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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA 2003-2004 Undergraduate bulletin
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Campus Services

Automatic Banking Service

Four automatic teller machines are located on the Russell House patio, and there is one automatic teller machine on the first floor of the Russell House. In addition, two automatic teller machines are located near the Moore School of Business and the Welsh Humanities Building.

Campus Recreation

Campus Recreation, a unit within the Department of Student Life, offers services to meet the recreational needs of students, faculty, and staff. Participation in campus recreation programs is purely voluntary, and individuals do so at their own risk. Participants should be aware of the possibilities of bodily injury and should understand that they are responsible for any and all costs arising from injury or property damage sustained through participation.

Students interested in employment in capacities such as sports officials, group exercise instructors, office assistants, or lifeguards should contact Campus Recreation at 803-576-9375.

Campus Recreation offers many activities and programs throughout the year for student involvement. For more information on the services and programs offered, visit our Web site at www.sa.sc.edu/pecenter/crec.htm.

Blatt Physical Education Center

Located on Wheat Street, the facilities of the Blatt Physical Education Center are available to all current students, faculty, staff, and dependents. Facilities are available at the P.E. center for the following indoor activities: badminton, basketball, dance studios, diving and swimming, handball/racquetball, squash, volleyball, two weight rooms, and cardiovascular exercise machines. Outdoor activities include: football, rugby, soccer, softball, tennis, and sand volleyball.

Daily reservations for use of the treadmills and EFX machines must be made in person. Reservations for squash courts, handball/racquetball courts, tennis courts, and use of the athletic fields and gymnasiums can be made by calling 803-777-5261.

To ensure the security of our participants, all students, faculty, and staff of the USC Columbia campus must possess and present a valid USC ID card to be admitted to the Blatt P.E. Center and to participate in campus recreation programs.

Strom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center

The Strom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center opened March 1, 2003, and is located at the corner of Blossom and Assembly streets. This state-of-the-art recreational facility combines the best features of a student union and a traditional recreation center. With more than 192,000 square feet, this facility greatly enhances the recreational opportunities afforded to the USC community. Amenities include: an eight-lane indoor pool, outdoor pool complex, whirlpool, sauna, wet classroom, locker rooms, six racquetball courts, 52-foot climbing wall, auxiliary gym, 1/7-mile indoor track, 3 aerobic/multipurpose rooms, 19,000-square-foot strength and conditioning area, 4 volleyball/basketball courts, outdoor adventure center, equipment checkout, wellness center, pro shop, food service outlet, conference rooms, campus recreation offices, and wireless Internet access. For more information call 803-576-9375 or visit the Web site at stc.sc.edu.

Career Center

The Career Center, located on the sixth floor of the Close-Hipp Building, offers career development services to students, alumni, faculty, and staff. The center also assists local, regional, national, and international employers with filling needs for part-time and full-time employment. The center can be reached by phone at 803-777-7280 or by fax at 803-777-7556. Information regarding services can also be obtained on the Web at www.sc.edu/career.

The center consists of two program areas: Career Development, providing career assessment, career information, career counseling, computerized career guidance, and job search assistance; and Employer Relations, providing part-time and summer employment, cooperative education opportunities, paid and unpaid career internships, job shadowing, and full-time employment opportunities upon graduation. A Web-based program is used for resume development, resume referrals, interview registration, and job listings.

The center uses traditional methods such as on-campus recruiting and career fairs as well as the latest technological innovations such as the Web-based program and video-teleconference interviewing to connect students and employers. Students and employers have 24-hour access from anywhere in the world to the center's Web job listings and candidate resume database.

Students are encouraged to access Career Center services starting in their freshman year. An orientation is required for use of Web-based services.

Carolina Dining Services

Carolina Dining Services offers a variety of meal plans. The campus meal plans combine a computerized meal-card system with the flexibility of 23 service locations and varied menus and hours to meet student needs. The University ID card can be set up as a "meal plan" with a specified number of meals per week, as a "cash card" with a specified cash balance, or as a combination of the two.

Students may choose from dining options that include: specialty fast foods, a la carte meals, unlimited seconds, and a soft-serve yogurt shop. There is also a market (convenient grocery store) on campus.

