Undergraduate Catalog 2024-2025

Student Services and Activities

On This Page

Student Activities

Charley Pride, Director of Student Activities 
Downing Student Union, 2059
Phone: (270) 745-2459

The Student

Western Kentucky University students have a significant role in the internal governance of the University. Elected or appointed representatives of the student body serve with members of the faculty and administration on policy-recommending councils and committees. Student members of internal governance councils and committees are selected by the Student Government Association. For more information about the membership and function of these committees and councils, contact the Student Government Association Office, DSU 2045, 270-745-4354.

Student Life Policies

All university citizens enjoy the rights and liberties assured by the constitutions of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the United States of America. Likewise, they are subject to the responsibility and obligation to accord respect to the rights of others.

Student Life policies are intended to foster student development and responsibility. Guided by these principles, the Department of Student Activities and Division of Enrollment and Student Experience maintains the mission of the University by ensuring that students are afforded opportunities for civic engagement with respect to the rights of others.

Students’ rights, responsibilities, and the Student Code of Conduct are outlined in the Western Kentucky University Student Handbook on the Western Kentucky University website and in the Student Life Policies section of this catalog.

Student organizations, activities, and leadership programs make a great contribution to student life at WKU. All students are encouraged to become involved in organizations whose purposes and activities will contribute to their personal growth and development.

For more information on student activities and organizations, visit http://www.wku.edu/sao or call at (270) 745-2459.

Dynamic Leadership Institute

WKU students are invited to apply for admission in the Institute. The Institute consists of four phases. Each phase is a semester with six workshops or activities that address a variety of leadership topics. Students are selected to represent a diverse group of ages, interests, and levels of leadership ability. Applications are available at the Leadership & Volunteerism office located in Downing Student Union, Room 2059 or call at (270) 745-2459.

High School Leadership Conference

The Kentucky High School Leadership Conference is held on the campus of Western Kentucky University each semester. This conference helps educate high school students on the importance of leadership and active involvement. Students from across Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana gather to obtain information, insight, and an understanding of leadership skills.

Leadership and Volunteerism

The Leadership and Volunteerism office provides a variety of opportunities to students that allow them to engage in developmental activities. This office engages students in numerous service projects including Midnight on the Hill for St. Jude’s Hospital, Alternative Spring Breaks, Red Cross blood drives, and Student United Way. For more information call the office at 270-745-2060, or stop by Downing Student Union 2059, or visit our website at: http://www.wku.edu/sao/.

Volunteer Initiative Program (VIP)

The VIP exists to provide students with information about community service and volunteer opportunities in the Bowling Green area. Students have the opportunity to volunteer their time to local service agencies and get involved in the community. Volunteer opportunities range from one day events to semester long activities. There is something out there for everyone and the experience is priceless. The program is open to all WKU students, faculty, and staff.

Weekend in the Woods

A special retreat is conducted each fall for selected campus freshmen to transfer information, focus on special topics, and promote campus unity. This retreat is part of an invaluable process that helps ensure student groups and their leaders are working toward the same goal—a better WKU.

Student Organizations

The Office of Student Activities works to provide co-curricular activities for those students who want to become involved at WKU. We have over 300 registered student organizations, ranging from Departmental, Campus Ministries, General Clubs, Honor Societies, Intramural/Recreational, Professional, Service, Student Representative, and Greek Life (Fraternity and Sorority).

Visit our office, DSU 2059 or call (270) 745-2459 or visit our website at http://www.wku.edu/sao. 

Check Cashing Services

Two types of personal checks (maximum $50) may be cashed by the University Cashier’s Office in room 208 of Potter Hall.

  1. The check may be written by the student and made payable to WKU.
  2. The check may be written by the student’s parent and made payable to the student.

Western Kentucky University student payroll checks in any amount will be cashed.  A student I.D. is required for check cashing services.

Checks may be cashed from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, at Potter Hall during the fall semester through spring semester.  Summer office hours vary.

A charge of $20.00 will be made for each check returned because of insufficient funds, closed account, or stop payment. The check cashing privilege will be denied to students after two checks have been returned for non-payment. Failure by a student to make prompt payment on returned checks may jeopardize his/her status with the university. Any unpaid, returned checks are subject to being turned over to the County Attorney’s Office for collection.  Students are advised that the passing of bad checks is a violation of Kentucky statute.

Counseling Center

Dr. Peggy Crowe, Director
Dr. Karl Laves, Associate Director | Licensed Counseling Psychologist 
Potter Hall, Office 409
Phone: 270-745-3159
Website: http://www.wku.edu/heretohelp

College should be challenging, not overwhelming.  Sometimes students need help.  The Counseling Center at WKU provides the following services without assessing a fee or billing insurance:

  1. Individual counseling services for currently enrolled students.
  2. Psycho-educational programs for classes, organizations, and departments.
  3. Consultation to faculty and staff regarding student mental health related behaviors(s).
  4. Referrals to psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors outside of the university.
  5. Crisis/emergency assistance for mental health related situations that arise on campus or in our community.

