Graduate Student FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Graduate Student FAQ

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The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, commonly referred to as FERPA or the Buckley amendment, is a federal law designed to protect the privacy of a student’s educational record. FERPA applies to all educational agencies or institutions that receive federal funding for any program administered by the Secretary of Education.  FERPA also applies to private entities that contract to perform services for the University that it would otherwise undertake to perform on its own; in such cases, the private entity must observe the same FERPA protections applicable to the University. FERPA grants adult students (18 and older) the following rights:

  • The right to inspect and review their educational records
  • The right to seek the amendment of their educational records
  • The right to consent to the disclosure of their educational records
  • The right to obtain a copy of their school’s Student Records Policy
  • The right to file a complaint with the FERPA Office in Washington, D.C.

All faculty, staff, and students who work with students and educational records MUST review FERPA policy and complete the FERPA tutorial.
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LPL Journal Club is held weekly in Kuiper Space Sciences 309. Each week, there is a speaker who presents a current topic or paper for informal discussion. Journal Club topics/schedule are available at LPL Journal Club.
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The department provides incoming graduate students with MacMini (desktop) computers. Advisors and research groups often provide students with additional computers and resources to support research projects. 
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If the TA is not available, send request to PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOm9qdmdnbEB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPm9qdmdnbEB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+.  List the specific details of the copy request - quantity, paper color, double-sided, color printing, stapled, etc. Attach the file to the email or drop the originals off in Room 325.
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For information about using Zoom teleconferencing through the University of Arizona, visit the UA Zoom site.
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Graduate Student Academics

New, current, and prospective graduate students should check-in frequently with the UA Graduate College New And Current Students page for information about degree services, funding opportunities, professional development, child care subsidies and family friendly information, health, wellness and safety, and other helpful information. The UA Graduate Center is also a good resource for graduate students as well as post-docs.

The Graduate & Professional Student Council (GPSC) was created to promote the causes and concerns of the graduate student body, to create and foster programs beneficial for growth and interaction, to disburse funds for the benefit of professional development, and to serve as the representative body and voice at the University of Arizona, the University of Arizona Administration, and the Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of graduate and professional students. This goal is achieved through the election of representatives, officers and hired personnel. GPSC sponsors special events, offers travel grants, and other resources (see also their Guide to Campus and Community Resources) and opportunities.
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Please review the Graduate College Continuous Enrollment policy on Continuous Enrollment or contact Mary Guerrieri, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnpuZWxAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj56bmVsQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=.

Continuous Enrollment

Master's and Educational Specialist Continuous Enrollment Policy

  1. A student admitted to a master’s program must register each fall and spring semester for a minimum of 1graduate unit, from original matriculation until all course and thesis requirements are met. A semester in which a student is enrolled for course credit will be counted toward continuous enrollment. Non-credit courses, audited courses or courses from which the student withdraws do not count toward the determination of continuous enrollment for graduate purposes. 
  2. Students receiving funding such as assistantships, fellowships, loans, grants, scholarships or traineeships may be required by their funding source to register for more than 1 unit to meet full-time status requirement. Similarly, international students may have different requirements to maintain their visa status.  All students should check with their program advisor regarding such requirements to ensure that they remain qualified for funding and/or visa status.
  3. Master’s students who have maintained continuous enrollment, fulfilled all their other degree requirements and were enrolled in the prior semester may defend and file in the summer or winter term without registration. If, however, a student needs library privileges or if they plan to make other use of University facilities or significant faculty time during summer or winter session,enrollment is required.
  4. Summer-only students are required to enroll continuously during consecutive summers until all degree requirements are met.

Doctoral Continuous Enrollment Policy

  1. A student admitted to a doctoral program must register each fall and spring semester for a minimum of 1graduate unit, from original matriculation until all course and thesis requirements are met. A semester in which a student is enrolled for course credit will be counted toward continuous enrollment. Non-credit courses, audited courses or courses from which the student withdraws do not count toward the determination of continuous enrollment for graduate purposes. 
  2. Students receiving funding such as assistantships, fellowships, loans, grants, scholarships or traineeships may be required by their funding source to register for more than 1 unit to meet full-time status requirement. Similarly, international students may have different requirements to maintain their visa status.  All students should check with their program advisor regarding such requirements to ensure that they remain qualified for funding and/or visa status
  3. Doctoral students who have maintained continuous enrollment and are taking only comprehensive exams during either Summer or winter term do not have to register for graduate credit during that summer or winter session.
  4. Doctoral students who have maintained continuous enrollment, fulfilled all their other degree requirements as well as the 18 hours of dissertation and were enrolled in the prior semester may defend and file in the summer or winter term without registration. If, however, a student needs library privileges or if they plan to make other use of University facilities or significant faculty time during summer or winter session,enrollment is required.

Audit courses (non credit-bearing) do not count toward full-time status, nor do audited courses count toward the determination of Continuous Enrollment.

Unless excused by an official Leave of Absence (which may not exceed one year throughout the student's degree program), all graduate students are subject to the Continuous Enrollment Policy and must pay in-state and out-of-state tuition and fees in order to remain in the program. If the student fails to obtain a Leave of Absence or maintain continuous enrollment, he or she will be required to apply for re-admission, to pay the Graduate College application fee, and pay all overdue tuition and fees, including cumulative late penalties. There is no guarantee of re-admission. Tuition or registration waivers cannot be applied retroactively.  Any student considering re-application should first check with the Graduate Student Academic Services Office Office to see whether additional work or updated forms will be necessary.

