SOME BASICS:  Each year we are the liaison between several hundred University at Albany students and nearly 500 non-profit or public agencies in the Capital Region and beyond. In this program students complete volunteer hours for credit. In at least two different semesters students can register for a total of three courses and receive a total of 8 credits: RSSW-290 (3 credits); RSSW-291 (2 credits); and, RSSW-390 (3 credits).

• RSSW-291 is a two-credit course that is available to second semester freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors. It requires 60 hours of community service, an orientation seminar and two writing assignments. It requires a class permission number to register. S/U graded.

• RSSW-290 is a three-credit course that is available to sophomores, juniors and seniors. This course requires 100 hours of community service, an orientation seminar and two writing assignments. It requires a class permission number to register. S/U graded.

• RSSW-390 is a three-credit course that is available to sophomores, juniors and seniors who have completed the prerequisite course of RSSW-290. This course requires 100 hours of community service, an orientation seminar and two writing assignments. It requires a class permission number to register. RSSW 290 is a prerequisite. S/U graded.

• Our on-campus courses are offered in the fall, spring and summer semesters. We also help students find appropriate placements in their home communities during winter and summer intercessions. Check with us about the course you want and whether you want to work in the Albany area, or when you are home on summer or winter breaks.

TO REGISTER for our courses while you are in Albany you must do the following:

• Select an agency from the agency directory on our web site http://www.albany.edu/cpsp/  under AGENCIES or meet with Nancy Machold to discuss prospective agencies in your home community.
• Get a permission form signed by the supervisor at your selected agency or have it faxed to us at 518-442-5684. (Note: New agencies must be accepted before a student can receive a class permission number.)
• Complete a student information sheet.
• Bring your permission form and student information sheet to our office in —Social Sciences 112.
• Get a class permission number from us and register with the University.
• Attend an official CPSP orientation.
• Subscribe to the CPSP listserv to get updates throughout the semester
• Complete a learning contract and turn it into the CPSP office in Social Sciences 112.
• Complete an essay, according to the guidelines and meet the deadline for the course.
• Complete your volunteer hours by the deadlines listed on the student calendar.

The courses are PASS/FAIL. The requirements are easy to complete if you are pro-active and plan ahead.

NOTES TO AGENCIES:

If you are an approved agency that is registered with us, students can choose to volunteer at your site. If you are not registered and would like to be, please look at our Agency Site and submit an application. If you are a participating agency, please check your listing and make sure it is up-to-date.