University College
Academic Success Program/Act 101 Program
Location: 231 Lawrence Center
Phone: 610-436-3274
The Academic Success Program is a special admissions program for students who do not meet current admission requirements
but who show the potential to succeed as students at West Chester University.
Students admitted to the program must complete a five-week summer session in which
they take classes that may include writing, reading/critical thinking, mathematics
and speaking. In addition to classes, students are engaged in extra-curricular activities
which are designed to help them make a smooth transition from high school into college.
Students are provided with academic advising, tutoring, mentoring and academic monitoring.
Upon successful completion of the summer session, students are admitted to the University
for the fall. The program continues to support students through coursework and with
specialized academic support during their undergraduate years at West Chester University.
Learning Assistance and Resource Center (LARC)
Location: 224 Lawrence Center
Phone: 610-436-2535
Learning Assistance and Resource Center (LARC) Website
The Learning Assistance and Resource Center (LARC) strives to provide quality academic support services that help students become independent, active learners who achieve academic success. The LARC offers tutoring in most general education courses, such as mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, languages, music, and introductory business. Additional online tutoring for lower- and upper-level general education courses is available through Smarthinking, which can be accessed 24/7 via the “Resources” tab on D2L.
In addition to traditional tutoring, the LARC offers Success Coaching to promote the academic and personal success of WCU students. Success Coaching pairs WCU students with graduate success coaches to discuss topics such as time management, online learning, test anxiety reduction, note taking, finals preparation, motivation, and more. Academic Success Workshops (ASWs) offer additional opportunities for students to gain learning strategies and study skills. ASWs are online presentations that are accessible to students at any time; live sessions are available to groups upon request. To register for tutoring, success coaching, or to access an ASW, students should visit the LARC website. The LARC website includes information on our services, a list of courses we tutor, and links to helpful resources.
Finally, the LARC offers a comprehensive training program for tutors and success coaches that includes seminars, workshops, individualized projects, and peer observation. Tutors and success coaches employed by the LARC acquire the knowledge and experience necessary to meet the requirements for certification by the College Reading and Learning Association. Students interested in tutoring positions can apply online at https://www.wcupa.edu/universityCollege/larc/. Graduate students seeking success coaching positions should monitor open positions via the Handshake portal on the Twardowski Career Development Center website. Students interested in tutoring positions can apply online.
Other Programs Housed in 224 Lawrence: The Student Alert Program allows faculty to report student academic concerns at any time during the semester. Students who are alerted receive an invitation to connect with a graduate success coach, who can discuss academic concerns, review methods to improve academic performance, and provide information regarding other University services. The LARC is open Monday-Thursday from 8am to 9pm, Friday from 8am to 4pm, and Sunday from 6pm to 9pm You may contact us via.
Office of Educational Accessibility/TRIO Student Support Services
Phone: 610-436-2564
Office of Educational Accessibility/TRIO Student Support Services Website
The Office of Educational Accessibility (OEA) facilitates access for students with disabilities to the educational offerings, programming, and facilities of West Chester University through the removal of barriers to access using accommodations and referral to appropriate University support services. OEA is focused on promoting self-advocacy and inclusion to support students as they make a successful transition to the University and as they complete their studies. We take a collaborative stance that encourages and supports students in assessing their needs and using their strengths in order to best advocate for themselves.
At West Chester University, we recognize the right of students to self-determination and that some students with disabilities want minimal support, while others may be seeking a more comprehensive package of accommodation, support, and services. To facilitate both a successful transition and collegiate experience, we recommend disabled students or those students who may have a history of accommodation (IEP, 504, etc.) engage with our office in an individualized, interactive process to determine which accommodations are most appropriate given their needs and the requirements of their course(s) or degree program. While OEA does advocate for access and inclusion, including in individual cases, we strive to provide students with the tools and confidence necessary for self-advocacy and independence at WCU and beyond.
The OEA is located within University College. Our main charge is to remove barriers to access on the basis of disability by arranging for accommodations for students, which seek to mitigate the effect of a student’s disability and create a level playing field within the classroom. OEA works in collaboration with other programs and offices in University College and at the University to provide for the needs of the whole student. OEA provides accommodations for all aspects of the student experience including during field placements, clinicals, student teaching, and other non-traditional classroom experiences.
Students needing financial support for personal services should contact the appropriate agency (e.g., OVR, BVS) at least six months in advance of matriculation to inquire about available funds. It is the student's responsibility to fund and arrange for services of a personal nature (e.g., attendants, aides, nurses, etc.) as well as any personal assistive or adaptive technology or devices (e.g. computer, wheelchair, etc.)
Exploratory Studies Advising Center
Location: 222 Lawrence Center
Phone: 610-436-3505
Exploratory Studies Website
Exploratory Studies (EXPS) provides support to undergraduate students admitted to WCU as undeclared. Assignment to EXPS either reflects the student’s own choice, especially when the student does not have concrete ideas about a specific major of interest or a student may have two or more majors in mind, but is not ready to commit to one at the time of matriculation. Some majors have limited capacities so EXPS students take prerequisite courses and apply to their intended major once they have met the specific entrance requirements of the particular major of interest. EXPS faculty academic advisors assist students in exploring their interests consistent with their academic and career goals, help students in making effective decisions, interpret University and departmental policies and program requirements, as well as guide students with appropriate course selection. Advisors also make referrals and provide academic support to enhance student success. Together, the advisor and the student develop a strategic educational plan for success.
Exploratory Studies Advising is located in Room 222, Lawrence Center. Contact the center at 610-436-3305 or
advising@wcupa.edu, or visit the Exploratory Studies Website for a wealth of information.