Continuous Enrollment and Financial Aid

Please note that "continuous enrollment" is not the same as "full-time enrollment" for financial aid and international visa purposes.  Please refer to the most recent UA Academic Catalog found at UA Catalog > Catalog Index > Full-time Student Status.
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As part of the Ph.D. program students are required to present three Graduate Student Colloquia. The presentations are evaluated by the audience and the student will be informed of the results of those evaluations within one month of the presentation.The colloquia are given in the second, third, and fourth semesters of study. At least one colloquium must be a review of an article (not authored by the student) in a peer-reviewed journal. At least one colloquium must be a summary of the student’s research.

At each colloquium, the audience completes an evaluation form; the forms are reviewed by a faculty member who will meet with the student to review the presentation and audience comments.
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Please review Graduate College Enrollment Policies on Minimum/Full-Time Enrollment or contact Mary Guerrieri, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnpuZWxAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj56bmVsQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=.

Fall and Spring Semesters

During the fall and spring semesters, for students with Graduate Assistant/ Associate appointments, full-time status consists of a minimum enrollment in 6 units of graduate credit. A graduate student working on a thesis or dissertation who is only enrolled in 900-level units and not employed as a Graduate Assistant/ Associate must be enrolled in 3 units. A student who has completed all course work, the thesis/dissertation unit requirements, has advanced to candidacy, is working on the thesis/dissertation, and is notemployed as a Graduate Assistant/ Associate may apply for advanced status, which allows 1 unit of 900-level credit for full-time status. In all other cases, full-time status consists of a minimum enrollment in 9 units of graduate credit.

The full-time status enrollment minimums apply to students wishing to defer federal loan repayments, to international students with F or J visa status, and/or to students receiving University funding other than wages. Full-time enrollment may or may not keep the student from falling outside the threshold of the Affordable Care Act and/or Arizona State Retirement System requirements. It is recommended that hiring units and graduate students refer to these policies to ensure compliance.

More information on graduate minimum enrollment policies is available from the Graduate College Minimum Enrollment. Please note that some academic colleges may require more units to maintain full-time status when students are receiving financial assistance from the college. Also note that full time and minimum enrollment policies are different to maintain continuous enrollment.

Summer and Winter Sessions

During winter or pre-session, first and second summer sessions, full-time status consists of enrollment for 6 graduate units or more in any combination of pre-session, first and second summer sessions.  A student whose financial aid agreement requires enrollment during the summer sessions should contact the Office of Student Financial Aid to verify specific requirements. International students should check with the University's International Student Services Office to ensure that their registration is in compliance with their visa status.
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Please review the Graduate College policy and procedures on Leave of Absence or contact Mary Guerrieri, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnpuZWxAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj56bmVsQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=.
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The Teaching Teams Program provides dynamic resources for learning and instruction at the University of Arizona. Teaching Teams is university-wide program with a home base at the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory (LPL). Historically, Teaching Teams has served a variety of faculty and students at the University of Arizona because the Teaching Teams approach to learning, curriculum building, and instruction is easy to use, and is successful across disciplines. It is the oldest and largest program of its kind on campus. 
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Please review the Graduate College Doctor of Philosophy policy regarding degree requirements or contact Amy Brenton, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOm56bEB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPm56bEB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+.
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The Carson Graduate Fellowship at LPL is funded through a generous endowment established by the estate of Virginia B. Carson, honoring her husband, a former member of the Flying Tigers, a master navigator for the U.S. Air Force Strategic Air Command, and an enthusiast of space exploration. Colonel Carson greatly admired the professionalism and accomplishments of the NASA space program.

The fellowship usually provides one year of support for a new, incoming, graduate student in Planetary Sciences. Support includes a one-year salary stipend, a supply/travel stipend, student health insurance, and the cost of tuition/fees for one academic year. Recipients are chosen by the faculty of the Department of Planetary Sciences.
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LPL generally reimburses the PTYS 554/590 course fees as a stipend. Please be aware that if you drop the course, the stipend will be rescinded and this may result in a balance on your bursar account; if you drop the course, you may be responsible for additional fees.
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In the case where a student has a scholarship funded by outside sources (whether it be NSF GRPF, NASA NESSF, foreign government, Graduate College, or other non-departmental source),  the department policy is to cover financial disparities relating to health insurance and tuition remissions by the university as follows:

1. Scholarship recipients must be employed at least ¼ time as either a TA or RA to obtain student health insurance and a 50% tuition remission. In this case, the remaining 50% tuition remission is covered by the department, first using the GRS/GTS fund, and then departmental overhead. If a student is employed as a ¼ time TA or RA during the Spring semester, then that student’s health insurance is also covered for the summer.

2. Scholarship recipients are eligible to receive summer support unless:

a. the terms of their scholarship say otherwise or

b. the combination of their stipend plus their ¼ time TA or RA salary is equal to or greater than a ½ time RA or TA salary with full summer support.

Students should be aware that the annual stipend provided with many scholarships is intended as compensation for the entire year, not just the academic year.

In no case will we attempt to adjust salaries so that everyone is “receiving the same amount”; our aim is to attempt to maintain equity within the LPL/UA allocations and to ensure that winners of scholarships or fellowships are not penalized financially.
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Please review the Graduate College policy on transfer credit. Students who wish to transfer to the Ph.D. program must submit the admission application for the University of Arizona and the Department of Planetary Sciences.

