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- H. Murveit, M. Weintraub, Michael Cohen, J. Bernstein, Alexander I. Rudnicky. 1987. Lexical access with lattice input. Abstract: This paper describes an alternative approach to lexical access in the CMU ANGEL speech recognition system. Using this approach, the asynchronous phonetic hypotheses generated by an acoustic-phonetics module are converted to a directed graph. This graph is compared to a pronunciation dictionary. Performance results for this approach and the original CMU approach are similar. An error analysis indicates promising directions for further work.
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- Alexander I. Rudnicky, Lynn K. Baumeister, Kevin H. DeGraaf, Eric Lehmann. 1987. The lexical access component of the CMU continuous speech recognition system. Abstract: The CMU Lexical Access system hypothesizes words from a phonetic lattice, supplemented by a coarse labelling of the speech signal. Word hypotheses are anchored on syllabic nuclei and are generated independently for different parts of the utterance. Junctures between words are resolved separately, on demand from the Parser module. The lexical representation is generated by rule from baseforms, in a completely automatic process. A description of the various components of the system is provided, as well as performance data.
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- Alexander I. Rudnicky. 1987. Using features to empirically generate pronunciation networks. Abstract: The construction of high‐quality lexical models for speech recognition systems is a labor‐intensive process, requiring not only a great deal of time but also appreciable expertise on the part of the human model builder. Techniques that automate all or parts of this process are therefore highly desirable. Two approaches have been used: the generation of pronunciation networks from baseforms by application of phonological rules and the abstraction of such networks from transcription data. This paper describes a semiautomatic procedure for deriving lexical models from manual phonetic transcriptions. The algorithm uses a feature‐based distance metric to align different pronunciations and produces phonetic networks that specify alternate pronunciations for words. The paper describes the results of constructing lexical networks for a 1000‐word vocabulary, using a corpus of 10 000 work tokens. It should be noted that the technique described here is not restricted to manual transcriptions, but can be extended to ...
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- Alexander I. Rudnicky, P. A. Kolers. 1984. Size and case of type as stimuli in reading.. Abstract: The role of size and case of print have provoked a number of experiments in the recent past. One strongly argued position is that the reader abstracts a canonical representation from a string of letters that renders its variations irrelevant and then carries out recognition procedures on that abstraction. An alternate view argues that the reader proceeds by analyzing the print, taking account of its manifold physical attributes such as length of words, their orientation, shape, and the like. In the present experiments size and case were varied in several ways, and the task was also varied to include both silent reading and reading aloud. Clear evidence for shape-sensing operations was brought forward, but they were shown to be optional rather than obligatory processes, used when it served the reader's purpose to do so. However, it was also shown that such skills, normally useful, could be tricked into operating even when their presence hindered the reader's performance. The conclusion is drawn that reading goes forward in many ways at once rather than through an orderly sequence of operations, consistent with the reader's skills and the requirements of the task. Overarching theories of performance seem premature in the absence of detailed analysis of task components.
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- Alexander I. Rudnicky. 1984. Speaker‐independent recognition of vocalic segments. Abstract: Speaker variations produce substantial differences in vocalic spectra: Vowel templates generated from one speaker's voice will not accurately match another voice. It is possible, however, to impose transformations on the spectrum that factor out speaker differences. The current work presents two sets of experiments that examine such transformations. The first set of experiments used steady‐state vowels (/i e a o u/); for ten male and ten female talkers, the results indicate that a log‐ratio transformation that incorporates pitch and formants into a three‐dimensional L space [log(F1/F0),log(F2/F1),log(F3/F2)] allows 93% classification accuracy. By comparison, spectral matching gives 44% accuracy. Extended vocalic segments (e.g., as in “away,” /əʏ/) have dynamically varying formant patterns. In L space, these patterns appear as tracks. The seeood set of experiments investigates a recognition technique that uses the encoded track shape as part of the representation. Speaker‐independent performance on isolate...
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- Alexander I. Rudnicky, A. Waibel, N. Krishnan. 1982. Adding a zero-crossing count to spectral information in template-based speech recognition. Abstract: Abstract : Zero-crossing data can provide important feature information about an utterance which is not available in a purely spectral representation. This report describes the incorporation of zero-crossing information into the spectral representation used in a template-matching system (CICADA). An analysis of zero-crossing data for an extensive (2880 utterance, 8 talker) alpha-digit data base is described. On the basis of this analysis, a zero-crossing algorithm is proposed. The algorithm was evaluated using a confusible subset of the alpha-digit vocabulary (the E-set ). Inclusion of zero-crossing information in the representation leads to a 10-13% reduction in error rate, depending on the spectral representation.
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- Alexander I. Rudnicky, A. Waibel, N. Krishnan. 1981. Using zero crossing counts to provide discriminative information in isolated word recognition. Abstract: Template matching systems that use a purely spectral representation are potentially insensitive to some important phonetic dimensions of speech. For example, [PI] is often confused with both [BI] and [TI] because the necessary vocalic—aspirated—fricative discrimination cannot be reliably made on the basis of spectrum alone. The zero crossing count is known to contain sufficient information for this and for other discriminations. We evaluated the usefulness of the zero crossing count in a set of experiments that used a highly confusable subset of the alpha‐digit vocabulary (3, b, c, d, e, g, p, t, v, z). In these experiments, a zero crossing count was added to a 15 coefficient spectral representation and the resulting vector was used to calculate frame distances within a dynamic warping algorithm. Testing over a corpus of 800 utterances (eight talkers), we achieved a 10% reduction in error rate. In order to obtain optimal improvement, the count had to be clipped to a restricted range, quantized to a small ...
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- Alexander I. Rudnicky. 1979. The perception of speech in an unfamiliar language. Abstract: Experiments in speech perception almost invariably use speech tokens and response categories drawn from the language native to the listeners participating in the experiments. This has served to confound the listeners' extensive knowledge of their own language with their ability to perceive speech stimuli as such. The present study attempts to separate these two components of speech perception. Short (4–5 s) excerpts of English and non‐English speech were altered in one of two ways: by the deletion of a closure silence or by the addition of a 100 ms silence to an existing closure silence. Native English listeners were highly adept at detecting and identifying alterations in English. However, their performance was at a chance level on non‐English excerpts. The original foreign talkers also listened to the excerpts: they performed well with excerpts of their own language and poorly in all other languages. These experiments underline the importance of experience in speech perception and suggest that the perce...
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- Alexander I. Rudnicky, R. Cole. 1977. Vowel identification and subsequent context. Abstract: The disyllable [da ga] (with stress on the second syllable) was recorded on magnetic tape. When [ga] was excised from the tape, subjects heard [dag]. However, when a [ba], taken from a [da ba] utterance was substituted for the [ga], listeners heard [da i∧ ba]. Perception of the diphthong demonstrates that coarticulatory information contained in the syllable‐final formant transitions of [da] is interpreted differently, depending upon the subsequent phonetic context. An experiment was performed to investigate the temporal course of this effect, by introducing successively longer silent intervals between the [da] and the [ba]. Given a sufficient separation, listeners again reported hearing [dag ba], instead of [da i∧ ba]. The results demonstrate that the interpretation of information in a syllable can be influenced by acoustic events in another, separate syllable occurring later in time. The results also suggest that perception takes into account allowable articulatory movements.
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- Alexander I. Rudnicky, R. Cole. 1976. Selective adaptation produced by ongoing speech. Abstract: In the selective adaptation paradigm, subjects typically hear repetitions of a single syllable (e.g., [pha]) and subsequently identify syllables from a test series spanning two phonetic categories (e.g., [ba] − [pha]). Experiments have shown that the adapting syllable produces a shift in the phoneme boundary of the test series, such that fewer syllables are assigned to the phonetic category of the adapting syllable. In the present experiments we determined that selective adaptation could be observed using ongoing speech. Subjects were first presented with syllables for identification from an acoustic continuum (e.g., [tha] − [da]) in order to determine their phoneme boundary in an unadapted state. Subjects then heard three sentences containing a predominance of a particular phoneme or phonetic feature. For example, a “voiceless stop” sentence might be: “Carl tickled Tillie's toes till Tillie told Carl to quit tickling her toes.” After the third such sentence, subjects were again presented with syllables f...
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
- A. Bregman, Alexander I. Rudnicky. 1975. Auditory segregation: stream or streams?. Abstract: When auditory material segregates into "streams," is the unattended stream actually organized as an entity? An affirmative answer is suggested by the observation that the organizational structure of the unattended material interacts with the structure of material to which the subject is trying to attend. Specificially, a to-be-rejected stream can, because of its structure, capture from a to-be-judged stream elements that would otherwiise be acceptable members of the to-be-judged stream.
| LTI_Alexander_Rudnicky.txt |
# Commencement Schedule
**We are proud to celebrate our newest graduates during this year's commencement exercises!**
- [Main Commencement Ceremony]
- [Diploma Ceremonies]
# Main Commencement Ceremony
- Bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree candidates and their guests are invited to join the main commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 12, for the conferral of all degrees.
- The main ceremony will include remarks from the president, keynote speaker, student speaker and academic deans, in addition to recognition of the honorary degree recipients.
- There is no limit on number of guests who can attend the main commencement ceremony and tickets are not needed.
- The ceremony will take place on CMU's campus beginning at 10 a.m. and will be approximately 1.5 hours long. All guests must be seated by 9:15 a.m. for the start of the student procession. Access to guest seating will be restricted once the student procession begins.
# Diploma Ceremonies
- In addition to the main commencement ceremony, each college/school/department will host a diploma ceremony to recognize all graduating students. [Diploma ceremonies](https://www.cmu.edu/commencement/schedule/diploma-ceremonies.html) will be held over the course of the weekend (Friday, May 10–Sunday, May 12).
- Diploma ceremonies will include the presentation of diplomas to graduates, hooding of doctoral candidates and remarks from their college/school/department leadership. Each ceremony is organized and customized by their college/school/department.
- Diploma ceremonies will take place both on and off campus. Locations and times for diploma ceremonies will be provided soon.
- Diploma ceremonies typically include a reception and the length of time for each ceremony varies based on the number of graduates.
More details on the weekend schedule, including a diploma ceremony schedule, will be provided in the coming weeks.
## Thursday, May 9
**Phi Beta Kappa Initiation Ceremony
**Ceremony: 2–3 p.m.
McConomy Auditorium, Cohon University Center
Reception: 3–4 p.m.
*Connan Room, Cohon University Center*
Contact:
Joseph Devine
[jd0x@andrew.cmu.edu](mailto:jd0x@andrew.cmu.edu)
*Joanne Ursenbach
[joanneu@andrew.cmu.edu](mailto:joanneu@andrew.cmu.edu)*
**President's Graduates Toast (bachelor's students)**
3:30–4:30 p.m.
Location TBD
Registration required. Invitation, along with registration details, will be sent in late April.
**First Gen Graduation Recognition
**Reception: 5-5:30 p.m.
*Alumni Concert Hall,* *College of Fine Arts
*Ceremony: 5:30-6:30p.m.
*Kresge Theater, College of Fine Arts*
Contact:
M. Shernell Smith
[mssmith@andrew.cmu.edu](mailto:mssmith@andrew.cmu.edu)
Sam Colavecchio
[scolavec@andrew.cmu.edu](mailto:scolavec@andrew.cmu.edu)
412-268-7733
## Friday, May 10
**[Diploma Ceremonies](https://www.cmu.edu/commencement/schedule/diploma-ceremonies.html)**
Various times
**Senior Leadership Recognition Ceremony
**4–5:30 p.m.
*Wiegand Gym, Cohon University Center
Undergraduate students and their guests by invitation only. This ceremony recognizes nominated seniors who have reflected upon their specific leadership contributions during their time at CMU.
## Saturday, May 11
**[Diploma Ceremonies](https://www.cmu.edu/commencement/schedule/diploma-ceremonies.html)**
Various times
**Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion Ceremony
**Noon–2:30 p.m.
Simmons Auditorium, Tepper Building
Contact:
M. Shernell Smith
[mssmith@andrew.cmu.edu](mailto:mssmith@andrew.cmu.edu)
Sam Colavecchio
[scolavec@andrew.cmu.edu](mailto:scolavec@andrew.cmu.edu)
**Naval ROTC Commissioning
**Ceremony: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
*Auditorium, Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum
**4141 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213*
Contact:
Mike Danko
[mdanko@andrew.cmu.edu](mailto:mdanko@andrew.cmu.edu)
**The President's Reception in honor of CMU's Doctoral Candidates**
4–6 p.m.
*Tepper Building Atrium*
## **Sunday, May 12**
**Gesling Stadium opens to guests**
8 a.m.
**Robing and procession for graduates**
9–10 a.m.
*Various locations across campus*
**Student procession begins**
9:15 a.m.
All guests in stadium must be seated. Access to guest seating will be restricted once the procession begins.
**Commencement Ceremony
**10–11:30 a.m.
*Gesling Stadium, CMU's campus*
**[Diploma Ceremonies](https://www.cmu.edu/commencement/schedule/diploma-ceremonies.html)**
Various times | Commencement.txt |
February 5, 2024
Faces of Carnival Photo Mosaic
2/5/24 C 4/15/24
8:00 AM-9:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
[Submit your photo](https://forms.gle/Foa6Ly5BhdvPCQ3M8) by April 16 to be included in the Faces of Carnival. Look for your image along with hundreds of others from the worldwide CMU community when we share the mosaic on social media and in email after Spring Carnival 2024.
April 5, 2024
Booth Build & Midway Cam
4/5/24 C 4/14/24
5:00 PM-12:00 PM ET
Virtual Event: Open to All
Follow all of the action via livestream starting with Move On on April 5, followed by Build Week and finally the completed Booths beginning on April 11 through April 14.
*Note: Add event during registration for calendar hold. Link will be added prior to Build Week.*
April 10, 2024
Here to Stay: Celebrating 40 Years at the Architecture Archives
8:00 AM-6:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
For the past 40 years, the Architecture Archives collections at Carnegie Mellon University has documented thousands of projects and the work of hundreds of designers. The exhibition highlights the wide diversity of materials from preliminary sketches to presentation renderings to specifications and photographs to publications and select architectural models which help piece together the rich history of the built environment of Pittsburgh and the region.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Inventing Shakespeare: Text, Technology and The Four Folios
8:00 AM-6:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Inventing Shakespeare tells the little known story of technological innovation, instrumentation and mechanical prototyping inspired by research into Shakespeares most famous book. Objects in the exhibit range from a fully immersive VR tour of a reconstructed Shakespearean playhouse, a 1960s-era mechanical collator designed to compare multiple copies of the First Folio, and fragments of the folios themselves.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
WRCT Radio Buggy Preview
3:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Virtual Event: Open to All
Tune into [WRCT at 88.3 FM](https://www.wrct.org/) to hear Buggy Alumni Association (BAA) guest panelists discuss Buggy.
*Note: Add event during registration for calendar hold. A reminder with link will be sent to registrants 24 hours and one hour prior.*
April 11, 2024
Inventing Shakespeare: Text, Technology and The Four Folios
8:00 AM-6:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Inventing Shakespeare tells the little known story of technological innovation, instrumentation and mechanical prototyping inspired by research into Shakespeares most famous book. Objects in the exhibit range from a fully immersive VR tour of a reconstructed Shakespearean playhouse, a 1960s-era mechanical collator designed to compare multiple copies of the First Folio, and fragments of the folios themselves.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Here to Stay: Celebrating 40 Years at the Architecture Archives
8:00 AM-6:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
For the past 40 years, the Architecture Archives collections at Carnegie Mellon University has documented thousands of projects and the work of hundreds of designers. The exhibition highlights the wide diversity of materials from preliminary sketches to presentation renderings to specifications and photographs to publications and select architectural models which help piece together the rich history of the built environment of Pittsburgh and the region.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Mixed Reality: A Virtual Reality Escape Room Experience
8:00 AM-9:00 AM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Get ready to experience an evolution of gaming as participants step through a Meta Quest 3-powered walkthrough/escape room with interactive installations. This project is part of the LBE Project Showcase, which is hosted by master's students from the Entertainment Technology Center (ETC).
*Note: No advance registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests. This experience is recommended for children ages 12 and older.*
Carnival Headquarters Tent: Check-In & Registration
8:00 AM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
**Open to the entire Tartan community!** Make this your first stop to check in, download the app and register to win the daily Tartan Swag Bag giveaway.
**Weekend hours:
**Thursday through Saturday: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Molly's Trolleys Reunion Tours
10:30 AM-3:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Reunion celebrants have two opportunities to join fellow Tartan alumni on a unique All About the Burgh fully guided city tour. Experience the best of Pittsburghs architecture, rivers, Duquesne Incline and landmarks from a 1920s-style trolley with panoramic views!
*Advance registration required. No walk-ins. This event is for alumni Reunion celebrants only.
**Times and Costs**
- **10:30 a.m.-Noon**
- Includes round-trip shuttle transportation, lunch at Roland's Seafood Grill in the Strip and tour ticket.
- Now through Feb. 23: $50 per person (12 years of age and older).
- Feb. 24 through Apr. 5: $55 per person (12 years of age and older).
- *No children under 12 years of age.*
- **1:30-3 p.m.**
- Family-friendly tour that includes round-trip shuttle transportation and tour ticket.
- Adult price
- Now through Feb. 23: $25 per person (12 years of age and older).
- Feb. 24 through Apr. 5: $30 per person (12 years of age and older).
- Child
- Now through Feb. 23: $15 per person ages 6-11.
- Feb. 24 through Apr. 5: $20 per person ages 6-11.
- *No fee for children 5 and under.*
**
The Pittsburgh Trolley
**At the turn of the 20th century, trolley street cars became one of the most popular ways to get around the City of Pittsburgh. The trolley car in Pittsburgh remains a cherished tradition preserved through the sightseeing tours and shuttle services at Mollys Trolleys.
Buggy Showcase
12:00 PM-2:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Kick off your Carnival Weekend with Buggy! View the latest buggy designs, talk with the teams, enjoy kid-friendly buggy activities and vote for the Buggy Peoples Choice Award.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Teruko Yata Memorial Lecture in Robotics
12:00 PM-2:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
*Note: No registration required to attend lecture. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Impact CMU 2024
12:00 PM-5:00 PM ET
Impact CMU 2024 is an annual showcase of CMU student-led social impact projects. Designed by Design for America, Impact CMU aims to celebrate our successes and create a culture of social good on campus. Impact CMU invites undergrad and graduate students at Carnegie Mellon to showcase how they have worked with a community. The projects range from student organizations and research to personal and hackathon projects.
*Note: No registration required. Walk-ins welcome. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and Carnival guests.*
Crafting with HR Family Care Initiatives
3:00 PM-6:00 PM ET
Open to children and families
**Attention faculty and staff**: [Family Care](https://www.cmu.edu/hr/work-life/support/family-child-care-resources/index.html) and the Office of Human Resources present crafting with your kids. This activity is appropriate for children of all ages as well as those at heart. While your child creates, we would love to talk about how Carnegie Mellon University can support your family with a variety of benefits and programs.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to CMU faculty and staff and their guests.
***Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-6 p.m.
- Friday: 1-4 p.m.
Spring Carnival Midway Opening Ceremony
3:00 PM-3:30 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join the Spring Carnival committee, Pipes & Drums Band and Scotty as we celebrate the opening of Midway!
Can't make it back to campus? Sign up for the calendar hold hold - we'll add the livestream link a week prior, as well as send an event reminder with link 24-hours and one-hour prior.
*Note: No registration required for in-person event. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Carnival Activities Tent
3:30 PM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Featuring entertainment and games for students, alumni, faculty and staff throughout the entire weekend. Full schedule coming in March. Sponsored by the Spring Carnival Committee and the CMU Alumni Association.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to students, faculty, staff and alumni. Parents: Check out the separate kidzone area for kid-focused fun and activities.*
**
Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Kiltie Band Concert
3:30 PM-4:30 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
What better way to open Carnival than with the infamous Band without Pants?
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Carnival Wellness Tent
3:30 PM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Relax and breathe with calming activities, sessions, information and much more. Full schedule available in March. Sponsored by Wellness Initiatives and the CMU Alumni Association.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
**Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Booth!
3:30 PM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
This years theme is Let the Games Begin. Be sure to check out every booth and cast your vote for the top choice in each category. *Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.****
\*****Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3:30 to 11 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Carnival Rides
3:30 PM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Be sure to check out all of the rides and activities, including traditions like ferris wheel and swings. There will also be a special kid's ride area. *Note: No registration required. Individual tickets or all-day passes may be purchased onsite at the vendors ticketing booth.*
**Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3:30-11 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Dog Houses Display
3:30 PM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
In addition to Booth, be sure to check out the creative dog houses built by various CMU organizations and groups. *Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.
***Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3:30-11 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Kidzone Tent
3:30 PM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
**Attention families**: Check out games and activities specifically geared toward the younger Tartans ages 8 and under. Full schedule available in March. Sponsored by the Alumni Association. *Note: No registration required. No event fee.*
**Activities include:**
- Snacks
- Mini prize wheel
- Montessori-inspired games
- Balloon artists
- Face painters
**Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Project Olympus Show & Tell
4:00 PM-6:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Meet current student and alumni entrepreneurs at this showcase of research with a focus on startups and spin-offs.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. Open to the CMU community and their guests.*
Kiltie Band Alumni & Student Reception
4:30 PM-6:30 PM ET
Open to alumni and families of the Kiltie community
After the Kiltie Band Spring Carnival kick-off concert, current and former Kilties are invited for food and fun!
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome if space permits. No event fee. Open to the Kiltie community and guests.*
C#'s Carnival Concert
4:30 PM-6:30 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Celebrate the first day of Carnival at C#'s Carnival Concert. Performances from all three branches of C# (a cappella, choir and concert groups) as well as guest appearances from other groups and soloists around campus.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. Time subject to change. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Reunion Welcome Back Happy Hour
5:00 PM-7:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Kick off Reunion Weekend at Spring Carnival with a casual happy hour gathering for all Reunion classes. Appetizers and drinks provided.
*Note: Registration requested. No event fee. This event is open to alumni Reunion celebrants and their guests only.*
College of Engineering Alumni Awards (Invitation Only)
6:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Private event, invitation only
The College of Engineering will be recognizing and celebrating College of Engineering alumni for their achievements and service. We are excited to celebrate the inaugural year of the College of Engineering Alumni Awards! Learn more about the [College of Engineering Alumni Awards](https://engineering.cmu.edu/about-us/alumni-awards.html).
*Note: Separate reservation required.*
Activities Board Spring Carnival Speakers Show
7:00 PM-10:00 PM ET
CMU Community Members with CMU ID or Alumni with Ticket
Performer(s) will be added after the Activities Board Speakers committee officially makes their announcement. "Like" Activities Board on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/activitiesboard/) for updates on artists, giveaways and location.
*Note: Time may change. Tickets details and information to be added in the coming weeks.*
Buggy Alumni Association Welcome Event
7:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Open to Buggy community
Join the Buggy Alumni Association for food and drinks and make your predictions for the Sweepstakes prelims.
*Note: Pay on your own at restaurant. Open to members of the Buggy community.*
Scotch'n'Soda Theatre Carnival Show: The Little Mermaid
7:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join Scotch'n'Soda Theatre for a performance under the sea! This year, Scotch'n'Soda is thrilled to present *Disney's* *The Little Mermaid*! Adapted from the wildly popular animated film and Hans Christian Anderson's original fairytale, the musical follows Ariel, King Triton's youngest daughter, who wishes to explore the world up above and pursues the human Prince Eric. But the bargains and sea witches aren't all that they seem, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order. Sing along with all of your favorite childhood classics, and come be a part of our world! Funded in part by the Student Activities Fee. Tickets will be available online in March and at the door. Cost: $5 for students/faculty/staff; $10 for alumni and guests. *Note: Disney's The Little Mermaid is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
**Cost**
Tickets will be available online in March and at the door. Cost: $5 for students/faculty/staff; $10 for alumni and guests.
April 12, 2024
Buggy Donut Tent
8:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Stop by to grab a donut and refreshments in between watching the races! Sponsored by the CMU Alumni Association.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Preliminary Sweepstakes Races
8:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Come watch the CMU tradition where teams compete in an exciting sport best described as a mix between a relay race and bobsled!
Can't make it back to campus? We'll [livestream the races](https://cmubuggy.org/raceday/livestream/) through cmuTV. You may also tune into [WRCT Radio](http://www.wrct.org/) to hear play-by-play. Register for calendar hold during registration. If you're interested in being a part of our live chat, join our BAA Discord at [cmubuggy.org/chat](http://cmubuggy.org/chat).
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Carnival Headquarters Tent: Check-In & Registration
8:00 AM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
**Open to the entire Tartan community!** Make this your first stop to check in, download the app and register to win the daily Tartan Swag Bag giveaway.
**Weekend hours:
**Thursday through Saturday: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Here to Stay: Celebrating 40 Years at the Architecture Archives
8:00 AM-6:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
For the past 40 years, the Architecture Archives collections at Carnegie Mellon University has documented thousands of projects and the work of hundreds of designers. The exhibition highlights the wide diversity of materials from preliminary sketches to presentation renderings to specifications and photographs to publications and select architectural models which help piece together the rich history of the built environment of Pittsburgh and the region.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Inventing Shakespeare: Text, Technology and The Four Folios
8:00 AM-6:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Inventing Shakespeare tells the little known story of technological innovation, instrumentation and mechanical prototyping inspired by research into Shakespeares most famous book. Objects in the exhibit range from a fully immersive VR tour of a reconstructed Shakespearean playhouse, a 1960s-era mechanical collator designed to compare multiple copies of the First Folio, and fragments of the folios themselves.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Buggy Alumni Association Information Tent
8:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Come by the Buggy Alumni Association tent during Sweepstakes races to meet your BAA officers and learn about our work.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
NROTC Flag Raising
8:00 AM-8:15 AM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join the NROTC in this reflective time.
*Note: No registration required. Walk-ins welcome. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Reunion Buggy Watch Tent
8:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
View the race from the Reunion Watch Tent located on Hill 5!
*Note: No registration required. Walk-ins welcome. No event fee. This event is open to Reunion celebrants and their guests.*
50th Reunion Breakfast/Then & Now Presentation (1974)
9:00 AM-11:00 AM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Join fellow classmates for a welcome breakfast, reliving your time as students and learning about todays Carnegie Mellon from University Archivist Julia Corrin.
Can't make it back to campus? Register for the livestream during registration. Additionally, a closed-captioned recording will be available on the Carnival website a week after Carnival.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the Class of 1974 and Half Century Tartan Reunion celebrants.*
25th Reunion Welcome Breakfast (1999)
9:00 AM-10:30 AM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Join fellow 25th Reunion alumni from the Class of 1999 to reconnect over breakfast and coffee!
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the Class of 1999 Reunion celebrants.*
Reunion Exclusive Tours
10:00 AM-1:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
**Be sure to register early for these Reunion exclusive tours!** Full descriptions listed in registration.
- Underground Steam Tunnels
- 10 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (accessible)
- Highmark Center for Health, Wellness and Athletics Tours
- 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
- School of Drama Costume Design Tour
- 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
- Exclusive 25th and 50th Campus Tours: When Did They Build That?
- 12 p.m.
*
Note: Registration required. No event fee. Open to Reunion alumni only. When tours reach capacity, you may go to the Reunion Tent 15 minutes prior to tour to be on standby.*
Livestream of Then & Now Presentation
10:00 AM-11:00 AM ET
Virtual Event: Open to All
Join the livestream to relive your time as a student and hear about Carnegie Mellon today with a presentation of CMUs past and present by University Archivist Julia Corrin.
*Note: This event is open to the entire CMU Community. Link will be added approximately a week prior to the event.*
Carnival Activities Tent
11:00 AM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Featuring entertainment and games for students, alumni, faculty and staff throughout the entire weekend. Full schedule coming in March. Sponsored by the Spring Carnival Committee and the CMU Alumni Association.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to students, faculty, staff and alumni. Parents: Check out the separate kidzone area for kid-focused fun and activities.* **
Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Dog Houses Display
11:00 AM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
In addition to Booth, be sure to check out the creative dog houses various organizations and groups have built. Display between pillars along Purnell. *Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.****
\*****Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3:30-11 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Booth!
11:00 AM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
This years theme is Let the Games Begin. Be sure to check out every booth and cast your vote for the top choice in each category. *Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
**Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3:30 to 11 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Carnival Wellness Tent
11:00 AM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Relax and breathe with calming activities, sessions, information and much more. Full schedule available in March. Sponsored by Wellness Initiatives and the CMU Alumni Association.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.
***Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Carnival Rides
11:00 AM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Be sure to check out all of the rides and activities, including traditions like ferris wheel and swings. There will also be a special kid's ride area.
Weekend hours:
- Thursday: 3:30-11 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
*Note: No registration required. Individual tickets or all-day passes may be purchased onsite at the vendors ticketing booth.*
Kidzone Tent
11:00 AM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
**Attention families**: Check out games and activities specifically geared toward the younger Tartans ages 8 and under. Full schedule available in March. Sponsored by the Alumni Association. *Note: No registration required. No event fee.*
**Activities include:**
- Snacks
- Mini prize wheel
- Montessori-inspired games
- Balloon artists
- Face painters
**Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Meet & Greet with the Beep-Boop
11:00 AM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
The audible crosswalk annunciator that protected our community at Forbes and Morewood is back! Press the cross button worn smooth by thousands running late to class.
- First-years: If you missed it at Homecoming, now is the time to meet the campus legend.
- Veteran Boopers: Rekindle your love with a Beep-Boop selfie.
**Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3:30-11 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
*Note: No registration required. Walk-ins welcome. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and Carnival guests.*
Campus Community Lunch
11:30 AM-1:30 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
This complimentary lunch is open to the entire CMU community, while supplies last. Staff and Faculty: Stop by the Ice Cream Social area during the Campus Community Lunch to meet members of Staff Council. Additionally, members of the [Employee Resources Group](https://www.cmu.edu/hr/work-life/get-involved/employee-resource-groups/index.html) (ERG) will be around to share information about various opportunities.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Reunion Reserved Seating During Campus Community Lunch
11:30 AM-1:30 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Reunion attendees are welcome to celebrate campus sustainability at a complimentary lunch open to the entire CMU community. There will be reserved seating in the Reunion Tent for all Reunion celebrants with a name badge.
*Note: No registration required. Walk-ins welcome. No event fee. This event is open to alumni Reunion celebrants and their guests only.*
Statistics & Data Science Alumni & Department Lunch
12:00 PM-2:00 PM ET
Open to alumni, graduate students and faculty/staff of the Statistics & Data Science community
Alumni and graduate students are invited to join the Statistics and Data Science Department current faculty and staff for a lunch and opportunity to reconnect. This event is open to alumni, graduate students, faculty and staff of the Statistics and Data Science department.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to graduate students, alumni, faculty and staff of the Statistics & Data Science Department.*
Douse-a-Dean
12:00 PM-2:30 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
All proceeds from the event will go to the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania (SOPA). The Carnegie Mellon University Police Department has been involved with SOPA for many years with our police officers, security officers, dispatchers and families volunteering for a number of SOPA activities. The college/school raising the most money will be awarded the Douse-a-Dean Loving Cup to proudly display for the year. Provost James Garrett has made the challenge, and the deans have accepted. Dean dousing schedule will be announced in March.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Annual MOBOT Races
12:00 PM-2:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
The School of Computer Science welcomes all members of the Carnegie Mellon community to participate in the annual Carnegie Mellon Mobot Races ("MObile roBOTs") along a slalom course. The competition provides participants an opportunity to demonstrate their technological creativity, while encouraging interdisciplinary teams to attack the challenges in the race course.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Pi Kappa Alpha Alumni Gathering
1:00 PM-3:00 PM ET
Open to PiKA Community
All PiKA undergraduates, alumni of all years, parents and their children are invited to attend this luncheon and are strongly encouraged to RSVP.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the Pi Kappa Alpha community.*
Design Alumni Gathering
2:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Open to alumni and families of Design community
All School of Design alumni and their guests are welcomed to join us in Margaret Morrison to mingle with fellow alumni and faculty. Mark Baskinger, Director of the Joseph Ballay Center for Design Fusion, we give scheduled presentations to share the progress of the Ballay Center. We look forward to welcoming you back to Maggie Mo.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the Design alumni community and their guests.*
Mixed Reality: A Virtual Reality Escape Room Experience
2:00 PM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Get ready to experience an evolution of gaming as participants step through a Meta Quest 3-powered walkthrough/escape room with interactive installations. This project is part of the LBE Project Showcase, which is hosted by master's students from the Entertainment Technology Center (ETC).
*Note: No advance registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests. This experience is recommended for children ages 12 and older.*
Biomedical Engineering (BME) Sweets and Treats
2:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Meet, mix and mingle with alumni, current students and faculty. Get an update on current events in the department. Families and children are welcome!
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the BME community and their guests.*
ChemE Alumni, Faculty & Student Mixer
3:00 PM-5:00 PM ET
Open to alumni and families of the ChemE community
ChemE alumni are invited to join the faculty and students in the Rothfus Lab for a meet and greet with refreshments. Catch up on what's new with student and faculty research projects and other department activities.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the ChemE community and their guests.*
Electrical and Computer Engineering's Totes, T-shirts and Tacos!
3:00 PM-5:00 PM ET
Open to alumni and families of the ECE community
Stop by to mingle with fellow ECE alumni and grab some totes, t-shirts and tacos!
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. Open to members of the ECE community and their guests.*
Mobot Recap Watch Party
3:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join others in the Mobot community for a recap of the 2024 Mobot races.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. Open to CMU community and their guests.*
Cold Ones with the Coaches
3:30 PM-5:00 PM ET
Open to alumni and parents
Enjoy some refreshments with our incredible athletic coaches.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to alumni and parents.*
Engineering and Public Policy (EPP) Ice Cream Social
3:30 PM-5:30 PM ET
Open to EPP community
EPP students, alumni, parents and families are invited to join the EPP faculty and staff for ice cream sundaes.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to EPP alumni and their guests.*
Material Science and Engineering (MSE) Alumni Deck Party
3:30 PM-5:30 PM ET
Open to MSE alumni
Alumni of the Materials Science and Engineering Department (and their guests) are invited to catch up with the faculty and staff on the MSE Deck for a happy hour.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the alumni and guests of the MSE community.*
AB Tech Alumni & Student Mixer
4:00 PM-6:00 PM ET
Open to AB Tech Community
Join current and former members of AB Tech for food, fun and conversation during our annual Spring Carnival gathering.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the AB Tech community and their guests.*
**Cost**:
- $10/per attendee for alumni and guests
- No fee for undergraduate students.