The meal plans are:

  • 21-meal plan: Provides dining for all meals served during the week. Cost per semester is $1,022 and includes sales tax.
  • 16+-meal plan: Provides dining at all dining areas for any 16 meals served during the week plus $100 in Dining Dollars (does not carry over to the next semester). Dining Dollars can be used at any dining location, as well as the East Market and Earthworks. Cost per semester is $1,039 including sales tax.
  • 14-meal plan: Provides dining at all dining areas for any 14 meals served during the week. Cost per semester is $950 including sales tax. This is the required minimum plan for Bates residents.
  • 10-meal plan: Provides dining at all dining areas for any 10 meals served during the week. Cost per semester is $870 including sales tax.
  • 5-meal plan: Provides dining at all dining areas for any five meals served during the week. Cost per semester is $515 including sales tax.

In addition to the above meal plans, Carolina Dining Services offers the following two options:

  • Dining Dollars allow students to purchase meals and snacks with a computerized declining-balance card, eliminating the need to carry cash. Dining Dollars can be used at all dining locations, East Market, and Earthworks.
  • Students may purchase meals in blocks of 160 or 185. Block cards may be used at any meal time. Block plans are not available for freshmen and do not include Bonus Bucks. The cost of a 160-meal block is $914, and a 185-meal block costs $958.

Resident freshmen are required to purchase at least a 10-meal plan.

Special student nights are planned throughout the year for a change of pace in dining. The student newspaper or announcements posted in the cafeteria indicate dates of such events. During the summer, meals are available only on a Dining Dollars or cash basis, and no board plans are available.

Catering services are also available. Refreshments for dorm parties, coffee breaks, cookouts, and other functions can be planned with the catering salesperson whose office is located in the Russell House, telephone 803-777-5892.

For more information:

  • visit our Web site at www.sc.edu/dining
  • call Carolina Dining Services at 803-777-4161
  • visit our main office at 1718 College St.
  • call the Carolina Card Office at 803-777-1708
  • visit the Carolina Card Office, located in the Carolina Underground in the Russell House.

International Student Services

International student services at USC are offered by International Programs for Students. Services for international students include pre-arrival assistance, specialized orientation programs, immigration counseling, and individual consultations to resolve problems related to academic, personal, and cultural adjustment issues. International Programs for Students also coordinates campus-wide efforts to promote cultural and social programs that cultivate interaction among U.S. and international students.

For information, contact International Programs for Students, Suite 123, Byrnes Building, or call 803-777-7461.

National Student Exchange

The National Student Exchange Program provides an exciting opportunity for sophomore and junior USC students to attend one of over 160 colleges and universities across the United States and in Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Canada. Participants pay the same tuition and fees as at Carolina and avoid much of the usual red tape associated with transferring. Students are eligible to exchange for a minimum of one semester or a maximum of one academic year. For further information contact the National Student Exchange Office by phone at 803-777-4333 or via e-mail at NSE@gwm.sc.edu.

Off-Campus Housing Services

Off-Campus Housing Services provides available off-campus housing information for students. If you are looking for a roommate, a house to rent, or an apartment close to USC, then visit the office. For further information regarding Off-Campus Housing Services, stop by the Russell House Information Center, call 803-777-3196, or visit the Web site at www.sa.sc.edu/rhuu/ochsproplisting.htm.

Parent Programs

The Office of Parent Programs provides programs and services for USC parents and students to help familiarize and integrate them into the Carolina community. The area provides an outlet for family participation in the education of their college student(s). Each year Parent Programs sponsors the Parents' Annual Fund Campaign. Through this campaign University-wide projects are funded to benefit USC students.

Programs and services include Parents Weekend--a special weekend of planned activities for parents and students each fall; Carolina Ties--a bi-annual newsletter sent to all parents of undergraduate students; The Parents Handbook--a resource for parents that includes the most frequently asked questions, phone numbers, and basic University information; the Parents Assistance Line (800-868-6752)--a toll-free phone line available to USC parents with questions about the University; and a Web site at www.sa.sc.edu/parents--up-to-date information about the Office of Parent Programs and links to many other informative USC sites. You may contact the Office of Parent Programs by phone at 803-777-6688 or via e-mail at parents@gwm.sc.edu.

Religious Life

Many varied opportunities for religious worship, study, and activity are provided on the Columbia campus. Ordained chaplains, other University-recognized religious workers, and student leaders from various denominations, faiths, and organizations serve the campus and are available as pastors, mentors, and counselors. The members of Carolina Campus Ministries are professional ministers and/or directors of religious groups, either housed in their own centers or using space on campus for their events. Other religious workers are students in the University who direct and coordinate activities among their peers. Activities and events are open to all students. For further information, obtain a copy of the Carolina Campus Ministries brochure, call 803-777-5782, or visit the Carolina Campus Ministries Web site at www.sa.sc.edu/chaplain/association.htm or the religious student organizations Web site at db.sa.sc.edu/studorg/public/religious.asp.