Graduate credit earned at other approved institutions may be counted toward the requirements of a doctoral degree, but will not be included in the calculation of the University of Arizona G.P.A. Transferred units are subject to the following restrictions:

  • The credits must be approved by the major or minor department and the Graduate College.
  • The minimum grade for transferred credits must be an A or B or the equivalent at the institution where course was taken.
  • Transferred units may not count toward more than one doctorate.
  • A maximum of 30 units of transfer coursework may be used toward the Ph.D requirements. Students who wish to transfer credit must submit a Transfer Credit form in GradPath before the end of their first year of study to have the courses evaluated for transfer eligibility.
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Please review the Graduate College Minimum/Full-Time Enrollment policy or contact Mary Guerrieri, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnpuZWxAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj56bmVsQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=.

A student who has completed all course work, the thesis/dissertation unit requirements, has advanced to candidacy, is working on the thesis/dissertation, and is not employed as a Graduate Assistant/ Associate or student worker may apply for advanced status (PDF), which allows 1 unit of 900-level credit for full-time status. The full-time status enrollment minimums apply to students wishing to defer federal loan repayments, to international students with F or J visa status, and/or to students receiving University funding other than wages.
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The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, commonly referred to as FERPA or the Buckley amendment, is a federal law designed to protect the privacy of a student’s educational record. FERPA applies to all educational agencies or institutions that receive federal funding for any program administered by the Secretary of Education.  FERPA also applies to private entities that contract to perform services for the University that it would otherwise undertake to perform on its own; in such cases, the private entity must observe the same FERPA protections applicable to the University. FERPA grants adult students (18 and older) the following rights:

  • The right to inspect and review their educational records
  • The right to seek the amendment of their educational records
  • The right to consent to the disclosure of their educational records
  • The right to obtain a copy of their school’s Student Records Policy
  • The right to file a complaint with the FERPA Office in Washington, D.C.

All faculty, staff, and students who work with students and educational records MUST review FERPA policy and complete the FERPA tutorial.
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LPL Coffee Klatsch is an informal gathering of faculty, students, and staff at LPL. Coffee and snacks are provided. It's a great time to take a break and catch up with what's happening in the department. Coffee Klatsch usually happens on Wednesday at 3:30p.m. in Kuiper Space Sciences 309.
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LPL Journal Club is held weekly in Kuiper Space Sciences 309. Each week, there is a speaker who presents a current topic or paper for informal discussion. Journal Club topics/schedule are available at LPL Journal Club.
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The University of Arizona requires that doctoral students complete a minor program of study consisting of at least 9 units. Graduate students in the Department of Planetary Sciences should choose a minor subject in consultation with their research advisor. Common minor subjects include:

Students should consult the minor department regarding the minor program requirements.
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Forms, policies, and procedures for current PTYS/LPL graduate students are available online at: Academic Policies and Quicklinks
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Graduate course listings for PTYS/LPL are available from the UA Course Catalog or from the LPL Graduate Academics site.
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Graduate Student Benefits and Human Resources

Contact Tara Bode in the LPL Business Office, Kuiper 339: PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmduZW5AeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj5nbmVuQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=, 520-621-4497.
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Information about RA/TA benefits, including tuition remission, health insurance, etc., is available online from the Graduate College.
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Please review the complete Graduate College Discrimination and Sexual Harassment policy.

Discrimination and Sexual Harassment

A student who believes that he or she has experienced discrimination or sexual harassment should contact the Office of Institutional Equity.  The student will be referred to an individual with expertise in these areas for confidential advice on handling the situation or filing a written complaint. Students with disabilities who would like information on University policies with regard to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) should contact the University's Disability Resource Center (DRC) at (520) 621-3268.
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For the complete TADA policy and information on procedures, visit Graduate College Temporary Alternative Duty Assignments for Graduate Assistants/Associates.

Temporary Alternative Duty Assignments for Graduate Assistants/Associates

While changing duties for family-related needs is not required and may not be feasible in all circumstances, deans, directors, department heads, advisors and faculty shall make every reasonable effort to meet the family-related needs of graduate assistants/associates (GA's), to the greatest possible extent, and in a manner consistent with the effective and efficient operation of the University. Similarly, GA's are expected to be flexible and plan ahead to the extent possible. 

Recognizing that some family circumstances may require special flexibility, GA's may request a temporary alternative duty assignment (no more than 6 weeks during one’s entire graduate education). The alternative duties should make it feasible to remain active as a GA under the following circumstances: the responsibility to care for the GA's newborn child or newly-placed adopted or foster child or the need to provide temporary care to the GA’s spouse/domestic partner, child or parent who has a serious health condition.
 
During the period of temporary assignment to alternative duties, the full-time equivalency (FTE) will remain unchanged and the GA will be compensated at the same rate of pay for all hours worked. GA's are classified as exempt employees, so their pay is not based on number of hours worked but for the whole job, regardless of the amount of time or effort required to complete the work.
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Graduate student parents are encouraged to consider applicable family care programs from UA Life & Work Connections, ranging from individual consultations and referrals, to Child Care Subsidy & Housing Program, lactation resources, and a University-subsidized Sick Child and Emergency/Back-up Care Program. Visit UA Life & Work to learn more about student child care and related programs.