History of Buggy
4:00 PM-5:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Learn about the origin and development of the Sweepstakes races and what students are doing to push the boundaries of the sport in new directions.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Stephen and Joyce Fienberg Memorial Lecture
4:00 PM-5:15 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
The lecture is a tribute to the late Stephen and Joyce Fienberg for their distinctive contributions to the statistical community. This year's lecturer is Alicia L. Carriquiry, Distinguished Professor and President's Chair, Director of the Center for Statistics and Applications in Forensic Evidence at Iowa State University. Attendees are welcome to attend the reception in the Rachel Mellon Walton Room that follows.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
NROTC Award Ceremony
4:00 PM-5:00 PM ET
Open to NROTC Community
Mellon College of Science Class of 1974 50th Reunion Celebration
4:00 PM-5:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
The Mellon College of Science invites MCS alumni from the Class of 1974 to join them for a celebration.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the MCS Class of 1974 and their guests.*
Reunion Pints with Profs
5:00 PM-7:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Dont miss one of our most popular reunion events! Mix and mingle with classmates and have a drink with your favorite professor or staff member. If there is a faculty or staff member you would like to invite, please submit their name during registration. Appetizers and drinks provided.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to all alumni Reunion celebrants and their guests.*
NROTC Flag Lowering
6:00 PM-6:15 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join the NROTC in this reflective time.
*Note: No registration required. Walk-ins welcome. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Heinz Alumni Association Awards (Invitation Only)
6:00 PM-6:45 PM ET
Open to members of the Heinz community
Heinz College Alumni Award Presentation and Reception hosted by Dean Ramayya Krishnan and the Heinz College Alumni Association Board as we recognize the achievements of three of our outstanding alumni. Check out the Heinz Alumni Association Awards Program to learn about this year's recipients and details about the awards.
*Note: Separate registration required.*
Order of the May (Invitation Only)
6:00 PM-8:00 PM ET
Private event, invitation only
The Order of the May celebrates consecutive giving to the university, with a formal induction of donors who have given consecutively for 25 years as lifetime members of the Order. This signature event has become a tradition for consecutive donors and provides CMU with a unique opportunity to recognize their loyalty. A reception will follow the ceremony. Learn more about the [Order of the May](https://www.cmu.edu/engage//give/donor-recognition/order-of-the-may.html#:~:text=The Order of the May,lifetime members of the society.).
*Note: Separate reservation required.*
Heinz Network Pittsburgh (Invitation Only)
6:30 PM-8:30 PM ET
Open to members of the Heinz community
A long-standing tradition that brings together current students, Pittsburgh alumni and Heinz College faculty and staff. Enjoy beverages and light appetizers while you connect with the Heinz community.
*Note: Separate registration required.*
Scotch'n'Soda Theatre Carnival Show: The Little Mermaid
7:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join Scotch'n'Soda Theatre for a performance under the sea! This year, Scotch'n'Soda is thrilled to present*Disney'sThe Little Mermaid*! Adapted from the wildly popular animated film and Hans Christian Anderson's original fairytale, the musical follows Ariel, King Triton's youngest daughter, who wishes to explore the world up above and pursues the human Prince Eric. But the bargains and sea witches aren't all that they seem, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order. Sing along with all of your favorite childhood classics, and come be a part of our world! Funded in part by the Student Activities Fee. Tickets will be available online in March and at the door. Cost: $5 for students/faculty/staff; $10 for alumni and guests.*Note: Disney's The Little Mermaid is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
**Cost**Tickets will be available online in March and at the door. Cost: $5 for students/faculty/staff; $10 for alumni and guests.
Buggy Bash
7:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Open to the Buggy community
Buggy Bash RD24 is here! Join buggy students and alumni for a night of food, trivia and our finals lead truck auction. This auction will be open on the [Buggy Alumni Association website](https://cmubuggy.org) on April 11 until 11 p.m.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the Buggy community and their guests.*
15th and 20th Reunion Reception (2004 and 2009)
7:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Reconnect with former classmates at this signature reunion event. Enjoy a variety of food stations, beverages and desserts!
*Note: Registration required. This event is open to alumni from the Classes of 2004 and 2009 and their guests only.***
Cost**:
- Now through Feb. 23: $25 per attendee for alumni and guests.
- Feb. 24-Apr. 5: $35 per attendee for alumni and guests.
5th and 10th Reunion Reception (2014 and 2019)
7:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Reconnect with former classmates at this signature reunion event. Enjoy a variety of food stations, beverages and desserts!
*Note: Registration required. This event is open to alumni from the Classes of 2014 and 2019 and their guests only.***
Cost**:
- Now through Feb. 23: $15 per attendee for alumni and guests.
- Feb 24.-Apr. 5: \$20 per attendee for alumni and guests.
Tartans Got Talent
8:30 PM-10:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join the Spring Carnival Committee (SCC) in celebrating talented students with the annual "Tartans Got Talent!" show.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Scotch'n'Soda Theatre Carnival Show: The Little Mermaid
4/12/24 C 4/13/24
11:00 PM-1:00 AM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join Scotch'n'Soda Theatre for a performance under the sea! This year, Scotch'n'Soda is thrilled to present*Disney'sThe Little Mermaid*! Adapted from the wildly popular animated film and Hans Christian Anderson's original fairytale, the musical follows Ariel, King Triton's youngest daughter, who wishes to explore the world up above and pursues the human Prince Eric. But the bargains and sea witches aren't all that they seem, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order. Sing along with all of your favorite childhood classics, and come be a part of our world! Funded in part by the Student Activities Fee. Tickets will be available online in March and at the door. Cost: $5 for students/faculty/staff; $10 for alumni and guests.*Note: Disney's The Little Mermaid is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
**Cost**: Tickets will be available online in March and at the door. Cost: $5 for students/faculty/staff; $10 for alumni and guests.
April 13, 2024
Buggy Donut Tent
8:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
All are welcome to stop by to grab a donut and refreshments in between races! Sponsored by the CMU Alumni Association.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Buggy Alumni Association Information Tent
8:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Come by the Buggy Alumni Association tent during Sweepstakes races to meet your BAA officers and learn about our work.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Sweepstakes Finals
8:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Watch the exciting conclusion of this year's Sweepstakes races as teams take on the final heats that stand between them and the championship title.
Can't make it back to campus? We'll [livestream the races](https://cmubuggy.org/raceday/livestream/) through cmuTV. You may also tune into [WRCT Radio](http://www.wrct.org/) to hear the play-by-play. If you're interested in being a part of our live chat, join our BAA Discord at [cmubuggy.org/chat](http://cmubuggy.org/chat).
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Carnival Headquarters Tent: Check-In & Registration
8:00 AM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
**Open to the entire Tartan community!** Make this your first stop to check in, download the app and register to win the daily Tartan Swag Bag giveaway.
**Weekend hours: **Thursday through Saturday: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tepper Buggy Tent
8:00 AM-11:00 AM ET
Open to Tepper alumni and families
Calling Tepper alumni! Stop by our Tepper Buggy Tent for refreshments and watching the races.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. This event is open to the Tepper community and their guests.*
Reunion Buggy Watch Tent
8:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
View the race from our Reunion Watch Tent located on Hill 5!
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. Open to alumni Reunion celebrants and their guests only.*
Civil and Environmental Engineering Buggy Breakfast
8:30 AM-10:30 AM ET
Open to the CEE Community
Buggy watch party for Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) students, alumni, faculty, staff and their families. The 2024 CEE Alumni Award recipients will also be recognized during the event.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the CEE community and their guests.*
Inventing Shakespeare: Text, Technology and The Four Folios
9:00 AM-9:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Inventing Shakespeare tells the little known story of technological innovation, instrumentation and mechanical prototyping inspired by research into Shakespeares most famous book. Objects in the exhibit range from a fully immersive VR tour of a reconstructed Shakespearean playhouse, a 1960s-era mechanical collator designed to compare multiple copies of the First Folio, and fragments of the folios themselves.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Here to Stay: Celebrating 40 Years at the Architecture Archives
9:00 AM-9:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
For the past 40 years, the Architecture Archives collections at Carnegie Mellon University has documented thousands of projects and the work of hundreds of designers. The exhibition highlights the wide diversity of materials from preliminary sketches to presentation renderings to specifications and photographs to publications and select architectural models which help piece together the rich history of the built environment of Pittsburgh and the region.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
HLAA Presents: Gozando y Triunfando, A Carnival Celebration
9:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Open to the HLAA community
Join us to celebrate the establishment of CMU's Hispanic Latino Alumni Association (HLAA) as we look to add representation, and voice to CMU's Hispanic & Latino community. During this event we will discuss HLAAs establishment, vision and accomplishments in FY23. We will learn about the dynamism and drive of our current students, collect alumni feedback and needs as we look to solidify our place amongst the greater CMU community.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the HLAA community and their guests.*
SCS Breakfast & Buggy
9:00 AM-12:00 PM ET
Open to the SCS community
The School of Computer Science (SCS) will host a breakfast buffet for all SCS alumni and livestream the buggy races.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is for SCS community alumni and their guests.*
MechE Alumni Breakfast
9:30 AM-11:30 AM ET
Open to alumni and families of the MechE community
Mechanical Engineering alumni and their families are invited to join us in Scaife Hall to watch the Buggy races and enjoy breakfast pastries, coffee and community.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the MechE community and their guests.*
Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences Brunch & Buggy
9:30 AM-12:00 PM ET
Open to Dietrich College community
Join members of the Dietrich community, enjoy a light brunch and to see those races up close. We hope to see you there!
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the Dietrich community and their guests.*
Mellon College of Science Buggy Watch Party
9:30 AM-11:30 AM ET
Open to the Mellon College of Science community
Join the Mellon College of Science alumni, parents, students and friends for a Buggy watching party over coffee and light refreshments. All MCS alumni, parents, students and friends are invited.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the MCS community.*
Taste of Pittsburgh Food Truck Festival
11:00 AM-2:30 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Enjoy some of Pittsburgh's local food trucks on campus. Full list of trucks available in March.
*Note: No registration required. Pay on your own at food truck(s). This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Booth!
11:00 AM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
This years theme is Let the Games Begin. Be sure to check out every booth and cast your vote for the top choice in each category. *Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
**Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3:30 to 11 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Meet & Greet with the Beep-Boop
11:00 AM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
The audible crosswalk annunciator that protected our community at Forbes and Morewood is back! Press the cross button worn smooth by thousands running late to class.
- First-years: If you missed it at Homecoming, now is the time to meet the campus legend.
- Veteran Boopers: Rekindle your love with a Beep-Boop selfie.
**Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3:30-11 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
*Note: No registration required. Walk-ins welcome. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and Carnival guests.*
Carnival Rides
11:00 AM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Be sure to check out all of the rides and activities, including traditions like ferris wheel and swings. There will also be a special kid's ride area.
Weekend hours:
- Thursday: 3:30-11 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
*Note: No registration required. Individual tickets or all-day passes may be purchased onsite at the vendors ticketing booth.*
Carnival Activities Tent
11:00 AM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Featuring entertainment and games for students, alumni, faculty and staff throughout the entire weekend. Full schedule coming in March. Sponsored by the Spring Carnival Committee and the CMU Alumni Association.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to students, faculty, staff and alumni. Parents: Check out the separate kidzone area for kid-focused fun and activities.* **
Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
KidZone Tent
11:00 AM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
**Attention families**: Check out games and activities specifically geared toward the younger Tartans ages 8 and under. Full schedule available in March. Sponsored by the Alumni Association. *Note: No registration required. No event fee.*
**Activities include:**
- Snacks
- Mini prize wheel
- Montessori-inspired games
- Balloon artists
- Face painters
**Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Carnival Wellness Tent
11:00 AM-7:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Relax and breathe with calming activities, sessions, information and much more. Full schedule available in March. Sponsored by Wellness Initiatives and the CMU Alumni Association.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.
***Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3-7 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Dog Houses Display
11:00 AM-11:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
In addition to Booth, be sure to check out the creative dog houses built by various CMU organizations and groups. *Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.
\******
\*Weekend hours:**
- Thursday: 3:30-11 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
CMU Emergency Medical Services Bystander CPR
11:30 AM-1:30 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
When someone experiences cardiac arrest, immediate intervention is absolutely necessary. However, most cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals, limiting the accessibility of professional help. Immediate CPR by a bystander can greatly increase the chance of survival. Hands-only CPR is easy, quick to learn and can empower anyone to become a lifesaver. Stop by this event to learn CPR in two easy steps and practice communicating with other bystanders during emergencies.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
50th Reunion Medallion Luncheon (1974 and Half Century Tartans)
11:30 AM-1:30 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Join us for the Class of 1974 induction into the Half Century Tartans and celebrate with CMU leadership at this annual recognition event. As new members, you will receive your 50th Reunion Medallion during the event. The Half Century Tartans recognizes all alumni who have celebrated 50 or more years as an alumnus with Carnegie Mellon. All Half Century Tartans members are invited to attend as well.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the Class of 1974 and Half Century Tartans alumni and their guests.*
Information Systems 40th Anniversary Celebration
12:00 PM-2:00 PM ET
Open to alumni and guests of the Information Systems community
IS alumni: Join us to celebrate 40 years of undergraduate information systems graduates at Carnegie Mellon University.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the IS community and their guests.*
Scotch'n'Soda Theatre Alumni Brunch
12:00 PM-2:00 PM ET
Open to Scotch'n'Soda community
Scotch'n'Soda alumni and students are invited to celebrate 86 years of student theater! Network with friends new and old and learn about what is going on in Scotch'n'Soda and the Alumni Association. There is no admission fee and the event ends before the matinee performance.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the SnS community and their guests.*
Beta Sigma Corporation Annual Meeting
1:00 PM-3:00 PM ET
Open to Beta Sigma Corporation community
Join us for the annual meeting of the Beta Sigma Chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha with lunch included.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the Beta Sigma Corporation community.*
Friends of Engineering Bridge Unveiling
1:00 PM-2:30 PM ET
Open to Engineering alumni and families
Please join Dean Bill Sanders in unveiling the Friends of Engineering Bridge, a beautiful installation honoring the College of Engineering community, including alumni, parents and friends. Located as you descend the stairs to the Engineering Quad between Hamerschlag Hall and ANSYS Hall, the area serves as a meaningful landmark signifying the bridge between the College of Engineering's past and future. Refreshments will be available.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the Engineering community.*
CMBAAs Spring Carnival Meeting
1:00 PM-3:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join the Carnegie Mellon Black Alumni Association for our biannual meeting with the theme of "Next Level." Well come together to share updates on the CMBAA and the student organizations we support, to discuss what you would like to see from the CMBAA in the future and to socialize.
Can't make it back to campus? Be sure to register for the livestream during registration.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. This event is open to the CMU community.*
**Cost:**
- $20/per person for alumni and guests.
- No charge for students and children 12 and under.
The Highmark Center for Health, Wellness and Athletics Tours
1:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Take a sneak peak into a state-of-the-art facility that is scheduled to open in fall 2024 and will be the vibrant hub for CMU students. The Highmark Center for Health, Wellness and Athletics will focus on the well-being of the students. Join us for a tour and see the major transformation of the former Skibo Gymnasium. Learn more about the new Highmark Center: https://www.cmu.edu/hwac/. All tour participants will be required to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes.
*Note: Advance registration required. No walk-ins. This event is open to alumni and parents.
***Time Options**
- 1-2 p.m.
- 2-3 p.m.
- 3-4 p.m.
School of Architecture Pavilion Dedication & Alumni Open House
1:00 PM-2:30 PM ET
Open to School of Architecture Community
Drop by the official Spring Carnival entrance pavilion to meet School of Architecture Head Omar Khan and current students who designed and built this NOMAS-led project.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the Architecture community and their guests.*
WRCT's 75th Anniversary Reception
1:00 PM-3:00 PM ET
Open to WRCT community
Join current WRCT leadership for this casual reception as we celebrate 75 years. At 1:30 pm, we'll share highlights from the past 75 years, as well as share some goals for the future. We hope you are able to drop by!
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the WRCT community, alumni and their guests.*
Current & Former CMU AAB Member Coffee Catch Up (Private Event)
1:00 PM-2:30 PM ET
Private Event
Attention Alumni Association Board Alumni: Calling all current and past members of the CMU AAB! Join us for a casual AABA Network Social to catch up and reconnect with current and former Carnegie Mellon Alumni Association Board members.
*Note: Private event. No event fee. This event is for alumni and current members of the Alumni Association Board only.*
Spring Carnival Parents and Families Hospitality Suite
1:30 PM-3:00 PM ET
Open to parents and families
All families are welcome to drop in to our hospitality lounge to take a break, grab some snacks, take a photo, mingle with fellow families and chat with staff.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to parents and families of current students.*
The Tartan Alumni & Student Reception
2:00 PM-3:00 PM ET
Open to alumni and families of The Tartan community
Meet the current student staff of The Tartan and mingle with your former classmates from your time as part of CMU's student-run newspaper.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is for alumni and families of the The Tartan community and their guests.*
Delta Upsilon Alumni Association Board Meeting
2:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Open to DU Community
Join the DU Alumni Board for our annual meeting. This event is an open meeting and is not limited to board members.
Can't make it back to campus? Be sure to register for the livestream during registration.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. No event fee. This event is open to the DU community.*
CMU Emergency Medical Services Cookout
2:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Open to EMS community
CMU EMS will be grilling outside our office space for current members, alumni and Public Safety partners. Families and guests are welcome.
*Note: Registration not required. No event fee. This event is open to members of the EMS community.*
Crafting with the Spring Carnival Committee
2:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
The Spring Carnival Committee (SCC) invites the CMU community to join them in some fun crafting projects.
*Note: Registration not required. No event fee.*
Reunion Beer Garden
2:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Meet local Carnegie Mellon alumni brewmasters who will be serving samples of their craft beers. The first 300 attendees will receive a commemorative pint glass. Free samples from all our brewers, and one pint pour will be provided.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to Reunion celebrants and their guests.*
Carnegie Mellon Racing 2024 Rollout
2:30 PM-3:30 PM ET
Join the Carnegie Mellon Racing (CMR) team as we unveil our two race cars, designed and built from scratch by a group of 100interdisciplinary students to compete in the Formula SAE competition. Learn more on our [website](https://www.carnegiemellonracing.org/).
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the CMU community.*
Dog Costume Party
3:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Bring your favorite four-legged friend for this dog costume party in honor of the Carnival Doghouses! Prizes go the top dog!
*Note: Registration not required. No event fee.*
Scotch'n'Soda Theatre Carnival Show: The Little Mermaid
3:00 PM-5:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Come celebrate Carnival with Scotch'n'Soda Theatre, and join us for a performance under the sea! This year, Scotch'n'Soda is thrilled to present our production of *Disney's* *The Little Mermaid*! Adapted from the wildly popular animated film and Hans Christian Anderson's original fairytale, the musical follows Ariel, King Triton's youngest daughter, who wishes to explore the world up above and pursue the human Prince Eric. But the bargains and sea witches aren't all that they seem, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea. Sing along with all of your favorite childhood classics, and come be a part of our world! Funded in part by the Student Activities Fee.
**Cost**
Tickets will be available online in March and at the door. Cost: $5 for students/faculty/staff; $10 for alumni and guests.
*Note: Disney's The Little Mermaid is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.*
Unveiling the Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics
3:00 PM-5:00 PM ET
Open to Modern Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics communities
Say au revoir to 'Modern Languages' and welcome to 'Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics.' It's not just a name; it's a passport to a world of cultural exploration and linguistic innovation. Join us in celebrating this exciting transition as we embrace a new era, aligning our department's identity with a broader mission of fostering diverse cultural understanding and advancing applied linguistics in our global community.
*Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the Modern Languages community and their guests.*
Tartans on the Rise (Invitation Only)
4:00 PM-5:30 PM ET
Private event, invitation only
*Tartans on the Rise* celebrates recent alumni who are making an impact in their organizations and in their communities, across the nation and around the world through leadership, innovation and career achievements. Check out the Tartans on the Rise campus display outside the Purnell Center throughout the weekend to learn more about the slate of recent alumni being recognized.
*Note: Separate registration required.*
Spring Carnival Booth & Sweepstakes Award Ceremony
4:30 PM-5:30 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
*Note: No registration required. No event fee.*
SRS Post-Sweepstakes Awards Gathering
5:45 PM-6:45 PM ET
Open to SRS Community
Join SPIRIT Racing Systems (SRS) alumni, students, friends and family for an update on and celebration of SRS and their accomplishments. Can't make it back to campus? We'll livestream the gathering, so be sure to sign up for the livestream event during registration.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome if space permits. No event fee. Open to the Kiltie community and guests.*
Reunion Middle Years Reception (Classes of 1979, 1984, 1989 and 1994)
6:00 PM-8:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Reconnect with former classmates at this signature reunion event. Enjoy a variety of food stations, beverages and desserts!
*Note: Registration required. This event is open to the Classes of 1979, 1984, 1989 and 1994 and their guests only.
\*Cost**
- Adult
- Now through Feb. 23: $35 per person 12 years of age and older.
- Feb. 24 through Apr. 5: $40 per person 12 years of age and older.
- Child
- Now through Feb. 23: $15 per person ages 6-11.
- Feb 24. through Apr. 5: $25 per person ages 6-11.
25th Reunion Dinner Reception (Class of 1999)
6:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Celebrate your reunion in the beautiful College of Fine Arts! Enjoy a variety of food stations, beverages and desserts and toast to an amazing 25 years with fellow classmates from the Class of 1999!
*Note: Registration required. This event is open to the Class of 1999 and their guests only.
***Cost**
- Adult
- Now through Feb. 23: $35 per person 12 years of age and older.
- Feb. 24 through Apr. 5: $45 per person 12 years of age and older.
- Child
- Now through Feb. 23: $15 per person ages 6-12.
- Feb. 24 through Apr. 5: $20 per person ages 6-12.
1st Reunion Pre-AB Concert Tailgate (2023)
6:00 PM-7:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Join fellow alumni for a Class of 2023 first reunion! Enjoy a variety of food stations, beverages and desserts! *
Note: Registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the Class of 2023 and their guests.*
50th Reunion Dinner Reception (1974)
6:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Reunion Exclusive
Reconnect with former classmates at this signature 50th Reunion celebration for the Class of 1974 at the beautiful Pittsburgh Golf Club. Cocktail reception followed by dinner.
*Note: Registration required. This event is open to the Class of 1974, Half Century Tartans and their guests only.****
\*****Meal Selections and Cost**
- Meal selection options: Beef, salmon or vegetarian
- Cost
- Now through Feb. 23: $94 per person.
- Feb. 24 through Apr. 5: $99 per person.
Activities Board Spring Carnival Concert
7:00 PM-10:00 PM ET
CMU Community Members with CMU ID or Alumni with Ticket
Performer(s) will be added after the Activities Board Concerts committee officially makes their announcement. Doors open at 7 p.m. Follow the Activities Board on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/activitiesboard/) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/activitiesboard/) for updates on artists, giveaways and location!
- Students, Faculty and Staff: Tickets will be placed on CarnegieMellonTickets.com when tickets become available several weeks prior to event. Must have valid CMU ID to secure tickets.
- Alumni: Limited number of tickets available through Carnival registration.
Scotch'n'Soda Theatre Carnival Show: The Little Mermaid
7:00 PM-9:00 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Come celebrate Carnival with Scotch'n'Soda Theatre, and join us for a performance under the sea! This year, Scotch'n'Soda is thrilled to present our production of *Disney's* *The Little Mermaid*! Adapted from the wildly popular animated film and Hans Christian Anderson's original fairytale, the musical follows Ariel, King Triton's youngest daughter, who wishes to explore the world up above and pursue the human Prince Eric. But the bargains and sea witches aren't all that they seem, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea. Sing along with all of your favorite childhood classics, and come be a part of our world! Funded in part by the Student Activities Fee.
**Cost**
Tickets will be available online in March and at the door. Cost: $5 for students/faculty/staff; $10 for alumni and guests.
*Note: Disney's The Little Mermaid is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.*
Delta Upsilon Reception for Alumni, Family and Friends
4/13/24 C 4/14/24
8:30 PM-1:00 AM ET
Open to DU Community
Reconnect with Delta Upsilon over heavy appetizers and drinks at a location off campus. This event is open to all DU alumni, family and friends. Food and drinks on your own.
*Note: Registration required. Walk-ins are welcome if space permits. No event fee. Open to the DU community and guests.*
April 14, 2024
Here to Stay: Celebrating 40 Years at the Architecture Archives
4/14/24 C 4/15/24
12:00 PM-12:00 AM ET
Open to entire CMU community
For the past 40 years, the Architecture Archives collections at Carnegie Mellon University has documented thousands of projects and the work of hundreds of designers. The exhibition highlights the wide diversity of materials from preliminary sketches to presentation renderings to specifications and photographs to publications and select architectural models which help piece together the rich history of the built environment of Pittsburgh and the region.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Inventing Shakespeare: Text, Technology and The Four Folios
4/14/24 C 4/15/24
12:00 PM-12:00 AM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Inventing Shakespeare tells the little known story of technological innovation, instrumentation and mechanical prototyping inspired by research into Shakespeares most famous book. Objects in the exhibit range from a fully immersive VR tour of a reconstructed Shakespearean playhouse, a 1960s-era mechanical collator designed to compare multiple copies of the First Folio, and fragments of the folios themselves.
*Note: No registration required. No event fee. This event is open to the entire CMU community and their guests.*
Holi
2:30 PM-6:30 PM ET
Open to entire CMU community
Join us for a delightful celebration of Holi at CMU! Embrace the start of spring as we celebrate the festival of colors during Carnival Weekend. Experience the charm of traditional South Asian dance teams and a special guest performer who will add a touch of magic to our color-throwing ceremony. Best of all, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities!
*Note: Time will be confirmed in the coming weeks. Ticket information will be added here when live (likely late March).* | carnival_and_reunion.txt |
Below is the list of list of LTI faculties. This list contains name of the faculties, the job title, emails, office address, phone number, and their research areas.
Yonatan Bisk is a Assistant Professor in CMU LTI. Yonatan Bisk's Email is ybisk@cs.cmu.edu. Yonatan Bisk's Office is Gates & Hillman Centers. Yonatan Bisk's Research Areas is Grounding, RoboNLP, Vision and Language, Embodiment, Unsupervised Learning.
Ralf Brown is a Principal Systems Scientist in CMU LTI. Ralf Brown's is Email is ralf@andrew.cmu.edu. Ralf Brown's Office is 5711 Gates & Hillman Centers. Ralf Brown's Phone is 412-268-8298. Ralf Brown's Research Areas is Information Extraction, Summarization and Question Answering, Information Retrieval, Text Mining and Analytics, Machine Translation, Natural Language Processing and Computational Linguistics
Jamie Callan is a Professor and PhD Program Director in CMU LTI. Jamie Callan's Email is callan@cs.cmu.edu. Jamie Callan's Office is 5419 Gates & Hillman Centers. Jamie Callan's Phone is 412-268-4525. Jamie Callan's Research Areas is Information Retrieval, Text Mining and Analytics.
Justine Cassell is a Professor (On Leave) in CMU LTI. Email is jcassell@andrew.cmu.edu. Justine Cassell's Office is 5107 Gates & Hillman Centers. Justine Cassell's Phone is 412-204-6268.
Mona Diab is LTI Director and Tenured Professor in CMU LTI. Mona Diab's Email is mdiab@andrew.cmu.edu. Mona Diab's Phone is 412-268-3669.
Fernando Diaz is a Associate Professor in CMU LTI. Fernando Diaz's Email is diazf@cmu.edu. Fernando Diaz's Phone is 412-268-4229. Fernando Diaz's Research Areas is Information Retrieval is Recommender Systems, Retrieval and Ranking Models, Natural Language Processing is Fairness and Ethics in Language Technology, Creativity, Evaluation
Scott Fahlman is a Research Professor Emeritus in CMU LTI.Scott Fahlman's Email is sef@cs.cmu.edu.Scott Fahlman's Office is 6417 Gates & Hillman Centers.Scott Fahlman's Phone is 412-268-2575.Scott Fahlman's Research Areas is AI, Knowledge Representation and Reasoning, Natural Language Understanding.
Robert Frederking is Principal Systems Scientist/Associate Dean of Doctoral Programs/MLT Program Director in CMU LTI. Robert Frederking's Email is ref@cs.cmu.edu. Robert Frederking Office is 6515 Gates & Hillman Centers. Robert Frederking Phone is 412-268-6656.
Daniel Fried is a Assistant Professor in CMU LTI.Daniel Fried's Email is dfried@andrew.cmu.edu. Daniel Fried's Research Areas is Natural Language Processing is Language and Code, Conversational AI, Intelligent Agents, and Dialogue, Discourse and Pragmatics, Multimodal AI.
Anatole Gershman is a Distinguished Service Professor in CMU LTI.Anatole Gershman's Email is anatole.gershman@cs.cmu.edu.Anatole Gershman's Office is 6415 Gates & Hillman Centers.Anatole Gershman's Phone is 412-268-8259.Anatole Gershman's Research Areas is Information Extraction, Summarization and Question Answering.
Alexander Hauptmann is a Research Professor in CMU LTI. Alexander Hauptmann's Email is alex@cs.cmu.edu. Alexander Hauptmann's Office is 5519 Gates & Hillman Centers.Alexander Hauptmann's Phone is 412-268-1448. Alexander Hauptmann's Research Areas is Information Extraction, Summarization and Question Answering, Information Retrieval, Text Mining and Analytics, Machine Learning, Multimodal Computing and Interaction.
Daphne Ippolito is a Assistant Professor in CMU LTI.Daphne Ippolito's Email is daphnei@cmu.edu.Daphne Ippolito's Phone is 412-268-7250.Daphne Ippolito's Research Areas is Natural Language Generation, Privacy and Security, Language Technology Application Areas/Issues, Creativity
Lori Levin is a Research Professor in CMU LTI. Lori Levin's Email is lsl@cs.cmu.edu. Lori Levin's Office is 5717 Gates & Hillman Centers. Lori Levin's Phone is 412-268-6193.Lori Levin's Research Areas is Machine Translation, Natural Language Processing and Computational Linguistics, Corpus Annotation and Resources
Lei Li is a Assistant Professor in CMU LTI.Lei Li's Email is leili@andrew.cmu.edu.Lei Li's Phone is 412-268-6355.Lei Li's Research Areas is Machine Learning, Machine Translation, Large Language Models, AI Drug Discovery.
Teruko Mitamura is a Research Professor in CMU LTI.Teruko Mitamura's Email is teruko@cs.cmu.edu.Teruko Mitamura's Office is 6711 Gates & Hillman Centers.Teruko Mitamura's Phone is 412-268-6596.Teruko Mitamura's Research Areas is Information Extraction, Summarization and Question Answering, Information Retrieval, Text Mining and Analytics, Language Technologies for Education, Natural Language Processing and Computational Linguistics
Louis-Philippe Morency is Associate Professor of Computer Science in CMU LTI. Louis-Philippe's Email is morency@cs.cmu.edu. Louis-Philippe's Office is 5411 Gates & Hillman Centers. Phone is 412-268-5508. Louis-Philippe's Research Areas is Machine Learning, Multimodal Computing and Interaction, Spoken Interfaces and Dialogue Processing.
David Mortensen is a Assistant Research Professor in CMU LTI.David Mortensen's Email is dmortens@cs.cmu.edu.David Mortensen's Office is 5707 Gates & Hillman Centers.David Mortensen's Phone is 412-268-2894.David Mortensen's Research Areas is Natural Language Processing and Computational Linguistics, Corpus Annotation and Resources
Graham Neubig is a Associate Professor in CMU LTI.Graham Neubig's Email is gneubig@cs.cmu.edu.Graham Neubig's Office is 5409 Gates & Hillman Centers.Graham Neubig's Research Areas is Machine Translation, Natural Language Processing, Spoken Language Processing, Machine Learning
Eric Nyberg is a Professor in CMU LTI.Eric Nyberg's Email is ehn@cs.cmu.edu.Eric Nyberg's Office is 6715 Gates & Hillman Centers.Eric Nyberg's Phone is 412-268-7281.Eric Nyberg's Research Areas is Information Extraction, Summarization and Question Answering, Information Retrieval, Text Mining and Analytics, Language Technologies for Education
Kemal Oflazer is a Teaching Professor of Computer Science in CMU LTI.Kemal Oflazer's Email is ko@qatar.cmu.edu.Kemal Oflazer's Office is 1009 Carnegie Mellon - Qatar Campus.
Bhiksha Raj is a Professor in CMU LTI.Bhiksha Raj's Email is bhiksha@cs.cmu.edu.Bhiksha Raj's Office is 6705 Gates & Hillman Centers.Bhiksha Raj's Phone is 412-268-9826.Bhiksha Raj's Research Areas is Machine Learning, Multimodal Computing and Interaction, Speech Processing, Spoken Interfaces and Dialogue Processing, Privacy.
Carolyn Rosé is a Professor in CMU LTI.Carolyn Rosé's Email is cprose@cs.cmu.edu.Carolyn Rosé's Office is 5415 Gates & Hillman Centers.Carolyn Rosé's Phone is 412-268-7130.Carolyn Rosé's Research Areas is Information Retrieval, Text Mining and Analytics, Language Technologies for Education, Natural Language Processing and Computational Linguistics, Computer Supported Collaborative Learning/MOOCs
Alexander Rudnicky is a Research Professor Emeritus in CMU LTI.Alexander Rudnicky's Email is alex.rudnicky@cs.cmu.edu.Alexander Rudnicky's Office is 6511 Gates & Hillman Centers.Alexander Rudnicky's Phone is 412-268-2622.Alexander Rudnicky's Research Areas is Multimodal Computing and Interaction, Speech Processing, Spoken Interfaces and Dialogue Processing.
Maarten Sap is a Assistant Professor in CMU LTI.Maarten Sap's Email is msap2@andrew.cmu.edu.Maarten Sap's Research Areas is Fairness and Ethics in Language Technology, Computational Social Science, Discourse and Pragmatics, Conversational AI, Intelligent Agents, and Dialogue
Michael Shamos is a Distinguished Career Professor in CMU LTI.Michael Shamos's Email is shamos@cs.cmu.edu.Michael Shamos's Office is 6707 Gates & Hillman Centers.Michael Shamos's Phone is 412-268-8193.
Rita Singh is a Associate Research Professor in CMU LTI.Rita Singh's Email is rsingh@cs.cmu.edu.Rita Singh's Office is 6703 Gates & Hillman Centers.Rita Singh's Phone is 412-268-9859.
Emma Strubell is a Assistant Professor in CMU LTI.Emma Strubell's Email is estrubel@andrew.cmu.edu.Emma Strubell's Office is Gates & Hillman Centers.
