aid process. We strive to communicate all available financial resources and provide students and families with a complete financial aid package as early as possible to assist with college planning and expenses.
To better serve our Steubenville students, Financial Aid representatives are available through the Financial Aid Virtual Walk-In Office Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Students can connect directly with a Financial Aid representative for assistance with financial aid questions, forms, and processes.
The Office of Veterans Affairs supports veterans, service members, and their families with military education benefits, academic success, graduation planning, and overall well‑being. Services are available through scheduled appointments, with periodic visits to the Steubenville campus.
The Penguin Service Center is a single place to receive essential information, find guidance, and resolve enrollment-related concerns in financial aid, records and registration, and student billing. The Penguin Service Center aims to significantly reduce the shuffle of being routed from office to office so instead of visiting several locations, they provide most services you need at one convenient location.
PNC Bank partners with Youngstown State University to support students in achieving their financial goals. Through this partnership, students have access to resources and services designed to help them manage their money, build financial knowledge, and plan for the future. Information about student banking options, financial wellness tools, and available services can be found online.
The Resch Academic Success Center (ASC) offers valuable resources and support to students during their educational journey. Academic Coaching and Tutoring Services empower students to engage in their learning, discover new strategies, and apply their knowledge. The ASC is committed to promoting the academic success of all YSU students and supporting them to achieve their educational goals.
The Steel Valley Regional Transit Authority (SVRTA) provides public transportation services throughout Steubenville, Mingo Junction, Wintersville, and surrounding communities. For route information and schedules, call (740) 282-6145 or contact SVRTA online. Riders are encouraged to arrive at their bus stop at least five minutes before the scheduled departure time.
For information about bus fares, annual passes, school-year passes, and paratransit services, visit the SVRTA Bus Fares and Passes webpage.
What will you do outside of the classroom to enhance your YSU-S career? Keep an eye out for our monthly programs on Wednesday afternoons to meet and connect with other students. Hang out in the student lounge between classes, enjoying casual games and recreation. And be sure to take our student survey so we know what types of events you’re interested in!
YSU Student Counseling Services supports student mental health and well‑being. If you reside in Ohio, telehealth appointments can be conducted from the comfort of your home. Otherwise, a private location at YSU‑S in room #2007 can be used to talk to a mental health counselor via telehealth. Services include confidential mental health counseling, stress, and anxiety management support. To schedule a virtual appointment with a licensed counselor, call 330-941-3737 or email studentcounseling@ysu.edu. Be sure to let them know you’re a YSU-Steubenville student when you schedule your appointment. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or go to the closest emergency room.
Additional Mental Health Resources
Coleman Health Services
Location: 3150 Johnson Rd, Steubenville, OH 43952
Phone: 740-996-7100
Website for Coleman Health Services
Youngstown State University recognizes and supports multiple award-winning student media outlets that allow students to showcase their talents. These include The Jambar, a weekly newspaper; The Jambar TV, the broadcast arm featuring three programs—The Jambar in 10, a weekly headline news show; The Jambar Sports Extra, a YSU-focused sports show; and The Jambar News Magazine, which focuses on in-depth campus reporting—as well as Rookery Radio, an online radio station.
Student media is student run. Policies and procedures concerning student publications are prepared, reviewed, and applied by the Student Media Committee.
The Y Card is your official identification card for YSU. Members of the YSU community have access to both a virtual ID and a physical ID. To initiate your ID process, upload your photo to ycard.ysu.edu. Students will have access to their virtual ID in the Y App as soon as it is prepared, and will be notified via email when their Y Card is available for pickup at YSU-S.
The YSU Writing Center services include one-to-one feedback on any writing task, at any stage, for any course. Schedule an online synchronous appointment during any of our published hours on WCOnline. Already have a draft prepared? Upload the document to an appointment with the "Distance Edu Tutor," and a writing consultant will review the file within two business days. Access instructional handouts through the Writing and Language Centers Team. The services offered by the YSU Writing Center are free of charge to all registered YSU students. For in-person consultations, visit the Steubenville Writing Center, located in room 2003A.