Russell House

The Russell House, located near the center of the campus, serves as the "community center" for the University. The Russell House University Union (RHUU) provides facilities, services, and programs designed to afford opportunities for social interaction and leisure activities, facilitate cocurricular learning, enhance personal growth and development, and provide for many of the day-to-day campus life needs of USC students, faculty, staff, and their guests.

The facility contains spaces for meetings, a ballroom, lounges, a gameroom (Cocky's Corner Pocket), a movie theater, and a food court. Services provided include the Information Center (offering campus-wide information, a lost and found service, fax, and limited copy services) and assistance with meeting or event planning. The RHUU Office of Student Programs provides a variety of recreational, educational, and social activities for your education, entertainment, and enjoyment through three major areas: Alcohol and Drug Programs, Carolina Productions, and Leadership Programs. In addition to coordinating all campus-wide programming, the office directs the campus-wide alcohol and other drugs prevention program, and coordinates the Office of Leadership Programs. The student program staff recruits, trains, and advises students who either serve on the all-campus student program board, Carolina Productions, or the campus-wide alcohol and other drugs peer mentoring program, the RADICAL team. In addition, the Russell House contains office spaces for many student organizations and administrative offices for various student services within the Division of Student Affairs. Carolina Dining Services operates several facilities throughout the building offering a variety of dining alternatives, from snacks or fast foods to full-course meals in the Grand Market Place.

The Russell House also houses the following:

  • Mailboxes for resident students, located in the Carolina Mall and on the first floor. Package pickup is in the Carolina Mall only. Mail may be dropped off at either location for appropriate distribution.
  • Quick Copy, which offers copying services for student organizations and USC departments and can be found on the third floor.
  • Cocky's Corner Pocket, open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and featuring billiards, ping pong, and video games.
  • CarolinaCard, your permanent University ID plus a flexible spending, declining balance card with two accounts. One account is strictly for Carolina Dining purchases. The other, general account is for all other CarolinaCard purchases across campus. Students may use their CarolinaCard for purchases at or access to the Russell House Bookstore, the Thomas Cooper Library (for copies), the Student Health Center (for prescriptions and other fees), select Pepsi machines, all Carolina Dining locations, the College of Liberal Arts Computing Lab in Gambrell Hall, the Campus Post Office in the Russell House, and many residence halls. New locations and services are currently being added as well.

For further information, call the Russell House Information Center at 803-777-3196 or the Russell House administrative office at 803-777-8182, or visit the Web page at www.sa.sc.edu/rhuu.

Services for Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities are assisted through the Office of Student Disability Services. The professionally trained staff works toward accessibility to all University programs, services, and activities in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Some of the services offered include priority registration, adapted housing, adapted on-campus transportation, test proctoring, classroom adaptations, sign language interpreters, readers and notetakers, and academic, personal, and career counseling. If you have a disability and need assistance or information, please call the Office of Student Disability Services at (TDD) 803-777-6744, or 803-777-6142.

Student Orientation Programs

Orientation, advisement, and class registration programs are conducted by the Office of Student Orientation and Testing Services each summer for new freshmen, transfer students, and their parents. Additional programs include fall- and spring-semester orientation and Carolina Welcome Week, a fall, week-long program of events designed to ease the students' transition to the University environment.

Study Abroad

More than 300 USC students study abroad each year, and study abroad advisors help them select the appropriate program and prepare for the experience. Study abroad also assists faculty in developing short-term international programs, provides support services for exchange students who attend USC for a semester or a year, and administers exchanges between USC and international universities.

Visit the Study Abroad Office in the H.W. Close Building, 6th Floor, or go to www.sc.edu/ips/homesa.shtml for more information.

University Bookstore

The Russell House University Bookstore, located on the first floor, sells required textbooks, supplies, Carolina clothing, and various other types of merchandise and services. In addition, the bookstore stocks gift items and greeting cards and maintains an extensive general book department. Call 803-777-4160 for more information.