Alexander Waibel is a Professor in CMU LTI.Alexander Waibel's Email is waibel@cs.cmu.edu.Alexander Waibel's Office is 205 407 South Craig Street.Alexander Waibel's Phone is 412-268-7676.Alexander Waibel's Research Areas is Spoken Language Translation, Machine Translation, Speech Processing, Neural Networks, Machine Learning, Multimodal Interaction, Dialog Processing.
Shinji Watanabe is a Associate Professor in CMU LTI.Shinji Watanabe's Email is swatanab@andrew.cmu.edu.Shinji Watanabe's Phone is 412-268-3687.Shinji Watanabe's Research Areas is Natural Language Processing is Conversational AI, Intelligent Agents, and Dialogue, Speech Processing (ASR, Speech Synthesis) is Speech Recognition, Speech Synthesis, Multilingual/Low-Resource Speech Processing, Speech-to-Speech Translation, Speech Enhancement / Robust Speech Processing
Sean Welleck is Assistant Professor (Starting January 2024) in CMU LTI.Sean Welleck's Email is swelleck@andrew.cmu.edu.
Eric P. Xing is a Professor (On Leave) in CMU LTI.Eric P. Xing's Email is epxing@andrew.cmu.edu.Eric P. Xing's Office is 8101 Gates & Hillman Centers.Eric P. Xing's Phone is 412-268-2559.
Chenyan Xiong is a Associate Professor in CMU LTI.Chenyan Xiong's Email is cx@andrew.cmu.edu.Chenyan Xiong's Phone is 412-268-7641.
Yiming Yang is a Professor in CMU LTI.Yiming Yang's Email is yiming@cs.cmu.edu.Yiming Yang's Office is 6717 Gates & Hillman Centers.Yiming Yang's Phone is 412-268-1364.
| LTI_faculty.txt |
Overview
The Ph.D. in LTI focuses on developing the next generation of scientific and entrepreneurial leaders. The first two years of the Ph.D. program are similar to our MLT program. After the second year, you will spend most of your time working closely with your faculty advisor on research that advances the state-of-the-art in computer science.
Ph.D. students are expected to publish papers about original research in the most competitive scientific journals and international conference proceedings, and to present their research at conferences and workshops. Most of our Ph.D. graduates become professors and research scientists, while a few have started their own companies.
Requirements
In general, students pursuing a Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies must
Pass at least 96 units of graduate-level courses.
Satisfy proficiencies in writing, presentation, programming and teaching; and
Propose, write and defend a Ph.D. dissertation (thesis).
Students must also attend the LTI Colloquium each semester and satisfy our Research Speaking Requirement.
For a detailed breakdown of the above requirements, download and read the PhD Handbook.
Curriculum
In order to obtain your Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies, you need to pass 96 units (generally, eight courses) of graduate courses that fulfill these requirements:
At least 72 units of LTI courses: Must include one class in each LTI focus area.
At least 24 units of SCS courses.
At least two lab courses in two different research areas.
Here's a sample of what your five-year schedule might look like:
Year 1 Fall: Grammars and Lexicons ,Algorithms for NLP, Directed Study
Year 1 Spring: Search Engines or Machine Learning for Text Mining, Machine Translation, Directed Study
Year 1 Summer: Required Research
Year 2 Fall: Software Engineering for LT (I), Speech Understanding, Self-Paced Lab, Directed Study
Year 2 Spring:Software Engineering for LT (II), Self-Paced Lab, Directed Study
Year 2 Summer: Required Research
Year 3 Fall: Directed Research
Year 3 Spring: Directed Research
Year 3 Summer: Required Research
Year 4 Fall:Directed Research
Year 4 Spring:Directed Research
Year 4 Summer: Required Research
Year 5 Fall:Directed Research
Year 5 Spring:Directed Research
Year 5 Summer: Required Research
Admissions
Carnegie Mellon's School of Computer Science has a centralized online application process. Applications and all supporting documentation for fall admission to any of the LTI's graduate programs must be received by the application deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application period for Fall 2024 is now closed. Details about the application process for Fall 2025 will be available in the summer of 2024.
Application Deadlines: TBA
Cost: TBA
Fee Waivers
Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship. For more information, please refer to the School of Computer Science Fee Waiver page.
Requirements
The School of Computer Science requires the following for all Ph.D. applications. (Please note, these requirements may change for future application cycles.)
GRE scores: GREs are now optional, but if you want to submit GRE scores:
These must be less than five years old. The GRE Subject Test is not required, but is recommended. Our Institution Code is 2074; Department Code is 0402.
TOEFL scores: Required if English is not your native language. No exceptions. These scores may be more than two years old if you have pursued or are pursuing a bachelor's or graduate degree in the United States. (While the TOEFL is preferred, the IELTS test may also be submitted.) Successful applicants will have a minimum TOEFL score of 100. Our Institution Code is 4256; the Department Code is 78.
Official transcripts from each university you have attended, regardless of whether you received your degree there.
Current resume.
Statement of Purpose.
Three letters of recommendation.
For more details on these requirements, please see the SCS Doctoral Admissions page.
In addition to the SCS guidelines, the LTI requires:
A short (1-3 minute) video of yourself. Tell us about you and why you want to come to CMU. This is not a required part of the application process, but it's strongly suggested.
Any outside funding you are receiving must be accompanied by an official award letter.
No incomplete applications will be eligible for consideration.
For specific application/admissions questions, please contact Stacey Young.
Program Contact
For more information about the Ph.D. program, contact Stacey Young.
Stacey Young
Academic Program Manager, PhD
Office: 6415 Gates & Hillman Centers
Email: staceyy@cs.cmu.edu
Phone: 412-268-2623 | lti_phd.txt |
Dual-Degree Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies (Portugal Partnership)
After completing the majority of their academic requirements, students return to Portugal for the next two years to conduct extensive research, ultimately leading to a dissertation topic that will be publicly defended. One adviser from each institution co-supervises their student’s progress and helps to define their final thesis topic.
Overview
The LTI offers a dual-degree Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies in cooperation with:
Universidade de Aveiro (Ph.D. in Computer Engineering), Universidade do Minho (Ph.D. in Informatics) and the Universidade do Porto (FCUP, Ph.D. in Computer Science and FEUP, Ph.D. in Computer Science) as part of MAPi;
Universidade de Lisboa, Faculdade de Ciências – FCUL (Ph.D. in Informatics)
Universidade de Lisboa, Instituto Superior Técnico – IST (Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering, Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Ph.D. in Information Security)
Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia – FCTUNL (Ph.D. in Computer Science)
Universidade de Coimbra, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia – FCTUC (Ph.D. in Information Science and Technology)
Students jointly enrolled in the LTI Ph.D program spend a year in Portugal, then two years at Carnegie Mellon taking classes in linguistics, computer science, statistical learning and task orientation.
After completing the majority of their academic requirements, students return to Portugal for the next two years to conduct extensive research, ultimately leading to a dissertation topic that will be publicly defended. One adviser from each institution co-supervises their student’s progress and helps to define their final thesis topic.
Requirements
Students participating in the dual-degree program will spend their first year in Portugal, followed by two years in Pittsburgh to complete their coursework. They will complete a maximum of eight courses with a proper balance of focus areas (linguistics, computer science, statistical/learning and task orientation). After that, they will return to Portugal for their last two years, pursuing research and completing their dissertation. For more, see the Carnegie Mellon | Portugal page.
Curriculum
While in the dual Ph.D. program, your schedule may look like this.
Year 1(In Portugal) Fall: Classes and Directed Study
Year 1(In Portugal) Spring: Classes and Directed Study
Year 1(In Portugal) Summer: Required Research
Year 2(In Pittsburgh) Fall: Grammar and Lexicon, Structured Prediction, Directed Study
Year 2(In Pittsburgh) Spring:Language and Statistics, 2 Self-Paced Labs, Directed Study
Year 2(In Pittsburgh) Summer: Required Research
Year 3(In Pittsburgh) Fall: Directed Research
Year 3(In Pittsburgh) Spring: Directed Research
Year 3(In Pittsburgh) Summer: Required Research
Year 4(In Pittsburgh) Fall:Directed Research
Year 4(In Pittsburgh) Spring:Directed Research
Year 4(In Pittsburgh) Summer: Required Research
Year 5(In Pittsburgh) Fall:Directed Research
Year 5(In Pittsburgh) Spring:Directed Research
Year 5(In Pittsburgh) Summer: Required Research
Admissions
Students applying to the dual degree program must apply through Carnegie Mellon's online application. In addition to the requirements listed below, prospective students must also contact Stacey Young when applying.
Carnegie Mellon's School of Computer Science has a centralized online application process. Applications and all supporting documentation for fall admission to any of the LTI's graduate programs must be received by the application deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application period for Fall 2024 is now closed. Information about the Fall 2025 application cycle will be available in the summer of 2024.
Application Deadlines: TBA
Cost: TBA
Fee Waivers
Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship, or for participants in select programs. For more information, please refer to the School of Computer Science Fee Waiver page.
Requirements
The School of Computer Science requires the following for all Ph.D. applications. (Please note, these requirements may change for future application cycles.)
GRE scores: These must be less than five years old. The GRE Subject Test is not required, but is recommended. Our Institution Code is 2074; Department Code is 0402.
TOEFL scores: Required if English is not your native language. No exceptions. These scores may be more than two years old if you have pursued or are pursuing a bachelor's or graduate degree in the United States. (While the TOEFL is preferred, the IELTS test may also be submitted.) Successful applicants will have a minimum TOEFL score of 100. Our Institution Code is 4256; the Department Code is 78.
Official transcripts from each university you have attended, regardless of whether you received your degree there.
Current resume.
Statement of Purpose.
Three letters of recommendation.
For more details on these requirements, please see the SCS Doctoral Admissions page.
In addition to the SCS guidelines, the LTI requires:
A short (1-3 minute) video of yourself. Tell us about you and why you want to come to CMU. This is not a required part of the application process, but it's strongly suggested.
Any outside funding you are receiving must be accompanied by an official award letter.
No incomplete applications will be eligible for consideration.
For specific application/admissions questions, please contact Stacey Young.
Program Contact
For more information about the Ph.D. program, contact Stacey Young.
Stacey Young
Academic Program Manager, PhD
Office: 6415 Gates & Hillman Centers
Email: staceyy@cs.cmu.edu
Phone: 412-268-2623 | lti_dual_phd.txt |
Master of Language Technologies
The Master of Language Technologies (MLT) program is a two-year, research-focused Master's program intended to prepare students for a Ph.D. program, whether it be at the LTI or elsewhere.
Overview
The MLT program prepares students for a research career in academia or industry. In this program, you’ll be immersed in research for two full years. During the academic year, your time will be evenly split between taking courses and doing research with your faculty advisor. Your summer will be devoted entirely to research. Many MLT grads continue on to Ph.D. programs at CMU and other top institutions, while others pursue careers at companies emphasizing research and rapid innovation.
Requirements
The MLT program lasts two years (24 months), and students must complete two summers of research. Students should usually expect to graduate in August of their second year.
MLT students take 120 or more course units (about 10 courses), at least 72 of which are LTI courses, and 24 of which are School of Computer Science (SCS) courses. Most of these are 12-unit courses, although lab courses are typically 6 units. Our courses generally assume knowledge of programming and data structures. The remaining units may also be taken from the LTI, or with approval from the faculty advisor, any other senior- or graduate-level course offered at CMU or Pitt.
Directed research is another integral part of the MLT program; MLT students carry out directed research during their studies, with guidance from their faculty advisors.
Students may also choose to complete an optional MLT thesis. Guidelines can be found in the MLT Handbook.
Curriculum
Here's an example of how your two years in the MLT program may break down.
Year 1 Fall: Grammars and Lexicons ,Algorithms for NLP, Directed Study
Year 1 Spring: Search Engines or Machine Learning for Text Mining, Machine Translation, Self-Paced Lab, Directed Study
Year 1 Summer: Required Research
Year 2 Fall: Software Engineering for LT (I), Speech Understanding, Self-Paced Lab, Directed Study
Year 2 Spring:Software Engineering for LT (II), Elective, Directed Study
Year 2 Summer: Required Research
Admissions
Carnegie Mellon's School of Computer Science has a centralized online application process. Applications and all supporting documentation for fall admission to any of the LTI's graduate programs must be received by the application deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application period for Fall 2024 is now closed. Information about the Fall 2025 admissions cycle will be available in summer 2024.
*Please note, we no longer require mailed, hard versions of transcripts or test scores at the time of application. Do not mail anything to the admissions office. If you are accepted to a program, you will be given instruction to then mail your materials.
Application Deadlines: TBA
Cost: TBA
Fee Waivers
Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship, or for participants in select "pipeline" programs. For more information, please refer to the School of Computer Science Fee Waiver page.
Requirements
The School of Computer Science requires the following for all graduate program applications:
GRE scores: GREs are now optional, but if you want to submit GRE scores:
These must be less than five years old. A GRE subject test in science, engineering, computer science, math, etc. is not required, but you may complete one and submit the scores if you wish. Our Institution Code is 2074; Department Code is 0402.
TOEFL scores: Required if English is not your native language. No exceptions. These scores may be more than two years old if you have pursued or are pursuing a bachelor's or graduate degree in the United States. (While the TOEFL is preferred, the IELTS test may also be submitted.) Successful applicants will have a minimum TOEFL score of 100. Our Institution Code is 4256; the Department Code is 78.
Official transcripts from each university you have attended, regardless of whether you received your degree there.
Current resume.
Statement of Purpose.
Three letters of recommendation.
For more details on these requirements, please see the SCS Master's Admissions page.
In addition to the SCS guidelines, the LTI requires:
A short (1-3 minute) video of yourself. Tell us about you and why you want to come to CMU. This is not a required part of the application process, but it's strongly suggested.
Any outside funding you are receiving must be accompanied by an official award letter.
No incomplete applications will be eligible for consideration.
For specific application/admissions questions, please contact Kate Schaich.
Tuition
Tuition Rates
Tuition is set by the School of Computer Science and can vary by year. Current tuition rates can be found on the Graduate Tuition section of the Student Financial Services website.
Financial Aid Resources
Research Assistant-ships are occasionally offered by research advisors to current MLT students. These are not guaranteed and vary from semester-to-semester. They fluctuate and are dependent on the funding source, research advisor and MLT student.
Student Financial Services has additional information on financial aid and billing / payments. They have a detailed outline of how to apply for financial aid on the Graduate Financial Aid Process page.
Enrollment & Finances has additional resource links to assist with financial aid and tuition payments.
Graduate Education – Financial Assistance provides resources for current students regarding emergency loans and conference travel grants.
Program Contact
For more information about the MLT program, contact Kate Schaich.
Kate Schaich
LTI Graduate Program Manager
Office: 6415 Gates & Hillman Centers
Email: kschaich@cs.cmu.edu
Phone: 412-268-4788 | lti_MLT.txt |
Master of Science in Intelligent Information Systems
The Master's in Intelligent Information Systems (MIIS) program focuses on recognizing and extracting meaning from text, spoken language, and video.
Overview
The Master's in Intelligent Information Systems degree focuses on recognizing and extracting meaning from text, spoken language and video. As an MIIS student, you’ll receive the department’s deepest exposure to content analysis and machine learning. In addition to completing the program’s coursework, you’ll work on directed study projects with your faculty advisor for two semesters; participate in a summer internship; and collaborate with your peers on a semester-long, group-oriented capstone project. This combination of classroom instruction, professional experience, and using new skills in significant projects with world-class colleagues will help prepare you for a successful career in industry or government. Our alumni have gone on to exciting careers at places like Apple, IBM and Google, and most have job offers within six weeks of graduation.
Requirements
The Intelligent Information Systems degree offers students the flexibility to create their own course of study in consultation with their advisor.
MIIS students gain three types of practical experience: software development supervised by their advisor (24 units equivalent to two courses); a summer internship (which can be waived for students that have sufficient prior professional experience); and a capstone project executed in a group of peers (42 units equivalent to three 12-unit courses and one 6-unit course). This combination is proven to help IIS students to broaden their skills quickly. The MIIS degree is offered in two options:
Option 1. Standard MIIS degree (MIIS-16) - A 16-month track that is completed in three academic semesters (fall, spring, fall) and a summer internship.
Option 2. MIIS: Advanced Study degree (MIIS-21) - A 21-month track that is completed in four academic semesters (fall, spring, fall, spring) and a summer internship.
MIIS: Advanced Study track offers an in-depth degree in one of the following areas of concentration:
Human Language for Language Technologies
Language Technology Application
Machine Learning for Language Technologies
Part-time education option is available in some cases.
MIIS-16 students must take at least 84 units (typically 7 courses) of qualifying and elective courses that satisfy human language, machine learning, and language technology applications breadth requirements. MIIS-21 students have to take at least two more courses from the selected concentration area to satisfy their degree requirements, making it total of 108 units (typically 9 courses) of qualifying and elective courses, that also satisfy breadth requirements.
For a full list of requirements, read the MIIS Handbook.
Curriculum
MIIS-16
Example Course of Study #1
This schedule would satisfy course requirements for a student interested in text mining, text analytics and question-answering systems.
Fall 1
Machine Learning
Search Engines
Design and Engineering of Intelligent Systems\ Directed Study
Spring
Language and Statistics
Natural Language Processing
Question Answering
Directed Study
MIIS Capstone Planning Seminar
Summer
Internship
Fall 2
Machine Learning for Text Mining
MIIS Capstone Project
Example Course of Study #2
This schedule would satisfy course requirements for a student interested in voice-based computer applications.
Fall 1
Machine Learning
Algorithms for NLP
Speech Recognition and Understanding
Directed Study
Spring
Applied Machine Learning
Competitive Engineering
Design and Implementation of Speech Recognition Systems
Directed Study
MIIS Capstone Planning Seminar
Summer
Internship
Fall 2
Conversational Interfaces
MIIS Capstone Project
Example Course of Study #3
This example would satisfy course requirements for a student interested in text mining, text analytics and question-answering systems who has petitioned to have the summer internship waived.
Fall 1
Search Engines
Analysis of Social Media
Design and Engineering of Intelligent Systems
Directed Study
Spring
Machine Learning
Natural Language Processing
Question Answering
Directed Study
MIIS Capstone Planning Seminar
Summer
Academic Research Practices and Scientific Communities
MIIS Capstone Project
MIIS-21
Example Course of Study #1
This schedule would satisfy course requirements for a student interested in deepening their expertise in Machine Learning area of concentration.
Fall 1
Search Engines
Algorithms for NLP
Intro to ML (MLD)
MIIS Directed Study
Spring 1
Question Answering
Intro to Deep Learning
MIIS Capstone Planning Seminar
MIIS Directed Study
Summer
Internship
Fall 2
MIIS Capstone Project
Applied ML
Spring 2
ML for Text Mining
ML for Signal Processing
Elective
Example Course of Study #2
This schedule would satisfy course requirements for a student interested in deepening their expertise in Language Technology Applications area of concentration.
Fall 1
Search Engines
Algorithms for NLP
Intro to ML (MLD)
MIIS Directed Study
Spring 1
Question Answering
Intro to Deep Learning
MIIS Capstone Planning Seminar
MIIS Directed Study
Summer
Internship
Fall 2
MIIS Capstone Project
Machine Translation
Spring 2
Comp Semantics for NLP
Neural Networks for NLP
Elective
Example Course of Study #3
This example would satisfy course requirements for a student interested in deepening their expertise in Human Language area of concentration
Fall 1
Natural Language Processing
Algorithms for NLP
Intro to ML (MLD)
MIIS Directed Study
Spring 1
Question Answering
Intro to Deep Learning
MIIS Capstone Planning Seminar
MIIS Directed Study
Summer
Internship
Fall 2
MIIS Capstone Project
Language and Statistics
Spring 2
Comp Semantics for NLP
ML for Signal Processing
Elective
For a complete breakdown of curriculum and requirements, read the MIIS Handbook.
Admissions
Carnegie Mellon's School of Computer Science has a centralized online application process. Applications and all supporting documentation for fall admission to any of the LTI's graduate programs must be received by the application deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application period for Fall 2024 is now closed. Information about the Fall 2025 admissions cycle will be available in summer 2024.
*Please note, we no longer require mailed, hard versions of transcripts or test scores at the time of application. Do not mail anything to the admissions office. If you are accepted to a program, you will be given instruction to then mail your materials.
Application Deadlines :TBA
Cost: TBA
Fee Waivers
Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship, or for participants in select "pipeline" programs. For more information, please refer to the School of Computer Science Fee Waiver page.
Requirements
The School of Computer Science requires the following for all Master's applications.
GRE scores: MIIS applicants must submit their GRE scores. The scores must be less than five years old. The GRE Subject Test is not required, but is recommended. Our Institution Code is 2074; Department Code is 0402.
TOEFL scores: Required if English is not your native language. No exceptions. If you are currently working on or have received a bachelor's and/or a master's degree in the U.S. and your native language is not English, you may submit an expired test score up to five years old. TOEFL scores taken before August 20, 2016, will not be accepted. (While the TOEFL is preferred, the IELTS or Duolingo tests may also be submitted.) Successful applicants will have a minimum TOEFL score of 100. Our Institution Code is 4256; the Department Code is 78.
Official transcripts from each university you have attended, regardless of whether you received your degree there.
Current resume.
Statement of Purpose.
Three letters of recommendation.
For more details on these requirements, please see the SCS Master's Admissions page.
In addition to the SCS guidelines, the MIIS requires:
A short (1-3 minute) video of yourself. Tell us about you and why you want to come to CMU. This is not a required part of the application process, but it is strongly suggested.
No incomplete applications will be eligible for consideration.
For specific application/admissions questions, please contact Brianna Eriksen.
Program Contact
For more information about the MIIS program, contact Brianna Freeman.
Brianna Eriksen
Academic Program Manager - MIIS
Office: 5414 Gates & Hillman Centers
Email: bfreema2@andrew.cmu.edu
Phone: 412-268-4277
| lti_MIIS.txt |
Master of Computational Data Science
The Master of Computational Data Science (MCDS) program focuses on engineering and deploying large-scale information systems, and includes concentrations in Systems, Analytics, and Human-Centered Data Science.
Overview
The MCDS degree focuses on engineering and deploying large-scale information systems. Our comprehensive curriculum equips you with the skills and knowledge to develop the layers of technology involved in the next generation of massive information system deployments and analyze the data these systems generate. When you graduate, you’ll have a unified vision of these systems from your core courses; internship experience; and semester-long, group-oriented capstone project. MCDS graduates are sought-after software engineers, data scientists and project managers at leading information technology, software services and social media companies.
Requirements
The MCDS program offers three majors: Systems, Analytics, and Human-Centered Data Science. All three require the same total number of course credits, split among required core courses, electives, data science seminar and capstone courses specifically defined for each major. The degree can also be earned in two different ways, depending on the length of time you spend working on it. Regardless of the timing option, all MCDS students must complete a minimum of 144 units to graduate.
Here are the options:
Standard Timing — a 16-month degree consisting of study for fall and spring semesters, a summer internship, and fall semester of study. Each semester comprises a minimum of 48 units. This timing is typical for most students. Students graduate in December.
Extended Timing — a 20-month degree consisting of study for fall and spring semesters, a summer internship, and a second year of fall and spring study. Each semester comprises a minimum of 36 units. Students graduate in May.
For a complete overview of the MCDS requirements read the MCDS Handbook.
Curriculum
To earn an MCDS degree, students must pass courses in the core curriculum, the MCDS seminar, a concentration area, and electives. Students must also complete a capstone project in which they work on a research project at CMU or on an industry-sponsored project.
In total, students must complete 144 eligible units of study, including eight 12-unit courses, two 12-unit seminar courses, and one 24-unit capstone course. Students must choose at minimum five core courses. The remainder of the 12-unit courses with course numbers 600 or greater can be electives chosen from the SCS course catalog. Any additional non-prerequisite units taken beyond the 144 units are also considered electives.
Students who plan to select the Systems concentration may wish to enroll in 15-513 “Introduction to Computing Systems” during the summer session preceding their enrollment in the program; this course is a prerequisite for many advanced Systems courses, so it should be completed during Summer if you wish to enroll in advanced Systems courses in the Fall.
Click here to see the MCDS Course Map.
Some example courses of study are included below.
Example 1: Analytics Major, 16 Months
Year 1
Fall
Data Science Seminar
Machine Learning
Machine Learning for Text Mining
Advanced Machine Learning
Design and Engineering of Intelligent Information Systems
Big Data Analytics
Spring
Data Science Seminar
Capstone Planning Seminar
Machine Learning with Big Data Sets
Cloud Computing
Information Systems Project
Search Engines
Multimedia Databases and Data Mining
Large Scale Multimedia Analysis
Summer
Summer Internship
Year 2
Data Science Analytics Capstone
Example 2: Systems Major, 16 Months
Year 1
Fall
Computational Data Science Seminar
Advanced Storage Systems
Cloud Computing
Distributed Systems
Machine Learning
Spring
Computational Data Science Seminar
Parallel Computer Architecture and Programming
Advanced Databases
Search Engines
Summer
Summer Internship
Year 2
Fall
Computational Data Science Systems Capstone
Operating Systems or Web Applications
Example 3: Human-Centered Data Science Major, 16 Months
Example Schedule
Empirical Analysis of Interactive Systems
Fall
ML
Econometrics
Social Web
Network Science
Business Analytics
Spring
Interactive Data Science
Psych Found for Design Impact
Econometrics
DHCS
Social Web Analytics & Design
Fall
ML
ARM
Social Web
Network Science
Spring
Crowd Programming
Data Pipeline
ML for Text Analytics
DHCS
Ubiquitous Computing
Fall
DHCS
ML
ARM
Spring
Interactive Data Science
Rapid Prototyping
Gadgets
Usable Priv & Security
Advanced ML
Educational Software Design
Fall
DHCS
ML
ARM
Learning Analytics and EDS
Spring
Learning with Peers
Psych Found for Design Impact
ML with Big Data
ML with Text Analysis
Admissions
Carnegie Mellon's School of Computer Science has a centralized online application process. Applications and all supporting documentation for fall admission to any of the LTI's graduate programs must be received by the application deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application period for Fall 2024 is now closed. Information about the Fall 2025 admissions cycle will be available in summer 2024.
Application Deadlines: TBA
Cost: TBA
Fee Waivers
Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship, or for participants in select "pipeline" programs. For more information, please refer to the School of Computer Science Fee Waiver page.
Requirements
The School of Computer Science requires the following for all graduate program applications:
GRE scores: GREs are now optional, but if you want to submit GRE scores:
These must be less than five years old. A GRE subject test in science, engineering, computer science, math, etc. is not required, but you may complete one and submit the scores if you wish. Our Institution Code is 2074; Department Code is 0402.
If you will be studying on an F-1 or J-1 visa, and English is not a native language for you (native language…meaning spoken at home and from birth), an official copy of an English proficiency score report is required. The English proficiency requirement cannot be waived for any reason. Find more information under "Test Scores" on our FAQ page.
Successful applicants will have a minimum TOEFL score of 100. Our Institution Code is 4256; the Department Code is 78.
Official transcripts from each university you have attended, regardless of whether you received your degree there.
Current resume.
Statement of Purpose.
Three letters of recommendation.
For more details on these requirements, please see the SCS Master's Admissions page.
In addition to the SCS guidelines, the LTI requires:
Any outside funding you are receiving must be accompanied by an official award letter.
No incomplete applications will be eligible for consideration.
For specific application/admissions questions, please contact Jennifer Lucas or Caitlin Korpus.
Program Contact
For more information about the MCDS program, contact Jennifer Lucas.
Jennifer Lucas
Academic Program Manager - MCDS
Office: 6415 Gates & Hillman Centers
Email: jmlucas@cs.cmu.edu
Phone: 412-268-9870 | lti_MCDS.txt |
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation
The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation (MSAII) program combines a rigorous AI and machine learning curriculum with real-world team experience in innovation and entrepreneurship.
Overview
The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation (MSAII) program is a successor to the M.S. in Biotechnology, Innovation and Computing (MSBIC). It combines a rigorous AI and machine learning curriculum with real-world team experience in identifying an AI market niche and developing a responsive product in cooperation with external stakeholders. The core program, which lasts four semesters and leads to a capstone project, focuses on both intrapreneurship and entrepreneurship, equipping graduates to either begin a startup or develop a new organization within an existing company. Students will also gain critical practical skills, such as making persuasive technical presentations, assembling development teams, and evaluating the potential of new market ideas.
Requirements
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Incoming students generally hold undergraduate degrees in computer science, software engineering, bioinformatics or bioengineering. To earn the MSAII degree, you must pass courses in the Core Curriculum, the Knowledge Requirements and Electives. You must also complete a capstone project in which you work on a development project as part of the Core Curriculum. In total, you will complete 192 eligible units of study, including 84 units of Core Curriculum (including the 36-unit Capstone), 72 units of Knowledge Requirements and at least 36 units of approved Electives.
For full requirements and program details, read the MSAII Handbook.
Curriculum
To earn the MSAII degree, you must pass courses in the Core Curriculum, the Knowledge Requirements and Electives. You must also complete a capstone project in which you work on a development project as part of the Core Curriculum. In total, you will complete 195 eligible units of study, including 84 units of Core Curriculum (including the 36-unit Capstone), 72 units of Knowledge Requirements, at least 36 units of approved Electives and the LTI Practicum (3 units, associated with your summer internship). The purpose of the Core Curriculum is to prepare you to discover new AI applicants and develop them into a product suitable for further development, often leading to a startup enterprise.
Here's a detailed breakdown of the curriculum.
Preparation Prerequisite
Historically, students typically need a refresher on basic computer science systems before beginning graduate work at CMU. You must pass the undergraduate course 15-513 Introduction to Computer Systems (6 units), typically in the summer before your program commences. (This course is the distance education version of 15-213 Introduction to Computer Systems.) Failure to pass the course means that you have to take 15-213 during either the fall or spring semester, and the units will not count toward your 192 eligible units of study.
Curriculum Components
Each major has different core curriculum requirements.
Core Curriculum (84 units)
This is a five-course sequence based on the four main phases of innovation development, including opportunity identification, opportunity development, business planning and incubation of a business with a viable product. The courses must be taken in the order listed:
11-651, Artificial Intelligence and Future Markets (12 units). First fall semester. In this course, students are divided into teams to survey the fieild of AI applications, make presentations to the faculty and fellow students on areas that are ripe for AI development, and must develop a product proposal, which will be carried through for the next three semesters, leading to 11-699, the Capstone Project.
17-762, Law of Computer Technology (12 units). First fall semester. A review of legal principles applicable to computer developments, including AI law and formation of startups.
11-695, AI Engineering (12 units). First spring semester. This course is devoted to building deep learning applications using TensorFlow and Python. Topics include supervised learning, feed-forward neural networks, flow graphs, dynamic computational graphs, convolutional neural networks and recurrent neural networks. Students will use high-level tools to engineer functioning machine learning models.
11-654, AI Innovation (12 units). Second fall semester. Students learn how to build an enterprise, either intrapreneurial or entrepreneurial, by developing a business model and strategy for their team's product.
11-699, Capstone Project (36 units). Second spring semester. The objective of the Capstone is for your team to develop a working product suitable for intrapreneurial integration into a company or suitable for startup investment.
Knowledge Requirements (72 units)
This is a set of six rigorous courses to ensure that you are able to develop advanced AI applications.
11-601, Coding Bootcamp (12 units). First fall semester.
10-601, Machine Learning (12 units), First fall semester. (Normally 11-691, Math for Machine Learning, which is not being offered in Fall 2019.)
10-605, Machine Learning with Large Datasets (12 units). First spring semester.
11-611, Natural Language Processing (12 units). Second fall semester.
A 12-unit course in AI, NLP, or ML. Second fall semester.
11-785, Deep Learning (12 units). Second spring semester.
Internship
Every student is required to complete an industry internship during the summer between the first spring and second fall semesters. Every student must register for the internship - 11-934 (MSAII Practicum Internship). No tuition is charged for the internship.
Electives (36 units)
You must take at least three 12-unit elective courses or equivalent. The approved electives are listed below. If you want to take any other course for elective credit, you must have the permission of the MSAII Director. It is recommended to take one elective in the first fall semester, one or two in the first spring semester, one or two in the second fall semester and zero or one in the second spring semester.
11-641 Machine Learning for Text Mining
11-642 Search Engines
11-747 Neural Networks for NLP
11-755 Machine Learning for Signal Processing
11-777 Advanced Multimodal Machine Learning
10-605 Machine Learning with Large Datasets
10-608 Conversational Machine Learning
10-716 Advanced Machine Learning: Theory & Methods (was 10702)
15-624 Foundations of Cyber-Physical Systems
15-645 Database Systems
15-688 Practical Data Science
15-719 Advanced Cloud Computing
15-780 Graduate Artificial Intelligence
16-720 Computer Vision
16-725 Medical Image Analysis
16-722 Sensing and Sensors
16-824 Visual Learning and Recognition
17-637 Web Application Development
17-639 Management of Software Development
17-653 Managing Software Development
17-766 Software Engineering for Startups
02-604 Fundamentals of Bioinformatics
02-718 Computational Medicine
Admissions
Carnegie Mellon's School of Computer Science has a centralized online application process. Applications and all supporting documentation for fall admission to any of the LTI's graduate programs must be received by the application deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application period for Fall 2024 is now closed. Information about the Fall 2025 admissions cycle will be available in summer 2024.
Application Deadlines: TBA
Cost: TBA
Fee Waivers
Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship, or for participants in select "pipeline" programs. For more information, please refer to the School of Computer Science Fee Waiver page.
Requirements
The School of Computer Science requires the following for all applications:
A GPA of 3.0 or higher. (Students should report raw university GPA scores and NOT converted scores. Please DO NOT convert your international score to a US GPA or weighted GPA or other system).
GRE scores: GRE is required. Our Institution Code is 2074; Department Code is 0402.
TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo scores: If you are an international applicant and your native language (language spoken from birth) is not Enlgish, an official copy of English proficiency score report is required. The English proficiency requirement cannot be waived for any reason. We strongly encourage applicants to take either the TOEFL or IELTS. In cases where these are not available it is acceptable to take the Duolingo test. We discourage the use of the TOEFL IPT Plus for China since speaking is not scored. Successful applicants will have a minimum TOEFL score of 100. Our Institution Code is 4256; the Department Code is 78.
Unofficial transcripts from each university you have attended, regardless of whether you received a degree.
Current resume.
Statement of Purpose. A Statement of Purpose is not a resume. It should discuss your reasons for choosing the MSAII program and indicate your intended career path.
Three letters of recommendation.
A short (1-3 minutes) video of yourself. Tell us about you and why you are interested in the MSAII program. This is not a required part of the application process, but it is STRONGLY suggested.
For specific application/admissions questions, please contact Amber Vivis.
Program Contact
For more information about the MSAII program, contact Amber Vivis.