Dero Downing Student Union

Downing Student Union, Office 1053
Phone: 270-745-5793
Email: DSU.Operations@wku.edu
Website: http://www.wku.edu/dsu

The Downing Student Union is truly the crossroads of WKU! Located on the ground floor are The WKU Store, Postal Services, & The Passport Office. On the first floor, visitors will find the Downing Student Union Operations Office, Fresh Food Company, the Food Court, The Red Zone, Starbucks, Burrito Bowl, Student Accessibility Resource Center (SARC), administrative offices for the WKU Restaurant Group, a Study Lounge, the Recreation Room, Nite Class Multipurpose venue, and a 633-seat Auditorium. Located on the second floor is the Office of the Dean of Students, The Advising and Career Development Center, Transfer Center, Student Government Association (SGA), Office for Student Activities, The Intercultural Student Engagement Center (ISEC), The Gallery, The Pride Center, the Spirit Masters Office, and the ID Center. And, the third floor has various sizes of meeting and multipurpose rooms. To reserve space in the Union please visit www.wku.edu/dsu.

Lost and Found 

The Downing Student Union Operations Office maintains campus-wide lost and found. A valid picture ID must be provided to claim an item.

Intercultural Student Engagement Center    

Dr. Cres'Sena Thomas, Associate Director
Dero Downing Student Union, Office 2041
Phone: 270-745-5066; Fax 270-745-5273
Website: https://www.wku.edu/isec/

The Intercultural Student Engagement Center promotes a culturally inclusive campus environment, cultural awareness and competence, inter-group dialogue, engagement, and intercultural interaction, and supports lifelong learning about self and others. The office serves as a hands-on recruitment and retention resource for the many cultural, religious/spiritual, and identity groups reflected within the WKU community. The Center provides student support services to foster academic success and sponsors culturally based celebratory events. Staff within the Intercultural Student Engagement Center carry out programmatic initiatives designed to increase the cultural competency of students, faculty, and staff. Additionally, Center staff manages respectful spaces for students to learn about themselves and others through meaningful experiences, dialogues, and opportunities for growth.  

Med Center Health at WKU Health Services     

1681 Normal Drive
Phone: (270) 745-CARE  (2273)
Websites: http://www.wku.edu/healthservices
https://medcenterhealth.org/wkuhealthservices

WKU Health Services is your provider for comprehensive healthcare services for students, faculty and staff, brought to you by Med Center Health, the largest and most comprehensive healthcare provider in Southcentral Kentucky. Located just two miles from WKU’s Bowling Green campus, The Medical Center at Bowling Green, Med Center Health’s flagship hospital, offers comprehensive emergency, specialty and surgical services.

At WKU Health Services, we are committed to the health and wellbeing of every WKU student, faculty and staff member. We are here to provide care for you through offering a variety of services including:

  • Acute non-emergency injury treatment
  • Allergy Treatments
  • Annual Wellness Visits
  • Biometric Screening
  • Contraceptive Services
  • Immunizations
  • Lab work
  • Medication Administration
  • Mental Health Services
  • Occupational Medicine
  • Physical Therapy
  • Pregnancy Testing
  • Primary Care 
  • STI testing
  • Telemedicine
  • Women’s Health Visits
  • X-Ray

Through partnerships with campus-based services, WKU Health Services provides health and wellness resources to the campus community aimed at helping students stay well during their time at WKU and helping faculty, staff and their families with the care they need throughout the year.

Our providers and staff include a Physician Assistant, Nurse Practitioners, registered medical assistants, x-ray and lab technicians. We are in network with all major insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare. We also accept the WKU Student Health Insurance plan. If there is an out-of-network patient responsibility, the self-pay discount fee schedule can be used.

WKU Health Services allows patients the option to pay in cash for services rendered at our clinic as opposed to billing those services to insurance. Depending on the patient responsibility requirement from your health plan, a copay will be collected at the time of service.

For current hours of operation, please visit the website. Special alternate hours may apply during holiday and summer breaks. To schedule an appointment to see a healthcare provider, call (270) 745-CARE (2273).

Patients will need their driver’s license or other official form of ID and their insurance card (if available) at the time of their appointment. Insurance is not required to be seen by a healthcare provider.

WKU Health Services is located on the south side of the WKU Bowling Green campus, near the Freshman Village with convenient access to the Topper Transit line (Ransdell Hall stop). Free parking is available for patients while they are seeing our providers (license plate number must be provided to front desk personnel).