Please also review resources listed on UA Graduate College New And Current Students, including child care subsidies and family friendly information. The Graduate College is dedicated to promoting and strengthening family relationships. Many resources have been designed to help graduate students balance and manage family, work, and school.
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If you are receiving salary or wages from the University of Arizona, you can establish Direct Deposit from UAccess Employee/Manager Self Service. Once logged in using your netID, go to Self Service (under Main Menu), then Payroll and Compensation, then Direct Deposit.

If you are a student who is not receiving salary or wages, you can establish Direct Deposit from your UAccess Student Center account.

  • Once logged in using your netID:
  • Click on the Account Inquiry link (under the Finances / My Account)
  • Click on the Web Refund Enrollment tab
  • Enter your direct deposit information
  • Click Enroll
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University policies and procedures are posted online at: UA University Policies
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The UA Graduate College maintains a list of funding and employment opportunities, including links to merit- and need-based awards, at New And Current Students

LPL maintains a list of awards, available on the Financial Support/Info + Funding & Award Opportunities page.

Please also review information from the Graduate Center and the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid (OFSA).

Students may also subscribe to the GradFunding Newsletter. The GradFunding Newsletter is a service of the University of Arizona Graduate College, Office of Fellowships and Community Engagement. To subscribe or unsubscribe to the newsletter, send an email to PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnl2ZmdAeXZmZy5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaCI+eXZmZ0B5dmZnLm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoPC9uPg== with "subscribe (or unsubscribe) gradfunding FirstName LastName" in the subject line. You may send opportunities for posting to the newsletter editor, Shelley Hawthorne Smith (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmZmenZndUB0ZW5xLm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj5mZnp2Z3VAdGVucS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=).
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New, current, and prospective graduate students should check-in frequently with the UA Graduate College New And Current Students page for information about degree services, funding opportunities, professional development, child care subsidies and family friendly information, health, wellness and safety, and other helpful information. The UA Graduate Center is also a good resource for graduate students as well as post-docs.

The Graduate & Professional Student Council (GPSC) was created to promote the causes and concerns of the graduate student body, to create and foster programs beneficial for growth and interaction, to disburse funds for the benefit of professional development, and to serve as the representative body and voice at the University of Arizona, the University of Arizona Administration, and the Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of graduate and professional students. This goal is achieved through the election of representatives, officers and hired personnel. GPSC sponsors special events, offers travel grants, and other resources (see also their Guide to Campus and Community Resources) and opportunities.
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All university policies are available online here: UA University Policies

There are many resources available to the faculty and staff who work at the University of Arizona, including information available at the three links below:
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Graduate Student Computing

To download U of A licensed software and documentation, visit UA Site License.
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Easiest and recommended is to use UA email.

To access UA email, faculty/staff go to UAConnect ; students go to CatMail. 

For faculty/staff UA email how-to docs, see UA email and calendar support.

For student UA email how-to-docs, see CatMail support.

All legacy LPL mail accounts have all been migrated, mostly to UA email accounts. LPL forwards will remain in place in perpetuity.
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For routine IT help requests, please send email to LPL Systems PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmZuQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaCI+Zm5AeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoPC9uPg== or fill out an online IT Help Request.

In case of emergency, please call or visit one of the Kuiper LPL Systems staff members.

For IT help at OREx (Drake Building) or PIRL (Sonett Building), please see the LPL Systems contact page.

To talk with a specialist in a particular IT area of expertise, please see the LPL Systems contact page.
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Email PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmZsZkB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPmZsZkB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+ with problems regarding email, computing, hardware, software, etc.
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All faculty, students, and staff at the University of Arizona are assigned an official UA email account (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmxiaGVBcmdWUUByem52eS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaCI+bGJoZUFyZ1ZRQHJ6bnZ5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoPC9uPg==). This is the address to which official university email correspondence is sent. Each member of PTYS/LPL also receives an LPL email address (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmxiaGVZQ1loZnJlYW56ckB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPmxiaGVZQ1loZnJlYW56ckB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+); email sent to that address is forwarded to their UA email address.
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The department provides incoming graduate students with MacMini (desktop) computers. Advisors and research groups often provide students with additional computers and resources to support research projects. 
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Accounts are manually created after a LPL Information Form or LPL Employee Update Form is submitted and processed. New account holders will be notified of their new account via their UA or LPL email.

After attempting to log in with UA NetID, if the site says there was no account found and you are eligible for an account, please contact Joshua Sosa at PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOndmYmZuQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaCI+d2ZiZm5AeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoPC9uPg== to have an account created.
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Account login is available via UA NetID at: https://www.lpl.arizona.edu/user
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Main LPL website account holders can log into the site to access certain resources, such as LPL Logos & Templates, and bypass CAPTCHAs on forms. Additional features may be provided based on the role of the account holder (such as profile page updating). Various other groups (e.g., outreach, library, sys, business office, etc.) may receive additional permissions to edit certain sets of pages or content types.
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LPL profile pages are provided to graduate students, faculty, postdocs, and staff scientists. To update your profile page, click the "Update Your Profile" button on your page, log in, and click on the Edit buttons to see fields which you can update.
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If you are on the Kuiper wired network, you should be able to VNC to your Kuiper machine.

If you are elsewhere, you need to first login to the UA VPN; then VNC to your Kuiper machine.
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To use UA VPN, you need to download and install the Cisco AnyConnect VPN client on your computer or mobile device.

Detailed instructions with screenshots are available on the UA Virtual Private Network (VPN) page.

Below are instructions without screenshots, for windows/mac laptops/desktops.