Amber Vivis
Academic Program Manager - MSAII
Office: 357 TCS Hall
Email: avivis@cs.cmu.edu
Phone: 412-268-9998 | lti_MSAII.txt |
Language Technologies Concentration
Students in our Undergraduate Minor program have the opportunity to build on their studies in the School of Computer Science not only by learning about language technologies but also by applying that knowledge through a directed project.
Overview
Human language technologies have become an increasingly central component of computer science. Information retrieval, machine translation and speech technology are used daily by the general public, while text mining, natural language processing and language-based tutoring are common within more specialized professional or educational environments. The LTI prepares students for this world by offering a minor that gives you the opportunity to not only learn about language technologies, but to also apply that knowledge through a directed project.
Requirements
Students interested in the language technologies minor must complete our prerequisite courses with an average grade of B (3.0) or better before applying to the program. (Students who do not meet this average must submit a letter of explanation along with their application.) Prerequisites include:
Principles of Imperative Computation (15-122)
Principles of Functional Programming (15-150)
We also strongly encourage candidates to take:
Differential and Integral Calculus (21-120) and Integration and Approximation (21-122)
Matrices and Linear Transformations (21-241) or Matrix Theory (21-242)
Probability and Computing (15-259) or Probability (21-325) or Probability Theory for Computer Scientists (36-218) or Introduction to Probability Theory (36-225)
Curriculum
The Language Technologies Concentration requires that SCS students complete one core course and their choice of three elective courses of at least 9 units each. The electives can be chosen from a specific set of stand-alone courses. In addition to the four courses, students are required to do an undergraduate research project for at least 9 units to complete their concentration.
Course Requirements for Undergraduate Minor
Core Course
Human Language for Artificial Intelligence (11-411)
Electives (Choose Three)
Natural Language Processing (11-411)
Machine Learning for Text and Graph-based Mining (11-441)
Search Engines (11-442)
Speech Processing (11-492)
Machine Learning in Practice (11-344)
Advanced Natural Language Processing (11-711)
Machine Translation and Sequence-to-Sequence Models (11-731)
Multilingual Natural Language Processing (11-737)
Neural Networks for NLP (11-747)
Speech Recognition and Understanding (11-751)
Language and Statistics (11-761)
Multimodal Affective Computing (11-776)
The Nature of Language (80-180)
Project
Students must complete a semester-long directed research project in the context of being registered for an independent study or thesis. This should provide hands-on experience and an in-depth study of a topic in same area as a chosen elective.
Admissions
Students interested in earning a minor in language technologies must apply for admission no later than September 30 of their senior year. An admission decision will usually be made within one month. Students may petition the LTI undergraduate program director to be admitted to the minor earlier or later in their undergraduate careers. To apply, contact the program's director, Carolyn Rosé. | lti_undergrad.txt |
Joan Axelson, Office Manager, Language Technologies Institute
Allison Blair, Associate Business Manager, Language Technologies Institute
Bryan Burtner, Associate Business Manager, Language Technologies Institute
Zhi-Qi Cheng, Hauptmann Lab/Postdoctoral Research Associate, Language Technologies Institute
Jennifer Clark, Administrative Coordinator, Language Technologies Institute
Brianna Eriksen, Academic Program Manager, Language Technologies Institute
John Friday, Sr. Administrative Coordinator, Language Technologies Institute
Daniel Gongaware, Research Administrator, Language Technologies Institute
Robin Hammer, Project Coordinator, Language Technologies Institute
Annette Han, Rose Lab/Data Science Course Developer, Language Technologies Institute
Susan E. Holm, Mitamura Lab/Sr. Knowledge Engineer, Language Technologies Institute
Kira Jones, Administrative Coordinator, Language Technologies Institute
Jee-Weon Jung, Watanabe Lab Post-Doctoral Research Associate, Language Technologies Institute
Jae-Hyung Kim, Yang Lab Post-Doctoral Research Associate, Language Technologies Institute
Karen Kirk, Academic Program Coordinator, Language Technologies Institute
Caitlin Korpus, Senior Academic Program Coordinator, Language Technologies Institute
Wenhe Liu, Hauptmann Lab Post-Doctoral Research Associate, Language Technologies Institute
Jennifer Lucas, Academic Program Manager — MCDS, Language Technologies Institute
Jessica Maguire, Assitant to the Institute Director, Language Technologies Institute
Soumi Maiti, Watanabe Lab/Postdoctoral Research Associate, Language Technologies Institute
Vicente Malave, Data Science Course Developer, Language Technologies Institute
Krista McGuigan, Business Director, Language Technologies Institute, Areas of Responsibility: Approvals (GL), Industry Proposals, IP and Invention Disclosures, Policy Exceptions
Chas Murray, Rose Lab/Systems/Software Engineer, Language Technologies Institute
Julie Nys, Employment Processes Manager, Language Technologies Institute
Nicole Perrotta, Administrative Coordinator, Language Technologies Institute
| lti_staff.txt |
programs_preprocess.py |
|
Master of Science in
Artificial Intelligence and Innovation
(MSAII)
Student Handbook
2022-2023
Revised: October 2, 2022
1Table of Contents
1 Welcome ............................................................................................................................................... 6
2 Mission, Vision and Philosophy............................................................................................................. 6
3 Carnegie Mellon Statement of Assurance ............................................................................................ 6
4 Carnegie Mellon Code ........................................................................................................................... 7
5 University Policies and Expectations .................................................................................................... 8
6 Academic Calendar ............................................................................................................................... 8
7 School and Departmental Information ................................................................................................. 8
8 MSAII Policies ........................................................................................................................................ 9
8.1 The MSAII Degree ......................................................................................................................... 9
8.2 Program Contacts ........................................................................................................................ 10
8.3 The Reasonable Person Principle (RPP) ...................................................................................... 10
8.4 Academic Calendar ..................................................................................................................... 10
9 The Language Technologies Institute ................................................................................................. 11
9.1 Working Space for MS Students ................................................................................................. 11
9.2 Photocopies and Printers ............................................................................................................ 11
9.3 Computers for MS Students ........................................................................................................ 11
10 Degree Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 12
10.1 Course Grade and GPA Requirements ........................................................................................ 12
10.2 Course Requirements .................................................................................................................. 13
10.2.1 Incomplete Grades .............................................................................................................. 16
10.2.2 Change of grades and missing grades ................................................................................. 16
10.2.3 Transferring to another program ........................................................................................ 17
10.2.4 Intellectual Property Policy ................................................................................................. 17
10.2.5 Teaching Requirements ...................................................................................................... 17
10.3 Advising ....................................................................................................................................... 17
10.3.1 Student Advising ................................................................................................................. 17
10.3.2 Monitoring Progress ........................................................................................................... 17
10.3.3 Degree Certification ............................................................................................................ 17
10.4 Internship .................................................................................................................................... 18
10.5 Employment Eligibility Verification ............................................................................................. 19
10.6 MSAII Orientation ....................................................................................................................... 20
210.7 End of Semester Evaluation ........................................................................................................ 20
10.8 Enrollment Verification ............................................................................................................... 21
10.9 University Policies on Grades and Grading ................................................................................. 21
10.9.1 University Policy on Grades ................................................................................................ 21
10.9.2 University Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses & PCHE .................................................. 21
10.10 Academic Integrity .................................................................................................................. 21
11 Academic Policies ............................................................................................................................ 23
11.1 Course Registration ..................................................................................................................... 23
11.1.1 Status .................................................................................................................................. 23
11.1.2 Academic Calendar ............................................................................................................. 23
11.1.3 Online Registration ............................................................................................................. 23
11.1.4 Double‐Dipping ................................................................................................................... 24
11.1.5 Pass/No Pass Courses (Pass/Fail) ........................................................................................ 24
11.1.6 Auditing a Course ................................................................................................................ 24
11.1.7 Adding a Course .................................................................................................................. 24
11.1.8 Dropping a Course ............................................................................................................... 24
11.1.9 Transfer Credits ................................................................................................................... 25
11.1.10 Leave of Absence ............................................................................................................ 26
11.1.11 Additional Guidance for Students ................................................................................... 26
11.1.12 Withdrawal ...................................................................................................................... 27
11.2 Tuition and Fees .......................................................................................................................... 27
11.3 Graduation Ceremonies .............................................................................................................. 27
11.3.1 Withdrawal of Degree ......................................................................................................... 27
11.4 LTI Academic Policies .................................................................................................................. 27
11.4.1 “Grandfather” policy ........................................................................................................... 27
11.4.2 Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption ....................................................... 28
11.4.3 Employment/Consulting ..................................................................................................... 28
11.4.4 Leave of Absence ................................................................................................................ 28
11.4.5 Satisfactory Progress ........................................................................................................... 29
11.5 Carnegie Mellon Academic Policies ............................................................................................ 29
11.5.1 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities ......................................................................... 29
11.5.2 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures ................................... 29
311.5.3 Process for Appealing Final Grades ..................................................................................... 30
11.5.4 Safeguarding Educational Equity: ....................................................................................... 30
11.5.5 Cultural Tolerance ............................................................................................................... 31
11.5.6 Language Policy ................................................................................................................... 31
11.5.7 Childbirth/Maternity Accommodation Protocol ................................................................. 32
11.6 Statute of Limitations .................................................................................................................. 33
11.7 Residency Requirement .............................................................................................................. 33
12 Financial Issues ................................................................................................................................ 33
12.1 Graduate Student Funding .......................................................................................................... 33
12.2 University Financial Aid ............................................................................................................... 34
12.3 Health Insurance ......................................................................................................................... 34
12.4 Emergency Loans ........................................................................................................................ 34
13 Additional University Resources ..................................................................................................... 35
13.1 The HUB Student Services Center ............................................................................................... 35
13.2 Student Information Online (SIO) ............................................................................................... 35
13.3 ID Cards ....................................................................................................................................... 35
13.4 Transcripts ................................................................................................................................... 36
13.5 Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross‐registration ..................................... 36
13.6 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA .............................................................................................. 36
13.7 Academic Calendar ..................................................................................................................... 37
13.8 Professional Development .......................................................................................................... 37
13.9 University Libraries ..................................................................................................................... 37
13.10 Computing Services ................................................................................................................. 38
13.11 Family and Dependents Resources ......................................................................................... 38
13.12 Domestic Partner Registration ................................................................................................ 38
13.13 Housing ................................................................................................................................... 38
13.14 Dining ...................................................................................................................................... 39
13.15 Parking and Transportation .................................................................................................... 39
13.16 Copying, Printing and Mailing Services ................................................................................... 40
13.17 University Center .................................................................................................................... 40
13.18 Athletic/Fitness Facilities ........................................................................................................ 40
13.19 CMU Alert ................................................................................................................................ 41
414 Appendix A: 2022‐2023 University Resources for Graduate Students .......................................... 41
14.1 Key Offices for Graduate Student Support ................................................................................. 41
14.1.1 Graduate Education Office .................................................................................................. 41
14.1.2 Office of the Dean of Students ............................................................................................ 41
14.1.3 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion ............................................................................ 42
14.1.4 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities ......................................................................... 43
14.1.5 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation ...................................... 43
14.1.6 Graduate Student Assembly ............................................................................................... 44
14.1.7 Office of International Education (OIE) ............................................................................... 44
14.1.8 Veterans and Military Community ...................................................................................... 45
14.1.9 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline ........................................................................................... 45
14.2 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support ........................................................................... 45
14.2.1 Computing and Information Resources .............................................................................. 46
14.2.2 Student Academic Success Center ...................................................................................... 46
14.2.3 University Libraries ............................................................................................................. 48
14.2.4 Research at Carnegie Mellon .............................................................................................. 48
14.2.5 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance ......................................................................... 48
14.3 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety .................................................................................. 49
14.3.1 Counseling & Psychological Services ................................................................................... 49
14.3.2 Health Services .................................................................................................................... 49
14.3.3 Campus Wellness ................................................................................................................ 49
14.3.4 Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI) ....................................................................... 50
14.3.5 University Police .................................................................................................................. 50
14.3.6 Shuttle and Escort Services ................................................................................................. 50
14.4 The WORD ................................................................................................................................... 50
51 Welcome
Welcome to Carnegie Mellon University! Being in the CMU School of Computer Science (SCS)
is a unique experience because of the size of the school (over 2000 students, staff and faculty),
the quality of its members, the variety of research being conducted, and unparalleled learning
opportunities. We encourage you to take advantage of CMU offerings, both inside and outside
SCS, and also to explore Pittsburgh and southwest Pennsylvania to the extent your schedule
permits. What you will find is an environment that encourages and rewards hard work and
accomplishment. Pittsburgh has long been an industrial area whose residents build things. In
SCS we build things, and you will also.
While this handbook is specific to your academic experience in the MSAII program, there are
several other resources and offices graduate students are encouraged to consult during their
tenure at Carnegie Mellon University. Information about The Word, the student handbook, the
Office of Graduate and Postdoc Affairs, the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and others are
included in Appendix A of this handbook.
2 Mission, Vision and Philosophy
Carnegie Mellon University will have a transformative impact on society through continual
innovation in education, research, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
Our mission is to create a transformative educational experience for students focused on deep
disciplinary knowledge; problem solving; teamwork, leadership, communication, and
interpersonal skills; and personal health and well-being.
The university community is committed to (a) attracting and retaining diverse, world-class
talent; (b) creating a collaborative environment open to the free exchange of ideas, in which
research, creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship can flourish; and (c) ensuring individuals
can achieve their full potential.
We encourage our members to impact society in a transformative way — regionally, nationally,
and globally — by engaging with partners outside the traditional borders of the university
campus. See the full university mission statement.
3 Carnegie Mellon Statement of Assurance
Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate in admission, employment or administration
of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap or
disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, ancestry, belief, veteran status
or genetic information. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate and is
required not to discriminate in violation of federal, state or local laws or executive orders.
6Inquiries concerning the application of and compliance with this statement should be directed
to the university ombudsperson, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh,
PA 15213, telephone 412-268-1018. Obtain general information about Carnegie Mellon University
by calling 412-268-2000.
Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security and fire safety report
describing the university's security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault and fire safety policies, and
containing statistics about the number and type of crimes committed on the campus, and the
number and cause of fires in campus residence facilities during the preceding three years. You
can obtain a copy by contacting the Carnegie Mellon Police Department at 412-268-2323. The
annual security and fire safety report also is available online at
www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports..
Information regarding the application of Title IX, including to admission and employment
decisions, the sexual misconduct grievance procedures and process, including how to file a
report or a complaint of sex discrimination, how to file a report of sexual harassment, and how
the university responds to such reports is available at www.cmu.edu/title-ix. The Title IX
coordinator may be reached at 4615 Forbes Ave, Suite 330, Pittsburgh, PA 15213; 412-268-7125; or
tix@cmu.edu.
4 Carnegie Mellon Code
Students at Carnegie Mellon, because they are members of an academic community dedicated to
the achievement of excellence, are expected to meet the highest standards of personal, ethical
and moral conduct possible.
These standards require personal integrity, a commitment to honesty without compromise, as
well as truth without equivocation and a willingness to place the good of the community above
the good of the self. Obligations once undertaken must be met, commitments kept.
As members of the Carnegie Mellon community, individuals are expected to uphold the
standards of the community in addition to holding others accountable for said standards. It is
rare that the life of a student in an academic community can be so private that it will not affect
the community as a whole or that the above standards do not apply.
The discovery, advancement, and communication of knowledge are not possible without a
commitment to these standards. Creativity cannot exist without acknowledgment of the
creativity of others. New knowledge cannot be developed without credit for prior knowledge.
Without the ability to trust that these principles will be observed, an academic community
cannot exist.
The commitment of its faculty, staff, and students to these standards contributes to the high
respect in which the Carnegie Mellon degree is held. Students must not destroy that respect by
7their failure to meet these standards. Students who cannot meet them should voluntarily
withdraw from the university.
The Carnegie Mellon Code can also be found online.
5 University Policies and Expectations
It is the responsibility of each member of the Carnegie Mellon community to be familiar with
university policies and guidelines. In addition to this departmental graduate student handbook,
the following resources are available to assist you in understanding community expectations:
www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/index.html
The Word/Student Handbook
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-
Academic Integrity Policy
and-student-life/academic-integrity.html
University Policies Website www.cmu.edu/policies/
Office of Graduate and Postdoc http://www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/index.html
Affairs
Due to the changing nature of conditions and expectations surrounding public health and safety
requirements please visithttps://www.cmu.edu/coronavirus/ for the most up to date
information.
Please see the Appendix A for additional information about The Word and other university
resources.
6 Academic Calendar
The Academic Calendar can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/calendar/index.html and
provides information on all deadlines including registration dates, class start dates, add/drop
deadlines, exam dates and more.
7 School and Departmental Information
The following are key personnel with whom you may interact during your time at Carnegie
Mellon:
Martial Hebert
Dean, School of Computer Science
8University Professor
GHC 6105
412-268-5704
hebert@cs.cmu.edu
https://www.cs.cmu.edu/~hebert/
David Garlan
Associate Dean for Master’s Programs, SCS
Professor
TCS 420
garlan@cs.cmu.edu
http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~garlan/academics.htm
Carolyn Rosé
Interim Director, Language Technologies Institute
Professor
GHC 5415
412-268-7130
cprose@cs.cmu.edu
8 MSAII Policies
The Language Technologies Institute (LTI) has prepared this statement of policies, program
requirements, guidance, process and procedures for students in the M.S. in Artificial Intelligence
and Innovation (MSAII) program. A copy of this handbook is also available online at the
program website.
The University Student guide, The Word, which details university-wide policies, is also
available online at www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword.
Additional resources specific to graduate students can be found at
www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/
8.1 The MSAII Degree
The M.S. in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation (MSAII) is a professional master's program
offered by the Language Technologies Institute (LTI) in the School of Computer Science at
Carnegie Mellon University. This program seeks to educate students in the innovative use of
artificial intelligence to create practical solutions in a wide variety of application areas. As
artificial intelligence matures, there is a great need for students who can envision, design, plan
and deliver solutions that integrate AI technologies such as deep learning, natural language
processing, robotics and big data analytics into new applications. The program stresses both
9intrapreneurship and entrepreneurship and encourages students to develop ideas for startups
and for introduction into established companies.
The curriculum is designed for students who have a strong background in computer science
with interest in in-depth study of AI to enable them to develop real-world applications,
especially in areas to which AI has not yet been applied. The integrated curriculum includes
coursework and team projects leading to a full-semester capstone project to produce a working
prototype.
8.2 Program Contacts
Michael I. Shamos
Director, MSAII
Distinguished Career Professor
GHC 6707
shamos@cs.cmu.edu
Amber Vivis
Academic Program Manager, MSAII
TCS 357
412-268-9998
avivis@cs.cmu.edu
Carolyn Penstein Rosé
Interim Director, Language Technologies Institute
Professor
GHC 5415
412-268-7130
cprose@cs.cmu.edu
8.3 The Reasonable Person Principle (RPP)
It is a long-standing and revered principle of the School of Computer Science (SCS) that
members of our community are expected to act reasonably, and therefore we try to keep formal,
written SCS policies to a minimum. The faculty do not burden the students with numerous
rules, and, in return, we expect the students to not try to find technical loopholes that violate
the clear intent of program policies. In any situation not covered by an explicit rule, you should
ask yourself how reasonable people would behave in that situation. The RPP does not alter
University-wide policies.
8.4 Academic Calendar
10The Academic Calendar can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/calendar/index.html and
provides information on all deadlines including registration dates, class start dates, add/drop
deadlines, exam dates and more.
9 The Language Technologies Institute
9.1 Working Space for MS Students
Except for restrictions due to COVID, full-time students in the LTI’s MS degree programs on the
Pittsburgh campus have access to a shared working space to create a sense of community and
provide space for working when on campus.
9.2 Photocopies and Printers
Mailboxes, printers, copiers, and other departmental resources are located in GHC 5404
The use of a photocopier requires only a CMU ID card. The School of Computer Science
provides a number of black-and-white and color printers for use by students. The SCS
Computer Facilities publishes a list of printers online at
https://computing.cs.cmu.edu/desktop/printing. When you send a file to the print queue, you
may go to any of the listed printers, swipe your CMU ID, and the file will be printed on that
printer.
9.3 Computers for MS Students
Students are expected to provide their own laptop computers that can be used to access
university resources and complete course assignments. Laptops running Windows, MacOS, and
Linux software are all acceptable.
MS students will be given a CS user id. A CS user id is required to use the LTI computer cluster,
department printers, and other SCS services. The School of Computer Science has a Help
Center located at 4203 GHC. They can be contacted at help@cs.cmu.edu, extension 8-4231 from
a campus phone, or 412-268-4231 from an outside line.
MS students will be given access to the LTI’s computer cluster on an as-needed basis, to be used
for course assignments, directed study projects, and/or the capstone project. The LTI cluster
provides storage and computation for projects involving large datasets and/or lengthy
computation.
1110 Degree Requirements
MSAII students are expected to complete their degree requirements within five consecutive semesters,
fall, spring, summer internship, second fall, second spring. Under exceptional conditions, such as for
medical reasons, a student may be granted a leave of absence. See Section 11.1.10, below. Upon
completion of the graduate program degree requirements, the degree will be certified by the student’s
academic program in the semester in which the student completes the requirements.
10.1 Course Grade and GPA Requirements
To receive the M.S. degree, all students must take and successfully complete at least 195 units
of coursework. All required Core Courses must be completed with a grade of B or better. For
the Knowledge Area Courses, students must maintain a B average. No grade lower than C (or
Pass in the case of Pass/No Pass courses) shall be used for credit applied toward graduation.
Under SCS policy, only a grade of C or higher will be regarded as a Pass in a Pass/No Pass
course. No undergraduate courses count toward the 195-unit requirement.
All Core courses are organized in sequence, and must be taken in the following order:
Artificial Intelligence and Future Markets (11-651) – No prerequisite.
AI Engineering (11-695) – Prerequisite is the completion of 11-651 with a grade of “B” or
better.
LTI Practicum (11-935) – Three credit units for completing the required Internship.
AI Innovation (11-654) – Prerequisite is the completion of 11-695 with a grade of “B” or
better.
Capstone (11-699) – Prerequisite is the completion of 11-654 with a grade of “B” or better.
Students are required to repeat any required course that they have completed with a grade less
than the required minimum, preferably at the next offering. (Please note that Core courses and
Knowledge courses are only offered once per year.) Students will be allowed to retake a required
course only once. If a student fails in the second attempt, he or she will be dropped from the
MSAII program.
If a student fails an elective course, she or he will need to repeat the same or take a substitute
course (equivalent course approved by the Director).
All grades count towards the program QPA, except for repeated courses, in which case the final
grade replaces the previous grade. Courses taken pass/no pass do not affect the student’s QPA.
However, ONLY ELECTIVE COURSES MAY BE TAKEN PASS/NO PASS, unless the Provost
directs to the contrary. Students who do not achieve the required minimum grade in a required
course, who elect to take an “incomplete” in a required course, or whose cumulative grade point
average is below a B (3.0), will be placed on academic probation. Students on probation are not
eligible to graduate. Students who are placed on academic probation shall receive written
notice of this finding, including a list of measures that need to be taken to be removed from
12academic probation. A student on academic probation for two consecutive semesters may be
dropped from the program.
The MSAII program conducts an academic progress review at the conclusion of each semester in
order to monitor individual student progress toward graduation. Should a student’s effort fall
below the acceptable academic performance and/or fail to meet the standards established by the
MSAII program and Carnegie Mellon University, the student may be dismissed from the
program.
Should a student’s overall QPA drop below 3.0 during any given semester, he/she will be placed
on academic probation for the following semester and will be required to improve his/her grades
to no less than overall 3.0 QPA during that period. Failure to improve to an overall 3.0 QPA or
better the following semester may result in termination from the program. In addition, a student
who violates policies established by Carnegie Mellon University may be dismissed from the
program.
After each academic progress review, a student may receive one or more letters, indicating the
result of the review. Warning letters are issued for the following cases:
1) Overall QPA below 3.0 (Academic probation)
2) Semester QPA is below 3.0
3) Grade below B in a Core course
4) Academic Integrity Violation (AIV) according to the university policies. This includes any
AIV letter received in during the summer preceding matriculation.
A student may be terminated from the program under any of the following circumstances:
a) A student who has received two Academic Integrity Violation (AIV) letters will be
terminated. There are no exceptions and the Program Director has no discretion over
such a termination as it is an LTI policy.
b) A student who has received one Academic Integrity Violation (AIV) letter may be
terminated by the Program Director if the violation is so serious that the student cannot
be allowed to remain in the MSAII Program.
c) A student has received three warning letters of any type from the MSAII program.
d) A student has been found to have violated a University Policy for which termination is
provided.
An AIV letter or violation of University Policy may be appealed pursuant to CMU appeal
procedures. See Section 4.5.2, below. However, a decision to terminate a student after appeal
because of conditions a), b), c) or d) is not appealable.
10.2 Course Requirements
131) Summer Before Entrance
Admitted students are required to take, pay for, and pass 15-513 Introduction to
Computer Systems OR 11-637 Foundations of Computational Data Science during the
summer prior to their arrival at Carnegie Mellon. The units earned in these courses are
not counted toward the total number of units required for graduation. These courses
may be taken pass/no pass, but cannot be dropped. A student who drops either course
during the summer will not be permitted to begin the degree program in the fall, but
must retake one of the courses the following summer. The MSAII course offerings are
available at msaii.cs.cmu.edu/curriculum. The university’s complete Schedule of
Classes can be found at https://enr-apps.as.cmu.edu/open/SOC/SOCServlet/search.
Students are then required to take and successfully complete the courses below:
2) The Core Courses (87 units) - Must be taken in THIS SEQUENCE:
11-651 – AI & Future Markets – (12 units). First Fall semester. Only open to MSAII.
17-762 – Law of Computer Technology (12 units). First Fall semester
11-695 – AI Engineering (12 units). First Spring semester
11-935 – LTI Practicum (3 units). Summer Internship
11-654 – AI Innovation (12 units). Second Fall semester. Only open to MSAII.
11-699 – Capstone Project (36 units). Second Spring semester. Only open to MSAII.
3) The Knowledge Area Courses (72 units):
11-601, Coding Bootcamp (12 units). First fall semester.
10-601, Machine Learning (12 units), First fall semester. (Normally
11-691, Math for Machine Learning, which is not being offered in Fall 2022.)
10-605, Machine Learning with Large Datasets (12 units). First spring semester.
11-611, Natural Language Processing (12 units). Second fall semester.
11-785, Deep Learning (12 units). Second spring semester.
One more 12-unit AI, ML or NLP course of the student’s choice (with approval of the
Program Director)
In the event that a course is not available, a course covering equivalent material with a
similar degree of difficulty may be substituted with the permission of the Director. If a
14student has already taken an equivalent course and shows proficiency in the subject
area, a more advanced course in the area may be taken in place of these required
courses with permission of the Director. Graduate students cannot receive credit for
undergraduate courses.
4) Electives:
A minimum of 36 units of SCS courses must be taken. It is recommended to take one
elective in the first fall semester, one or two in the first spring semester, one or two in
the second fall semester and zero or one in the second spring semester. The courses
below are automatically approved. A student who wants to take a course not listed
must obtain approval of the Director prior to registering. In general, the Director will
approve any graduate SCS course of not more than 12 units. It is also possible to seek
approval for courses in other Colleges at CMU. However, those courses must be
rationally related to an AI career in order to be approved as electives.
11-636 MSAII Independent Study (may be taken ONCE as an elective unless permission
of the Director is obtained)
11-641 Machine Learning for Text Mining
11-642 Search Engines
11-676 Big Data Analytics
11-747 Neural Networks for NLP
11-755 Machine Learning for Signal Processing
11-777 Advanced Multimodal Machine Learning
11-791 Design of Intelligent Information Systems
10-605 Machine Learning with Large Datasets
10-608 Conversational Machine Learning
10-702 Statistical Machine Learning
15-624 Foundations of Cyber-Physical Systems
15-645 Database Systems
15-681 AI: Representation and Problem Solving
15-688 Practical Data Science
16-720 Computer Vision
16-725 Medical Image Analysis
16-772 Sensing and Sensors
16-824 Visual Learning and Recognition
17-637 Web Application Development
17-639 Management of Software Development
17-652 Methods: Deciding What to Design
17-653 Managing Software Development
17-766 Software Engineering for Startups
1502-604 Fundamentals of Bioinformatics
02-718 Computational Medicine
Independent study (11-636) is encouraged. The process is that you find a faculty
member willing to supervise your independent study, assign a number of credits not to
exceed 12, and assign a grade at the end of the study. The faculty member must send
an email to the Director indicating such willingness. You can then register for 11-636.
Courses carrying more than 12 units in a semester are NOT APPROVED as electives.
Students may take athletics or music or theatrical performance courses that do not
require work outside of class times. However, such courses will NOT count toward
the 195 units required for graduation.
10.2.1 Incomplete Grades
Carnegie Mellon University students are expected to complete a course during the academic
semester in which the course was taken. However, if the instructor agrees, a grade of “I”
(incomplete) may be given when a student has been unable to complete the work of a course.
However, the work completed up to that date must be of passing quality and the grade of
incomplete provides no undue advantage to that student over other students.
By awarding an “I” grade, an instructor must specify the requirements for the completion of the
work and designate a default letter grade in the event that the student fails to complete the
remaining work.
Students must complete the required course work by no later than the end of the following
academic semester or sooner if required by the instructor.
The instructor must record the permanent course grade by the last day of the examination
period of the following semester, or the Registrar will automatically assign the default grade.
If further work has not been completed after one semester and a default grade is rendered, the
default grade will become the grade of record.
10.2.2 Change of grades and missing grades
If a grade has been assigned in error, it can be changed to a different permanent grade. The
procedure for changing a grade is as follows:
Discuss the matter with the course instructor; provide evidence that the grade issued was
not the grade earned.
16 If the instructor agrees, the student should contact the program administrator to process
a Change of Grade Form in order to correct the grade that was issued in error. Generally,
the instructor is the final authority for a course grade.
If a grade has not been assigned, please notify the course instructor for the completion of
a Missing Grade Form.
10.2.3 Transferring to another program
A student may withdraw from the MSAII program at any time. If any requirement for the
MSAII degree has not been met, the degree will not be awarded. Occasionally, students are
accepted into a different degree program at CMU and transfer to that program. International
students who do this should check with OIE to ensure that their visa is not jeopardized.
10.2.4 Intellectual Property Policy
See http://www.cmu.edu/policies/documents/IntellProp.html.
10.2.5 Teaching Requirements
None. Students who wish to do so may apply for teaching assistant positions for courses in
which they have excelled. It is important to ensure that the student’s academic responsibilities
are not adversely impacted by a TAship, and vice-versa.
10.3 Advising
10.3.1 Student Advising
Every MSAII student will be assigned an advisor, normally the Program Director. Before the
course registration period each semester, students must meet with their advisor to discuss their
course selection. New students will be given instructions to register for their classes during the
summer prior to entrance.
10.3.2 Monitoring Progress
The advisor meets with the student at least twice a year, providing guidance and monitoring the
student’s overall progress.
10.3.3 Degree Certification
Students who graduate having met all the requirements for the degree will receive a diploma
stating that they have received a “Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation.”
1710.4 Internship
Students must obtain an internship during the summer between the first and second years of the
program. This is a requirement. An internship will provide students with the opportunity to
apply the knowledge and technical skills learned during the first year of the program, to gain
insight into AI and future market needs to further their experience and develop a strong context
for the second-year concentration coursework. Normally the internship will be with an outside
company. In some circumstances, a student who is doing research with a CMU faculty member
during the summer may request that such research qualify as an internship.
The internship must involve at least two months of full-time work and must relate to computer
software development and is preferably AI-related.
Students are encouraged to intern with an organization that corresponds to their individual area
of interest and career goals.
All students who secure summer internships must register for three units in 11-935 (LTI
Practicum). This course can be taken once during the program with Pass/Fail and will be
counted toward graduation units. International students must apply for Curricular Practical
Training (CPT) for the internship by contacting the Office of International Education (OIE). To
obtain CPT, students need an offer letter spelling out employment dates, work hours, and wages
or stipend. It is the student’s responsibility in 11-935 to give a presentation during the semester
following the internship to all current MSAII students detailing the student’s internship
experience.
International students who are interested in working in the U.S after graduation are required to
consult with the Office of International Education (OIE) which oversees the OPT registration.
Note: OPT must only be used after students have completed their degree at Carnegie Mellon.
NOTE: Students are personally responsible for securing a suitable internship. The Career and
Professional Development Center will assist in their search for counseling, workshops, and
internship opportunity listings in Handshake. We strongly suggest students begin the
internship search beginning in the Fall of your first year. Some internship opportunities have
application deadlines in the Fall, so by starting your search early, you won't miss out on these
internships. The Career and Professional Development Center will assist students with the
internship search, but does not match students with employers; obtaining an internship is the
students’ responsibility.
The following steps are recommended to ensure a successful internship outcome. Many of the
events below have been modified due to COVID.
September/October
Meet with your advisor to discuss your interests and plan your internship search.
18 Review the internships of previous students. We also encourage you to speak informally
with second-year students who can offer first-hand information about their internships.
Attend the Technical Opportunities Conference (TOC) at Carnegie Mellon for exposure
to potential employers for internships.
November/December
Begin researching organizations and internship opportunities. Pay close attention to
organizations that have established internship programs and their deadlines.
Attend workshops to perfect your resume, hone your interviewing skills, and gain
knowledge about the internship search process.
January/February
At this point, you should have a “short list” of organizations at which you would like to
intern. This list can include organizations that have established internship programs as
well as those that interest you without formal internship programs.
Update your resume with relevant academic projects, coursework, etc.
Begin utilizing your network for internship leads as well as checking organization’s
websites for internships.
Make contact with employers, sending resumes and applications, and initiating internship
interviews in person or by phone.
Attend Network Nights and talk to alumni about internship opportunities in their
organization. They are an excellent resource for learning more about a particular
organization, career field or employment opportunity. You can find alumni in the Alumni
Directory, Alumni Career Advisor Network, and Carnegie Mellon Alumni LinkedIn
Network.
March/April
At this point, you should have secured an internship or be interviewing with various
organizations.
Prepare a backup plan if your first choices of internships do not work out.
Attend relevant Network Nights and Career Fairs at Carnegie Mellon.
If you are an F-1 Visa student, you must apply for CPT.
MSAII students should enroll in 11-935 for three units. You will not have to pay tuition for
this course.
10.5 Employment Eligibility Verification
If you are receiving compensation or a stipend from CMU, if you are going to be a TA or you are
planning to seek a position with CMU, then Employment Eligibility Verification is required.