Identification Card    

ID Center
Downing Student Union, Room 2125
Phone: (270) 745-2417;  Fax: (270) 745-2650
Website: http://www.wku.edu/idcenter

All full-time and part-time students are issued a personal identification card (WKU ID Card). The ID card contains a photo image, the student’s name, and WKU ID number. The ID card entitles the full-time student to admission to campus athletic events, use of recreational facilities in the Student Union at student rates, admission to the Preston Center, check-out privileges at the library, and other general University services. It can also be used as a debit card at all Restaurant Group facilities, the WKU Store, WKU Postal Services, Student Health Services,  selected vending machines, laundry machines, and more. The ID card for part-time students provides similar privileges as received by full-time students detailed above with the exception of admission to some recreational activities unless an additional fee is paid. The ID card is not transferable and is valid for the duration of one’s college career at WKU. Students are expected to carry their ID card at all times and to present the card upon request by University Officials. The WKU ID Card must be surrendered upon demand if revoked by a University Official. The University is not responsible for any loss or expenses resulting from the loss, theft, or misuse of this card. If the card is lost or stolen, it must be replaced at a cost to the student. Application for replacement of an ID card should be made at the ID Center. The ID card is the property of Western Kentucky University.

Intercollegiate Competition

WKU is a member of Conference USA, the Football Bowl Subdivision, and the National Collegiate Athletic Association. Over a 10-year span in CUSA, WKU has captured a league-high 40 conference championships. WKU has won titles in 10 different sports and claimed multiple championships in every year but one. WKU also finished the spring 2024 semester with the one of the highest cumulative career GPA for all student-athletes in school history at 3.17. Ten of WKU's 14 sport programs have a team cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, breaking the record for student-athletes named to the CUSA Commissioner’s Honor Roll with 222. WKU Athletics had 114 graduates for the 2022-23 school year with a graduating GPA of 3.34 in the spring.

A comprehensive program of intercollegiate competition in forensic activity is afforded to qualifying students at WKU. Western Kentucky University’s speech and debate team is consistently ranked as one of the top teams in the nation. The program has won11 American Forensics Association National Speech Tournament Championships and 16 National Forensics Association Individual Events Championships since 2003. WKU has won the Lincoln Douglas Debate Team National Championship 18 times since 1996 and the Pi Kappa Delta Comprehensive National Championship 3 times. WKU is the first and only team in history to win the Debate Team Championship for six consecutive years and the first and only team to ever close out the national final round of competition. WKU’s forensics team has won the International Forensics Association World Championship ten times out of ten total attempts. WKU's forensics team is also the only organization to win the AFA National Championship, the NFA Individual Events Team championship, and the NFA Debate Team Championship in the same season, a feat WKU has accomplished for the ninth time in 2021.

The vision of WKU Forensics is to empower students through competitive speech and debate to improve themselves and their communities. Guided by the core values of discipline, innovation, gratitude, and leadership, this highly competitive program offers the student an opportunity to demonstrate academic excellence and to excel in a competition of the intellect.

Campus Recreation & Wellness (CRW)    

Justin Cato, Director
Email: Justin.Cato@wku.edu
Raymond B. Preston Health and Activities Center, Office 20a
Phone: 270-745-6060; Fax: 270-745-2006
Website: http://www.wku.edu/crw/

The Department of Campus Recreation & Wellness is located in the Raymond B. Preston Health and Activities Center. “We connect, transform, and empower Hilltoppers to be lifelong learners through inclusive, holistic, experiential learning opportunities that enrich their overall well-being” expresses the mission of this office and one that is implemented by providing recreational and healthy lifestyle opportunities for the university community.

The Raymond B. Preston Health and Activities Center is a 126,000 square foot facility that opened in 1992. It houses six basketball/volleyball/badminton courts, six racquetball courts, two indoor tennis courts, a swimming pool, a fitness center containing cardiovascular, selectorized strength and free weight equipment, a suspended indoor running track, a dance studio, separate faculty/staff and student locker rooms, a multipurpose room, a smart classroom, a Health and Fitness Lab, an Outdoor Recreation and Adventure Center, a bike repair shop, and the Campus Recreation & Wellness Office.

Preston Center membership fees for all full-time students are included in their tuition during the fall and spring semesters. Part-time students carrying three or more hours may choose to pay for a membership ($35.00) on a semester basis. Memberships are available for students' spouses and their children. Summer memberships are also available.

The Department of Campus Recreation & Wellness provides students, faculty, and staff an opportunity for participation in constructive recreational activities. These programs consist of recreational sports leagues, recreational free-play, sport club activities, instructional programs, fitness services, nutritional education, and fitness classes.

The intramural sport program is designed to give students the opportunity to compete in sports and games of their choice. Typical activities (subject to change year to year) included in these programs are badminton, basketball, canoe battleship, cornhole, dodgeball, flag football, futsal, pickle ball, soccer, softball, 3-point challenge, 3 on 3 hoops tournament, ultimate Frisbee, and volleyball. The faculty and staff at WKU may participate in the intramural sport program with a membership to the Preston Center. 

The sport club program helps students develop a higher skill level in a particular sport or activity. Each club must be organized and motivated through students' interests and has a faculty advisor. Active sport clubs include billiards, fencing, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, and volleyball. Other sports can be represented if there is sufficient student interest.