 

How to Download and Install the Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client 

Go to https://vpn.arizona.edu

Select Group: UASSL-2Factor

Login with NetID+

Click the "AnyConnect" link in the left pane of your browser window.

Click the "Start AnyConnect" link in the center pane of your browser window.

This will attempt to install the VPN client on your desktop/laptop.

If the install fails (it will on a Mac):

Click the "AnyConnect VPN" link

This will download a file to your desktop/laptop.

(anyconnect-macos.exe for windows, anyconnect-macos.dmg for mac)

Double-click on that file.

Install the Cisco AnyConnect VPN client.

 

How to Use the Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client 

Double-click on Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client.

Enter vpn.arizona.edu in the empty field in the pop-up.

Click Connect.

Select Group: UASSL-2Factor

Enter your UA NetID in the Username field.

Enter your UA NetID password in the Password field.

Enter push in the second password field.

Click OK.

Approve the login with your Duo Mobile App.
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For information about using Zoom teleconferencing through the University of Arizona, visit the UA Zoom site.
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Graduate Student Financial

Please review information from the Bursar's office or contact Mary Guerrieri, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnpuZWxAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj56bmVsQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=.
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Please review information from the tuition and fees calculator from the Bursar's office or contact Mary Guerrieri, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnpuZWxAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj56bmVsQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=.
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Information about RA/TA benefits, including tuition remission, health insurance, etc., is available online from the Graduate College.
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Although we cannot make any guarantee, it is the department's intention to provide up to five (5) years of financial support towards completion of the Ph.D., contingent upon availability of funding and the student's making satisfactory academic progress and remaining in good academic standing with the department/University. Normally, this support will be provided in either the form of a half-time (20 hours per week, .50 FTE) Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) or a half-time Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA). Current GA/TA salary information is available from Mary Guerrieri (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnpuZWxAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj56bmVsQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=, 520-621-2828). Most of our students supplement this support by working full time on research projects during the summer (with a GRA appointment). It is the policy of the department to provide students who receive an outside fellowship or scholarship with sufficient support in assistantships so that the total benefits package will be at least comparable to that of someone with a .50 FTE GTA or GRA who receives a summer GRA stipend.
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LPL generally reimburses the PTYS 554/590 course fees as a stipend. Please be aware that if you drop the course, the stipend will be rescinded and this may result in a balance on your bursar account; if you drop the course, you may be responsible for additional fees.
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In the case where a student has a scholarship funded by outside sources (whether it be NSF GRPF, NASA NESSF, foreign government, Graduate College, or other non-departmental source),  the department policy is to cover financial disparities relating to health insurance and tuition remissions by the university as follows:

1. Scholarship recipients must be employed at least ¼ time as either a TA or RA to obtain student health insurance and a 50% tuition remission. In this case, the remaining 50% tuition remission is covered by the department, first using the GRS/GTS fund, and then departmental overhead. If a student is employed as a ¼ time TA or RA during the Spring semester, then that student’s health insurance is also covered for the summer.

2. Scholarship recipients are eligible to receive summer support unless:

a. the terms of their scholarship say otherwise or

b. the combination of their stipend plus their ¼ time TA or RA salary is equal to or greater than a ½ time RA or TA salary with full summer support.

Students should be aware that the annual stipend provided with many scholarships is intended as compensation for the entire year, not just the academic year.

In no case will we attempt to adjust salaries so that everyone is “receiving the same amount”; our aim is to attempt to maintain equity within the LPL/UA allocations and to ensure that winners of scholarships or fellowships are not penalized financially.
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Please review the Graduate College Minimum/Full-Time Enrollment policy or contact Mary Guerrieri, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnpuZWxAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj56bmVsQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=.

A student who has completed all course work, the thesis/dissertation unit requirements, has advanced to candidacy, is working on the thesis/dissertation, and is not employed as a Graduate Assistant/ Associate or student worker may apply for advanced status (PDF), which allows 1 unit of 900-level credit for full-time status. The full-time status enrollment minimums apply to students wishing to defer federal loan repayments, to international students with F or J visa status, and/or to students receiving University funding other than wages.
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If you are receiving salary or wages from the University of Arizona, you can establish Direct Deposit from UAccess Employee/Manager Self Service. Once logged in using your netID, go to Self Service (under Main Menu), then Payroll and Compensation, then Direct Deposit.

If you are a student who is not receiving salary or wages, you can establish Direct Deposit from your UAccess Student Center account.

  • Once logged in using your netID:
  • Click on the Account Inquiry link (under the Finances / My Account)
  • Click on the Web Refund Enrollment tab
  • Enter your direct deposit information
  • Click Enroll
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FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which you need to fill out if you want financial aid from the U.S. Department of Education to help you pay for college or career school. The FAFSA also is an application for aid from state governments, and from many colleges. Learn more about the FAFSA or fill out a FAFSA now.

Having a completed FAFSA on file may qualify you for need-based university/state/federal fellowships, scholarships, and private awards.
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The UA Graduate College maintains a list of funding and employment opportunities, including links to merit- and need-based awards, at New And Current Students

LPL maintains a list of awards, available on the Financial Support/Info + Funding & Award Opportunities page.

Please also review information from the Graduate Center and the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid (OFSA).