Form I-9 must be completed within 3 business days of beginning work for any type of
compensation (stipend or employment). Additional details are highlighted below.
19To ensure compliance with federal law, Carnegie Mellon University maintains the Employment
Eligibility Verification (I-9) Policy [pdf] covering the university’s I-9 and E-Verify requirements:
Every individual receiving a stipend from CMU or employed by CMU must comply with the I-9
Policy by completing the Form I-9 within three business days following the first day of stipend
start date/employment.
Individuals who expect to work on a federally funded project are further responsible for
submitting an E-Verify Processing Request Form to the Office of Human Resources.
For more information, please see CMU’s Guidance for Completing the Form I-9 and E-Verify
Requirements at CMU [pdf], or visit the Human Resources Service website to learn more about
Form I-9 and E-Verify and to schedule an appointment to complete the Form I-9.
10.6 MSAII Orientation
Each Fall semester, the MSAII program provides a program orientation to help new students
learn about the program. All new students are required to attend them and treat them seriously
because they explain the program sequence, its Core and Knowledge courses requirements and
how students will meet the program learning outcomes.
10.7 End of Semester Evaluation
The MSAII program conducts an academic progress review at the conclusion of each semester in
order to monitor individual student progress towards graduation. Should a student’s effort fall
below the acceptable level of academic performance and/or fail to meet the standards
established by the MSAII program, the student may be dismissed from the program.
After each academic progress review, a student may receive one or more letters, indicating the
result of the review. See Section 3.1, Course Grade and GPA Requirements, above.
At the end of the semester, the faculty evaluates each student's academic progress. If a student
seems to be having trouble, the faculty determines whether it believes that the student can
finish the degree, and if so, what needs to be accomplished to get back on track. This type of
letter should be considered a serious warning. It is not a permanent "black mark" on the
student's record; if the student begins making satisfactory progress again, there is no official
record of the letter in the student's transcript.
In the most serious cases, the faculty gives the student a letter that specifies a list of conditions
that the student must satisfy by specific deadlines. Failure to meet all of the specified conditions
may result in the student's termination from the program.
2010.8 Enrollment Verification
Enrollment Services is the only University office that can provide an official letter of enrollment,
official transcript, and enrollment verification. Enrollment verification can be requested online
through The HUB at www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/student-records/transcripts/.
10.9 University Policies on Grades and Grading
10.9.1 University Policy on Grades
www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/grading.html
This policy offers details concerning university grading principles for students taking courses
and covers the specifics of assigning and changing grades, grading options, drop/withdrawals,
and course repeats. It also defines the undergraduate and graduate grading standards.
10.9.2 University Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses & PCHE
www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/transfer-credit-evaluation-and-
assignment.html
Carnegie Mellon University offers students the opportunity to take courses for credit through a
cross-registration program (see Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-
registration below) and through the receipt of transfer credit from other accredited institutions.
The Carnegie Mellon University transcript will include information on such courses as follows:
Carnegie Mellon courses and courses taken through the university's cross-registration program
will have grades recorded on the transcript and be factored into the QPA. All other courses will
be recorded on this transcript indicating where the course was taken but without a grade. Such
courses will not be taken into account for academic actions, honors or QPA calculations. (Note:
Suspended students may take courses elsewhere; however, they may receive transfer credit only
if their college’s and department's policies allow this.)
The MSAII program does not accept transfer credit for courses taken prior to matriculation at
Carnegie Mellon.
The MSAII program does not accept distance education credits except for distance courses
offered by Carnegie Mellon or PCHE institutions.
10.10 Academic Integrity
Carnegie Mellon’s Academic Integrity policy is posted at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/academic-integrity.html. All students
21are expected to be familiar with this policy, including the university-wide protocol for handling
academic integrity violations. The policy includes the University expectations around academic
integrity and provides definitions of cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized assistance.
A review of the University’s Academic Disciplinary Actions procedures
(https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/academic-discipline/index.html) is also
recommended. These procedures outline the process for investigating, reporting, and
adjudicating violations of the University Policy on Academic Integrity. The procedures also
outline the appeal process.
It is an absolute requirement that the work you submit must be your own, unless you
specifically identify the source of any material that is not yours. This includes quotations and
material from websites. In any written work (including presentations) you MUST list any
person other than yourself who assisted you in preparing that work. Any student who violates
the academic integrity policy will be subject to a University review that may result in
suspension or expulsion under University policies. THE PROGRAM DIRECTOR, THE
FACULTY AND THE UNIVERSITY ARE VERY SERIOUS ABOUT ENFORCEMENT OF THE
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY.
You are not permitted to copy material from web pages, including Wikipedia, and present them
as your own work. Any copied material MUST appear in quotation marks or italics and MUST
be accompanied by a citation to the original source. Failure to do this violates CMU’s Policy on
Academic Integrity, which states, “In all academic work to be graded, the citation of all sources
is required. … Plagiarism is defined as the use of work or concepts contributed by other
individuals without proper attribution or citation. Unique ideas or materials taken from another
source for either written or oral use must be fully acknowledged in academic work to be
graded.”
It is a violation of academic integrity for you to assist anyone else in violating the policy or to
provide your work to others to assist them. Because team deliverables are the product of joint
work, it is the responsibility of each member of a team to ensure that all team materials have
been produced in conformance with CMU policies. Credit cannot be given for work that is not a
student’s own. Therefore, if one member of a team violates a policy, for example, by copying
material from the Internet without indicating its source, then no one on the team can receive
credit for that work, even if only one student is directly guilty of violating the policy.
We are aware that acts that constitute cheating can be viewed very differently in different
countries and cultures. However, Carnegie Mellon is a U.S. university and its policies reflect
U.S. culture. Employers expect that students who graduate from Carnegie Mellon have
obtained their degree legitimately and according to Carnegie Mellon policies. If you have any
doubt whether proposed conduct would be considered cheating under Carnegie Mellon policies,
ASK A FACULTY MEMBER OR THE DIRECTOR FIRST.
22All violations of the Academic Integrity policy MUST be reported to the University
administration by the faculty members involved. Copies go to the Program Director, the Head of
the Language Technology Institute, the Associate Dean for Master’s Programs, and various
officials at Warner Hall. The faculty do not have the option to decline to make a report. The
offending student will receive an email to inform them of an Academic Integrity Violation (AIV).
The email will specify the offense and the penalty, and will inform the student of available
appeal procedures. An AIV that is successfully appealed is erased.
Important note: The university policy gives a department the option of “conven[ing] a
disciplinary hearing according to the procedures of the department/program.” The LTI has a
“two strikes” rule. The LTI may terminate a student for a first violation, depending upon the
circumstances and severity of the violation. The LTI always terminates a student for a second
violation, with no exceptions.
11 Academic Policies
11.1 Course Registration
11.1.1 Status
All Students must be registered for at least 48 units during each semester. Any questions about
registration should be directed to the Enrollment Services (the HUB). Note that International
students are required to be registered as full-time students, minimum 36 units.
11.1.2 Academic Calendar
The Academic Calendar can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/calendar/. All dates about
registration, add/drop deadlines, university holidays and more can be found there.
11.1.3 Online Registration
All new students will register for required courses in April after accepting admission and
receiving an Andrew ID. After that, students will register following the schedule set by the
HUB. Note that students must meet with their advisor to obtain approval for their course
selection. Registration information is available at
www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/registration/index.html. Online registration is done with an
Andrew ID at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/sio/about.html.
Students must register for at least 48 units per semester.
2311.1.4 Double-Dipping
An MSAII student who applies courses taken as part of another degree program (at Carnegie
Mellon or elsewhere) toward their program requirements cannot use those same courses toward
any other M.S. degree offered by the School of Computer Science without prior approval.
11.1.5 Pass/No Pass Courses (Pass/Fail)
With the approval of the Program Director, a graduate student may choose to take one
ELECTIVE course pass/no pass. Core courses and Knowledge courses may not be taken pass/no
pass. By the deadline for changing a course to pass/no pass, the student must fill out the
Pass/No Pass Approval Form and receive permission from their advisor. A pass/no pass election
is irrevocable as a matter of CMU policy. (A form can be found at
https://www.cmu.edu/hub/forms.html)
11.1.6 Auditing a Course
With the approval of the Program Director, a graduate student may audit a course by obtaining
the permission of the instructor or teaching department and completing the Course Audit
Approval Form. Audited classes are not taken for credit and cannot be used to fulfill graduation
requirements. (Audit form can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/forms.html)
11.1.7 Adding a Course
During the ADD period of each semester (the first two weeks of the semester), students may add
a course by registering online. After the ADD deadline, they may add a course by completing the
Late Add Request form and obtaining the permission of both: 1) the instructor or teaching
department and 2) their advisor. (Add form can be found at
https://www.cmu.edu/hub/forms.html)
11.1.8 Dropping a Course
Dropping courses is not recommended except for reasons of health or family emergency. Many
SCS courses have long waitlists, and dropping a course means that some other student who
might have had the opportunity to take the course had been denied that ability. Also, if students
in the MSAII program drop courses, then the instructors of those courses may no longer allow
MSAIIs to enroll.
Sometimes, however, a student’s workload can become unexpectedly heavy because of course
requirements. No one is expected to suffer from such pressure and dropping a course may
become a necessity. To avoid this unfortunate circumstance, you should inform yourself in
advance of the curriculum and workload in each course you plan to take and ensure that you are
capable of handling the load. Note that CMU SCS courses are very difficult, and students who
24may easily have handled taking five courses simultaneously at another institution may not be
able to do so at CMU.
Exact add, drop and withdrawal dates may be found on the official Academic Calendar. Up until
the deadlines, students can initiate course adds and drops through Student Information Online
(SIO). Courses dropped by the deadline will not appear on the student's record, and courses
withdrawn from by the deadline will receive a 'W' grade. Additionally, a voucher process has
been implemented for late drops.
Students taking undergraduate and Master’s level courses must follow the procedures and
deadlines for adding, dropping, or withdrawing from courses as identified on the academic
calendar. Information can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/course-
changes/index.html.
Late Course Drops & Vouchers
A late drop voucher system was implemented beginning with the fall 2018 semester to permit a
limited number of late course drops. Master's students are permitted one drop voucher per year
of study and may use only one voucher per semester (including summer). Courses dropped
using a voucher will be removed from the student's record, as long as the drop is confirmed in
SIO by the student within 24 hours of receiving the automated voucher email (refer to
instructions below). Students may use drop vouchers up until the last day of classes each
semester. These policies are spelled out at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/course-
changes/index.html.
Note that the Core courses and some Knowledge courses are only offered once per year so
dropping a course may delay program completion.
Note: International students must maintain a minimum of 36 units (Full time) to meet the U.S.
government’s visa requirement. Please check with the Office of International Education (OIE)
for more information.
11.1.9 Transfer Credits
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/transfer-credit-evaluation-and-
assignment.html
Carnegie Mellon University offers students the opportunity to take courses for credit through a
cross-registration program (see Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-
registration below) and through the receipt of transfer credit from other accredited institutions.
The Carnegie Mellon University transcript will include information on such courses as follows:
Carnegie Mellon courses and courses taken through the university's cross-registration program
will have grades recorded on the transcript and be factored into the QPA. All other courses will
be recorded on this transcript indicating where the course was taken, but without grades. Such
25courses will not be taken into account for academic actions, honors or QPA calculations. (Note:
suspended students may take courses elsewhere; however, they may receive transfer credit only
if their college's and department's policies allow this.).
The MSAII program does not accept transfer credits.
11.1.10 Leave of Absence
Students who need to delay their studies for personal, medical or academic reasons may do so
with a leave of absence (leaving the university temporarily with a commitment to return).
Students must contact the MSAII Director to discuss their plans and fill out the appropriate
form. The student’s place in the program will be held until a mutually determined time. For
more information refer to www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/student-leave.html.
When planning to return from Leave of Absence students must complete the appropriate
paperwork before returning to the University.
MSAII students who require longer than the standard time to complete their degree
requirements are expected to remain in close contact with the program, and will be certified at
the end of the semester in which they have completed their degree requirements. Students must
refer to the CMU Policy on Master’s Student Statute of Limitations
(https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/masters-students-statute-of-
limitations.html) regarding guidelines and restrictions which place an upper limit on the
maximum length of time allowable for master’s degree completion and certification.
11.1.11 Additional Guidance for Students
Program of study. Students seeking guidance about their program of study and degree
requirements should consult with their academic advisor and/or appropriate associate dean.
Financial aid and student account. Students are expected to make normal progress toward
their degree in order to graduate within the standard timeframe for their program of study.
Under U.S. Federal Title IV regulations, student eligibility for federal financial aid is contingent
upon enrollment in and successful completion of courses that are counted as credit toward their
current degree program. To receive the maximum amount of federal financial aid for which they
may be eligible, students must enroll each semester in at least 36 units that count toward their
current degree level. (See separate guidance regarding integrated degree completion.)
Students should consult with their designated college liaison in The HUB regarding billing and
financial aid, particularly for early completion, longer-than-standard completion, or integrated
undergraduate and master’s degree programs.
International students. Immigration status for students in F-1 and J-1 non-immigrant status is
tied to making normal progress toward completing degree requirements. Therefore, F-1 and J-1
26students who are considering completing their degree requirements early, anticipating longer-
than-standard completion, or moving from an undergraduate to a graduate student classification
(integrated undergraduate-graduate study) should consult with their designated advisor in the
Office of International Education (OIE) to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
11.1.12 Withdrawal
Students who need to withdraw from the program (leave the university with no intention of
returning) for personal, medical or academic reasons must contact the MSAII Director to
discuss their plans and fill out the appropriate form. For more information refer to
www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/student-leave.html.
11.2 Tuition and Fees
Information about tuition and fees is available at https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/tuition/index.html.
MSAII students will pay tuition according to the rates set for the School of Computer Science.
All tuition and fees must be paid in full by the due date; a student not in good financial standing
will be dismissed from the program. Students taking summer courses must pay tuition.
11.3 Graduation Ceremonies
The University holds one Commencement ceremony in May of each year. Only students who
have completed their degree requirements may participate in Commencement.
There are no August or December commencement ceremonies.
11.3.1 Withdrawal of Degree
A degree once conferred can be withdrawn by the University under certain circumstances. See
the Withdrawal of Degree Policy.
11.4 LTI Academic Policies
11.4.1 “Grandfather” policy
A student can graduate under the policies in effect at the time that the student entered the
program; or, at the student's choice, the student can graduate under policies that are adopted
after the student entered the program. If it is not realistic to follow a particular policy exactly,
the department may approximate the policy as closely as possible; this situation is rare and
typically arises only when a student is enrolled in the program for an extended period.
2711.4.2 Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption
The LTI may grant transfer credit or issue an exemption for equivalent graduate courses
previously completed at another institution. This decision rests with the program director, on
the advice of the faculty member for whose course an exemption is sought. If a student is
exempt from a required course due to prior courses or experience, the student can replace that
course with an open elective. The student does not receive credit for the exempted course but
can take any course that could normally count toward the degree in its place. If a student
receives credit for prior coursework completed at Carnegie Mellon or elsewhere, the student
receives that many units of credit and the total amount of required coursework is reduced by
that amount.
11.4.3 Employment/Consulting
Since consulting provides useful experience, students are generally permitted to consult at most
one day per seven-day week, with the Program Director's consent. International students must
also have approval in advance from the Office of International Education (OIE) for any paid
position. Students may use their consulting time to perform unpaid work on research projects
for CMU faculty for up to 10 hours per week.
Students may serve as teaching assistants for CMU faculty. TA work is inconsistent with
research because of the necessary time commitment. Students must choose one activity or the
other, not both.
Note that there is an English language proficiency requirement for TAs. Graduate students are
required to have a certain level of fluency in English before they can instruct in Pennsylvania, as
required by the English Fluency in Higher Education Act of 1990. Through this Act, all
institutions of higher education in the state are required to evaluate and certify the English
fluency of all instructional personnel, including teaching assistants and interns. The full
university policy can be reviewed at: https://www.cmu.edu/policies/faculty/evaluation-
certification-english-fluency-instructors.html.
11.4.4 Leave of Absence
The LTI discourages Leaves of Absence (LOA) since students usually do not return, despite
having good intentions. However, a student in good standing may be granted a LOA of at most
one year, upon written request to the MSAII Director and with the consent of the student's
advisor. It is the responsibility of the student on LOA to contact the LTI to initiate a return to
the program.
Students taking or returning from a leave of absence must follow the university’s leave of
absence process, which is described at www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-
life/student-leave.html.
2811.4.5 Satisfactory Progress
If a student does not make satisfactory progress each semester toward completing the degree, the
LTI may remove the student from the program. See section on “End of Semester Evaluation.”
11.5 Carnegie Mellon Academic Policies
11.5.1 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
The Office of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University has a continued mission to
provide physical and programmatic campus access to all events and information within the
Carnegie Mellon community. We work to ensure that qualified individuals receive reasonable
accommodations as guaranteed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Sections 503
and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students who would like to receive accommodations
must submit a Voluntary Disclosure of Disability Form to access@andrew.cmu.edu to begin the
interactive accommodation process.
For more information, please see https://www.cmu.edu/disability-resources/.Students with
physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional disabilities are encouraged to self-identify with the
Office of Disability Resources and request needed accommodations. Any questions about the
process can be directed to access@andrew.cmu.edu, or call (412) 268-6121.
11.5.2 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures
Students who believe that they have been inappropriately treated are encouraged to raise their
concern(s) with the Program Director, department head, or other designated person in their
department, college, or central administration according to University policies. No effort will be
made to prevent or discourage anyone from availing themselves of such procedures (see
Graduate Student Appeal and Procedures www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/appeal-grievance-
procedures.html).
Graduate students will find the Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance
Procedures on the Graduate Education Resource web page. This document summarizes
processes available to graduate students who seek review of academic and non-academic issues.
Graduate students are expected to seek informal resolution of all concerns within the applicable
department, unit or program before invoking formal processes. When an informal resolution
cannot be reached, however, a graduate student who seeks further review of the matter is to
follow the formal procedures outlined here. These appeal and grievance procedures shall apply
to students in all graduate programs of the University. Students should refer to the department
specific information in this handbook for department and college information about the
administration and academic policies of the program. Additionally, students may confer with
29the Graduate Education Office (grad-ed@cmu.edu) on issues of process or other concerns as
they navigate conflicts.
11.5.3 Process for Appealing Final Grades
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/appeal-grievance-procedures.html.
Final grades will be changed only in exceptional circumstances and only with the approval of
the instructor and the department, unit or program. Grading is a matter of sound discretion of
the instructor and final grades are rarely changed without the consent of the instructor who
assigned the grade. The following circumstances are the unusual exceptions that may warrant a
grade appeal: (a) the final grade assigned for a course is based on manifest error (e.g. a clear error
such as arithmetic error in computing a grade or failure to grade one of the answers on an exam),
or (b) the faculty or staff member who assigned the grade did so in violation of a University
policy
11.5.4 Safeguarding Educational Equity:
Policy Against Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault
The University prohibits sex-based discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating/
domestic violence and stalking. The University also prohibits retaliation against individuals
who bring forward such concerns or allegations in good faith. The University’s Sexual
Misconduct Policy is available at www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-
governance/sexual-harassment-and-sexual-assault.html. If you believe you have been the victim
of sexual harassment or sexual assault, you are encouraged to make contact with any of the
following resources:
Office of Title IX Initiatives, http://www.cmu.edu/title-ix/, 412-268-7125
Sexual Harassment Advisors, found in Appendix A of the Policy Against Sexual
Harassment and Sexual Assault;
Survivor Support Network, found in Appendix B of the Policy Against Sexual
Harassment and Sexual Assault;
Sexual Harassment Process and Title IX Coordinators, found in section II of the Policy
Against Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault;
University Police, 412-268-2323
University Health Services, 412-268-2157
Counseling & Psychological Services, 412-268-2922
30Additional resources and information can be found at: https://www.cmu.edu/title-ix/resources-
and-information/resources.html.
The University’s Policy Against Retaliation is available at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/whistleblower.html
The MSAII program has a ZERO TOLERANCE policy on sexual harassment and sexual assault.
If you are found to have violated Carnegie Mellon policy, you will be dropped from the MSAII
program immediately without exception. CMU has spent decades successfully developing a
non-threatening environment for all genders and no one will be permitted to interfere with that
accomplishment.
Consensual Intimate Relationship Policy Regarding Undergraduate Students
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/consensual-relationships.html
This policy is relevant for graduate students who will be in a supervisory role of undergraduate
students as a TA or in a research lab/studio setting. This policy addresses the circumstances in
which romantic, sexual or amorous relationships/interactions with undergraduate students,
even if consensual, are inappropriate and prohibited. The purpose of this policy is to assure
healthy professional relationships. This policy is not intended to discourage consensual intimate
relationships unless there is a conflicting professional relationship in which one party has
authority over the other as in the policy.
11.5.5 Cultural Tolerance
The MSAII program is extremely diverse for a program of its size. We have students from
numerous different countries who must work effectively in a team setting. The students
invariably come from very different cultures that have differing attitudes towards age, gender,
and group interaction. The program management understands this, but the students must also
recognize that this program is being conducted in the United States and operates according to
U.S. norms. Students and faculty, regardless of background, age, or rank, must deal with each
other respectfully without insult or raised voices. It is impossible to conduct teamwork in any
other way. Violations will be dealt with harshly. The Program Director is not sympathetic to
such behavior, which will not be tolerated. Repeated infractions, or a serious single infraction
may result in termination from the program.
11.5.6 Language Policy
The MSAII program is a component of the Language Technologies Institute, which studies and
celebrates the diversity of human language and forms of expression. The LTI also recognizes the
futility and unfairness of attempting to determine the language students must use when
communicating. However, it is unprofessional in any official team meeting to speak a language
31that is not understood by all team members. For example, if all members of a team understand
Chinese, then they may use Chinese in team meetings. However, if even one team member does
not understand Chinese, then a language must be used that is understood by all team members.
It is recommended that non-native speakers of English use English as much as possible if they
intend to seek employment in an English-speaking country.
11.5.7 Childbirth/Maternity Accommodation Protocol
The Maternity Policy is available at https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/programs-
services/maternity-accommodation-protocol.html.
Students whose anticipated delivery date is during the course of the semester may consider
taking time away from their coursework and research responsibilities. All female students who
give birth to a child while engaged in coursework or research are eligible to take either a short-
term absence or formal leave of absence. Students in course work should consider either
working with their course instructor to receive incomplete grades or elect to drop to part-time
status or to take a semester leave of absence. Students engaged in research must work with
their faculty to develop plans for the research for the time they are away.
● Students must contact the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs to register for Maternity
Accommodations. Students will complete an information form and meet with a member of the
Dean’s Office staff to determine resources and procedures appropriate for the individual student.
○ Planning for the student’s discussion with appropriate academic contact(s)
(advisor, associate dean, etc.) may be reviewed during this meeting.
● Students in course work should consider options for the semester of the anticipated
birth such as working with their course instructors to receive incomplete grades, electing to
drop to part-time status or taking a full semester leave of absence.
● Students engaged in research must work with their faculty to develop plans for the
research for the time they are away and for resuming upon return.
● Master's students who receive an academic stipend funded by Carnegie Mellon are
eligible to continue to receive stipend funding for up to six (6) weeks during a Short-Term
Maternity Accommodation or a Formal Leave of Absence. Continued academic stipend funding
may be extended by two (2) weeks, for a total of eight (8) weeks, if an absence longer than six
weeks is medically necessary. To receive this support students must be registered with the
Office of the Dean of Students.
Students are encouraged to consult with relevant university faculty and staff as soon as possible
as they begin making plans regarding time away. Students must contact the Office of the Dean
of Student Affairs to register for Maternity Accommodations. Students will complete an
information form and meet with a member of Dean’s Office staff to determine resources and
32procedures appropriate for the individual student. Planning for the student’s discussion with
her academic contact(s) (advisor, associate dean, etc.) will be reviewed during this meeting.
11.6 Statute of Limitations
As outlined in the Master’s Students Statute of Limitations, www.cmu.edu/policies/student-
and-student-life/masters-students-statute-of-limitations.html, students must complete all
requirements for the master’s degree within a maximum of seven years from original
matriculation as a master’s student, or less if required by a more restrictive department, school
or college policy. Once this time-to-degree limit has lapsed, the person may resume work
towards a master’s degree only if newly admitted to a currently offered master’s degree program
under criteria determined by that program.
Under extraordinary circumstances, such as leave of absence, military or public service, family or
parental leave, or temporary disability, a school or college may, upon the relevant department's
recommendation and with the written approval of the dean (or designate), defer the lapse for a
period commensurate with the duration of that interruption. Students who are pursuing a
master’s degree as part-time students for all semesters of their program, as approved by their
program, may also appeal to their program or department for extension of the time to degree
limit.
Any request for a waiver of the statute of limitations must be approved by the Department Head
and by the SCS Associate Dean for Masters Programs. The waiver request must explain the
exceptional circumstances that warrant an extension. For cases in which a waiver is granted,
the waiver will cover specific courses and will specify a time period for completion of the
program.
See also the ‘Duration of Study’ policy.
11.7 Residency Requirement
The MSAII is a full-time, in-residence program conducted only on the Pittsburgh campus. In
exceptional circumstances, such as visa complications or medical exigencies, permission may be
granted by the Director allowing a student to participate in short portions of the program
remotely. This is not possible for first-year students.
12 Financial Issues
12.1 Graduate Student Funding
33The LTI does not provide financial aid or support to students in the professional MS programs.
Students are encouraged to seek financial aid and support from other sources. The HUB website
(https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/financial-aid/graduate/index.html) provides the Graduate Financial
Aid Guide, information about funding options and how to apply for financial aid and other
helpful links. Additional information on financial issues for graduate students can be found on
the web at www.cmu.edu/hub/new-grad/.
Students in the professional MS programs are not prohibited from seeking support as Teaching
Assistants and Research Assistants. However, typically full-time MS students do not have time
for these activities. Typically Research Assistantships are most likely to be awarded to students
in Carnegie Mellon’s research-oriented degree programs.
12.2 University Financial Aid
Graduate students should consult the graduate student financial aid information found on The
HUB website: www.cmu.edu/sfs/financial-aid/graduate/index.html. Students will find the
Graduate Financial Aid Guide, information about funding options and how to apply for financial
aid and other helpful links.
12.3 Health Insurance
Carnegie Mellon has a Student Health Insurance policy requiring full-time, degree-seeking
students to carry adequate medical insurance. Students must either purchase the plan offered by
the University or an application for a waiver can be made if the student is “enrolled as the
dependent, partner/spouse or principal in an employer or government-sponsored insurance
plan” (see the Carnegie Mellon University Student Health Insurance Policy at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/student-health-insurance.html).
It is the responsibility of each student to make arrangements with Student Health Services to
either pay for their insurance at the beginning of the semester, or elect a payment plan over the
course of the academic year. More information is available at the Student Health Services Web
site www.cmu.edu/health-services/student-insurance/.
12.4 Emergency Loans
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/loans/
All students regardless of their program are eligible for the Emergency Student Loan, which is an
interest-free and emergency-based loan repayable within 30 days. It is available through the
Office of the Dean of Student Affairs; students may apply for the loan by stopping in to the
Student Affairs Office, Warner Hall 321, or by calling (412) 268-2075 for an appointment.
3413 Additional University Resources
13.1 The HUB Student Services Center
thehub@andrew.cmu.edu and www.cmu.edu/hub/
The HUB is located in Warner Hall, Lower Level. The HUB staff delivers comprehensive service
and counsel to students and families regarding financial aid, billing and payment, registration
and academic records. The Assistant Directors in The HUB serve as contacts for specific colleges
and assist enrolled students with key aspects of the enrollment process. A student can find their
assigned HUB Assistant Director on their Student Information Online (SIO) Resource
page. Questions that need specialized, in-depth attention can be directed to the student's
assigned Assistant Director. For general questions and information, students may email The
HUB or call 412-268-8186.
13.2 Student Information Online (SIO)
Student Information Online (SIO) is a secure site where students can find important,
personalized information, including E-Bills and student account information, financial aid status
and eligibility, grades and QPA, and course schedules. Students can update their and their
spouse’s or domestic partner's contact information, sign up for E-Check & E-Refund, authorize
their spouses, domestic partners or another individual to receive a copy of their E-Bill, request
verifications, view their housing and meal plan assignments, and much more. Students can log
on to SIO by going to www.cmu.edu/hub/sio and entering their Andrew User ID and password.
On SIO, students will designate an emergency contact address of a relative or family friend to be
contacted in the case of an emergency. If students do not want their name and address
published in the campus directory, they must notify the HUB in writing.
13.3 ID Cards
Graduate students can obtain their ID card from The HUB once they have been entered into SIO
for the semester. These cards identify their holders as members of the campus community.
Student cards are deactivated upon the cardholder’s separation from the university.
Affiliate ID Cards are available for spouses and partners of graduate students that allow them to
access Carnegie Mellon’s campus. These cards are available through The HUB to spouses and
partners of graduate students who are enrolled for the current academic year in a full-time
graduate degree program. The card is valid for one year. For information about domestic
partner registration, visit the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs webpage:
www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/domestic-partner/.
35For more information about student and affiliate ID cards (spouse, domestic partners and
dependent children), please visit https://www.cmu.edu/oie/settling-in-guide/information-for-
families.html.
13.4 Transcripts
Information about and instructions for ordering transcripts are available at:
www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/student-records/transcripts/. Transcript questions may be directed
to cmuregistrar@andrew.cmu.edu.
13.5 Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-registration
www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/registration/cross/index.html
Cross-registration provides an opportunity for enriched educational programs by permitting
full-time graduate students to cross-register for courses (usually no more than one per semester)
at a Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) Institution. Full-time Carnegie Mellon
degree students are eligible and the PCHE course may not count towards full-time status unless
the student is enrolled in an inter-university program. Students interested in taking advantage
of this opportunity should be familiar with the Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses already
outlined previously in this handbook.
Department specific information about graduate students’ ability to cross register and transfer
grades should be included here.
13.6 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA
www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/privacy-rights-students.html
This university policy notifies students of their rights under the federal Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). According to FERPA, students have the right to:
inspect and review their education records;
request an amendment to their education record if they believe they are inaccurate or
misleading;
request a hearing if their request for an amendment is not resolved to their satisfaction;
consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information from their education records,
except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent;
file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education Family Policy Compliance Office
if they believe their rights under FERPA have been violated.
36For questions about Student Privacy Rights, FERPA or filing a complaint, contact John
Papinchak, University Registrar, jp7p@andrew.cmu.edu, in Enrollment Services.
13.7 Academic Calendar
The official academic calendar is published by Enrollment Services. It is not uncommon for
departments and colleges to have academic requirements that differ from or are in addition to
those presented in the academic calendar provided to the campus community by Enrollment
Services. See https://www.cmu.edu/hub/calendar/docs/2223-academic-calendar.pdf..
13.8 Professional Development
The Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) (www.cmu.edu/career/)at Carnegie
Mellon is a centralized career center staffed by a team of seasoned and highly-educated
professionals who orchestrate the career exploration, experiential learning, and career
networking needs of students and alumni.
Carnegie Mellon's career and professional development model is grounded in discipline-specific
career development, experiential learning, and employer relations shaped by strong connections
with the university's seven academic colleges. The center's success is founded upon a solid
understanding of career and professional development theory, integration of technology, and an
unwavering commitment to providing personalized attention towards meeting the unique
individual needs of students, alumni, and employers. The CDPC is located on the second floor of
the West Wing Dormitory, 412-268-2064.
The Office of the Assistant Vice Provost for Graduate Education (AVPGE) offers a robust
schedule of professional development opportunities. Some are geared towards a specific
population (master’s students, PhD students at the beginning of their program, graduate
students seeking tenure track positions, etc.) and others are open to all graduate students (time
management, balancing, staying healthy). A full schedule of programs can be found at:
www.cmu.edu/graduate/.
13.9 University Libraries
search.library.cmu.edu
There are three main libraries at Carnegie Mellon: Hunt Library, Mellon Institute Library and
Engineering & Science Library with the combined mission of providing access and help to
graduate students in finding the information needed, teaching graduate students to evaluate
available information and use reliable sources. The libraries’ digital resources and services,
including off-campus/ wireless access to databases and e-journals, offer online access. There are
37also two neighboring libraries open to Carnegie Mellon graduate students: Carnegie Library of
Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Libraries. Visit the University Libraries website for
information about all mentioned library locations and hours, on-line resources and FAQ’s.
13.10 Computing Services
www.cmu.edu/computing/
Computing Services is located in Cyert Hall 285. Computing Services develops, maintains and
supports the computing infrastructure for Carnegie Mellon students, faculty members and staff
members. This includes the campus wired and wireless networks, public computer labs or
“clusters,” cable television and telephone services, computing related documentation and
support through the Help Center. In addition, Computing Services provides standard classroom
technologies for over 100 lecture halls, classrooms and seminar rooms across campus. The
website contains additional information regarding The Help Center hours, location and contact
information, computing cluster hours and location, the Carnegie Mellon web portal, computing
security and policies and guidelines. Students can email the Help Center at it-help@cmu.edu
with questions and for assistance.
13.11 Family and Dependents Resources
The Graduate Student Assembly website maintains a resource page for spouses, domestic
partners and families of graduate students: www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/Resources-for-Graduate-
Students/Partner-and-Family-Resources.html, including The Student Parent Association, new
mother rooms, and links to resources around campus and the Pittsburgh area.
13.12 Domestic Partner Registration
Carnegie Mellon extends certain benefits to domestic partners of students. Eligible students
may elect benefits for their domestic partners through the registration process orchestrated by
the Office of the Dean of Students, 3rd floor Warner Hall. Information regarding the benefits
available for domestic partners, eligibility for domestic partner benefits, registration
instructions and forms can be located at: www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/domestic-partner/.
13.13 Housing
The university does not currently offer housing to graduate students. The Office of Housing
and Dining Services provides community housing information to assist graduate students who
are seeking housing in the communities surrounding the university, including information on
38the legal aspects of renting an apartment, moving checklists and the off-campus housing
database. This information can be located at: https://www.cmu.edu/housing/.
13.14 Dining
www.cmu.edu/dining/
Dining services and operations are offered through the Office of Housing and Dining Services.
The office operates dining locations open around campus in academic buildings, Hunt Library
and the University Center. These locations offer flexible hours with options from the early
morning through late night. The Dining Services website contains information about dining
locations, hours of operation, graduate student dining plans forms, nutritional information, and
weekly menus for dining locations.
