PSU ID
All students will receive a PSU Student ID (9-digit number beginning with 9) which is assigned when you register.
The primary way to identify you as a Penn State University student is your PSU ID. If you attended classes previously, you already have a PSU ID. It is your responsibility to retain this number and safeguard its confidentiality. You should have only one PSU ID.
Friends of Penn State Account
Students receive a Friends of Penn State Account (FPS) upon registering for a professional development course. You will use your FPS user ID and password to log in to Canvas, the course management system (not all courses use Canvas). When setting up your FPS account, be sure to create security questions, to facilitate resetting your password in the event it expires.
Canvas
Most courses utilize the Penn State University Course Management Tool (Canvas), which enables students to electronically view assignments, access team journals, receive group mail, participate in discussion forums, etc. You will receive instruction on using this tool during your first class. If you do not remember your User ID or password, or have any other issues with logging into the Canvas group, please contact the IT Service Desk at 814-865-4357, Option #1.
CEUs
The continuing professional education unit is a nationally recognized unit of measure used to accumulate a standardized permanent record of an individual’s participation in noncredit continuing professional education programs conducted under responsible sponsorship, capable direction, and qualified instruction. Units are awarded based on a standard of one (1) unit per ten (10) hours of instructional contact.
Course cancellation
The University reserves the right to cancel classes because of insufficient enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances. Full refunds will be given in these instances. In such an event, you will be notified prior to the beginning of class either by telephone, mail, or email. It is important we have up-to-date addresses and phone numbers to contact you.
Computers
Some classes may be held in a computer room, but feel free to bring a laptop if you choose.
Grades
An official grade report will be mailed to you within two weeks after classes end. Grade letters are not issued for pass/fail courses. Contact the Director of Professional Programs if your employer requires a grade letter for a pass/fail course. Please be aware that it is against University policy to release grades by telephone, fax, or email.
Program certificates
Students who have successfully completed all required program courses will receive a program certificate. Program certificates will be sent to the student name and address in our University system. It is your responsibility to advise the Registration Office of any changes in your contact information.
Textbooks
Students can find information about required textbooks for their upcoming class by going to the Penn State Great Valley bookstore website and supplying the required semester/course information under "Textbooks/Find Textbooks."
Transcripts
Official transcripts must be ordered from University Park with a Transcript Request. Penn State Great Valley administrators are not allowed to request a transcript on your behalf.