The Hattie L. Preston Intramural Sports Complex, located two miles from campus on the corner of Campbell Lane and Industrial Drive, presents a significant addition to the Campus Recreation & Wellness facilities. Twenty-four acres were developed and include eight flag football fields, four softball fields and a combination soccer, rugby, field hockey, and lacrosse field. In the Fall of 2000, state of the art lighting, scoreboards and irrigation systems were added. The centerpiece of the Sports Complex is the two-story field house, which has administrative offices, a lounge, scorekeeping areas, a concessions area, restrooms, and a storage area.

The Health & Fitness Lab, located in the Preston Center, provides clinical and educational services to students, faculty, and staff of WKU. The Health & Fitness Lab is staffed by degreed and certified fitness professionals, and trained students who are eager to help you address your personal health & fitness needs. The Lab provides all the fitness programming in the Preston Center including group fitness classes and various fitness assessments, exercise prescriptions, weight training orientations, and nutritional counseling and education services. Other programs offered are personal training, massage therapy, and instructional programs such as yoga, dance lessons, self-defense courses, boot camp programs, and much more! Stop by room 20a in the Preston Center to learn more or sign up for any of their services or check out their website at https://www.wku.edu/crw/healthfitnesslab/. (A separate fee is required for these services).

WellU® is the student wellness program at WKU that collaborates with other student services and programs on campus. It is designed to help students engage in services that promote healthy habits and success in the classroom and life in general. The Mission of the WellU® program is to unify student health promotion efforts at WKU. The WellU® program gives away scholarships and prizes every year to students for active participation. Check out this great opportunity at www.wku.edu/awellu. The Student Wellness Program is located in the Health Services Building on campus adjacent to the Preston Center.

Hilltopper Nutrition’s role is to educate and motivate WKU students, while collaborating with the community, concerning the importance of maintaining wholesome nutrition for their health. Hilltopper Nutrition provides the WKU campus with educational information covering a wide variety of nutrition-related topics and events.  Students have access to healthy options all over campus to complement their demanding schedule.  The Hilltopper Nutrition program works to provide healthier alternatives to everyday food choices and provide students with the necessary information to make smarter, healthier choices while on campus.  Look for the Healthier Eating Guide all over campus to help identify healthier options with a meal swipe. Don't forget to check out our blog, Hilltopper Nutrition, for information on our favorite nutrition topics. Hilltopper Nutrition is located in the Health Services Building on campus.

The WKU Health Education & Promotion Program (HEP), located in the Health Services Building, provides health education and promotional programming to the student population by assisting in making behavioral changes that enhance all dimensions of health and wellness. Health Education and awareness is offered through a variety of services and programs allowing students to be successful at WKU and beyond. For more information about programs and services, please visit our website at: http://www.wku.edu/hep/, or email us at healthed@wku.edu.

The program targets other campus stakeholders/departments, peer health educators, interns, and community organizations to partner in providing educational forums/presentations, workshops, referrals, individual appointments, training programs, and resource materials to educate students. Topics include but are not limited to alcohol, stress and time management, sleep management, healthy relationships, sexual health, men's and women's health, cold and flu prevention, cancer, nutrition, exercise, mental health issues, tobacco and other drugs, and healthy body image/eating disorders. The program incorporates theory and an evidence-based approach including multi-level prevention strategies such as research and data management, advocating for health environmental changes, providing free HIV testing and prevention counseling services, quit tobacco services, health communication campaigns/publications and more.

Student employment opportunities are available through the Department of Campus Recreation & Wellness in the following areas: receptionists, front desk attendants, facility supervisors, fitness center attendants, lifeguards, group exercise instructors, office assistants, personal trainers, health & fitness lab assistants, intramural and club sport supervisors, and sport officials. We also have employment in the areas of website design, data programming, public relations, and marketing.

Students interested in any aspect of the Campus Recreation & Wellness programs, services, and facilities may come to the Campus Recreation & Wellness offices to obtain information or may phone the office at 270-745-6060. The office is located in the Health and Fitness lab of the Preston Center and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Check us out on the web at www.wku.edu/crw/.

Military Student Services

Director: Kent Johnson
Phone: (270) 745-4163
Email: military@wku.edu
Website: http://www.wku.edu/veterans 

Western Kentucky University is committed to providing exceptional and affordable options to our military students. The Office of Military Student Services leads initiatives and offers unique programs to ensure the educational success of our total military student population including active duty, guard and reserve members, veterans, and their family members. Visit http://www.wku.edu/veterans to discover services and programs available, a few of which are: 

  • Free textbook loans to eligible students through the Textbooks For Troops program.
  • Discounted Tuition Rate for active duty, reserve, and National Guard members, including active duty officers in the USPHS and NOAA.
  • Federal Tuition Assistance help for all service members from all branches.

Since 1972 WKU has provided educational opportunities on post at Ft. Knox. WKU also offers the only Veterans Upward Bound program in KY, an award-winning Army ROTC, an Air Force ROTC partner school program, and so much more.  