13.15 Parking and Transportation
www.cmu.edu/parking/
Graduate students will find information about parking and availability, parking policies,
transportation options and Port Authority Transit usage with a valid university ID on the
Parking and Transportation Services site. The Parking and Transportation Services office is
located in the East Campus Garage by the Forbes Ave entrance. There is limited parking on
campus, and the varying permit rates can be found on the website. All parking areas of campus
are either by permit, metered or by the hour in the garage. Parking and Transportation Services
will ticket any car parked in a permit area without a permit or at an expired meter. The city
monitors the metered parking along Margaret Morrison, Frew and Tech Streets and will ticket
at expired meters as well.
The university offers shuttle and escort services operated by University Police. The Shuttle
Service operates several routes within Oakland, Squirrel Hill and Shadyside areas, as well as to
University sites located outside of the main campus. The Escort Service offers vehicle routes
within a radius of campus between 6:30 pm-4:15 am daily. Information regarding up-to-date
shuttle and escort schedules, pick-up/drop-off locations, routes and usage policies can be found
at www.cmu.edu/parking/shuttle/index.html.
SafeWalk provides another option to campus community members walking across and around
campus during late-night hours. SafeWalk is a student volunteer organization that provides
campus escorts for all members of the Carnegie Mellon community. SafeWalk operates nightly
during the regular academic year (except certain holidays and break periods) from 10pm until
2am. Students, faculty, and staff may request an escort by calling 412-268-SAFE (8-7233 from a
campus phone), by approaching an escort team, or by stopping by the SafeWalk dispatch area in
the University Center, Lower Level near the Post Office Package Pick-Up window between
10pm-2am. SafeWalk will escort to locations approximately one mile from campus. Additional
39SafeWalk information can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/admission/campus-
experience/student-services.
13.16 Copying, Printing and Mailing Services
Carnegie Mellon offers community members easy access to FedEx, copy centers, printing and
mailing services, and postal services. More information regarding these services, locations and
contact information can be found in The Word at
www.cmu.edu/tartanink/copyprint/index.html
13.17 University Center
www.cmu.edu/university-center
The University Center is a centerpiece of the campus that provides a space for special events,
physical fitness, student organizations and various activities, as well as accommodating retail
and dining services. As the campus crossroads, the University Center functions as a place for
students to interact, get involved and enjoy new experiences. Visit the University Center
website for information about campus eateries, ATMs and PNC Bank, fitness rooms and
schedules, retail stores, scheduling University Center space, the public prayer room, student
organizations and the Wright-Rogal Chapel.
The University Center Information Desk is the location if you want to know about upcoming
campus events or have questions about Carnegie Mellon in general, call the Information Desk at
412-268-2107. The Information Desk not only provides information about campus events, but
also sells postage stamps, makes copies, sends faxes, distributes campus maps, manages a lost &
found, and has information brochures about Pittsburgh and the campus.
13.18 Athletic/Fitness Facilities
www.cmu.edu/athletics
For the participant or the spectator, Carnegie Mellon offers intercollegiate athletics, intramural
sports, physical education classes and club sports. The Athletics Department also offers aerobics
classes in the University Center and Skibo Gym as well as occasional workshops and instruction
related to fitness and health. The Athletics Office is located in the Cohon University Center.
Skibo Gym facilities include courts for basketball, volleyball, badminton, as well as weight-
training and aerobic equipment. The University Center’s recreational facilities include an eight-
lane pool, racquetball and squash courts, aerobics room, fitness center and gym for basketball
and volleyball. All users must present a current Carnegie Mellon Card to use these facilities.
4013.19 CMU Alert
www.cmu.edu/alert
CMU Alert sends voice and/or text messages to registered phones in the event of a campus
emergency that threatens public safety or during tests of the system in the spring and fall
semesters. Students can register for CMU Alert through the website.
14 Appendix A: 2022-2023 University Resources for Graduate Students
14.1 Key Offices for Graduate Student Support
14.1.1 Graduate Education Office
www.cmu.edu/graduate; grad-ed@cmu.edu
The Graduate Education Office provides central support for all Master’s and Doctoral students
with a focus on their academic experience at Carnegie Mellon. The Graduate Education Office
serves as a hub for connecting graduate students to relevant campus experts and resources to
support their academic success, understanding of university level policies and practices and to assist
them in advancing their personal and professional development.
Examples of resources offered through the Graduate Education Office include- but are not
limited to:
Website with university resources, contact information for CMU programs and
services, calendar of events related to graduate students
Bi-monthly email to all graduate students with information on activities, resources
and opportunities
Professional Development Seminars and Workshops
GSA/Provost Conference Funding Grants
GSA/Provost Small Research Grants (GuSH)
Consultations on issues related to the graduate student experience
The Graduate Education Office also works with the colleges and departments by informing and
assisting in developing policy and procedures relevant to graduate students and working with
departments on issues related to graduate students. Additionally we partner with many other
offices and organizations, such as the Graduate Student Assembly, to support the holistic graduate
student educational experience
14.1.2 Office of the Dean of Students
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean
41The Office of the Dean of Students provides central leadership of the metacurricular
experience at Carnegie Mellon including the coordination of student support. Vice President
of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Gina Casalegno leads the Division of Student Affairs
which includes the offices and departments listed below (not an exhaustive list).
Graduate students will find the enrollment information for Domestic Partner Registration and
Maternity Accommodations in the Office of the Dean of Students or on their website. This
Office also manages the Emergency Student Loan (ESLs) process. Emergency Student Loans
are made available through generous gifts of alumni and friends of the university. The
Emergency Student Loan is an interest-free, emergency-based loan repayable to the university
within 30 days. Loans are available to enrolled students for academic supplies, medication,
food or other expenses not able to be met due to unforeseeable circumstances.
Additional resources for graduate students include College Liaisons and the Student Support
Resources team. College Liaisons are senior members of the Division of Student Affairs who
work with departments and colleges addressing student concerns across a wide range of
issues. College Liaisons are identified on the student SIO page in the Important Contacts list.
The Student Support Resources team offers an additional level of support for students who are
navigating any of a wide range of life events. Student Support Resources staff members work
in partnership with campus and community resources to provide coordination of care and
support appropriate to each student’s situation.
The Division of Student Affairs includes (not an exhaustive list):
Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation
Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC)
Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion
Cohon University Center
Counseling & Psychological Services (CaPS)
Dining Services
Office of Community Standards and Integrity (OCSI)
Office of Student Leadership, Involvement, and Civic Engagement (SLICE)
University Health Services (UHS)
Wellness Initiatives
14.1.3 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion
https://www.cmu.edu/student-diversity/
Diversity and inclusion have a singular place among the values of Carnegie Mellon University.
42The Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion actively cultivates a strong, diverse and inclusive
community capable of living out these values and advancing research, creativity, learning and
development that changes the world.
The Center offers resources to enhance an inclusive and transformative student experience in
dimensions such as access, success, campus climate and intergroup dialogue. Additionally, the
Center supports and connects historically underrepresented students and those who are first in
their family to attend college in a setting where students’ differences and talents are appreciated
and reinforced, both at the graduate and undergraduate level. Initiatives coordinated by the
Center include, but are not limited to:
First generation/first in family to attend college programs
LGBTQ+ Initiatives
Race and ethnically-focused programs, including Inter-University Graduate Students of
Color Series (SOC) and PhD SOC Network
Women’s empowerment programs, including Graduate Women’s Gatherings (GWGs)
Transgender and non-binary student programs
14.1.4 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
http://www.cmu.edu/disability-resources/
The Office of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University has a continued mission to
provide physical, digital, and programmatic access to ensure that students with disabilities have
equal access to their educational experience. We work to ensure that qualified individuals
receive reasonable accommodations as guaranteed by the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students who would like to receive
accommodations can begin the process through Disability Resources' secure online portal or
email access@andrew.cmu.edu to begin the interactive accommodation process.
Students with physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional disabilities are encouraged to self-
identify with the Office of Disability Resources and request needed accommodations. Any
questions about the process can be directed to access@andrew.cmu.edu, or call (412) 268-6121.
14.1.5 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation
www.cmu.edu/teaching
We offer a wide variety of confidential, consultation services and professional development
programs to support graduate students as teaching assistants or instructors of record during
their time at Carnegie Mellon University and as future faculty members at other institutions.
Regardless of one's current or future teaching context and duties, our goal is to disseminate
evidence-based teaching strategies in ways that are accessible and actionable. Programs and
43services include campus-wide Graduate Student Instructor Orientation events and our Future
Faculty Program, both of which are designed to help participants be effective and efficient in
their teaching roles. The Eberly Center also assists departments in creating and conducting
customized programs to meet the specific needs of their graduate student instructors. Specific
information about Eberly Center support for graduate students is found at
www.cmu.edu/teaching/graduatestudentsupport/index.html.
14.1.6 Graduate Student Assembly
www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/index.html
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is the branch of Carnegie Mellon Student Government
that represents, and advocates for the diverse interests of all graduate students at CMU. GSA is
composed of representatives from the different graduate programs and departments who want
to improve the graduate student experience at the different levels of the university. GSA is
funded by the Student Activities Fee from all graduate students. GSA passes legislation, allocates
student activities funding, advocates for legislative action locally and in Washington D.C. on
behalf of graduate student issues and needs, and otherwise acts on behalf of all graduate student
interests. Our recent accomplishments are a testament to GSA making a difference, and steps to
implementing the vision laid out by the strategic plan. https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/About-
the-GSA/Strategic-Plan.html.
GSA offers an expanding suite of social programming on and off-campus to bring graduate
students from different departments together and build a sense of community. GSA is the host
of the Graduate Student Lounge on the 3rd floor of the Cohon University Center- a great place to
study or meet up with friends. GSA also maintains a website of graduate student resources on
and off-campus. Through GSA’s continued funding for professional development and research
conferences, the GSA/Provost Conference Funding Program and GSA/Provost GuSH Research
Grants are able to run, as managed by the Graduate Education Office. As we move forward, GSA
will continue to rely on your feedback to improve the graduate student experience at CMU. Feel
free to contact us at <gsa@cmu.edu> to get involved, stop by our office in the Cohon University
Center Room 304 or become a representative for your department.
14.1.7 Office of International Education (OIE)
http://www.cmu.edu/oie/
Carnegie Mellon hosts international graduate and undergraduate students who come from
more than 90 countries. The Office of International Education (OIE) is the liaison to the
University for all non-immigrant students and scholars, as well the repository for study
abroad opportunities and advisement. OIE provides many services including: advising on
personal, immigration, study abroad, academic, and social and acculturation issues; presenting
programs of interest such as international career workshops, tax workshops, and cross-
44cultural and immigration workshops; international education and statistics on international
students in the United States; posting pertinent information to students through email and
the OIE website, and conducting orientation and pre-departure programs.
14.1.8 Veterans and Military Community
http://www.cmu.edu/veterans/
Military veterans are a vital part of the Carnegie Mellon University community. Graduate
students can find information on applying for veteran education benefits, campus services,
veteran’s groups at CMU, and non-educational resources through the Veterans and Military
Community website. There are also links and connections to veteran resource in the Pittsburgh
community. The ROTC and Veteran Affairs Coordinator can be reached at uro-
vaedbenefits@andrew.cmu.edu or 412-268-8747.
14.1.9 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline
https://www.cmu.edu/hr/resources/ethics-hotline.html
The health, safety and well-being of the university community are top priorities at Carnegie
Mellon University. CMU provides a hotline that all members of the university community
should use to confidentially report suspected unethical activity relating to areas below:
Academic and Student Life
Bias Reporting
Environmental Health and Safety
Financial Matters
High-Risk Incident
Human Resource Related
Information Systems
Research
Threat of Business Interruption
Threat of Violence or Physical Harm
Title IX
Students, faculty and staff can anonymously file a report by calling 877-700-7050 or
visiting www.reportit.net(user name: tartans; password: plaid). All submissions are reported to
appropriate university personnel.
The hotline is NOT an emergency service. For emergencies, call University Police at 412-
268-2323.
14.2 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support
4514.2.1 Computing and Information Resources
www.cmu.edu/computing
Computing Services maintains and supports computing resources for the campus community,
including the campus wired and wireless networks, printing, computer labs, file storage, email
and software catalog. As members of this community, we are all responsible for the security of
these shared resources. Be sure to review the Safe Computing
(https://www.cmu.edu/computing/safe/) section and the University Computing Policy
(https://www.cmu.edu/policies/information-technology/computing.html)
Visit the Computing Services website (https://www.cmu.edu/computing/) to learn more. For
assistance the Computing Services Help Center is available at 412-268-4357 (HELP) or it-
help@cmu.edu.
14.2.2 Student Academic Success Center
https://www.cmu.edu/student-success/
Student Academic Support Programs
Tartan Scholars
The Tartan Scholars program was created to provide support for limited resourced
students through an intentional first year undergraduate experience with the goals of
enhancing the cohort’s skill and community building through a lens of self -authorship,
growth mindset, and a sense of belonging. As part of the Student Academic Success
Center, Tartan Scholars are invited to join the University and participate in summer
initiatives and pre-orientation activities prior to their first year at the University.
There are opportunities for graduate students to serve as accountability, learning, or
development partners, workshop facilitators, and presenters. Contact Diane Hightower
at ddhighto@andrew.cmu.edu for more details.
Learning Support
Supplemental Instruction: Supplemental Instruction (SI) is an academic support model
that utilizes peer-assisted study sessions. The SI program provides regularly scheduled
review sessions on course materials outside the classroom. SI is a non-remedial approach
to learning as the program targets high-risk courses and is available in select courses
based on data related to past student performance and feasibility.
Peer Tutoring: Weekly Tutoring Appointments are offered in a one-on-one and small
group format to students from any discipline who need assistance with a course that may
not be supported by our other services. Weekly appointments give students the
opportunity to interact regularly with the same tutor to facilitate deeper understanding
46of concepts. Students can register online through the Student Academic Success website.
Academic Coaching: Academic Coaching provides holistic one-on-one peer support and
group workshops to help students find and implement their conditions for success. We
assist students in improving time management, productive habits, organization, stress
management, and study skills. Students will request support through the Academic
Success Center website and attend in-person meetings or meet using video and audio
conferencing technology to provide all students with support.
“Just in Time” Workshops: The Student Academic Success team is available to partner
with instructors and departments to identify skills or concepts that would benefit from
supplemental offerings (workshops, boot camps) to support students’ academic success
and learning. We are eager to help convene and coordinate outside of the classroom
skill-building opportunities that can be open to any student interested in building skill
or reinforcing course concept mastery.
Study Partners: Support for students to create and benefit from their own study groups:
The Student Academic Success team assists students in forming and benefiting from peer
study groups, whereby all students can reap the benefits of peer-to-peer learning,
student agency, and collaboration skill development. Staff from the Student Academic
Success Center will be made available to instructors and students to assist with the
formation of peer-led study groups. This level of support is open to any course where the
instructor requests or agrees such support is appropriate and students are interested in
both leading and participating.
Language and Cross-cultural Support
More than 60% of graduate students at Carnegie Mellon are international students, and others
are nonnative speakers of English who have attended high school or undergraduate programs in
the US. Many of these students want to hone their language and cross-cultural skills for
academic and professional success. Students can choose from sessions on
how to give a strong presentation,
writing academic emails,
expectations and strategies for clear academic writing,
how to talk about yourself as a professional in the U.S.,
developing clearer pronunciation,
using accurate grammar,
building fluency, and more.
Students can make an appointment with a Language Development Specialist to get
individualized coaching on language or cross-cultural issues.
The Student Academic Success Center is also charged with certifying the language of
International Teaching Assistants (ITAs), ensuring that nonnative English speakers have the
language proficiency needed to succeed as teaching assistants in the Carnegie Mellon classroom.
47Students preparing to do an ITA Certification should plan to take classes offered by the
language support team at the SASC from the beginning of their first semester. Start by
contacting the language support team at the SASC website or attend a Language Support
Orientation at the SASC or in your department.
14.2.3 University Libraries
www.library.cmu.edu
The University Libraries offers a wide range of information resources and services supporting
graduate students in course-work, research, teaching, and publishing. The library licenses and
purchases books, journals, media and other needed materials in various formats. Library liaisons,
consultants and information specialists provide in-depth and professional assistance and advice
in all-things information - including locating and obtaining specific resources, providing
specialized research support, advanced training in the use and management of data. Sign up for
workshops and hands-on topic-specific sessions such as data visualization with Tableau,
cleaning data with OpenRefine, and getting started with Zotero. Weekly drop-in hours for
Digital Humanities and for Research Data Research Management are scheduled during the
academic year. Start at the library home page to find the books, journals and databases you need;
to identify and reach out to the library liaison in your field; to sign up for scheduled workshops;
and to connect with consultants in scholarly publishing, research data management, and digital
humanities.
14.2.4 Research at Carnegie Mellon
www.cmu.edu/research/index.shtml
The primary purpose of research at the university is the advancement of knowledge in all fields
in which the university is active. Research is regarded as one of the university’s major
contributions to society and as an essential element in education, particularly at the graduate
level and in faculty development. Research activities are governed by several university policies.
Guidance and more general information can be found by visiting the Research at Carnegie
Mellon website.
14.2.5 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance
www.cmu.edu/research-compliance/index.html
The Office of Research Integrity & Compliance (ORIC) is designed to support research at
Carnegie Mellon University. The staff work with researchers to ensure research is conducted
with integrity and in accordance with federal and Pennsylvania regulation. ORIC assists
researchers with human subject research, conflicts of interest, responsible conduct of research,
export controls, and institutional animal care & use. ORIC also provides consultation, advice,
and review of allegations of research misconduct.
4814.3 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety
14.3.1 Counseling & Psychological Services
https://www.cmu.edu/counseling/
Counseling & Psychological Services (CaPS) affords the opportunity for students to talk
privately about academic and personal concerns in a safe, confidential setting. An initial
consultation at CaPS can help clarify the nature of the concern, provide immediate support, and
explore further options if needed. These may include a referral for counseling within CaPS, to
another resource at Carnegie Mellon, or to another resource within the larger Pittsburgh
community. CaPS also provides workshops and group sessions on mental health related topics
specifically for graduate students on campus. CaPS services are provided at no
cost. Appointments can be made in person, or by telephone at 412-268-2922.
14.3.2 Health Services
www.cmu.edu/HealthServices/
University Health Services (UHS) is staffed by physicians, advanced practice clinicians and
registered nurses who provide general medical care, allergy injections, first aid, gynecological
care and contraception as well as on-site pharmaceuticals. The CMU Student Insurance Plan
covers most visit fees to see the physicians and advanced practice clinicians & nurse visits. Fees
for prescription medications, laboratory tests, diagnostic procedures and referral to the
emergency room or specialists are the student’s responsibility and students should review the
UHS website and their insurance plan for detailed information about the university health
insurance requirement and fees.
UHS also has a registered dietician and health promotion specialists on staff to assist students in
addressing nutrition, drug and alcohol and other healthy lifestyle issues. In addition to providing
direct health care, UHS administers the Student Health Insurance Program. The Student Health
Insurance plan offers a high level of coverage in a wide network of health care providers and
hospitals. Appointments can be made by visiting UHS’s website, walk-in, or by telephone, 412-
268-2157.
14.3.3 Campus Wellness
https://www.cmu.edu/wellness/
At Carnegie Mellon, we believe our individual and collective well-being is rooted in healthy
connections to each other and to campus resources. The university provides a wide variety of
wellness, mindfulness and connectedness initiatives and resources designed to help students
thrive inside and outside the classroom. The BeWell@CMU e-newsletter seeks to be a
comprehensive resource for CMU regarding all wellness-inspired events, announcements and
professional and personal development opportunities. Sign up for the Be Well monthly
49newsletter via https://bit.ly/BeWellNewsletter or by contacting the Program Director for
Student Affairs Wellness Initiatives, at alusk@andrew.cmu.edu.
14.3.4 Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI)
www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/spirituality
Carnegie Mellon is committed to the holistic growth of our students, including creating
opportunities for spiritual and religious practice and exploration. We have relationships with
local houses of worship from various traditions and many of these groups are members of CMU’s
Council of Religious Advisors. We also offer programs and initiatives that cross traditional
religious boundaries in order to increase knowledge of and appreciation for the full diversity of
the worldview traditions. Our RSLI staff are here to support students across the spectrum of
religious and spiritual practice and would be more than happy to help you make a connection
into a community of faith during your time at CMU.
14.3.5 University Police
http://www.cmu.edu/police/
412-268-2323 (emergency only), 412-268-6232 (non-emergency)
The University Police Department is located at 300 South Craig Street (entrance is on Filmore
Street). The department’s services include police patrols and call response, criminal
investigations, fixed officer and foot officer patrols, event security, and crime prevention and
education programming as well as bicycle and laptop registration. Visit the department’s
website for additional information about the staff, emergency phone locations, crime prevention,
lost and found, finger print services, and annual statistic reports.
Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security and fire safety report
describing the university’s security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault, and fire safety policies and
containing statistics about the number and type of crimes committed on the campus and the
number and cause of fires in campus residence facilities during the preceding three years.
Graduate students can obtain a copy by contacting the University Police Department at 412-
268-6232. The annual security and fire safety report is also available online at
https://www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports/.
14.3.6 Shuttle and Escort Services
Parking and Transportation coordinates the Shuttle Service and Escort Service provided for
CMU students, faculty, and community. The Shuttle & Escort website has full information
about these services, stops, routes, tracking and schedules.
14.4 The WORD
50http://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword//
The WORD is Carnegie Mellon University’s student on-line handbook and is considered a
supplement to the department (and sometimes college) handbook. The WORD contains
campus resources and opportunities, academic policy information and resources, community
standards information and resources. It is designed to provide all students with the tools,
guidance, and insights to help you achieve your full potential as a member of the Carnegie
Mellon community. Information about the following is included in The WORD (not an
exhaustive list) and graduate students are encouraged to bookmark this site and refer to it
often. University policies can also be found in full text at: http://www.cmu.edu/policies/.
Carnegie Mellon Vision, Mission
Statement of Assurance
Carnegie Code
Academic Standards, Policies and Procedures
Educational Goals
Academic and Individual Freedom
Statement on Academic Integrity Standards for Academic & Creative Life
Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
Master’s Student Statute of Limitations
Conduct of Classes
Copyright Policy
Cross-college & University Registration
Doctoral Student Status Policy
Evaluation & Certification of English Fluency for Instructors
Final Exams for Graduate Courses
Grading Policies
Intellectual Property Policy
Privacy Rights of Students
Student’s Rights
Research
Human Subjects in Research
Office of Research Integrity & Compliance
Office of Sponsored Programs
Policy for Handling Alleged Misconduct of Research
Policy on Restricted Research
Tax Status of Graduate Student Awards
Campus Resources & Opportunities
Alumni Relations
Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
51Athletics, Physical Fitness & Recreation
Carnegie Mellon ID Cards and Services
Cohon University Center
Copying, Printing & Mailing
Division of Student Affairs
Domestic Partner Registration
Emergency Student Loan Program
Gender Programs & Resources
Health Services
Dining Services
The HUB Student Services Center
ID Card Services
Leonard Gelfand Center
LGBTQ Resources
Multicultural and Diversity Initiatives
Opportunities for Involvement
Parking and Transportation Services
Shuttle and Escort Services
Spiritual Development
University Police
Student Activities
University Stores
Community Standards, Policies and Procedures
Alcohol and Drugs Policy
AIDS Policy
Bicycle/Wheeled Transportation Policy
Damage to Carnegie Mellon Property
Deadly Weapons
Discriminatory Harassment
Disorderly Conduct
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Policy
Freedom of Expression Policy
Health Insurance Policy Immunization Policy
Missing Student Protocol
Non-Discrimination Policy
On-Campus Emergencies
Pets
Political Activities
Recycling Policy
Riotous and Disorderly Behavior
Safety Hazards
Scheduling and Use of University Facilities
Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Policy
Smoking Policy
52Student Accounts Receivable and Collection Policy and Procedures
Student Activities Fee
Student Enterprises
Workplace Threats and Violence Policy
53 | handbook-msaii-2022-2023.txt |
Language Technologies Institute / School of Computer Science
Graduate Student Handbook
Academic Year 2023-2024
Master of Computational Data Science Program
Last revision date: July 20, 2023
The information contained in this graduate handbook template focuses on the
resources and locations available at the Carnegie Mellon Pittsburgh Campus.Table of Contents
1 Welcome .................................................................................................................. 6
1.1 The MCDS Degree ..................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Vision .......................................................................................................................... 7
1.3 Mission ....................................................................................................................... 7
1.4 MCDS Contact Information....................................................................................... 8
1.5 University Policies and Expectations ....................................................................... 9
1.6 Carnegie Mellon University Statement of Assurance ............................................. 9
1.7 The Carnegie Mellon Code ...................................................................................... 10
2 The Language Technologies Institute ................................................................. 10
2.1 Main Office ............................................................................................................... 10
2.2 Photocopies and Printers ....................................................................................... 11
2.3 Office Space for MS Students ................................................................................. 11
2.4 Computers for MS Students ................................................................................... 11
3 MCDS Degree Completion and Certification ...................................................... 11
3.1 CMU Degree Completion and Statute of Limitations .......................................... 11
Early Completion 11
Extended or Longer-than-Standard Completion 12
Policy on Master’s Student Statute of Limitations 12
Additional Guidance for Students 12
3.2 Full-time Status ........................................................................................................ 13
3.3 MCDS Degree Enrollment Process and Related Information ............................. 13
3.3.1 Duration of the degree program 13
3.3.2 Residency requirements 13
3.3.3 Degree Certification: Course requirements and related policies/protocols 13
3.3.4 Prerequisite Core Course 14
3.3.5 Plan of study 14
3.3.6.1 MCDS Curriculum 15
3.3.6.2 Common MCDS Core Courses 15
3.3.6.3 Areas of Concentration 15
3.3.6.4 MCDS Capstone Courses 16
3.3.10 Capstone project 17
3.3.11 Elective courses 17
3.3.12 Undergraduate courses 17
3.3.13 Independent study course 18
13.3.14 Double counting courses 18
3.3.15 Courses outside of the School of Computer Science 18
3.3.16 Grades 18
3.3.17 Student Review, Academic Probation and Academic Actions 19
3.3.18 Incomplete grades 20
3.3.19 Change of grades and missing grades 21
3.3.20 Qualifying examinations and procedures (or equivalent) 21
3.3.21 Thesis/dissertation 21
3.3.22 On transfer to another program 21
3.3.23 Intellectual property policy 21
3.3.24 Teaching requirements 21
3.3.25 Language proficiency requirements 21
3.3.26 Academic Integrity and Policies on Plagiarism and Cheating 22
3.3.27 Process for Appealing Final Grades 22
3.3.27 Teaching Assistants 23
3.3.28 Internship Requirement and Search for Full Time Employment 23
3.4 Enrollment Verification ........................................................................................... 24
3.5 University Policies on Grades and Grading........................................................... 24
3.6.1 University Policy on Grades 24
3.6.2 University Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses 24
3.6 Academic Integrity ................................................................................................... 24
3.7.1 Expectations Regarding Proper Conduct 24
3.7.2 Protocol for Academic Integrity Violations 25
4 Academic Policies ................................................................................................. 26
4.1 MCDS Academic Policies ......................................................................................... 26
4.1.1 Duration of Study 26
4.1.2 Double-Dipping 26
4.1.3 Pass/Fail and Audit Grades 26
4.1.4 Transfer Credit 27
4.1.5 External Internships and Job Interviewing 27
4.1.6 Transferring into the MCDS Program 27
4.1.7 Transferring Out of the MCDS Program 27
4.1.8 Statute of Limitations 28
4.2 LTI Academic Policies .............................................................................................. 28
4.2.1 “Grandfather” policy 28
4.2.2 Course Drop/Add/withdrawal procedures 28
4.2.3 Courses with restricted enrollment 28
4.2.4 Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption 29
4.2.5 External Employment/Consulting 29
4.2.6 Leave of Absence 29
4.2.7 Withdrawal from Program 29
4.2.8 Satisfactory Progress 29
4.2.9 Winter and Summer Breaks 29
24.3 CMU Academic Policies ........................................................................................... 30
4.3.1 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities 30
4.3.2 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures 30
4.3.3 Safeguarding Educational Equity: Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault 30
4.3.4 Consensual Intimate Relationship Policy Regarding Undergraduate Students 31
4.3.5 Gestational and Parental Accommodations 31
4.3.6 Change of Address 32
5 Financial Issues ..................................................................................................... 32
5.1 Tuition ....................................................................................................................... 32
5.1.1 Tuition payments 32
5.1.2 Sponsored Students 32
5.1.3 Employer Reimbursement Process 32
5.1.4 Carnegie Mellon employee reimbursement procedure 33
5.1.5 Financial aid, tuition waivers, Scholarships 33
5.1.6 External fellowships 33
5.1.7 Grade Reports 33
5.1.8 Late Graduation 33
5.1.9 Employment Eligibility Verification 34
5.2 Conference Travel Funding .................................................................................... 34
5.3 Expenses .................................................................................................................. 34
5.4 Health Insurance ..................................................................................................... 35
5.5 Emergency Loans .................................................................................................... 35
6 Additional University Resources ......................................................................... 35
6.1 The HUB Student Services Center ......................................................................... 35
6.2 Student Information Online (SIO) .......................................................................... 36
6.3 ID Cards .................................................................................................................... 36
6.4 Transcripts ............................................................................................................... 36
6.5 Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-registration ........... 36
6.6 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA ......................................................................... 37
6.7 Academic Calendar .................................................................................................. 37
6.8 Professional Development ..................................................................................... 37
6.9 University Libraries.................................................................................................. 38
6.10 Computing Services............................................................................................... 39
6.11 Family and Dependents Resources ..................................................................... 39
6.12 Domestic Partner Registration ............................................................................. 40
36.13 Housing .................................................................................................................. 40
6.14 Dining ..................................................................................................................... 40
6.15 Parking and Transportation ................................................................................. 41
6.16 Copying, Printing and Mailing Services ............................................................... 42
6.17 University Center ................................................................................................... 42
6.18 Athletic/Fitness Facilities ....................................................................................... 42
6.19 CMU Alert ............................................................................................................... 43
6.20 Accidents on CMU property ................................................................................. 43
6.21 Consumer Information ......................................................................................... 43
7 Key Resources for Graduate Student Support ..................................................... 1
8 Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs ............................................................. 1
9 Office of the Dean of Students .................................................................................... 1
10 The Division of Student Affairs .................................................................................. 2
11 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion .................................................................. 2
12 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities .............................................................. 3
13 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation ......................... 3
14 Graduate Student Assembly ..................................................................................... 4
15 Office of International Education (OIE)..................................................................... 4
16 Veterans and Military Community ............................................................................ 5
17 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline ................................................................................. 5
18 Policy Against Retaliation ........................................................................................... 5
19 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support ................................................... 6
20 Computing and Information Resources ................................................................... 6
21 Student Academic Success Center ............................................................................ 6
22 University Libraries .................................................................................................... 6
23 Research at CMU ........................................................................................................ 7
24 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance .............................................................. 7
25 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety .......................................................... 7
26 Counseling & Psychological Services ........................................................................ 7
27 Health Services ........................................................................................................... 8
428 Campus Wellness ....................................................................................................... 8
29 Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI) ............................................................ 8
30 University Police ......................................................................................................... 9
31 Shuttle and Escort Services ....................................................................................... 9
32 The WORD ............................................................................................................ 10
51 Welcome
Welcome to the Language Technologies Institute, Master of
Computational Data Science Program. While this handbook is specific to
your academic experience in the department, there are several other
resources and offices graduate students are encouraged to consult during
their tenure at Carnegie Mellon University. Information about The Word,
the student handbook, the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs, the
Office of the Dean of Students, and others are included in Appendix A of
this handbook.
1.1 The MCDS Degree
The MCDS Degree The Master of Computational Data Science (MCDS)
degree is a professional Master of Science degree offered by the Language
Technologies Institute (LTI), a department in the School of Computer
Science at Carnegie Mellon University. The MCDS degree offers students
with a Bachelor's degree the opportunity to improve their training with
advanced study in Computer Science and Machine Learning. We cater to
students with basic analytic skills and a strong aptitude for mathematics,
programming, and logical reasoning. An undergraduate degree in
Computer Science is not required. Most students will complete the
program in three semesters; students coming from other disciplines and
students focus on developing applied research skills in preparation for
further graduate study or research-oriented employment may require an
additional fourth semester.
The MCDS Program offers a core curriculum and several concentrations;
students entering the program enroll in core courses in their first
semester and select further courses to satisfy at least one concentration
(see Section 3.3.6). Students construct their own course of study, in
consultation with their academic advisor, in order to satisfy broad
guidelines. Thus, a student may tailor their coursework in a given
concentration to follow a particular area of emphasis. The MCDS program
is typically a 16-month program consisting of courses, seminars, a
required Capstone Project and a required summer internship or practical
training. While some MCDS graduates continue on to PhD programs in the
LTI or other leading universities, most graduates go on to jobs in
6corporate research and development laboratories.
The program consists entirely of coursework and a Capstone Project, and
no Master’s Thesis is required. All Capstone projects are structured as
research activities and may lead to a publication. There is no Doctoral
program in Computational Data Science. Because of the highly selective
nature of the MCDS program and quality of the MCDS curriculum,
performing well in the program will give a boost to a PhD application. MS
graduates are welcome to apply to CMU PhD programs but will not receive
preferential treatment.
There are significant differences between CMU's different departments
and degree programs in philosophical approach, procedures, policies and
regulations. Each department issues a handbook that informs graduate
students of their program requirements and procedures and ensures that
students have written access to the standard information outlined below.
This handbook describes the policies, procedures, and requirements for
the Master of Computational Data Science (MCDS) degree.
All policies not explicitly described in this document conform to School of
Computer Science (SCS) policies and university policies described in The
Word, Carnegie Mellon University Student Handbook and at the
University Policies website.
1.2 Vision
Carnegie Mellon University will have a transformative impact on society
through continual innovation in education, research, creativity, and
entrepreneurship.
1.3 Mission
To create a transformative educational experience for students focused on
deep disciplinary knowledge; problem solving; leadership,
communication, and interpersonal skills; and personal health and well-
being.
To cultivate a transformative university community committed to (a)
attracting and retaining diverse, world-class talent; (b) creating a
collaborative environment open to the free exchange of ideas, where
7research, creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship can flourish; and
(c) ensuring individuals can achieve their full potential.
To impact society in a transformative way — regionally, nationally, and
globally — by engaging with partners outside the traditional borders of the
university campus.