Students may also subscribe to the GradFunding Newsletter. The GradFunding Newsletter is a service of the University of Arizona Graduate College, Office of Fellowships and Community Engagement. To subscribe or unsubscribe to the newsletter, send an email to PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnl2ZmdAeXZmZy5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaCI+eXZmZ0B5dmZnLm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoPC9uPg== with "subscribe (or unsubscribe) gradfunding FirstName LastName" in the subject line. You may send opportunities for posting to the newsletter editor, Shelley Hawthorne Smith (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmZmenZndUB0ZW5xLm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj5mZnp2Z3VAdGVucS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=).
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The Carson Graduate Fellowship at LPL is funded through a generous endowment established by the estate of Virginia B. Carson, honoring her husband, a former member of the Flying Tigers, a master navigator for the U.S. Air Force Strategic Air Command, and an enthusiast of space exploration. Colonel Carson greatly admired the professionalism and accomplishments of the NASA space program.

The fellowship usually provides one year of support for a new, incoming, graduate student in Planetary Sciences. Support includes a one-year salary stipend, a supply/travel stipend, student health insurance, and the cost of tuition/fees for one academic year. Recipients are chosen by the faculty of the Department of Planetary Sciences.
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Graduate Student General

According to the Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles, out-of-state students enrolled with 7 or more units per semester are not considered Arizona residents (AZDOT Registration-Compliance Violators) and do not need to license their vehicles in Arizona.

Out-of-state students with a vehicle manufactured between 1966 and 2010 must take the vehicle to one of the local emissions stations (MyAZCar) and bring a copy of your student schedule, indicating enrollment for 7 or more credit hours. If the vehicle passes emissions, the student will pay .25 and receive and excemption sticker. If the vehicle was manufactured after 2010, the student may go to any ADOT MVD office (MyAZCar) with a copy of the course schedule, indicating enrollment for 7 or more credit hours, and pay the .25 fee to receive the exemption sticker.

If the vehicle is registered to someone other than the student, student must provide a power of attorney letter.

 
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All faculty, students, and staff at the University of Arizona are assigned an official UA email account (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmxiaGVBcmdWUUByem52eS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaCI+bGJoZUFyZ1ZRQHJ6bnZ5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoPC9uPg==). This is the address to which official university email correspondence is sent. Each member of PTYS/LPL also receives an LPL email address (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmxiaGVZQ1loZnJlYW56ckB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPmxiaGVZQ1loZnJlYW56ckB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+); email sent to that address is forwarded to their UA email address.
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The Ombuds Program at the University of Arizona is an informal, neutral, confidential and independent resource for any academic or workplace concern. Visiting an ombuds can help you to understand a University policy, access appropriate individuals or resolve conflicts with other members of the University community. For more information, visit UA Ombuds.
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Please review the complete Graduate College Discrimination and Sexual Harassment policy.

Discrimination and Sexual Harassment

A student who believes that he or she has experienced discrimination or sexual harassment should contact the Office of Institutional Equity.  The student will be referred to an individual with expertise in these areas for confidential advice on handling the situation or filing a written complaint. Students with disabilities who would like information on University policies with regard to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) should contact the University's Disability Resource Center (DRC) at (520) 621-3268.
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There are many resources available to the faculty and staff who work at the University of Arizona, including information available at the three links below:
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For the complete TADA policy and information on procedures, visit Graduate College Temporary Alternative Duty Assignments for Graduate Assistants/Associates.

Temporary Alternative Duty Assignments for Graduate Assistants/Associates

While changing duties for family-related needs is not required and may not be feasible in all circumstances, deans, directors, department heads, advisors and faculty shall make every reasonable effort to meet the family-related needs of graduate assistants/associates (GA's), to the greatest possible extent, and in a manner consistent with the effective and efficient operation of the University. Similarly, GA's are expected to be flexible and plan ahead to the extent possible. 

Recognizing that some family circumstances may require special flexibility, GA's may request a temporary alternative duty assignment (no more than 6 weeks during one’s entire graduate education). The alternative duties should make it feasible to remain active as a GA under the following circumstances: the responsibility to care for the GA's newborn child or newly-placed adopted or foster child or the need to provide temporary care to the GA’s spouse/domestic partner, child or parent who has a serious health condition.
 
During the period of temporary assignment to alternative duties, the full-time equivalency (FTE) will remain unchanged and the GA will be compensated at the same rate of pay for all hours worked. GA's are classified as exempt employees, so their pay is not based on number of hours worked but for the whole job, regardless of the amount of time or effort required to complete the work.
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There is 1 Konica Minolta copier in the Kuiper building (Kuiper 351A), 1 copier in the Sonett building, and 1 copier in the Drake building.

To use the copiers, submit a Konica Machine Pin Request form. Personnel in the LPL Business Office (Kuiper 339) will notify you when your PIN has been created. The PIN will be keyed to appropriate account number(s); scanning is free, but a PIN is required as a login.

If you encounter problems with the Kuiper copier, see Bert Orosco (Kuiper 325).
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All university policies are available online here: UA University Policies

There are many resources available to the faculty and staff who work at the University of Arizona, including information available at the three links below:
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Graduate student parents are encouraged to consider applicable family care programs from UA Life & Work Connections, ranging from individual consultations and referrals, to Child Care Subsidy & Housing Program, lactation resources, and a University-subsidized Sick Child and Emergency/Back-up Care Program. Visit UA Life & Work to learn more about student child care and related programs.