Western Kentucky University is committed to ensuring flexibility toward obtaining a degree to service members, as stated in the Higher Education Relief Opportunity for Students (HEROES) Act of 2003. Several WKU policies apply specifically as mentioned below:

  1. The Military Withdrawal policy permits a service member the ability to withdraw from a course or the entire schedule of classes, and receive a tuition and fee refund.
  2. A degree term extension is available, if needed.
  3. Service members may request a grade of incomplete if a relatively small amount of work is not completed, allowing an extension due to deployment.
  4. The Military Absence Policy for Official Military Duties and Veteran Administration Medical Appointments directs instructors to be flexible and offer accommodations for assignments missed due to official military duties or VA medical appointments.

WKU also supports and complies with the U.S. Department of Education Readmission policy.

Police Department

Mitch Walker, Chief of Police

Business Number: 270-745-2548
Emergency Number: 911
Fax Number: 270-745-5275
Email: wkupolice@wku.edu
Website: http://www.wku.edu/police/

The mission of the Western Kentucky University Police Department is to provide a safe and secure atmosphere that is conducive to learning and teaching. 

The Western Kentucky University Police Department is dedicated to supporting this environment through the protection of life and property, preservation of peace, providing proactive Crime Prevention Programs, and enforcing the regulations of Western Kentucky University, the ordinances of the City of Bowling Green, and the statutes of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, in a fair and impartial manner.

Further, the Western Kentucky University Police Department is committed to providing a “Community Policing” Philosophy in its approach to law enforcement, which is a partnership between faculty, staff, students, and police officers that is predominantly service oriented.  

The Western Kentucky University Police Department pledges to:

  • Maintain a “Service Oriented” department, providing the university community with an exceptional level of law enforcement resources.
  • Continue to be an integral part of the university community, by tailoring officer training to areas that will better prepare us to meet the varied needs of those we serve.
  • Continue to be an integral part of the larger Warren County Law Enforcement Community, so that all available resources can be used to benefit and inform the university community of relevant information.
  • Be more sensitive to the needs of a diverse university community, making our faculty, staff, students, and guests feel welcome on our campus.
  • Increase proactive approaches to law enforcement on campus that will discourage repeated criminal activity.

Postal Services    

Downing Student Union, Ground Floor
Phone: 270-745-3093; Fax: 270-745-2709
Website: http://www.wku.edu/postal

The University operates a post office, which is located on the ground floor of the Downing Student Union. The Post Office is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except when the University is closed. We are a full service Post Office with Passport Services, Fax services, Mail Box rentals, and Packaging items. The University Mail Center located in the Service/Supply building delivers official campus mail to residence halls Monday through Friday. All incoming mail from off campus is delivered to residence halls by the Bowling Green Post Office. Therefore, it is imperative that a student furnishes his/her complete mailing address as early as possible to all correspondents.

Restaurant Group

Downing Student Union, Room 1045
Phone: (270) 745-2416
Email: wkurg@wku.edu 

WKU Restaurant Group offers a wide variety of dining options…many that will fit your wants and needs. We offer economical and convenient Meal Plans for all students. For additional information or to sign up for a Meal Plan or Dining Dollars account, visit the Restaurant Group, stop by our office in Downing Student Union Room 1045 or call (270) 745-2416.

Top of the Hill

  • DaVinci’s in Snell Hall – A Panera Bread style restaurant, DaVinci’s offers muffins, wraps, bagels and hot bagel breakfast sandwiches each morning; easy for the student that is on the go. The lunch menu includes a wide variety of soups, salads, gourmet chips, signature selection sandwiches and wraps made to order. The original menu provides a diverse selection of convenient ready-to-go salads and sandwiches, making it especially well-suited for customers on a tight schedule. The options at DaVinci’s are available for breakfast and lunch as well as for a mid-morning or afternoon snack. Located in Snell Hall.

    WKU Commons at Helm Library

  • Eiffel Pizza – Offers French inspired pizza in many exciting ways such as brisket pizza and chicken bacon ranch pizza along with the classic’s: cheese and pepperoni. They also offer zesty wings in buffalo, barbeque, and jerk chicken flavors! Get the best smashburger and fries in town at Eiffel Pizza too!
  • Moe’s Southwest Grill – Welcome to Moe's! A Mexican restaurant with a Southwest twist. Every hour, we cook all-natural proteins on the grill. And every day, our seasonal salsas and pico de gallo are freshly made in house.
  • Panda Express – Panda Express features Mandarin and Szechwan wok-cooked entrées. Entrées include favorites like broccoli beef, orange chicken, and Kung pao chicken.
  • Road Trip America – featuring hand breaded chicken tenders, sandwiches and sides.
  • Rising Roll – offers unique gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups and breakfast dishes made from the freshest ingredients right in our restaurant every day.
  • Spencer’s Coffee – Spencer's has been southcentral Kentucky's destination for world-class coffee and espresso drinks. But coffee is only the beginning. We specialize in all things tasty, including handmade breakfast and scratch pastries. This is a local favorite for a quick, delicious lunch - we start with simple recipes, made with great ingredients. 