Women's Student Services

Over half of the students at the University of South Carolina are women. The Office of Women’s Student Services addresses the needs and concerns of women students both on and off campus. The office provides a central point on campus for information, referral services, and educational programs related to gender issues. Programs include Connections (the women's mentoring network) and activities during Women's History Month. The Women's Student Association is advised through this office, and information on membership or any of the services can be obtained by calling 803-777-5780 or visiting the office in the Lower Level, West Wing of the Russell House.

Student Health Services

Student Health Services provides accessible, convenient, high-quality, low-cost health care and preventive services. The USC health services team is sincerely interested in your health and wants to be your partner in wellness.

Overview

Student Health Services provides on-campus medical, mental health, ancillary, and health and wellness services for students. Services include ambulatory primary care at clinics and ancillary services located at the nationally accredited Thomson Student Health Center; a comprehensive array of counseling, testing, and psychological and psychiatric services available at the nationally accredited Counseling and Human Development Center; and a wide variety of wellness-oriented programs and educational services offered by the nationally accredited Health and Wellness Programs Office. Additional information on these organizations is provided below. Students are encouraged to visit the various Student Health Services Web sites for additional information on clinics, services, and programs.

Eligibility

USC Columbia students admitted to degree programs are eligible to use Student Health Services and to participate in its various programs during academic session in which they are enrolled. Most continuing students remain eligible for care on a fee-for-service basis between academic sessions. Graduates remain eligible for care on a fee-for-service basis up to three months after they graduate. Eligibility verification is required, and students seeking care should bring their student IDs or other picture IDs. Student Health Services has no authority to excuse students from classes for health-related reasons. (Excuses are a matter between the student and the concerned faculty member. Visit validation slips will be provided upon the student's request.)

Confidentiality

Medical and personal information disclosed to health services providers will be treated as privileged or confidential in accordance with federal and state laws. Student Health Services will not release information without the express consent of the patient, unless required by law or by the need to protect the welfare of the patient or others.

Costs

Students are responsible for payment of all health care related fees and charges. Student Health Services fees are generally lower than those charged by community providers. Unless a medical emergency exists, students should initially seek care at the Thomson Student Health Center (TSHC) or the Counseling and Human Development Center (CHDC).

Use of the TSHC and CHDC can significantly reduce health care costs for most students. For example, during enrolled academic sessions, there are no professional fee charges for visits at TSHC or CHDC for students who pay the health fee portion of the University fee. Students who have not paid the health fee are eligible for care, but are charged for professional services at rates well below comparable community charges. All patients are charged at student rates for certain procedures and ancillary services such as minor surgery, lab tests, X-rays, and prescriptions. Students who need specialty care, hospitalization, or other health care services not available at the TSHC or CHDC will be offered referrals to community providers. Payment of community provider charges is the student's responsibility. Given the high cost of public-sector or community health care, all students are encouraged to carry health insurance coverage.

Health Insurance

Payment for health care is the student's responsibility, and it can be very expensive if students require specialty testing and care, surgery, or hospitalization from non-Student Health Services care providers. A costly health care episode can interfere with a student’s ability to meet their educational goals. It is strongly recommended that all students be covered by adequate health insurance. USC requires all international students to be covered by an appropriate health insurance plan.

Health Insurance Coverage: Student Health Services recommends that all students check with their parents/guardians, insurance agent, employer, or managed care organization to determine their coverage status while attending the University of South Carolina. All students should have their health insurance cards and other key information, such as account numbers and authorization telephone numbers, in their possession. If enrolled in an HMO or other managed care plan, students should review rules on how the plan provides health care when they are away at school and cannot reasonably access network providers or "gatekeepers." Students should determine if their health plan reimburses for services provided by Student Health Services.

Student Health Insurance Plan: Students who need health insurance coverage should consider purchasing coverage under the USC-sponsored student health insurance plan. Most students enrolled in degree programs and in good academic standing are eligible to purchase this plan. Coverage can also be purchased by covered students for their spouses and dependent children. The USC-sponsored plan meets the mandatory international student health insurance coverage requirement.

The USC-sponsored health insurance plan is also used by six other state colleges and universities in South Carolina. It is designed to supplement primary care services available to USC students through Student Health Services. Most charges for care and services provided at Student Health Services are covered at 100 percent with no deductible. Unless an exception applies, covered students must initially seek care at Student Health Services. Referrals to network or other community providers are issued for specialty care, hospitalization, and other health needs not available through Student Health Services. Deductibles and preferred provider co-pay rates apply to community provider charges. The plan provides sound, economical coverage, with benefits designed to meet the health care needs of most University students. Students are reminded that USC neither sells health insurance, nor does it get any portion of the sponsored plan premium.