The Student Academic Grievance Procedure provides students with a formal channel through which complaints concerning academic matters may be heard. A student must attempt to resolve the complaint by first discussing the issue with the faculty member. If the complaint is not resolved at that level, the student should direct their complaint to the department chair and, if the complaint is still not resolved, then the dean of the college. Complaints not resolved following a discussion with the dean will be considered by an associate provost or designee, who will serve as Judicial Chair. Upon their review, the Judicial Chair determines whether the complaint is grievable. If the complaint is grievable, it is presented to the Student Academic Grievance Subcommittee.
If you become aware of conduct that is not consistent with the University’s standards, such as fraud, fiscal abuse, or noncompliance, you are encouraged to communicate your concern. This hotline, hosted by a third-party provider, EthicsPoint. Reports can be submitted anonymously.
The Office of the Dean of Students, along with the YSU CARE (Concern – Assessment – Referral – Education) Team, regularly address concerns that may negatively affect the campus learning environment or potentially harm the health, welfare and/or safety of members of the University community or the individual(s) exhibiting such behaviors. “Penguin of Concern” referrals are accepted from students, their families, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community with the goal of providing outreach, guidance, and assistance to students dealing with a variety of issues. Please note that in a crisis where there is an active or immediate risk of violence to self or others, YSUPD should be contacted immediately at 330-941-3527. Afterwards, a form should be submitted.
Victims or witnesses of hazing-related situations may not want to talk to anyone about their experience for various reasons. However, it is important to ensure that the University has information regarding potential threats to the safety and well-being of students and campus. Using this form, you can submit an anonymous report, which will be sent to the Office of Student Activities and the Office of Community Standards & Student Conduct. Please note that the ability to act on anonymous reports is limited by the amount of information received.
Youngstown State University is committed to the continuous improvement of the services it provides to its students. On occasion, a student may have a complaint regarding the fairness or quality of service they received. Students are encouraged to share their concerns pursuant to this policy so that the university may address issues in a timely and professional manner. If students experience a problem on campus, they are encouraged, but not required, to try resolving it by speaking directly with the staff, faculty member, or administrator with whom they have had an issue. If the problem still exists, the following resources are provided to aid a student in coming to a resolution:
The Youngstown State University Board of Trustees passed a Resolution regarding campus free speech on June 23, 2022, adopting the public policy of the state of Ohio set out in Ohio Revised Code 3345.0215(B). Students, student groups, and faculty may submit a complaint about an alleged violation to the Campus Free Speech policy. Complaints must be filed within one year of the date of the action causing the complaint. Grounds for submitting a complaint include "unlawful, unreasonable, or arbitrary limitations on expressive activity" and/or "harassment as a result of another's expressive activities." Individuals who submit a complaint will receive a confirmation e-mail indicating that their complaint has been received and forwarded to the appropriate authority for investigation and followup.
The Student Conduct Reporting Form is used by faculty, staff, students, and student employees to report alleged violations of University policy by students. Once submitted, the report will be reviewed by the Office of Community Standards & Student Conduct. If additional details are needed, a staff member may contact you.
Under a federal law referred to as "Title IX," YSU is responsible for responding to any reports of discrimination or harassment made on the basis of one's sex or gender. This includes, but is not limited to: sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, relationship violence, gender discrimination, and pregnancy discrimination. If you feel that you or someone you know at YSU has been subjected to sex or gender discrimination or harassment, use this form to submit your report to the Title IX office. Reports go to the Title IX Coordinator (TIXC). If you are submitting this report on behalf of someone else, the TIXC will reach out to you about their next steps prior to contacting the affected person. If you are submitting this report on your own behalf, you should receive contact from the TIXC within one business day. The TIXC will try to schedule a meeting with you to discuss your rights and options under Title IX, including through both, either, or neither the university and legal (court) system. The Title IX Coordinator can also work with you to identify any reasonable accommodations that may be available to you as a result of this report.
Youngstown State University (YSU) is open year-round except for designated holidays. The university will remain open and classes held unless there is clear and substantiated evidence to warrant otherwise, i.e., extreme weather. Generally, such actions fall under three categories.