Center of Campus

  • P.O.D. Market @ Bates Runner Hall – Provisions on Demand (P.O.D.) offers a variety of fresh food, produce and everyday essentials that deliver quality, selection and value. Quite simply, P.O.D. is committed to giving people the stuff they want when they want it. Located in Bates Runner Hall and connected to the SUBWAY @ Bates.
  • Subway @ Bates Runner Hall – Offers a delicious variety of foot long and 6-inch sandwiches, salads and wraps that are made with a wide assortment of meats, cheeses, vegetables and toppings. All Subway sandwiches are made on freshly baked bread and are prepared right before your eyes, just the way you like it.
  • Fresh Food Company – Providing our guests with the highest quality foods prepared right before your eyes, The Fresh Food Company offers one of the most exciting dining experiences on campus. It features authentic upscale foods from ‘mini-restaurants’ – Deli, Dessert, Home, Mongolian Grille, Oven, The Produce Market, Sauté and Simple Selections. Our chefs are ready to serve you a changing menu of specialties including daily vegan/vegetarian options, home-style comfort foods, hand-tossed pizza, made-to-order pasta, a full salad bar, deli offerings, fresh whole fruits and gluten friendly items just to name a few.
    • Simple Selections is an allergen-conscious food station, vegan/vegetarian friendly, Gluten and dairy-free options, items made from scratch and is intended for everyone eating in Fresh Food Company. The Fresh Food Company is a great place to get what you crave and catch up with your friends. Continuous dining from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. most nights! Located on the Downing Student Union first floor.
  • DSU Food Court – Whether you’re in the mood for a burger, chicken or pizza, the DSU Food Court has something for everyone. Papa John’s, Steak ‘n Shake and Chick-fil-A are all conveniently located in the heart of campus.
  • RedZone – WKU’s sports themed restaurant, RedZone has something for everyone from wings, nachos and amazing queso to salads and sandwiches. No matter what you are craving you can find it here! Located on the DSU first floor behind the DSU Food Court.
  • Burrito Bowl – Authentic. International. Bold. Located in the Downing Student Union, Burrito Bowl is one of the hippest restaurants on campus! Whether you are health-conscious or you want to try food from around the world, Burrito Bowl has you covered!
  • Starbucks – Starbucks is one of the hottest spots on campus! Enjoy one of the famous coffee beverages, teas, pastries or sandwiches any time throughout the day. Located on the Downing Student Union first floor. 

Bottom of the Hill

  • Einstein Bros. Bagels – with its generous selection of freshly-baked bagels, bagel sandwiches and premium gourmet coffee, as well as, made to order sandwiches, salads, fresh fruit, blended drinks and healthy snacks, this popular brand provides a pleasant start to the day or an afternoon break from the campus routine. Located in Jody Richards Hall.
  • The Den by Denny’s – This is a place with a vibe. Where you step right up to the counter and order from a wide array of items. The menu is breakfast all-day, plus sandwiches, burritos, salad – all made the way we eat today. Saucy, spicy, slightly unruly, proudly old-schooley. (Hand mixed shakes, anyone?) This is “The Den”. Located next to Pearce Ford Tower.
  • Pit Stop Convenience Store – Offers a variety of everyday essentials for snacks on the go or for your room. Located next to Pearce Ford Tower.

    First Year Village – Regents Hall

  • The Spread – Wicked Good Subs – Our chef-inspired signature subs are infused with our epic house-made spreads, toasted to perfection and finished your way. Our subs are bold, fierce, simple…. wicked good.  
  • Java City – Java City offers a high-quality, beverages from signature drinks to Cold brew and Nitro coffee, teas and smoothies.  Also offered are food offerings to capture all morning and afternoon dayparts including premium snacks and pastries. 100% of Java City coffee & espresso is Rainforest Alliance certified, ensuring that farms and cooperatives that meet rigorous standards for environmental conservation as well as social responsibility and fair labor practices.

The Student Accessibility Resource Center    

Dr. Peggy Crowe, Director
Matthew Davis, Associate Director
Dero Downing Student Union, Room 1074
Phone: 270-745-5004, Fax: 270-745-6289
TDD: 270-745-3030
Email: sarc.connect@wku.edu
Website: http://www.wku.edu/sarc

Students with disabilities sometimes need assistance to ensure an adequate academic and social environment while attending the University. This assistance is usually provided through the Student Accessibility Resource Center (SARC). SARC coordinates its activities through individual faculty members, other campus offices, and public agencies. Students with disabilities receive accommodations specific to their individual disability and/or impairment. These accommodations may include: note takers, testing accommodations, alternative text formats, priority in academic advising/registering, etc. Particular attention relates to assuring accessibility in classroom, laboratory, housing, distant learning, and online environments. Interpreting and captioning services are available for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students. If a student with a disability has concerns or needs before they attend the University, if they need accommodations while participating in university services/activities, or if any concerns arise while they are enrolled on campus, they are encouraged to contact the SARC office. Both consultation and technical assistance are available.