Health Insurance Cautions: The USC-sponsored plan does have deductibles, co-payments, and coverage and benefit limitations. Such provisions are common, in various forms, to most health insurance plans. With respect to health insurance, no one plan is best for everyone. Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the sponsored plan prior to making a purchase decision.

Pre-Existing Conditions: If you are currently being treated, have been recently treated, or should have been treated already for an injury or illness prior to purchasing the USC-sponsored plan, you may have a pre-existing medical condition.

  • The USC-sponsored plan does not provide benefits for pre-existing conditions until you have been covered under the USC plan for 12 continuous months.
  • Students with possible pre-existing conditions should carefully review their situation, compare plan requirements and coverages, and evaluate health insurance options prior to dropping their current health insurance plan or refusing continuation of coverage options. In order to continue to receive benefits for a pre-existing condition, students must remain covered under their current plan or purchase continuation coverage, such as COBRA coverage, when it is offered by their employer or current carrier.
  • A covered illness or injury either not classified as pre-existing or occurring after enrollment in the USC-sponsored plan will normally be eligible for benefits. Additionally, after 12 continuous months of coverage under the USC-sponsored plan, pre-existing conditions are eligible for benefits.

Emergency Coverage Plan: All students who pay the University health fee for an academic session are automatically covered by an accident and illness emergency care supplemental insurance plan (the A and I plan) during that academic session. The A and I plan is designed to supplement other health insurance coverage carried the students. The A and I plan reimburses students up to $500 for out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles and co-payments, associated with treatment of a true medical emergency.

Need more information? For details concerning the USC-sponsored Student Health Plan or the A and I plan, contact the Thomson Student Health Center or visit the Web site at www.sa.sc.edu/tshc/thomson.htm and follow the link "Insurance." Remember, students do suffer illness and injury, and health insurance coverage, regardless of the carrier, is strongly recommended.

Psychological Service Center

The Psychological Service Center provides diagnostic and treatment services to students, faculty, and staff of the University and to adults and children in the surrounding community. The center is staffed by doctoral degree candidates in clinical psychology; therapists have ongoing contact with psychology department faculty on all cases. Consultation to community and campus agencies is also offered. Diagnostic, evaluative, and therapeutic services to students, faculty, staff, and the community are provided free of charge.

Student Health Services Organizations

Thomson Student Health Center (TSHC) (803-777-3174): TSHC is located in the center of the Columbia campus, directly behind the Russell House. One of some 150 nationally accredited university student health centers, TSHC is staffed by seven board-certified or board-eligible physicians, four certified nurse practitioners, and nine licensed nurses, most of whom are also certified as college health nurses.

TSHC is open Monday through Friday, except University holidays. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during fall and spring semesters and 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 pm. at other times. A Sunday afternoon and evening clinic is held from 4 to 8 p.m. during fall and spring semesters to manage urgent conditions.

No inpatient, overnight, or after-hours services are available. During the fall and spring semesters, an EMT-qualified first responder is on duty to assist students with urgent medical needs when the health center is closed. After-hours care is available at several community hospital emergency rooms located within minutes of campus. Students are responsible for all charges for medical care and services at community providers

Daily clinics operating at TSHC include the General Medicine Clinic and the Women's Care Clinic. Weekly orthopedic and sports medicine/minor injury clinics are also offered. Ancillary services include pharmacy, diagnostic radiology, clinical laboratory, and physical therapy. Prescriptions, laboratory orders, and some radiology orders are accepted from private or community providers. Travel consultations, immunizations, and allergy injection services are also routinely offered. Students planning travel to areas with health-risks should make travel consultation appointments well in advance to allow time for necessary evaluations and immunizations.

Acute illness and injuries are seen on a walk-in basis. For routine or other non-acute needs, such as evaluations, screening examinations and testing, physical examinations, and health maintenance visits, students are expected to make appointments. Call 803-777-6816 for Women’s Care Clinic appointments and 803-777-3175 for all other appointments.

Students are encouraged to initially seek non-emergency medical care at TSHC. If a medical need cannot be appropriately managed at TSHC, a referral will be made to a local specialist, hospital, or other provider requested by the patient.