1.4 MCDS Contact Information
The people responsible for administering the MCDS degree are:
Jennifer M Lucas Carolyn Penstein Rosé, Director
Academic Program Manager Master of Computational Data Science
Master of Computational Data Science Language Technologies Institute
Language Technologies Institute School of Computer Science
School of Computer Science Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University Gates-Hillman Center 5419
Gates-Hillman Center 6415 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pgh, PA 15213
5000 Forbes Avenue, Pgh, PA 15213 Phone: (412) 268-4525
Phone: (412) 268-9870 Fax: (412) 268-7287
Fax: (412) 268-7287
Robert Frederking Mona Diab, LTI Director
Graduate Program Chair Language Technologies Institute
Language Technologies Institute School of Computer Science
School of Computer Science Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University Gates-Hillman Center 5723
Gates-Hillman Center 6515 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pgh, PA 15213
5000 Forbes Avenue, Pgh, PA 15213 Phone: (412) 268-3669
Phone: (412) 268-6656
The Language Technologies Institute is located primarily on the 5
th
and 6
th
floors of the
Gates Hillman Complex (GHC) on Carnegie Mellon’s Pittsburgh campus:
Language Technologies Institute
Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Avenue
Gates Hillman Complex 5402, LTI
Pittsburgh, PA 15241-3891
412-268-6591 (phone)
412-268-6298 (fax)
http://www.lti.cs.cmu.edu/
81.5 University Policies and Expectations
Each member of the Carnegie Mellon community must be familiar with university
policies and guidelines. In addition to this departmental graduate student handbook,
the following resources are available to assist you in understanding community
expectations:
The Word/Student http://www.cmu.edu/student-
Handbook: affairs/theword/index.html
Academic Integrity https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-
Website: life/academic-integrity.html
University Policies http://www.cmu.edu/policies/
Website:
Office of Graduate and http://www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/index.html
Post-Doc Affairs:
Please see Appendix A for additional information about university resources.
1.6 Carnegie Mellon University Statement of Assurance
Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate in admission, employment or
administration of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin,
sex, handicap or disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed,
ancestry, belief, veteran status or genetic information. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon
University does not discriminate and is required not to discriminate in violation of
federal, state or local laws or executive orders.
Inquiries concerning the application of and compliance with this statement should be
directed to the university ombudsman, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue,
Pittsburgh, PA 15213, telephone 412-268-1018. Obtain general information about
Carnegie Mellon University by calling 412-268-2000.
Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security and fire safety report.
describing the university's security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault and fire safety
policies, and containing statistics about the number and type of crimes committed on the
campus, and the number and cause of fires in campus residence facilities during the
preceding three years. You can obtain a copy by contacting the Carnegie Mellon Police
Department at 412-268-2323. The annual security and fire safety report also is available
online at
www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports.
Information regarding the application of Title IX, including to admission and
employment decisions, the sexual misconduct grievance procedures and process,
including how to file a
report or a complaint of sex discrimination, how to file a report of sexual harassment,
and how the university responds to such reports is available at www.cmu.edu/title-ix. The
Title IX
9coordinator may be reached at 412-268-7125 or tix@cmu.edu.
1.7 The Carnegie Mellon Code
Students at Carnegie Mellon, because they are members of an academic community
dedicated to the achievement of excellence, are expected to meet the highest standards
of
personal, ethical and moral conduct possible.
These standards require personal integrity, a commitment to honesty without
compromise, as well as truth without equivocation and a willingness to place the good of
the community above the good of the self. Obligations once undertaken must be met,
commitments kept.
As members of the Carnegie Mellon community, individuals are expected to uphold the
standards of the community in addition to holding others accountable for said standards.
It is
rare that the life of a student in an academic community can be so private that it will not
affect the community as a whole or that the above standards do not apply.
The discovery, advancement and communication of knowledge are not possible without
a
commitment to these standards. Creativity cannot exist without acknowledgment of the
creativity of others. New knowledge cannot be developed without credit for prior
knowledge. Without the ability to trust that these principles will be observed, an
academic community cannot exist.
The commitment of its faculty, staff and students to these standards contributes to the
high
respect in which the Carnegie Mellon degree is held. Students must not destroy that
respect by their failure to meet these standards. Students who cannot meet them should
voluntarily
withdraw from the university.
The Carnegie Mellon Code can also be found on-line at:
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/.
2 The Language Technologies Institute
2.1 Main Office
The Gates Hillman Complex: Mailboxes, printers, copiers, and other departmental
resources are in GHC 5404.
102.2 Photocopies and Printers
The use of a printer/copier requires a CS user id (see the ‘Computers’ section). The School
of Computer Science provides several black-and-white and color printers for use by
students. SCS Computing Facilities maintains a list of printers:
http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~help/printing/.
2.3 Office Space for MS Students
Full-time students in the LTI’s MS degree programs on the Pittsburgh campus have
access to a shared working space to create a sense of community and provide space for
working when on campus.
2.4 Computers for MS Students
Students are expected to provide their own laptop computers that can be used to access
university resources and complete course assignments. Laptops running Windows,
MacOS, and Linux software are all acceptable.
MS students will be given a CS user id. A CS user id is required to use the LTI computer
cluster, department printers, and other SCS services. The School of Computer Science
has a Help Center located at 4203 GHC. They can be contacted at help@cs.cmu.edu,
extension 8-4231 from a campus phone, or 412-268-4231 from an outside line.
MS students will be given access to the LTI’s computer cluster on an as-needed basis, to
be used for course assignments, directed study projects, and/or the capstone project. The
LTI cluster provides storage and computation for projects involving large datasets and/or
lengthy computation.
3 MCDS Degree Completion and Certification
This section describes the various rules and regulations that determine the attainment of
a MCDS degree by the student.
3.1 CMU Degree Completion and Statute of Limitations
Carnegie Mellon graduate students are expected to complete their degree requirements
within the standard length of time for their program of study as outlined in the relevant
Graduate Student Handbook. Standard program lengths for graduate students vary
significantly – ranging from two semesters for some full-time master’s programs to
several or more years for doctoral programs. Upon completion of the graduate program
degree requirements, the degree will be certified by the student’s academic program in
the semester in which the student completes the requirements.
Early Completion
Graduate students who consider the completion of all degree requirements in less than
the standard length of time for their program of study may consult with their degree-
11granting program or department to determine if early degree certification is allowed and
under what circumstances.
Extended or Longer-than-Standard Completion
Longer-than-standard degree completion may occur due to academic interruptions in
making progress toward the degree as defined by the academic program, interruptions
of full-time study or progress towards the degree due to serious, documented medical
issues, or other unusual or unforeseen circumstances. Master’s students who require
longer than the standard time to complete their degree requirements are expected to
remain in close contact with their graduate program and will be certified at the end of the
semester in which they have completed their degree requirements.
Policy on Master’s Student Statute of Limitations
www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/masters-students-statute-of-
limitations.html
See the above link regarding guidelines and restrictions which place an upper limit on
the maximum length of time allowable for master’s degree completion and certification.
Additional Guidance for Students
Program of study. Students seeking guidance about their program of study and degree
requirements should consult with their academic advisor and/or appropriate associate
dean.
Financial aid and student account
Students are expected to make normal progress toward their degree to graduate within
the standard timeframe for their program of study. Under U.S. Federal Title IV
regulations, student eligibility for federal financial aid is contingent upon enrollment in
and successful completion of courses that are counted as credit toward their current
degree program. To receive the maximum amount of federal financial aid for which they
may be eligible, students must enroll each semester in at least 36 units that count toward
their current degree level. (See separate guidance regarding integrated degree
completion.) Students should consult with their designated college liaison in The HUB
regarding billing and financial aid, particularly for early completion, longer-than-
standard completion, or integrated undergraduate and master’s degree programs.
International students
Immigration status for students in F-1 and J-1 non-immigrant status is tied to making
normal progress toward completing degree requirements. Therefore, F-1 and J-1
students who are considering completing their degree requirements early, anticipating
longer-than-standard completion, or moving from an undergraduate to a graduate
student classification (integrated undergraduate-graduate study) should consult with
their designated advisor in the Office of International Education (OIE) to ensure
compliance with immigration regulations.
123.2 Full-time Status
All MCDS students are expected to enroll full-time (at present, there is no option to pursue
the degree as a part-time student). To be considered a full-time student, a student must
be registered for, and complete, a minimum of 36 units in every Fall and Spring semester.
All international students are required by US Federal law to maintain full-time status.
Students can have no more than one (1) remote course counting toward the 36 units used
to satisfy full-time enrollment. Failure to maintain full-time status will result in loss of a
student visa (and, therefore, “permit of stay”). All students having a Stafford Loan are
required to maintain full-time status.
3.3 MCDS Degree Enrollment Process and Related Information
3.3.1 Duration of the degree program
The MCDS degree must be completed within five (5) years from the time that the student
matriculates into the program.
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/masters-students-statute-of-
limitations.html
As outlined in the Master’s Students Statute of Limitations (see link above), students will
complete all requirements for the master’s degree within a maximum of seven years from
original matriculation as a master’s student, or less if required by a more restrictive
department, school or college policy. Once this time-to-degree limit has lapsed, the
person may resume work towards a master’s degree only if newly admitted to a currently
offered master’s degree program under criteria determined by that program.
Under extraordinary circumstances, such as leave of absence, military or public service,
family or parental leave, or temporary disability, a school or college may, upon the
relevant department's recommendation and with the written approval of the dean (or
designate), defer the lapse for a period commensurate with the duration of that
interruption. Students who are pursuing a master’s degree as part-time students for all
semesters of their program, as approved by their program, may also appeal to their
program or department for extension of the time to degree limit.
3.3.2 Residency requirements
There is no formal residence requirement. However, most courses in the program are
taught on campus without an option for distance education. Students enrolled in in-
person course sections (IPR) are expected to attend all class meetings in person.
3.3.3 Degree Certification: Course requirements and related policies/protocols
13 In order to receive the MCDS degree, students must have a Quality Point Average
(QPA) of 3.0. Completion of the degree is based on completing courses in the core
curriculum, the MCDS seminar, electives and capstone project.
The capstone project consists of students working at CMU on a research project,
or on an industry-sponsored project.
The student must complete 144 eligible units of study. This includes eight core and
concentration courses, two 12-unit seminar courses and two 12-unit capstone
courses. All students complete a common MCDS core in their first two semesters,
consisting of five courses. All students must also complete at least one
concentration, consisting of three courses in one of three areas: Analytics,
Systems, or Human-Centered Data Science. The remaining elective course can be
any course with number 600 or above chosen from the SCS course catalog. Any
additional non-prerequisite units taken beyond the 144 units are also considered
electives.
To maintain full-time enrollment status, a student must enroll in a minimum of 36
course units per semester. A student may not take more than 60 units per
semester, without permission from their academic advisor. Students must
maintain full-time enrollment status (minimum of 36 units) in their final semester.
3.3.4 Prerequisite Core Course
All MCDS students are expected to pass the 11-637 Foundations of Computational Data
Science course by the end of their first semester. Each student must pass 11-637 with a
grade of “B” or better.
3.3.5 Plan of study
The degree consists of two timing options based on the length of time the student spends
working on the degree. The student chooses their timing at the start of the degree
program (for visa requirements). Changes in timing are possible with the approval of the
Director of the degree program and successful visa extension application with CMU’s
Office of International Education. Note that all degree options consist of the same amount
of coursework:
Professional Preparation Track – a 16-month degree consisting of study for Fall
and Spring semesters, a summer internship, and Fall semester of study. Each
semester consists of a minimum of 48 units of study. This timing is typical for most
students. The student graduates in December.
Research Preparation Track – a 20-month degree consisting of study for Fall and
Spring semesters, a summer internship, and a second year of Fall and Spring
study. Each semester consists of a minimum of 36 units of study. This timing is
designed for students interested in extending their time at CMU for developing
applied research skills in preparation for further graduate study or research-
oriented employment. Note that the per-semester course load is lower, but the
total cost is higher since four semesters of tuition are paid. This timing is also
14recommended for students interested in pursuing a PhD after graduation. The
student graduates in May.
3.3.6.1 MCDS Curriculum
All MCDS students must complete 144 units of graduate study which satisfy the
following curriculum:
11-637 - Foundations of Computational Data Science
Four (4) additional MCDS Core Courses (10-601 Introduction to Machine
Learning; 05-839 Interactive Data Science; 15-619 Cloud Computing; 11-631 Data
Science Seminar; 48 units)
Three courses (3) from one area of concentration curriculum (36 units)
Three (3) MCDS Capstone courses (11-634, 11-635 and 11-632) (36 units)
One (1) Elective: any graduate level course 600 and above in the School of
Computer Science (12 units)
3.3.6.2 Common MCDS Core Courses
All MCDS students are required to complete four common core courses in their first two
semesters:
10-601 - Machine Learning
15-619 - Cloud Computing
05-839 - Interactive Data Science
11-631 - Data Science Seminar
3.3.6.3 Areas of Concentration
In addition to the common MCDS core, all students must complete at least one area of
concentration, which consists of three courses in Analytics, Systems, or Human-
Centered Data Science. Students consult with their academic advisor and choose one or
more areas of concentration during their first semester, in preparation for enrolling in
Spring classes.
Analytics concentration:
o One (1) Machine Learning course
o One (1) Software Systems course
o One (1) big data course
Systems concentration:
o 15-513 Introduction to Computer Systems (elective, prerequisite for many
advanced Systems courses)
o Three (3) systems project courses
Human-Centered Data Science concentration:
o One (1) Methods course
o Two (2) HCI courses
15A detailed list of courses satisfying each concentration is contained in the MCDS Program
FAQ.
3.3.6.4 MCDS Capstone Courses
All MCDS students complete three Capstone courses:
11-634 - Capstone Planning Seminar (12 units)
11-635 - Capstone Research (12 units)
11-632 - Data Science Capstone (12 units)
MCDS Program Learning Outcomes
Design, implement and evaluate the use of analytic algorithms on sample
datasets.
Explain how a machine-learning model is developed for and evaluated on real
world datasets.
Design and execute experimental data collection and present resulting analyses
using appropriate user experience (UX) techniques including interactive data
visualizations.
Apply and customize analytics, systems and human-centered data science
techniques to application-specific data science requirements and objectives.
Identify tradeoffs among data science techniques (analytics, systems and/or
human-centered) and contrast design alternatives, within the context of specific
data science application domains.
Survey, interpret and comparatively criticize state of the art research talks and
papers, with emphasis on constructive improvements.
Organize, execute, report on, and present a real world data science project in
collaboration with other researchers/programmers.
Depending on the concentration, additional learning outcomes are emphasized:
Analytics. Students electing to complete the Analytics concentration will also learn to:
Design, implement and evaluate a software system and machine-learning model
on real world datasets at real world scale.
Analyze and document data science requirements in different application
domains and survey as well as critique state of the art solutions for those
requirements.
Systems. Students electing to complete the Systems concentration will also learn to:
16 Implement and evaluate complex, scalable data science systems, with emphasis
on providing experimental evidence for design decisions.
Anticipate and avert structural and/or implementation problems with systems
design, especially with scaling and tail distributions.
HCDS. Students electing to complete the Human-Centered Data Science (HCDS)
concentration will also learn to:
Design, implement and evaluate a user experience prototype to allow for clear
understanding of data science solutions.
Apply social and behavioral research methods to data science problems to
understand the human aspects of data collection and analysis.
Throughout their coursework, students will take introductory courses on all those topics,
practice them in advanced courses and seminars and demonstrate all learned skills in
their Capstone project and internship. Students are encouraged to choose elective
courses in the curriculum according to their professional goals and mastery of the main
subjects.
3.3.10 Capstone project
The capstone project consists of students working in a team or individually on a project.
The capstone project integrates the educational experience of the student. A capstone
project is typically a CMU research project, or an industry sponsored project;
occasionally students define capstone topics through communication with the faculty.
Students interested in defining their own capstone topics should discuss with the MCDS
faculty as early as possible. The capstone project is a great opportunity for a student (or
student team) to “show off” their unique skills and accomplishments. Capstone projects
have been instrumental in the hiring decisions for several employers.
3.3.11 Elective courses
Electives can be any graduate level course (numbered 600 or above) in the School of
Computer Science. Students use their elective courses to enhance study in an area of
interest or to explore new areas of interest.
3.3.12 Undergraduate courses
Undergraduate courses are taken to address an area of weakness in the student’s prior
preparation. Undergraduate courses (numbered less than or equal to 599) may be taken
pass/fail or for credit but do not count toward the 144 units of eligible study: The course
and course grade will appear on the student’s transcript, and the course grade will factor
as part of the student’s QPA.
173.3.13 Independent study course
Independent study courses allow students to cover study of a particular area of interest,
and are used when no formal course is available in a given subject area. Students who are
interested in continuing to a Ph.D. degree often enroll in Independent Study, since it
offers the opportunity to perform research directly with a faculty member. Independent
study courses are considered electives.
Each independent study course must be advised and approved by at least one faculty
member. Agreement to supervise an independent study course is purely voluntary on the
part of the faculty member. It is the duty of the student, therefore, to negotiate the terms
and conditions of the independent study with the pertinent faculty members of CMU who
will be supervising the study. These individuals are referred to as “independent study
supervisors.” Once the student finds someone who agrees to supervise such a course,
he/she must:
1. Students wishing to take an independent study must request approval from their
academic advisor and complete proposal before the first day of classes in a given
semester:
2. Enter into an agreement with the independent study supervisor that includes
course expectations, including deliverables.
3. Secure the “Independent Study Contract Form” from the MCDS administrator.
4. Complete the form, provide a brief description of the work to be done, including
deliverables and how they will be graded.
5. Secure signatures of both the student and the supervisor. Return the form to the
MCDS administrator in order to obtain approval for the independent study from the
Director.
Independent study contracts must be submitted no later than on the last day of the first
week of classes in a given semester.
3.3.14 Double counting courses
No course may be used to complete two MCDS degree requirements, nor may a course
satisfy requirements in two degree programs.
3.3.15 Courses outside of the School of Computer Science
Elective courses in other Schools at Carnegie Mellon may be taken with prior permission
of the Director.
3.3.16 Grades
All courses offered by the SCS CMU are graded on the 4.3 grading standard
http://www.cmu.edu/policies/documents/Grades.html. MCDS students must maintain a
3.0 overall average each semester to remain in good standing. A student must obtain a B-
or better grade in all courses, which count towards core requirements. If a student
18receives a C- or better, that course may count as an elective towards the degree
requirements. All courses must receive a letter grade; courses taken pass/fail do not
count towards the MCDS degree.
Enrollment Services is the only University office that can provide an official letter of
enrollment, official transcript and enrollment verification. Enrollment verification can
be requested online through The HUB at: https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/student-
records/verifications/
3.3.17 Student Review, Academic Probation and Academic Actions
The MCDS program conducts an academic progress review at the conclusion of each
semester in order to monitor individual student progress towards graduation regarding
the fulfillment of curricular requirements, course grades, and academic integrity. Should
a student’s effort fall below the acceptable level of academic performance and/or fail to
meet standards and policies established by Carnegie Mellon University, the student may
be dismissed from the program.
Infractions
After each academic progress review, each student will receive a letter indicating the
result of the review and their standing in the program. If applicable, the letter will also
note the following infractions by the student in the given semester:
Cumulative QPA is below 3.0, resulting in the student being put on Academic
Probation (see below)
Cumulative QPA is below 2.6, resulting in academic probation or possible
dismissal (see below)
Academic Integrity Violation (AIV) deemed an infraction by the MCDS committee
(see 3.7.2)
Minimum QPA and Academic Probation
Students must maintain a cumulative QPA of 3.0 to remain in good standing with the
program. Should a student’s overall QPA drop below 3.0 during any given semester,
he/she will be placed on academic probation for the following semester. In probation
cases, the student will be required to
enroll in courses as advised by the academic advisor,
improve his/her grades to no less than an overall 3.0 QPA in the following
semester, and
meet any other goal set by the advisor during that period (e.g., fulfilling a core
course requirement).
If a student’s cumulative QPA drops below 2.6, the student will be considered at risk of
being unable to complete the program and will be considered for dismissal. He/she will
be required to meet the program director to discuss his/her situation. Only if, after that
meeting, the MCDS program committee ascertains that the student is likely to complete
19the remaining program requirements in the allotted time, the student will be allowed to
continue his/her studies in MCDS, and dismissed otherwise. If the student is allowed to
continue their studies, they will be placed on academic probation for the following
semester and is subject to the requirements above.
Dismissal
A student may be dismissed from the program for any of the following cases:
If the student has been put on academic probation and failed to meet the remedial
requirements set by the advisor in the following semester, or committed an
Academic Integrity Violation deemed an infraction by the MCDS committee while
on academic probation
If the student has a cumulative QPA of 2.6 or lower and the MCDS program
committee does not ascertain that the student is likely to complete the remaining
program requirements in the allotted time
If the student has committed two Academic Integrity Violation deemed infractions
by the MCDS committee (see 3.7.2)
If the student has committed an Academic Integrity Violation infraction where the
violation is deemed to be sufficiently egregious as determined by the MCDS
program committee
If the student has been found to infringe a University Policy, where such
infringement is deemed grounds for dismissal
Students who realize that one of these situations may apply to them are strongly
encouraged to meet with the academic advisor to discuss a plan to mitigate the situation.
Students who find they are struggling in the program will have the best chances of success
if they communicate early and often with the academic advisor.
3.3.18 Incomplete grades
Carnegie Mellon University students are expected to complete a course during the
academic semester in which the course was taken. However, if the instructor agrees, a
grade of “I” (incomplete) may be given when a student has been unable to complete the
work of a course. However, the work completed up to that date must be of passing quality
and the grade of incomplete provides no undue advantage to that student over other
students.
By awarding an “I” grade, an instructor must specify the requirements for the completion
of the work and designate a default letter grade in the event that the student fails to
complete the remaining work.
Students must complete the required course work by no later than the end of the
following academic semester or sooner if required by the instructor.
20The instructor must record the permanent course grade by the last day of the
examination period of the following semester, or the Registrar will automatically assign
the default grade.
If further work has not been completed after one semester and a default grade is
rendered, the default grade will become the grade of record.
3.3.19 Change of grades and missing grades
If a grade has been assigned in error, it can be changed to a different permanent grade.
The procedure for changing a grade is as follows:
Discuss the matter with the course instructor; provide evidence that the grade issued
was not the grade earned.
If the instructor agrees, the student should contact the program administrator to
process a Change of Grade Form in order to correct the grade that was issued in error.
Generally, the instructor is the final authority for a course grade.
If a grade has not been assigned, please notify the course instructor for the
completion of a Missing Grade Form.
3.3.20 Qualifying examinations and procedures (or equivalent)
None required.
3.3.21 Thesis/dissertation
None required.
3.3.22 On transfer to another program
If the requirements for the MCDS degree have not been completed when a student leaves
to pursue another academic program, the degree will not be awarded. Completion of the
MCDS degree does not guarantee admission into any doctoral degree program at
Carnegie Mellon University. The courses that will be completed as part of the MCDS may
serve to enhance one’s application to these programs but will in no way insure
admittance.
3.3.23 Intellectual property policy
The MCDS degree program adheres to Carnegie Mellon University policy on intellectual
property: http://www.cmu.edu/policies/documents/IntellProp.html
3.3.24 Teaching requirements
None required. However, students are encouraged to apply for teaching assistant
positions in courses where they have excelled.
3.3.25 Language proficiency requirements
None required. However, non-native English speakers are encouraged to take advantage
of the various support functions provided by the Intercultural Communication Center
(ICC) and the Global Communication Center (GCC).
213.3.26 Academic Integrity and Policies on Plagiarism and Cheating
The university considers any form of cheating or plagiarism to be a serious violation of
student ethics. The student is required to understand and rigorously follow only the
permitted forms of collaboration as defined by the instructor in every class. The work
you submit must be your own, unless you have clearly attributed it to others. You must
not use the work of others without proper citation. And, you must not use resources,
including other persons, except as authorized by the course or project for which you are
submitting the work. Such conduct might be accepted or commonplace elsewhere, but it
is not here. Be careful. Be warned. Failure to abide by these rules, even just once, can
result in your permanent separation from the University without refund of money paid.
Note that the policy requires the student to be informed and understand the academic
integrity rules for every assignment or exam in a course.
The MCDS program strives to produce graduates with the highest standards of academic
integrity. Academic Integrity Violations are taken very seriously and the MCDS program
has a zero tolerance policy for multiple Academic Integrity Violations. A single violation
is grounds for dismissal from the graduate program if deemed sufficiently egregious as
determined by the MCDS program committee. If a student commits a second violation,
the expected penalty is dismissal from the graduate program (see also academic progress
review at section 3.3.17).
Please review the University Policy on Academic Integrity:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/academic-integrity.html
The policy includes the University expectations around academic integrity and
provides definitions of cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized assistance.
A review of the University’s Academic Disciplinary Actions procedures
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/academic-discipline/index.html is also
recommended. These procedures outline the process for investigating, reporting, and
adjudicating violations of the University Policy on Academic Integrity. The procedures
also outline the appeal process.
3.3.27 Process for Appealing Final Grades
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/academic/appeal-of-grades-and-academic-actions.html
Final grades will be changed only in exceptional circumstances and only with the
approval of the instructor and the department, unit or program. Grading is a matter of
sound discretion of the instructor and final grades are rarely changed without the consent
of the instructor who assigned the grade. The following circumstances are the unusual
exceptions that may warrant a grade appeal: (a) the final grade assigned for a course is
based on manifest error (e.g. a clear error such as arithmetic error in computing a grade
or failure to grade one of the answers on an exam), or (b) the faculty or staff member who
assigned the grade did so in violation of a University policy.
223.3.27 Teaching Assistants
The MCDS degree does not have a teaching requirement. However, some students may
wish to be a teaching assistant. MCDS students may petition for approval to TA up to one
course per semester provided that they are in good academic standing (Overall QPA 3.0
or above).
As required by the English Fluency in Higher Education Act of 1990, graduate students
are required to have a certain level of fluency in English before they can instruct in
Pennsylvania. Through this Act, all institutions of higher education in the state are
required to evaluate and certify the English fluency of all instructional personnel,
including teaching assistants and interns.
The full university policy can be reviewed at:
http://www.cmu.edu/policies/faculty/evaluation-certification-english-fluency-
instructors.html.
In addition to administering the International Teaching Assistant (ITA) Test (mandatory
screening test for any non-native speaker of English), Language Support in the Student
Academic Success Center helps teaching assistants who are non-native English speakers
develop fluency and cultural understanding to teach successfully at Carnegie Mellon.
Visit the website for additional information: https://www.cmu.edu/student-success/
3.3.28 Internship Requirement and Search for Full Time Employment
An internship is required for the degree program. In some cases, when a student has
prior work experience, the Director of the degree program may waive this requirement.
Students start searching for internships generally in the Fall and Spring semesters. Once
the student returns from an internship in the Fall, they should immediately begin the
search for full time employment. Extensive resources are available at
http://www.cmu.edu/career/ including a resume submission system, a list of employers,
on campus interviews and mock interviews, and many other resources.
The Technical Opportunities Conference (TOC)
http://engineering.cmu.edu/companies/toc/ occurs every September. This conference is
one of the main recruiting events each year.
All international students are required to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
CPT is employment that is an integral part of an established curriculum and is directly
related to the student’s major area of study. Please visit the Office of International
Education (OIE) link below to learn more about the CPT process:
http://www.cmu.edu/oie/forstu/jobs.html
233.4 Enrollment Verification
Enrollment Services is the only University office that can provide an official letter of
enrollment, official transcript and enrollment verification. Enrollment verification can
be requested online through The HUB via this link:
http://www.cmu.edu/hub/transcripts/verifications/enrollment.html
3.5 University Policies on Grades and Grading
3.6.1 University Policy on Grades
This policy offers details concerning university grading principles for students taking
courses and covers the specifics of assigning and changing grades, grading options,
drop/withdrawals and course repeats. It also defines the undergraduate and graduate
grading standards.
You can review the university grading policies here:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/grading.html
3.6.2 University Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses
Carnegie Mellon University offers students the opportunity to take courses for credit
through a cross-registration program (see Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education
(PCHE) and Cross-registration below) and through the receipt of transfer credit from
other accredited institutions. The Carnegie Mellon University transcript will include
information on such courses as follows: Carnegie Mellon courses and courses taken
through the university’s cross-registration program will have grades recorded on the
transcript and be factored into the QPA. All other courses will be recorded on this
transcript indicating where the course was taken, but without grades. Such courses will
not be taken into account for academic actions, honors or QPA calculations. (Note:
suspended students may take courses elsewhere; however, they may receive transfer
credit only if their college’s and department’s policies allow this.)
You can review the university policy here:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/transfer-credit-evaluation-and-
assignment.html
3.6 Academic Integrity
3.7.1 Expectations Regarding Proper Conduct
In the midst of self-exploration, the high demands of a challenging academic
environment can create situations where some students have difficulty exercising good
judgment. Academic challenges can provide many opportunities for high standards to
evolve if students actively reflect on these challenges and if the community supports
24discussions to aid in this process. It is the responsibility of the entire community to
establish and maintain the integrity of our university.
Carnegie Mellon University educates its students to become professionals who will serve
society with integrity. The university also creates and disseminates new knowledge and
expressions of knowledge in ways that benefit society. Carnegie Mellon strives to serve
the changing needs of society through the three primary goals outlined in its mission
statement: to create and disseminate knowledge and art through research and artistic
expression, teaching and learning and transfer to society, to serve students by teaching
them leadership and problem-solving skills, and the values of quality, ethical behavior,
responsibility to society and commitments to work, to pursue the advantages provided by
a diverse community, open to the exchange of ideas, where discovery and artistic
creativity can flourish.
In any presentation, creative, artistic or research, it is the ethical responsibility of each
student to identify the conceptual sources of the work submitted. Failure to do so is
dishonest and is the basis for a charge of cheating or plagiarism, which is subject to
disciplinary action.
Please review the University Policy on Academic Integrity
(https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/academic-integrity.html). The
policy includes the University expectations around academic integrity and provides
definitions of cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized assistance.
A review of the University’s Academic Disciplinary Actions procedures
(https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/academic-discipline/index.html) is also
recommended. These procedures outline the process for investigating, reporting, and
adjudicating violations of the University Policy on Academic Integrity. The procedures
also outline the appeal process.
3.7.2 Protocol for Academic Integrity Violations
The university has a very clear and specific protocol for responding to alleged violations
of academic integrity. Carnegie Mellon's Academic Disciplinary Actions Overview for
Graduate Students describes procedures and the appeal process for disciplinary actions
against graduate students in cases of alleged academic integrity violation.
For more information on disciplinary actions please see:
https://www.cmu.edu/student-
affairs/theword/acad_standards/creative/disciplinary.html
Further documentation on how to respond to an allegation of a violation as a graduate
student:
25https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/ocsi/academic-integrity/grads.html
Important Note: MCDS implements the above policy’s option of “conven[ing] a
disciplinary hearing according to the procedures of the department/program”. We have
adopted the following hearing procedure and “two strikes” rule:
If an instructor determines that an academic integrity violation has occurred,
both the instructor and students are given the opportunity to explain the situation
to the MCDS program committee. A written hearing by email suffices for this
purpose.
The program committee then reviews all information and decides whether the
violation is deemed an infraction (see 3.3.17), and which secondary actions are to
be taken on the program level.
Two-Strike-Rule: MCDS may dismiss students upon a first AIV infraction. A
second infraction will always lead to the offending student being dismissed from
the program, with no exceptions.
The MCDS program reserves the right to withdraw a degree even though it has been
granted should there be discovery that the work upon which it was based or the academic
records in support of it had been falsified. In such a case, the degree will be withdrawn
promptly upon discovery of the falsification. The complete reference to this university
policy is available at: https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-
life/withdrawal-of-a-degree.html
4 Academic Policies
4.1 MCDS Academic Policies
4.1.1 Duration of Study
MCDS students enrolled for full-time studies are normally expected to complete the
degree in three semesters (16 months). This includes a summer internship.
4.1.2 Double-Dipping
A Masters student who uses courses taken as part of another degree program (at
Carnegie Mellon or elsewhere) toward their program requirements cannot use those
same courses toward any other M.S. degree offered by the School of Computer Science
without prior approval.
4.1.3 Pass/Fail and Audit Grades
Pass/fail and audit grades are not permitted for courses used to satisfy a degree
requirement. Graduate students who are required to take additional undergraduate
courses to build up the core foundations of computer science may not elect the pass/fail
or audit option for these courses.
264.1.4 Transfer Credit
An equivalent graduate course previously completed at Carnegie Mellon, or another
institution, may be permitted to satisfy one of the MCDS course requirements, with
permission from the Director. Students must petition for transfer credit by providing
the Program Director with the prior course syllabus and other details that may be
required by the Director in order to make a decision. See the section on “Definition of
transfer credit versus course exemption”. NOTE: In all cases, credit may only be
transferred from another degree program for courses deemed “free electives” - i.e.,
courses which were not used to satisfy a core requirement or total units requirement in
a prior degree program.
All MS students are required to take a minimum of 96 units of coursework at CMU.
4.1.5 External Internships and Job Interviewing
MCDS students are expected to attain an external internship during the summer.
International students must coordinate carefully with the University, due to visa
restrictions. International students are required to consult with the Office of
International Education for eligibility before seeking an internship/co-op or signing an
offer contract.
We caution all students to be aware of potential intellectual property (IP) implications
with internships, and to review any IP agreements with their academic advisor before
signing them. It is possible to lose ownership of your own inventions if they occur during
an external internship.
While it is necessary for students to travel off-campus for job interviews, it is not
acceptable for a student to miss a course requirement or a capstone project commitment
due to interview travel. Students should work proactively with prospective employers to
arrange interview travel in a way that minimizes the impact on their final semester
course work.
4.1.6 Transferring into the MCDS Program
Direct transfers into the MCDS program are not permitted. Students who are currently
enrolled at Carnegie Mellon who wish to transfer into the MCDS program must do so by
applying to the MCDS program via the normal admissions process. As specified in Sec.
4.1.4 in this document, some transfer credit and/or exemption from MCDS requirements
may be possible on a case-by-case basis.
4.1.7 Transferring Out of the MCDS Program
The MCDS program does not prevent students from transferring to another degree
program. Each degree program has its own rules about whether and when transfers into
the program are permitted. A student that is interested in transferring out of the MCDS
degree program should consult the handbook and Program Director of the desired
27degree program to learn whether transfers are permitted, and if so, how and when to
request such a transfer.
4.1.8 Statute of Limitations
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/masters-students-statute-of-
limitations.html
As outlined in the Master’s Students Statute of Limitations (link above), students will
complete all requirements for the master’s degree within a maximum of seven years
from original matriculation as a master’s student, or less if required by a more restrictive
department, school or college policy. Once this time-to-degree limit has lapsed, the
person may resume work towards a master’s degree only if newly admitted to a currently
offered master’s degree program under criteria determined by that program.