Please also review resources listed on UA Graduate College New And Current Students, including child care subsidies and family friendly information. The Graduate College is dedicated to promoting and strengthening family relationships. Many resources have been designed to help graduate students balance and manage family, work, and school.
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Should a graduate student feel he or she has been treated unfairly, there are a number of resources available. With few exceptions, students should first attempt to resolve difficulties informally by bringing those concerns directly to the person responsible for the action, or with the student's graduate advisor, the department head, or the immediate supervisor of the person responsible for the action. If the problem cannot be resolved informally, the student may be able to file a formal grievance.

Please go to the Graduate College site to review complete policy and procedures.
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LPL uses the LARS online scheduling system to reserve classrooms, laptops, a/v materials, and more. LPL staff can use their LPL email credentials to log into LARS. Off-campus access is available using the LPL email credentials. If you experience problems, contact PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmZsZkB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPmZsZkB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+; for other assistance in accessing LARS or making a reservation, contact the LPL Academic Office, 520-621-6963.
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Yes, the Kuiper building has a gender neutral bathroom located in room 207A.
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LPL Coffee Klatsch is an informal gathering of faculty, students, and staff at LPL. Coffee and snacks are provided. It's a great time to take a break and catch up with what's happening in the department. Coffee Klatsch usually happens on Wednesday at 3:30p.m. in Kuiper Space Sciences 309.
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Most of the information a new employee might need can be found at the U of A "New to the U" website. For any other additional questions on general new employee policies or procedures, please contact UA Human Resources or Tara Bode in the LPL Business Office, Kuiper 339.
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The department provides incoming graduate students with MacMini (desktop) computers. Advisors and research groups often provide students with additional computers and resources to support research projects. 
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University policies and procedures are posted online at: UA University Policies
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Campus mail is picked up daily from the LPL mailroom in Kuiper 315. Please use envelopes marked “campus mail” and be sure to address all envelopes with correct/exact building and recipient. Please note that there are different bins for mail going to the Drake and Sonett buildings and mail going to other areas of campus. 
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If the TA is not available, send request to PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOm9qdmdnbEB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPm9qdmdnbEB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+.  List the specific details of the copy request - quantity, paper color, double-sided, color printing, stapled, etc. Attach the file to the email or drop the originals off in Room 325.
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Disruptive Behavior is conduct that materially and substantially interferes with or obstructs the teaching or learning process in the context of a classroom or educational setting.

Review the policies and guidelines available from the Dean of Students.
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Per Risk Management policy, anyone who drives for University business and/or drives a University vehicle must register with Risk Management and attend an approved course in defensive driving prior to being authorized to drive on University business. Visit Risk Management Service - Defensive Driving Training for more information.

Visit the EDGE Learning site to enroll in Defensive Driver Certification. Log in with Net ID.
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Threatening Behavior is Prohibited. “Threatening behavior” means any statement, communication, conduct or gesture, including those in written form, directed toward any member of the University community that causes a reasonable apprehension of physical harm to a person or property. A student can be guilty of threatening behavior even if the person who is the object of the threat does not observe or receive it, so long as a reasonable person would interpret the maker’s statement, communication, conduct or gesture as a serious expression of intent to physically harm.

Review the university policy and procedures for mandatory reporting of threatening behavior.
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For keys to PTYS/LPL offices, supervisors should send an email to PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnhybGZAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj54cmxmQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=; message should provide employee name, NetID and list of rooms for which keys are needed. Employee can then contact Sarah Lane-Gaxiola at PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmZ5bmFyQGgubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPmZ5bmFyQGgubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+. Send Sarah your catcard number and NetID.
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The University of Arizona is committed to creating and maintaining a work and learning environment that is safe, inclusive and free of discriminatory conduct prohibited by the Nondiscrimination and Anti-harassment Policy. The Office of Institutional Equity (OIE) leads efforts to promote and uphold this policy and its goals, foster equity and opportunity, strengthen relationships across diverse groups, and support a campus culture of equality for all members of the University community.

Refer to the OIE web site for training and outreach, policies and procedures, and reporting and complaint investigations.
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Contact Bert Orosco at 520-621-6963. If Bert is unavailable, call Joshua Sosa at 520-621-0290.
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PTYS/LPL graduate students maintains an LPL Grad website.
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LPL/UA logos and templates are posted at UA/LPL Logos, Letterhead & Templates. You can visit the UA Brand site for access to UA graphics.
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New, current, and prospective graduate students should check-in frequently with the UA Graduate College New And Current Students page for information about degree services, funding opportunities, professional development, child care subsidies and family friendly information, health, wellness and safety, and other helpful information. The UA Graduate Center is also a good resource for graduate students as well as post-docs.

The Graduate & Professional Student Council (GPSC) was created to promote the causes and concerns of the graduate student body, to create and foster programs beneficial for growth and interaction, to disburse funds for the benefit of professional development, and to serve as the representative body and voice at the University of Arizona, the University of Arizona Administration, and the Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of graduate and professional students. This goal is achieved through the election of representatives, officers and hired personnel. GPSC sponsors special events, offers travel grants, and other resources (see also their Guide to Campus and Community Resources) and opportunities.
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Contact Sarah Lane-Gaxiola (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmZ5bmFyQGgubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPmZ5bmFyQGgubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+) or Kari Figueroa (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnhuZXZmQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaCI+eG5ldmZAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoPC9uPg==) in the Kuiper Business Office (Kuiper 339) for access to the Kuiper bike cage (located under the gantry stairwell on the northeast corner of the building).
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LPL hosts the UA chapter of Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS). The UA SEDS group is very active and includes students from a variety of majors. For more information, visit the UA SEDS web site.
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The FAX number for LPL/Kuiper is 520-621-4933. The Kuiper FAX machine is located in the mailroom, Kuiper 315. Users will need to have their long-distance PIN phone codes to make dial a long-distance number.
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LPL is home to the Arizona Space Grant Consortium. Led by a statewide team of managers and affiliate representatives, Arizona Space Grant is part of The National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program, established by Congress in 1987. Space Grant contributes to the nation's science enterprise by implementing research, education and public service projects through a national network of university-based Space Grant consortia.