Counseling and Human Development Center (CHDC) (803-777-5223): CHDC is located on the 7th Floor of the Byrnes Building at the corner of College and Sumter streets. CHDC, a fully accredited counseling center, offers brief outpatient psychiatric intervention; psychological services, including individual and group counseling; and biofeedback and psychological testing services. CHDC also operates one of the few University-based psychology Ph.D. intern programs that are nationally accredited by the American Psychological Association. Permanent licensed clinical staff includes five Ph.D. psychologists, a psychiatrist, two social workers, and a marriage and family therapist.

Students who need inpatient care, extended outpatient services, or other clinical care that exceeds the capabilities of CHDC are referred to community providers.

Professional staff clinical evaluation and management services are free for up to 12 sessions for all students who have paid the health fee portion of the University fee. These services are provided on a fee-for-service basis for all other students.

CHDC is open daily, Monday through Friday, except University holidays. Appointments are required except for acute or urgent situations.

Health and Wellness Programs offer a variety of programs and services designed to enhance the health and wellness of the University community through information, education, and advocacy. Health and Wellness Programs is nationally accredited and staffed by four master's degree program coordinators who have specialized training and experience in a variety of pertinent disciplines. Trained graduate assistants and peer educators assist with programs and service delivery. Programs and services are offered at various campus locations. Most of these programs are provided at no charge. Health and Wellness Programs is composed of two offices that promote the physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological health and well-being of USC students:

1. Campus Wellness: This program element provides a variety of services, programs, and information on many aspects of health relevant to University students. These highly visible, convenient, and accessible services and programs of instruction, information, assistance, and guidance are designed to help students live at high levels of wellness and strive for optimal health. Programs and services are offered on the first floor of the Thomson Student Health Center (803-777-8248) and at the Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center (803-777-3656). Most of the services are available to students at no cost. Key program elements include the following:

A. Open Door Drop-In Center, operated at the Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center Monday through Friday, with extended hours three evenings per week (until 8 p.m.), no appointment necessary. Students can stop by and take advantage of one-on-one health consultations and receive information on blood pressure, weight management, exercise, nutrition, and more. The Open Door Drop-In Center is an excellent entry point into USC’s health care system for students who have health-related concerns, questions, or perceived needs.
B. Focused Programs and Services: A variety of programs and services designed to address current common health concerns of University students are provided. Among others, these include: free smoking cessation groups including medical consultations and medications; targeted college-aged men’s health initiatives; Lighten-UP!, a six-week weight management group program; the Multi-Cultural Health Initiative, targeting a number of health concerns of particular interest to minority students; and the Eating Disorder Team, dedicated to helping students struggling with eating issues.
C. WellnessWorks offers numerous health education services, classes, and wellness programs for students, faculty, and staff, including stress management, weight management, and CPR certification. Many of these services are offered in partnership with campus recreation programs. Program offerings, availability, and schedules vary. Information can be obtained at the Blatt P.E. Center or the Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center or by calling 803-777-6518.

2. Office of Sexual Health and Violence Prevention (803-777-7619): This program element provides comprehensive programs and services that address the concerns of sexual health, sexual assault, and relationship violence. Office for Sexual Health and Violence Prevention staff are available during business hours Monday through Friday and are on-call for after-hours emergencies. The office is located on the first floor of the Thomson Student Health Center. For emergency assistance contact the USC Police Department dispatcher at 911 if on campus and at 803-777-4215 if off campus. Major activities are summarized as follows:

A. Sexual Health Programs provides educational programs for the University community and individual consultation about sexual health, sexually transmitted infections, and healthy relationships; develops campus-wide campaigns to raise awareness of sexual health concerns; and provides targeted education to reach the special needs of a diverse student population. It also provides instruction to first-year students through affiliation with the University 101 program.
B. Sexual Assault Services educates students, faculty, and staff about issues related to sexual assault risk reduction strategies and provides 24-hour crisis intervention and advocacy for survivors of sexual assault, including accompaniment to the emergency room, accompaniment through criminal and student judicial processes, referrals, the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Group, and academic assistance. The office consults on issues and policies related to these issues and appropriate campus safety matters.
C. Relationship Violence Services provides 24-hour emergency crisis intervention and advocacy, temporary "alternative housing" for both on-campus and off-campus students, safety planning and options counseling, relationship violence survivors' groups, and educational programs on topics of relationship violence risk reduction strategies and "safety planning."

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