The authority to close the University and/or cancel classes rests first with the President, and then with the Provost, the Vice President for Finance and Operations, and the Executive Director of Facilities. Calls should not be made to the Youngstown State University Police Department to verify a University closing.
The primary factor considered when deciding if the campus should remain open is the safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors. After consulting a variety of sources and assessing weather conditions and forecasts, if the University determines that there is a significant threat to the safety of the campus community, the University will act immediately and appropriately.
It also is important to understand that universities are different than schools serving elementary, middle and high school students. YSU students are capable of using their best judgment in deciding if weather conditions warrant changing their schedules. Also, students pay for services offered by YSU. When the University closes, those services are withheld. YSU is committed to providing those services to students as long as conditions do not present an undue threat to the campus community.
For additional details, visit the Cancellation and Closing Procedures webpage.
Among the several tools Youngstown State University may use to communicate to students and employees in the event of a University closing or class cancellation:
Students may withdraw from a single course or all courses through the registration functions in the Penguin Portal. It is the student’s responsibility to verify that the withdrawal has been successfully processed. A withdraw may impact financial aid and full-time status. The student is individually responsible for discussing individual impact on their status with financial aid, the student’s advisor or additional offices as needed. Simply not attending class or notifying an instructor does not count as an official withdrawal.
For complete details, deadlines, and step-by-step instructions, review the information on the Office of the Registrar’s website.
View Registrar Withdrawal Information
For questions about refunds or fee adjustments, contact the Penguin Service Center at 330-941-6000.
Youngstown State University supports students whose military obligations interrupt their studies. Students called to active duty, training, or emergency service may withdraw from all courses and receive a full (100%) tuition and fee refund, or—if approved by instructors—receive an incomplete or final grade.
Withdrawal requests are coordinated through the Office of Veterans Affairs and require submission of military orders.
View full details about the Withdrawal for Military Duty policy in the YSU Catalog.
For assistance, contact the Office of Veterans Affairs at 330-941-2503.
Medical Leave/Withdrawal supports students experiencing a serious physical or mental health condition that prevents them from completing coursework. Students may request withdrawal from all courses (typical) or, in some cases, a reduced course load. Retroactive withdrawal may be available for prior semesters if conditions affected academic performance.
Requests require documentation from a licensed care provider and are reviewed by the Medical Withdrawal Review Committee, with final decisions made by the Dean of Students. This process may affect financial aid, billing, and academic progress, and does not guarantee a refund. In rare situations, the University may require an involuntary medical withdrawal for safety reasons. Students must meet specific requirements to return after a medical leave.
For full policy details, eligibility, and requirements, review the Medical Leave/Withdrawal policy in the YSU Catalog.
For application forms, step-by-step process guidance, and re-entry information, review the Medical Leave/Withdrawal page on the Dean of Students website.
View Medical Withdrawal Policy (YSU Catalog)
Access Forms & Process (Dean of Students)
For assistance, contact the Office of the Dean of Students at dos@ysu.edu.
All students at Youngstown State University are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that supports the university’s educational mission. The Student Code of Conduct outlines the standards, expectations, and rights that help maintain a respectful and productive learning environment.
Students are responsible for becoming familiar with the Code of Conduct and related university policies, as these guidelines define both expected behavior and the protections afforded to members of the university community.
Alleged violations of the Code are addressed through the Office of Community Standards & Student Conduct. The conduct process is designed to be educational, uphold due process, and promote accountability. Outcomes may include educational measures, sanctions, or, in serious or repeated cases, suspension or expulsion.
Members of the university community are encouraged to report potential violations through appropriate university offices or the YSU incident reporting form. Additionally, the YSUPD website has a YSU Confidential Tip form that can be used to provide anonymity to the reporting person. For additional information, visit the Office of Community Standards & Student Conduct.
Note: This Code of Conduct is available in full at the Office of the Dean of Students Website at the link below.
Policies numbered 3356-xx-xx are official Board of Trustees policies.