Programs and Services
The Dean of Students office is a general resource for all issues related to student life at Northwestern. The office serves as a primary contact point for students, parents, and families.
Much of your learning at the University takes place outside of the classroom; with groups of friends, participating in events, and in living situations both on and off campus. The Dean of Students Office is here to help you make the most of your time at the University; to find your niche and to catch that Wildcat spirit.
Dean of Students Office
The Dean of Students Office provides programs, services and resources for the following:
- New Student & Family Programs - Parents and Families can find answers to questions that arise before students arrive or during their time at the University, Deans office staff can address concerns, and help direct students and families to the various campus resources who can help resolve their questions.
- Off-Campus Student Life - Primary contact for issues related to Off-Campus Student life. We work with City and university resources to help Northwestern students remain engaged members of the Evanston and Northwestern communities. When issues, questions or concerns arise in these areas, it is the Deans office who addresses these concerns.
- Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution - Coordinates the resolution of student conduct and conflict issues. Helps support the development of character, community, and ethics on campus and beyond.
- Medical Leave of Absence - The Dean of Students office assists students who need time away from the university for treatment of a physical or mental health condition that impairs a student's ability to function safely and successfully as a member of our community.
- Student Advocate - Serves as an advocate for and resource to student victims of crime, illness, mental/emotional health, harassment, or other crises.
Dean's Certification
Students/alumni of the university may start the Dean's Certification process by contacting the Office of Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (formerly Judicial Affairs). In order to relay an accurate picture of the student's academic integrity and disciplinary history, the Office will communicate with the student's academic college. In both cases, only suspension or exclusion will be reported to external third parties, unless otherwise required by law.
A copy of the Retention & Reporting of Disciplinary Records policy is also sent with each Dean's Certification form.