Student Ombuds Officer

The Student Ombuds Officer serves as an information source and point of communication for students who believe they may have a personal grievance. The Ombuds Officer’s role does not replace existing University policies for academic complaints or conflict/grievance resolution. For additional information or to contact the Student Ombuds Officer, visit https://www.wku.edu/academicaffairs/student_ombuds.php or call 270-745-2683, email: student.ombudsman@wku.edu.

WKU TRIO Programs    

Dr. Brian Brausch, Director of TRIO Programs
Email: Brian.Brausch@wku.edu
Jones Jaggers Hall, Office 100H
Phone: 270-745-6884
Website: http://www.wku.edu/trio

TRIO is a set of federally-funded college opportunity programs that motivate and support students from disadvantaged backgrounds in their pursuit of a college degree. TRIO serves over 850,000 low-income, first-generation students and students with disabilities. TRIO programs provide academic tutoring, personal counseling, mentoring, financial guidance, and other supports necessary for educational access and retention. TRIO programs provide direct support services for students, and relevant training for directors and staff.

Educational Opportunity Centers    

Bethany Smith, Director
Email: Bethany.Smith@wku.edu
Email: EOC@wku.edu
Jones Jaggers Hall, Office 107
Phone: 270-745-4441
Website: http://www.wku.edu/eoc

The Educational Opportunity Centers (EOC) program is designed to provide information regarding financial and academic assistance to individuals, age 19 and older, who desire to pursue a program of post-secondary education. The program assists these adults in preparing necessary applications for use by admissions and financial aid officers. Additional services include financial aid and career exploration workshops. To be eligible for the program, a participant must reside in one of the following counties: Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Simpson, or Warren. The individual must meet federal income guidelines and/or qualify as a first generation college student. All services are free of charge to eligible individuals. Individuals who are interested in receiving information about the program are encouraged to contact the main office at 270-745-4441. Outreach Centers are located in Allen, Barren, Butler, Hart, Logan, and Simpson counties.

Educational Talent Search 1

Jennifer McWhorter, Director
Email: Jennifer.McWhorter@wku.edu
Email: ets@wku.edu
Jones Jaggers Hall, Office 131
Phone: 270-745-3757
Website: http://www.wku.edu/ets

Educational Talent Search (ETS) provides educational guidance services to assist eligible middle and high school youth in achieving their full educational and career potential. Services are free to all participants. Western Kentucky University houses three Educational Talent Search Programs. ETS 1 serves the following counties: Allen, Butler, Cumberland, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, and Monroe.  Both group and individual educational, career, and financial aid counseling services are provided to middle and high school participants at their schools. Examples of topics covered in group sessions are ACT preparation, study skills, career decision-making, college life orientation, and financial aid information. Middle school and high school participants may take field trips to colleges and to other educational settings. ETS also offers assistance to participants with special needs by identifying support services. For more detailed information, contact the ETS office.

Educational Talent Search 2 - Warren County

Dr. Brian Brausch
Email: Brian.Brausch@wku.edu
Email: ets@wku.edu
Jones Jaggers Hall, Office 100H
Phone: 270-745-6884
Website: http://www.wku.edu/ets

Educational Talent Search (ETS) provides educational guidance services to assist eligible middle and high school youth in achieving their full educational and career potential. Services are free to all participants. Western Kentucky University houses three Educational Talent Search Programs. ETS 2 serves the following counties: Bowling Green City/Warren County schools: Bowling Green, Greenwood, Warren East, Warren Central, and their affiliated middle schools. Both group and individual educational, career, and financial aid counseling services are provided to their participants at their schools. Examples of topics covered in group sessions are ACT preparation, study skills, career decision-making, college life orientation, and financial aid information. Middle school and high school participants may take field trips to colleges and to other educational settings. ETS also offers assistance to participants with special needs by identifying and connecting students to support services. For more detailed information, contact the ETS office.

Educational Talent Search 3 - Barren County/Simpson County    

Dr. Denise Hardesty, Director
Email: Denise.Hardesty@wku.edu
Email: ets@wku.edu
Jones Jaggers Hall, Office 100A
Phone: 270-745-4737
Website: http://www.wku.edu/ets

Educational Talent Search 3 (ETS3) provides educational guidance services to assist eligible middle and high school youth in achieving their full educational and career potential. Services are free to all participants. Western Kentucky University houses three Educational Talent Search Programs. ETS 3 serves the following counties: Barren and Simpson. Both group and individual educational, career, and financial aid counseling services are provided to middle and high school participants at their schools. Examples of topics covered in group sessions are ACT preparation, study skills, career decision-making, college life orientation, and financial aid information. Middle school and high school participants may take field trips to colleges and to other educational settings. ETS also offers assistance to participants with special needs by identifying support services. For more detailed information, contact the ETS office.