The specific objectives of the program are:

  • To establish a national network of universities with interests and capabilities in aeronautics, space and related fields;
  • To encourage cooperative programs among universities, aerospace industry, and federal, state and local governments;
  • To encourage interdisciplinary training research, and public-service programs related to aerospace;
  • To recruit and train professionals, especially women and underrepresented minorities, for careers in aerospace science, technology, and allied fields; and
  • To promote a strong science, math, and technology educational base from elementary through university levels.

The AZSGC mission is to expand opportunities for Americans to learn about and participate in NASA's aeronautics and space programs by supporting and enhancing science, and engineering education, research, and delivering high quality public education programs. Our goal is to integrate research with education to help build a diverse, scientifically literate citizenry and a well-prepared science, engineering and technology workforce. 
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Contact the following staffers:

  • Tara Bode (Kuiper 339, 520-621-4497, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmduZW5AeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj5nbmVuQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=) is the Kuiper building monitor.
  • Sue Robison (Sonett 107, 520-621-6950, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmVib3ZmYmFmQGN2ZXkueWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj5lYm92ZmJhZkBjdmV5LnljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=) is the Sonett building monitor.
  • Michael Nolan (Drake 104C, 520-626-1978, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmFieW5hQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaCI+YWJ5bmFAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoPC9uPg==) is the Drake building monitor.

For after-hours emergencies, call the UA Facilities Management switchboard, 520-621-3000.
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The Carson Graduate Fellowship at LPL is funded through a generous endowment established by the estate of Virginia B. Carson, honoring her husband, a former member of the Flying Tigers, a master navigator for the U.S. Air Force Strategic Air Command, and an enthusiast of space exploration. Colonel Carson greatly admired the professionalism and accomplishments of the NASA space program.

The fellowship usually provides one year of support for a new, incoming, graduate student in Planetary Sciences. Support includes a one-year salary stipend, a supply/travel stipend, student health insurance, and the cost of tuition/fees for one academic year. Recipients are chosen by the faculty of the Department of Planetary Sciences.
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Shared (networked) printer in the Kuiper building (4th floor) is maintained by sys (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmZsZkB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPmZsZkB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+); contact sys for problems with ink, jams, etc.

Paper for these printers is available in the Kuiper mailroom, Kuiper 315.
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Information about University of Arizona residency classification requirements (including residency forms) is available online at Residency Classification for Tuition Purposes.
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Information about obtaining a UA CatCard is on the CatCard Office site. You will need a CatCard before obtaining keys to an office in Kuiper or Sonett.

To obtain your CatCard you must visit the CatCard Office located in the Student Union. Please be prepared with the following:

  • A government or state issued photograph identification such as a driver's license, state identification card, or passport. High school issued identification is NOT accepted as valid identification.
  • A completed and signed CatCard Terms and Conditions Form (PDF)
  • Students and affiliates pay $25 for their first card.
  • Faculty and staff are issued their first CatCard free of charge.

Please Note: When you apply for your CatCard, you will need to provide your student or employee identification number to verify your status at the University of Arizona. This information is needed because only students, faculty, staff, and some affiliates of the University of Arizona are eligible to receive a CatCard. This number will not appear on the face of your CatCard, but it will be encoded electronically on your card, to be used for necessary UA internal purposes only. The number will not be provided to outside entities without your prior consent.

Requirements

  • Students must be enrolled in at least one class, or be participating in a New Student Orientation.
  • New employees must have been issued an employee identification number (EmplID) and show active status in the payroll system.
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Graduate Student International Students

The University of Arizona provides information regarding taxes and the international student online on the UA Global site.
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Information about student visa requirements is online with the International Students Office of UA Global Initatives. Please refer to the guidelines posted there and take advantage of the advising from that office.

**NOTE** Students MUST inform Tara Bode in Kuiper 339 (PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOmduZW5AeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj5nbmVuQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=, 520-621-4497) if their visa expires/renews. Students whose visas expire WILL NOT BE PAID for the time they hold the expired visa and there is NO BACKPAY permitted.
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Please review the Graduate College Minimum/Full-Time Enrollment policy or contact Mary Guerrieri, PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOnpuZWxAeWN5Lm5ldm1iYW4ucnFoIj56bmVsQHljeS5uZXZtYmFuLnJxaDwvbj4=.

A student who has completed all course work, the thesis/dissertation unit requirements, has advanced to candidacy, is working on the thesis/dissertation, and is not employed as a Graduate Assistant/ Associate or student worker may apply for advanced status (PDF), which allows 1 unit of 900-level credit for full-time status. The full-time status enrollment minimums apply to students wishing to defer federal loan repayments, to international students with F or J visa status, and/or to students receiving University funding other than wages.
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International students should refer to the University of Arizona Global Initiatives Office web site, which provides useful information on visas, language requirements, passports, arrival checklists, resource manuals, orientations, etc.
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Graduate Student Taxes
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