Aug 31, 2024  
2024-2025 Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Catalog

General Information


 


History

Governors State University was chartered by the Illinois General Assembly in 1969. It serves undergraduate students and those seeking master’s and doctoral degrees. In fall 2014, the university underwent a major transformation through the admission of its first freshmen class.

The university’s main campus is located in University Park, 35 miles south of Chicago and is easily accessible by car or commuter train. The campus is located on 760 acres of wooded landscape with several lakes and nature trails. It includes the internationally renowned Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park.

The curricula of the university are offered through four colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Education and Human Development, and the College of Health and Human Services.

Mission

GovState is committed to offering an exceptional and accessible education that prepares students with the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in a global society.

Accreditation

Governors State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The university is also a member of the Illinois Council of Baccalaureate and Higher Degree Programs. Each program is accredited by a professional accrediting agency in each case where there is a national accreditation body.

The Higher Learning Commission

230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, IL 60604-1411;
Phone: 312.263.0456; 800.621.7440
FAX: 312.263.7462;
E-mail: hlc@hlcommission.org

Governance of the University

A seven-member board appointed by the governor of Illinois governs this university. One student serves as a member of the Board of Trustees. The president of the university is responsible to the Board of Trustees for the operation and general welfare of the university. The provost/academic vice president has general responsibility in the areas of academic personnel and programs. Governors State University’s four colleges are directly administered by their respective deans.

Faculty, civil service staff, and students participate in university affairs through membership on the Faculty Senate, Civil Service Senate, Student Senate, and academic and administrative committees. These groups consider and recommend policies and procedures to the president.

Academic Year

The Governors State University academic calendar offers 15- week Fall and Spring semesters and a 12-week Summer session. The Fall 2024 semester begins August 26, 2024 and ends December 8, 2024. The Spring 2025 semester begins January 21, 2025 and ends May 12, 2025. The Spring semester includes a one-week Spring Break during which classes will not be in session, though the University will be open for other business.

The Summer 2025 session begins May 19, 2025 and ends August 17, 2025.

For more detailed information about the calendar, visit www.govst.edu/academiccalendar.

Alumni Association

Alumni Programs and Activities

A wide range of programs and activities are offered to alumni throughout the year: 

  • Educational workshops and seminars are conducted throughout the year.
  • Alumni and their families are invited to attend social, cultural, and recreational activities, such as Homecoming gatherings, Family Fun Fair, discounted tickets to sporting events, performances, and more..
  • The Alumni Association hosts GovState’s annual Distinguished Alumni Reception to honor the achievements of notable alumni recognized by their peers and faculty.
  • The Alumni Association’s various Affinity Groups and clubs sponsor engagements designed to encourage alumni to connect with and mentor students & new alumni, as well as foster relationships with fellow alumni.
  • An alumni e-newsletter is published monthly including video interviews spotlighting a different outstanding alumnus each edition.
  • Print communications on special events and alumni accomplishments are published throughout the year.
  • Alumni are invited to volunteer, advocate for the University & Association, and donate to causes on and off campus. Connect with us at alumnirelations2@govst.edu or 708.534.7892 to find out how you can help.
  • Upcoming alumni events, groups & club activities, as well as university news-related updates are announced in the monthly e-newsletter, printed communications, social media platforms, and on the alumni website at www.govst.edu/alumni

Alumni Association Membership

All GovState alumni alumni receive one year of free membership upon graduation from the university. You will need to complete the secure membership request form at this link or contact the Alumni Relations Office to request your free membership card: alumnirelations2@govst.edu or  708.534.7892.

Benefits include:

  • Monthly Alumni Newsletter. Email AlumniRelations2@govst.edu to sign up.
  • Membership in alumni clubs.
  • Free on-campus workshops. Workshops are announced periodically via email blast or social media.
  • Access to University Library (computer use requires guest log-in from the Reference Desk)
  • Access to Career Services.
  • Invitations to alumni events, 15% off Center for Performing Arts events.
  • Use of the on-campus Computer Cube (requires guest log-in from Library Reference Desk).

Additional discounts and benefits are included with Premium and Life Memberships. Details available at https://www.govst.edu/alumni-membership/