Student Support Services    

Destiny O'Rourke, Director
Email: destiny.orourke@wku.edu
Jones Jaggers Hall, Office 132
Phone: 270-745-3978
Website: http://www.wku.edu/sss

Created for the express purpose of increasing the retention and graduation rates of program participants, the Student Support Services program provides comprehensive continuing academic assistance for 225 undergraduate students with academic potential who meet financial guidelines, and/or are from families where neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree or are a student with a documented disability. The project offers individualized peer tutoring in a wide variety of developmental courses; professional counseling for academic, personal, and career concerns; restricted sections of IDST 199 (University Experience) that are limited to 20 fall freshman participants; and provides access to campus and community cultural events.

In addition, participants in good standing earn priority status each semester during the course registration process and are eligible to share in supplemental grant monies awarded annually by the US Department of Education earmarked exclusively for Student Support Services participants. The program, in coordination with the Office for Student Disability Services, also offers individual assistance to qualified students with disabilities (including learning disabilities) in need of accommodation. All services are free of charge to qualifying students. Students seeking assistance who have yet to achieve junior standing can determine their eligibility and apply for services at the program offices or call 270-745-4308. Applications are reviewed on an on-going basis. Admission to the program is not guaranteed. A successful applicant must be academically motivated and committed to participating in all aspects of the program.

Student Support Services - Disabilities

Jimmie Martin, Director
Email: Jimmie.Martin@wku.edu
Downing Student Union, Room 1079
Phone: 270-745-2743
Website: https://www.wku.edu/sssd

TRIO Student Support Services, Disabilities is a program that serves WKU students with disabilities who may benefit from additional academic, financial, and social support. Our goal is to help students persist from this semester to the next; maintain good academic standing; and graduate with a bachelor's degree.

Created for the express purpose of increasing the retention and graduation rates of program participants, the Student Support Services- Disabilities program provides comprehensive continuing academic assistance for 100 undergraduate students with academic potential who meet financial guidelines, and/or are from families where neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree. The project offers individualized peer tutoring in a wide variety of developmental courses; professional counseling for academic, personal, and career concerns, and provides access to campus and community cultural events.

In addition, participants in good standing earn priority status each semester during the course registration process and are eligible to share in supplemental grant monies awarded annually by the US Department of Education earmarked exclusively for Student Support Services participants. All services are free of charge to qualifying students. A successful applicant must be academically motivated and committed to participating in all aspects of the program.

Upward Bound    

Dr. Katie Rainge-Briggs, Director
Email: katie.rainge-briggs@wku.edu
Jones Jaggers Hall, Office 109
Phone: 270-745-4917
Website: http://www.wku.edu/upwardbound

An educational outreach program, Upward Bound provides academic classes, counseling, tutoring, and cultural/social enrichment activities to eligible high school students in a five-county area (Allen, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, and Logan). Program participants, who have the potential to succeed in college and/or career-technical school with some additional academic/motivational support, must meet federal financial guidelines and/or be from families where neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree. Specific individual/group activities covered throughout a student’s participation in the program include career information, study skills information, ACT preparation sessions, college admissions information, and financial aid workshops. Individual counseling sessions take place with each student at his/her high school throughout the academic year with tutoring and cultural enrichment sessions being offered one Saturday per month. Students participate in a six-week summer residential program at WKU, which emphasizes academics and cultural/social enrichment.

Veterans Upward Bound    

Marc Hamilton, Director
Email: marc.hamilton@wku.edu
Email: Vets.Upward.Bound@wku.edu
Jones Jaggers Hall, Room 127
Phone: 270-745-6876
Website: http://www.wku.edu/vub
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/vubwku

Veterans Upward Bound is a free pre-college program that provides academic services to prepare eligible veterans to enter postsecondary school. All participants must reside within a twelve county area that includes: Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Simpson, Warren, Meade, Breckinridge, Grayson and Hardin counties. Participants must have served on active duty for more than 180 days and have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, or served on active duty and been discharged due to a service-connected disability, or have been a member of a reserve component and called to active duty for a period of more than 30 days. Additionally, a majority of Veterans Upward Bound participants must meet federal income guidelines and/or come from a family where neither parent possesses a baccalaureate degree.

Primary goals of the program include enhancement of academic skills, assistance with postsecondary admission and enrollment, advising on financial aid and VA educational benefits, and assistance with career goal setting.

All services are provided free of charge to eligible participants. Anyone interested in receiving additional information may contact the program at Veterans Upward Bound, Western Kentucky University; 439 University Blvd., Jones-Jaggers Hall 127, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101-1098.

WKU Store     

Downing Student Union
Phone: 270-745-2466
Website: www.WKUStore.com

The WKU Store, voted BG’s best place for WKU Gear, is the official stop for Hilltopper shoppers. WKU students receive their required course materials (textbooks and digital content) for the first day of class at the affordable rate of $24 per credit hour through the Big Red Backpack program. To learn more about how the program works please visit: https://www.wku.edu/bigredbackpack/. The store is an Apple authorized seller featuring Macbooks, iMacs, iPads and accessories as well as Dell and other brands. The WKU Store is also the only place where students can bill textbooks and supplies to their University Bill at the beginning of each Fall and Spring term.

Visit the Main Campus Store on the ground floor of Downing Student Union. Thanks for shopping your WKU Store!