Under extraordinary circumstances, such as leave of absence, military or public service,
family or parental leave, or temporary disability, a school or college may, upon the
relevant department's recommendation and with the written approval of the dean (or
designate), defer the lapse for a period commensurate with the duration of that
interruption. Students who are pursuing a master’s degree as part-time students for all
semesters of their program, as approved by their program, may also appeal to their
program or department for extension of the time to degree limit.
4.2 LTI Academic Policies
4.2.1 “Grandfather” policy
A student can graduate under the policies in effect at the time that the student entered
the program; or, at the student's choice, the student can graduate under policies that are
adopted after the student entered the program. In unusual cases, the Director may
approve exceptions to the program requirements.
4.2.2 Course Drop/Add/withdrawal procedures
Students taking undergraduate and Master’s level courses must follow the procedures and
deadlines for adding, dropping, or withdrawing from courses as identified on the
academic calendar. Information can be found at:
https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/course-changes/index.html.
There is a separate calendar for masters level courses.
4.2.3 Courses with restricted enrollment
MCDS students have priority for the program core courses. The MCDS program
administrators cannot intercede with other departments to secure seats for its students
in other courses as all departments reserve seats for their accepted students. Usually all
remaining open seats are assigned on a first- come, first-served basis. Students can,
28on occasion, contact the assigned course instructor in order to plead his/her case for
admission to the course. Admission may be granted at the discretion of the instructor.
The policy of the department offering the course(s) is always followed.
4.2.4 Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption
The LTI may grant transfer credit or issue an exemption for equivalent graduate courses
previously completed at another institution. This decision rests with the Director of the
particular program. If a student is exempt from a required course due to prior courses or
experience, the student can replace that course with an open elective. The student does
not receive credit for the external course but can take any course that could normally
count toward the degree in its place. If a student receives credit for prior coursework
completed at CMU or elsewhere, the student receives that many units of credit, and the
total amount of required coursework is reduced by that amount.
4.2.5 External Employment/Consulting
Since the MCDS program places heavy demands on student time, external employment
and/or consulting are strongly discouraged. Exceptional students who wish to consult
should discuss this with their advisor. International students must also have approval in
advance from the Office of International Education (OIE) for any outside employment.
4.2.6 Leave of Absence
A student in good standing may be granted a LOA of at most 1 year, upon written request
to the Program Director and with consent of the student's advisor. It is the responsibility
of the student on LOA to contact the program administrator to apply for a return to the
program.
4.2.7 Withdrawal from Program
Students may voluntarily withdraw from the MCDS program. If a student decides to
withdraw, or is considering a withdrawal, she/he should contact the program
administrator to schedule an advising meeting as soon as possible.
The university’s general withdrawal policy can be found here:
https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/leaves-and-withdrawals/
4.2.8 Satisfactory Progress
If a student does not make satisfactory progress each semester toward completing the
degree, the LTI may remove the student from the program. See section on “End of
Semester Evaluation”. In particular, students in the three-semester program who fail one
of their first-semester MCDS core required courses are strongly encouraged to consider
switching to the four-semester program.
4.2.9 Winter and Summer Breaks
29Students supported by research projects or working in an on-campus internship are
expected to remain on campus working during breaks in classes. A two-week vacation is
typically allowed in the summer for the students who are working on campus (not
pursuing an external internship). Supported students should arrange their winter break
time with their supervisor.
4.3 CMU Academic Policies
4.3.1 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
http://www.cmu.edu/education-office/disability-resources/
The Office of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University has a continued mission
to provide physical, digital, and programmatic access to ensure that students with
disabilities have equal access to their educational experience. We work to ensure that
qualified individuals receive reasonable accommodations as guaranteed by the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Students who would like to receive accommodations can begin the process through
Disability Resources' secure online portal
(https://rainier.accessiblelearning.com/cmu/) or email access@andrew.cmu.edu to
begin the interactive accommodation process.
Students with physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional disabilities are encouraged to
self-identify with the Office of Disability Resources and request needed accommodations.
Any questions about the process can be directed to access@andrew.cmu.edu, or call (412)
268-6121.
4.3.2 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures
Graduate students will find the Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance
Procedures on the Graduate Education Resource webpage. This document summarizes
processes available to graduate students who seek review of academic and non-academic
issues. Generally, graduate students are expected to seek informal resolution of all
concerns within the applicable department, unit or program before invoking formal
processes. When an informal resolution cannot be reached, however, a graduate student
who seeks further review of the matter is to follow the formal procedures outlined here.
These appeal and grievance procedures shall apply to students in all graduate programs
of the University. Students should refer to the department specific information in this
handbook for department and college information about the administration and
academic policies of the program.
You can review a summary of the university’s graduate student’s appeal and grievance
procedures here:
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/appeal-grievance-procedures.html
4.3.3 Safeguarding Educational Equity: Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault
30The University prohibits sex-based discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault,
dating/ domestic violence and stalking. The University also prohibits retaliation against
individuals who bring forward such concerns or allegations in good faith. The
University’s Sexual Misconduct Policy is available at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/sexual-
misconduct/index.html.
The University’s Policy Against Retaliation is available at:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/whistleblower.html
If you have been impacted by any of these issues, you are encouraged to
make contact with any of the following resources:
Office of Title IX Initiatives: http://www.cmu.edu/title-ix/, 412-268-7125,
tix@cmu.edu
University Police: https://www.cmu.edu/police/, 412-268-2323
Additional resources and information can be found at:
https://www.cmu.edu/title-ix/resources-and-information/index.html
4.3.4 Consensual Intimate Relationship Policy Regarding Undergraduate Students
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/consensual-relationships.html
This policy addresses the circumstances in which romantic, sexual or amorous
relationships/interactions with undergraduate students, even if consensual, are
inappropriate and prohibited. The purpose of this policy is to assure healthy
professional relationships. This policy is not intended to discourage consensual
intimate relationships unless there is a conflicting professional relationship in which
one party has authority over the other as in the policy.
4.3.5 Gestational and Parental Accommodations
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/programs-services/maternity-accommodation-
protocol.html
Students whose anticipated delivery date is during the course of the semester may
consider taking time away from their coursework and/or research responsibilities. Any
student who gives birth to a child while engaged in coursework or research is eligible to
take either a short-term absence or formal leave of absence. Students are encouraged to
consult with relevant university faculty and staff as soon as possible as they begin
making plans regarding time away.
Students must contact the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs to register for
Maternity Accommodations. Students will complete an information form and
meet with a member of the Dean’s Office staff to determine resources and
procedures appropriate for the individual student.
31o Planning for the student’s discussion with appropriate academic contact(s)
(advisor, associate dean, etc.) may be reviewed during this meeting.
Students in course work should consider options for the semester of the
anticipated birth such as working with their course instructors to receive
incomplete grades, electing to drop to part-time status or taking a full semester
leave of absence.
Students engaged in research must work with their faculty to develop plans for
the research for the time they are away and for resuming upon return.
Master's students who receive an academic stipend funded by Carnegie Mellon
are eligible to continue to receive stipend funding for up to six (6) weeks during a
Short-Term Maternity Accommodation or a Formal Leave of Absence. Continued
academic stipend funding may be extended by two (2) weeks, for a total of eight
(8) weeks, if an absence longer than six weeks is medically necessary. To receive
this support students must be registered with the Office of the Dean of Students.
4.3.6 Change of Address
MCDS students are responsible for notifying MCDS and the HUB of all address changes
in a timely manner. Students will be held responsible for any failure to receive official
college notices due to not having a correct address on file; F-1 students may jeopardize
their status if address information is not kept current.
Students can change their address using SIO, which is available via the HUB website:
http://www.cmu.edu/hub/index.html
5 Financial Issues
5.1 Tuition
5.1.1 Tuition payments
To understand your invoice, payment options, etc., visit: http://www.cmu.edu/hub. The
MCDS program sets tuition each year for all students in the program. The student must
handle tuition problems by contacting The Hub. The MCDS Program Administrators
cannot solve tuition problems.
5.1.2 Sponsored Students
A sponsored student is one who has another party (such as an embassy or company) who
has agreed to pay the student’s tuition. Please read the “Sponsored Students” section.
5.1.3 Employer Reimbursement Process
If you have an employer reimbursement plan, write your employer’s name and address
on the bill (or provide CMU with a letter of support) and pay at least one-third of the
32tuition charge when returning the bill. You must pay previous semester balances before
you can enroll for the next semester.
5.1.4 Carnegie Mellon employee reimbursement procedure
Contact the Benefits Office for specific information on tuition benefits. You must
complete a Tuition Remission Form each semester in order to receive these benefits. To
receive a Tuition Remission Form, visit the Human Resources website at:
http://www.cmu.edu/hr.
5.1.5 Financial aid, tuition waivers, Scholarships
The MCDS degree program does not provide financial aid to graduate students, nor does
it provide tuition waivers or scholarships. For complete financial aid information see:
https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/financial-aid/index.html . The Financial Aid Office of Carnegie
Mellon will provide assistance in completing the necessary paperwork to apply for
Stafford loans.
Graduate students should consult the graduate student financial aid information found
on The HUB website:
https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/financial-aid/graduate/index.html .
Students will find the Graduate Financial Aid Guide, information about funding options
and how to apply for financial aid and other helpful links.
Graduate students who find themselves in need of immediate funds for emergency
situations should contact the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs (see Appendix A),
www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/index.html, to inquire about an Emergency Student Loan.
U.S. citizens and permanent residents may complete the Free Application for Federal
Student
Aid (FAFSA) online at https://fafsa.ed.gov
Students may obtain information regarding their loans through the William D. Ford
Direct Loan Program, including deferment forms and payment information
at http://www.dlssonline.com/index.asp
Information about the federal student aid programs may be found at
www.studentaid.ed.gov
5.1.6 External fellowships
The MCDS program will accept students with external fellowships.
5.1.7 Grade Reports
Grade reports are mailed to individual students by the university at the conclusion of each
semester. See the official calendar for mailing dates.
5.1.8 Late Graduation
33On occasion, a student and/or his/her employer may request that the student attend
Carnegie Mellon for an additional semester in order to complete a program that will be
beneficial to both the student and the employer. Under such circumstances late
graduation can be arranged. Student is to discuss his/ her situation with the Director.
5.1.9 Employment Eligibility Verification
If you are receiving a stipend, are a TA, or are planning to have a position with CMU then
Employment Eligibility Verification is required. Form I-9 must be completed within 3
business days of beginning work for any type of compensation (stipend or employment).
Additional details are highlighted below. To ensure compliance with federal law,
Carnegie Mellon University maintains the Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9) Policy
covering the university’s I-9 and E-Verify requirements:
Every individual receiving a stipend from CMU or employed by CMU must comply
with the I-9 Policy by completing the Form I-9 within three business days following
the first day of stipend start date/employment.
Individuals who expect to work on a federally funded project are further
responsible for submitting an E-Verify Processing Request Form to the Office of
Human Resources if required.
For more information, please see CMU’s Guidance for Completing the Form I-9
and E-Verify Requirements at CM or visit the Human Resources Service website to
learn more about Form I-9 and E-Verify and to schedule an appointment to
complete the Form I-9.
5.2 Conference Travel Funding
Students funded by a research project may receive travel funding according to policies set by the
individual projects. Students who have no project funding may be provided with partial funding,
with a larger amount available for travel to present a refereed conference paper. There is an LTI
form that must be filled out in advance.
An additional conference travel funding opportunity is provided by GSA and the Provost’s Office
for students, student work groups or groups to attend a conference, whether as a participant or as
a presenter. The process is managed by the Graduate Education Office. Students can find more
information about the application process and deadlines at:
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/professional-development/index.html
5.3 Expenses
The program will reimburse any expenses incurred on behalf of the MCDS
program if approved by the Director. The student must apply for approval
of expenses before they are incurred. Verification of purchase and/or
expenses along with receipts is to be presented to the program
administrator for reimbursement. Reimbursement requests must be filed
34within three months of the calendar date when it was incurred. If the
reimbursement request concerns pre-approved conference or workshop
travel expenses of an MCDS students, then it must be filed within three
months of the calendar date of the event’s last day. Reimbursement
requests received after this period will not be processed. The University
does not reimburse for taxes.
5.4 Health Insurance
https://www.cmu.edu/health-services/student-insurance/plans.html
Carnegie Mellon has a Student Health Insurance policy requiring full-time, degree-
seeking students to carry adequate medical insurance. Students must either purchase
the plan offered by the University or an application for a waiver can be made if the
student is “enrolled as the dependent, partner/spouse or principal in an employer or
government-sponsored insurance plan”. It is the responsibility of each student to make
arrangements with Student Health Services to either pay for their insurance at the
beginning of the semester or elect a payment plan over the course of the academic year.
More information is available at the Student Health Services Web site
https://www.cmu.edu/health-services/student-insurance/plans.html.
5.5 Emergency Loans
Graduate students who find themselves in need of immediate funds for emergency
situations should contact the Office of the Dean of Students (see Appendix A),
www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/index.html, to inquire about the types of emergency
funding available to enrolled students.
6 Additional University Resources
6.1 The HUB Student Services Center
The HUB is located in Warner Hall, Lower Level. The HUB staff delivers comprehensive
service and counsel to students and families regarding financial aid, billing and
payment, registration and academic records. The Assistant Directors in The HUB serve
as contacts for specific colleges and assist enrolled students with key aspects of the
enrollment process. Student can find their assigned HUB Assistant Director on their
Student Information Online (SIO) Resource page. Questions that need specialized, in-
depth attention can be directed to the student's assigned Assistant Director. For general
questions and information, students may email The HUB or call 412-268-8186.
thehub@andrew.cmu.edu and http://www.cmu.edu/hub/
356.2 Student Information Online (SIO)
Student Information Online (SIO) is a secure site where students can find important,
personalized information, including E-Bills and student account information, financial
aid status and eligibility, grades and QPA, and course schedules. Students can update
their and their spouse's or domestic partner's contact information, sign up for E-Check &
E-Refund, authorize their spouses, domestic partners or other individual to receive a
copy of their E-Bill, request verifications, view their housing and meal plan assignments,
and much more. Students can log on to SIO by going to www.cmu.edu/hub/sio and
entering their Andrew User ID and password.
On SIO, students will designate an emergency contact address of a relative or family
friend to be contacted in the case of an emergency. If students do not want their name
and address published in the campus directory, they must notify the HUB in writing.
6.3 ID Cards
Graduate students can obtain their ID card from The HUB once they have been entered
into SIO for the semester. These cards identify their holders as members of the campus
community. Student cards are deactivated upon the cardholder’s separation from the
university.
Affiliate ID Cards are available for spouses and partners of graduate students that allow
them to access Carnegie Mellon’s campus. These cards are available through The HUB to
spouses and partners of graduate students who are enrolled for the current academic
year in a full-time graduate degree program. The card is valid for one year. For
information about domestic partner registration, visit the Office of the Dean of Student
Affairs webpage:
http://www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/dean/domestic_partner/.
For more information about student and affiliate ID cards (spouse, domestic partners and
dependent children), please visit: http://www.cmu.edu/idplus/idcards/cardtypes.html.
6.4 Transcripts
Information about and instructions for ordering transcripts are available at:
www.cmu.edu/hub/transcripts.html.
Transcript questions may be directed to esg- transcripts@andrew.cmu.edu.
6.5 Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-registration
Carnegie Mellon University offers students the opportunity to take courses for credit
through a cross-registration program (see Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education
(PCHE) and Cross-registration below) and through the receipt of transfer credit from
36other accredited institutions. The Carnegie Mellon University transcript will include
information on such courses as follows: Carnegie Mellon courses and courses taken
through the university's cross-registration program will have grades recorded on the
transcript and be factored into the QPA. All other courses will be recorded on this
transcript indicating where the course was taken, but without grades. Such courses will
not be taken into account for academic actions, honors or QPA calculations. NOTE:
Suspended students may take courses elsewhere; however, they may receive transfer
credit only if their college's and department's policies allow this. You can review the
PCHE cross-registration guidelines here:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/cross-college-university-
registration.html
6.6 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA
This university policy notifies students of their rights under the federal Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). According to FERPA, students have the
right to:
Inspect and review their education records;
Request an amendment to their education record if they believe they are
inaccurate or misleading;
Request a hearing if their request for an amendment is not resolved to their
satisfaction;
Consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information from their education
records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent;
File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education Family Policy
Compliance Office if they believe their rights under FERPA have been violated.
For questions about Student Privacy Rights, FERPA or filing a complaint, contact John
Papinchak, University Registrar, jp7p@andrew.cmu.edu, in Enrollment Services.
You can review the university’s policy on privacy rights here:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/privacy-rights-
students.html
6.7 Academic Calendar
The Academic Calendar can be found at
https://www.cmu.edu/hub/calendar/index.html and provides information
on all deadlines including registration dates, class start dates, add/drop
deadlines, exam dates and more.
6.8 Professional Development
The Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) at Carnegie
Mellon is a centralized career center staffed by a team of seasoned and
highly educated professionals who orchestrate the career exploration,
37experiential learning, and career networking needs of students and
alumni.
CMU's career and professional development model is grounded in
discipline-specific career development, experiential learning, and
employer relations shaped by strong connections with the university's
seven academic colleges. The center's success is founded upon a solid
understanding of career and professional development theory, integration
of technology, and an unwavering commitment to providing personalized
attention towards meeting the unique individual needs of students,
alumni, and employers. The CDPC is located on the Lower Level of the
University Center, 412-268-2064
The Office of the Assistant Vice Provost for Graduate Education (AVPGE)
offers a robust schedule of professional development opportunities. Some
are geared towards a specific population (master’s students, PhD students
at the beginning of their program, graduate students seeking tenure track
positions, etc.) and others are open to all graduate students (time
management, balancing, staying healthy). A full schedule of programs can
be found at: http://www.cmu.edu/graduate/.
http://www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/career/index.html
6.9 University Libraries
There are three main libraries at Carnegie Mellon: Hunt Library, Mellon
Institute Library and Engineering & Science Library with the combined
mission of providing access and help to graduate students in finding the
information needed, teaching graduate students to evaluate available
information and use reliable sources. The libraries’ digital resources and
services, including off-campus/ wireless access to databases and e-
journals, offer online access. There are also two neighboring libraries
open to Carnegie Mellon graduate students: Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
and University of Pittsburgh Libraries. Visit the University Libraries
website for information about all mentioned library locations and hours,
on-line resources and FAQ’s.
38More information can be found at:
http://www.library.cmu.edu/
6.10 Computing Services
Computing Services is located in Cyert Hall 285. Computing Services
develops, maintains and supports the computing infrastructure for
Carnegie Mellon students, faculty members and staff members. This
includes the campus wired and wireless networks, public computer labs
or “clusters,” cable television and telephone services, computing related
documentation and support through the Help Center. In addition,
Computing Services provides standard classroom technologies for over
100 lecture halls, classrooms and seminar rooms across campus. The
website contains additional information regarding The Help Center hours,
location and contact information, computing cluster hours and location,
the Carnegie Mellon web portal, computing security and policies and
guidelines. Students can email the Help Center at
advisor@andrew.cmu.edu with questions and for assistance.
More information
http://www.cmu.edu/computing/
6.11 Family and Dependents Resources
The Graduate Student Assembly website maintains a resource page for
spouses, domestic partners and families of graduate students, including
The Student Parent Association, new mother rooms, and links to resources
around campus and the Pittsburgh area.
Affiliate ID Cards are available for spouses and domestic partners of
graduate students that allow them to access Carnegie Mellon’s campus.
These cards are available through The HUB to spouses and partners of
graduate students who are enrolled for the current academic year in a full-
time graduate degree program. The card is valid for one year.
More information can be found at:
http://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/resources/family.html
39For more information about student and affiliate ID cards, please visit:
http://www.cmu.edu/idplus/idcards/cardtypes.html.
6.12 Domestic Partner Registration
Carnegie Mellon extends certain benefits to domestic partners of students.
Eligible students may elect benefits for their domestic partners through
the registration process orchestrated by the Office of the Dean of Student
Affairs, located on the 3rd floor of Warner Hall. See the web site for
information regarding the benefits available for domestic partners,
eligibility for domestic partner benefits, registration instructions and
forms.
More information can be found at:
http://www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/dean/domestic_partner/index.html
6.13 Housing
The University does not currently offer housing to graduate students. The
Office of Housing and Dining Services does provide community housing
information on a very limited basis to assist graduate students who are
seeking housing in the communities surrounding the university, including
information on the legal aspects of renting an apartment, moving
checklists and the off-campus housing database.
More information can be found at:
www.cmu.edu/housing/community-housing/index.html
6.14 Dining
Dining services and operations are offered through the Office of Housing
and Dining Services. The office operates dining locations open around
campus in academic buildings, Hunt Library and the University Center.
These locations offer flexible hours with options from the early morning
through late night. The Dining Service website contains information about
dining locations, hours of operation, graduate student dining plans forms,
nutritional information, and weekly menus for dining locations.
More information can be found at:
40http://www.cmu.edu/dining/
6.15 Parking and Transportation
Graduate students will find information about parking and availability,
parking policies, transportation options and Port Authority Transit usage
with a valid university ID on the Parking and Transportation Services site.
The Parking and Transportation Services office is located in the lower
level of the University Center, LL#8. There is limited parking on campus
and the varying permit rates can be found on the website. All parking
areas of campus are either by permit, metered or by the hour in the
garage. Parking and Transportation Services will ticket any car parked in a
permit area without a permit or at an expired meter. The city monitors the
metered parking along Margaret Morrison, Frew and Tech Streets and will
ticket at expired meters as well.
More information can be found at:
http://www.cmu.edu/parking/
The University offers shuttle and escort services operated through
University Police. The Shuttle Service operates several routes within
Oakland, Squirrel Hill and Shadyside areas, as well as to university sites
located outside of the main campus. The Escort Service offers vehicle
routes within a radius of campus between 6:30 pm-6 am daily. Information
regarding up-to-date shuttle and escort schedules, pick-up/drop-off
locations, routes and usage policies can be found at:
www.cmu.edu/police/shuttleandescort/.
SafeWalk provides another option to campus community members
walking across and around campus during late-night hours. SafeWalk is a
student volunteer organization that provides campus escorts for all
members of the Carnegie Mellon community. SafeWalk operates nightly
during the regular academic year (except certain holidays and break
periods) from 10pm until 2am. Students, faculty and staff may request an
escort by calling 412-268-SAFE (8-7233 from a campus phone), by
approaching an escort team, or by stopping by the SafeWalk dispatch area
in the University Center, Lower Level near the Post Office Package Pick-
41Up window between 10pm-2am. SafeWalk will escort to locations
approximately one mile from campus. Additional SafeWalk information
can be found at:
www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/safewalk.
6.16 Copying, Printing and Mailing Services
Carnegie Mellon offers community members easy access to FedEx, copy
centers, printing and mailing services, and postal services. More
information regarding these services, locations and contact information
can be found at the provided link.
More information can be found at:
http://www.cmu.edu/student-
affairs/theword/campus_resources/copyprintmail.html
6.17 University Center
The University Center is a centerpiece of the campus that provides a space
for special events, physical fitness, student organizations and various
activities, as well as accommodating retail and dining services. As the
campus crossroads, the University Center functions as a place for students
to interact, get involved and enjoy new experiences. Visit the University
Center website for information about campus eateries, ATMs and PNC
Bank, fitness rooms and schedules, retail stores, scheduling University
Center space, the public prayer room, student organizations and the
Wright-Rogal Chapel.
The University Center Information Desk is the location if you want to
know about upcoming campus events or have questions about Carnegie
Mellon in general, call the Information Desk at 412-268-2107. The
Information Desk not only provides information about campus events, but
also sells postage stamps, makes copies, sends faxes, distributes campus
maps, manages a lost & found, and has information brochures about
Pittsburgh and the campus.
More information can be found at:
http://www.cmu.edu/university-center
6.18 Athletic/Fitness Facilities
For the participant or the spectator, Carnegie Mellon offers intercollegiate
42athletics, intramural sports, physical education classes and club sports.
The Athletics Department also offers aerobics classes in the University
Center and Skibo Gym as well as occasional workshops and instruction
related to fitness and health. The Athletics Office is located in the Skibo
Gymnasium.
Skibo Gym facilities include courts for basketball, volleyball, badminton,
as well as weight- training and aerobic equipment. The University Center’s
recreational facilities include an eight- lane pool, racquetball and squash
courts, aerobics room, fitness center and gym for basketball and
volleyball. All users must present a current Carnegie Mellon Card to use
these facilities.
More information can be found at:
http://www.cmu.edu/athletics
6.19 CMU Alert
CMU Alert sends voice and/or text messages to registered phones in the
event of a campus emergency that threatens public safety or during tests
of the system in the Spring and Fall semesters. Students can register for
CMU Alert through the web site. More information can be found at:
http://www.cmu.edu/alert
6.20 Accidents on CMU property
Please report all accidents to Charity Anderson
(caanders@andrew.cmu.edu) and the MCDS program administrator. You
will be asked to complete an accident report. By reporting accidents, the
student helps minimize future harm! Serious accidents and accidents
taking place elsewhere on campus should be reported to Campus Police,
x8-6232 (non-emergency), x8-2323 (emergency).
6.21 Consumer Information
Carnegie Mellon University suggests that all current and prospective
students be informed consumers. Please see this link for detailed
consumer information: https://www.cmu.edu/hub/consumer-
information/.
43Appendix A
2023-2024
Highlighted University Resources for Graduate Students
44Table of Contents
Key Resources for Graduate Student Support 1
Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs 1
Office of the Dean of Students 1
The Division of Student Affairs 2
Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion 2
Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities 3
Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation 3
Graduate Student Assembly 4
Office of International Education (OIE) 4
Veterans and Military Community 5
Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline 5
Policy Against Retaliation 5
Key Offices for Academic & Research Support 6
Computing and Information Resources 6
Student Academic Success Center 6
University Libraries 6
Research at CMU 7
Office of Research Integrity & Compliance 7
Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety 7
Counseling & Psychological Services 7
Health Services 8
Campus Wellness 8
Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI) 8
University Police 9
Shuttle and Escort Services 9
The WORD 10
i7 Key Resources for Graduate Student Support
8 Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate
graded@cmu.edu
The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs provides university-wide
support for all graduate students and academic programs, with a focus on
supporting graduate student success at Carnegie Mellon. Examples of
resources offered through the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs
include, but are not limited to:
Website with university resources, contact information for CMU
programs and services, possible financial assistance and potential
funding opportunities, and various procedural and policy information
Newsletter to all graduate students with information on activities,
resources, and opportunities
Professional development seminars and workshops, and various
programming and events for the graduate student community
The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs also works directly with the
colleges and departments on issues related to graduate students and serve as a
resource for developing policy and procedures. The Office of Graduate and
Postdoctoral Affairs partners with many other offices and organizations, such
as the Graduate Student Assembly, to support the holistic graduate student
educational experience.
9 Office of the Dean of Students
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/
The Office of the Dean of Students provides central leadership of the meta
curricular experience at Carnegie Mellon including the coordination of student
support. Graduate students will find the enrollment information for Domestic
Partner Registration and Parental Accommodations in the Office of the Dean of
Students or on their website. This Office also manages the Student Emergency
Support Funding process. There are currently three forms of support funding
for enrolled students: emergency student loans, student parental loans, and
the Tartan Emergency Support Fund. Inquiring students will be provided with
additional information about the various types of funding during a
consultation meeting with a member of the Dean of Students team. Tuition
1costs are not eligible for Student Emergency Support funding.
College Liaisons and the Student Support Resources team serve as additional
resources for graduate students. College Liaisons are senior members of the
Division of Student Affairs who work with departments and colleges
addressing student concerns across a wide range of issues. College Liaisons are
identified on the Important Contacts list in Student Information Online (SIO).
The Student Support Resources team offers an additional level of support for
students who are navigating a wide range of life events. Student Support
Resources staff members work in partnership with campus and community
resources to provide coordination of care and support appropriate to each
student’s situation.
10 The Division of Student Affairs
The Division of Student Affairs includes (not an exhaustive list):
Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation
Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC)
Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion
Cohon University Center
Counseling & Psychological Services (CaPS)
Dining Services
Office of Community Standards and Integrity (OCSI)
Office of Student Leadership, Involvement, and Civic Engagement
(SLICE)
University Health Services (UHS)
Wellness Initiatives
11 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion
https://www.cmu.edu/student-diversity/
Diversity and inclusion have a singular place among the values of Carnegie
Mellon University. The Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion actively
cultivates a strong, diverse and inclusive community capable of living out these
values and advancing research, creativity, learning and development that
changes the world.
The Center offers resources to enhance an inclusive and transformative
2student experience in dimensions such as access, success, campus climate and
intergroup dialogue. Additionally, the Center supports and connects
historically underrepresented students and those who are first in their family
to attend college in a setting where students’ differences and talents are
appreciated and reinforced, both at the graduate and undergraduate level.
Initiatives coordinated by the Center include, but are not limited to:
First generation/first in family to attend college programs
LGBTQ+ Initiatives
Race and ethnically focused programs, including Inter-University
Graduate Students of Color Series (SOC) and PhD SOC Network
Women’s empowerment programs, including Graduate Women’s
Gatherings (GWGs)
12 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
https://www.cmu.edu/disability-resources/
The Office of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University has a
continued mission to provide physical, digital, and programmatic access to
ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to their educational
experience. The Office works to ensure that qualified individuals receive
reasonable accommodations as guaranteed by the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students who
would like to receive accommodations can begin the process through Disability
Resources' secure online portal or email access@andrew.cmu.edu to begin the
interactive accommodation Process.
Students with physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional disabilities are
encouraged to self-identify with the Office of Disability Resources and request
needed accommodations. Any questions about the process can be directed to
access@andrew.cmu.edu, or call (412) 268- 6121.
13 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation
https://www.cmu.edu/teaching/
The Eberly Center offers a wide variety of confidential, consultation services
and professional development programs to support graduate students as
teaching assistants or instructors of record during their time at Carnegie
Mellon University and as future faculty members at other institutions.
Regardless of one's current or future teaching context and duties, Eberly’s goal
is to disseminate evidence-based teaching strategies in ways that are accessible
3and actionable. Programs and services include campus-wide Graduate Student
Instructor Orientation events and our Future Faculty Program, both of which
are designed to help participants be effective and efficient in their teaching
roles. The Eberly Center also assists departments in creating and conducting
customized programs to meet the specific needs of their graduate student
instructors. Specific information about Eberly Center support for graduate
students is found at:
https://www.cmu.edu/teaching/graduatestudentsupport/
14 Graduate Student Assembly
https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is the branch of Carnegie Mellon
Student Government that represents and advocates for the diverse interests of
all graduate students at CMU. GSA is composed of representatives from the
different graduate programs and departments who want to improve the
graduate student experience at the different levels of the university. GSA is
funded by the Student Activities Fee from all graduate students. GSA passes
legislation, allocates student activities funding, advocates for legislative action
locally and in Washington D.C. on behalf of graduate student issues and needs,
and otherwise acts on behalf of all graduate student interests. GSA’s recent
accomplishments are a testament to their making a difference, and steps to
implementing the vision laid out by the strategic plan.
https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/about-the-gsa/strategic-plan.html
GSA offers an expanding suite of social programming on and off-campus to
bring graduate students from different departments together and build a sense
of community. GSA is the host of the Graduate Student Lounge on the 3rd floor
of the Cohon University Center. GSA also maintains a website of graduate
student resources on and off-campus. GSA continues to rely on student
feedback to improve the graduate student experience at CMU. Feel free to
contact them at gsa@cmu.edu to get involved, stop by their office in the Cohon
University Center Room 304 or become a representative for your department.
15 Office of International Education (OIE)
https://www.cmu.edu/oie/
Carnegie Mellon hosts international graduate and undergraduate students who
come from more than 90 countries. The Office of International Education (OIE)
is the liaison to the University for all non-immigrant students and scholars, as
well the repository for study abroad opportunities. OIE provides many services
4including: advising on personal, immigration, study abroad, academic, and
social and acculturation issues; presenting programs of interest such as
international career workshops, tax workshops, and cross-cultural and
immigration workshops; international education and statistics on international
students in the United States; posting pertinent information to students
through email and the OIE website and conducting orientation and pre-
departure programs.
16 Veterans and Military Community
https://www.cmu.edu/veterans/
Military veterans are a vital part of the Carnegie Mellon University community.
Graduate students can find information on applying for veteran education
benefits, campus services, veteran’s groups at CMU, and non-educational
resources through the Veterans and Military Community website. There are
also links and connections to veteran resource in the Pittsburgh community.
The ROTC and Veteran Affairs Coordinator can be reached at
urovaedbenefits@andrew.cmu.edu or 412-268-8747.
17 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline
https://www.cmu.edu/hr/resources/ethics-hotline.html
The health, safety and well-being of the university community are top
priorities at Carnegie Mellon University. CMU provides a hotline that all
members of the university community should use to confidentially report
suspected unethical activity, violations of university policy, or violations of
law. Students, faculty and staff can anonymously file a report by calling 1-844-
587-0793 or visiting https://cmu.ethicspoint.com/. All submissions are reported to
appropriate university personnel and handled discreetly.
The hotline is NOT an emergency service. For emergencies, call University
Police at 412-268-2323.
18 Policy Against Retaliation
It is the policy of Carnegie Mellon University to protect from retaliation any
individual who makes a good faith report of a suspected violation of any
applicable law or regulation, university Policy or procedure, any contractual
obligation of the university, and any report made pursuant to the Carnegie
Mellon University Code of Business Ethics and Conduct.
Additional details regarding the Policy Against Retaliation are available at:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/whistleblower.html
519 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support
20 Computing and Information Resources
https://www.cmu.edu/computing/
Computing Services maintains and supports computing resources for the
campus community, including the campus wired and wireless networks,
printing, computer labs, file storage, email and software catalog. As members
of this community, we are all responsible for the security of these shared
resources. Be sure to review the Safe Computing
(https://www.cmu.edu/computing/safe/) section and the University Computing Policy
(https://www.cmu.edu/policies/information-technology/computing.html)
Visit the Computing Services website (https://www.cmu.edu/computing/) to learn more. For
assistance the Computing Services Help Center is available at 412-268-4357 (HELP) or
ithelp@cmu.edu.
21 Student Academic Success Center
https://www.cmu.edu/student-success/
The Student Academic Success Center’s (SASC) work to support success focuses on creating
spaces for students to engage in their coursework and approach to learning through many
group and individual program options. SASC supports student success by providing
academic coaching, subject-specific tutoring, effective communication strategies,
accommodations for students with disabilities, and language support for multilingual
learners. SASC engages with faculty and staff to improve the coordination and professional
development for academic advisors. Visit the SASC website for more information about
services offered in areas such as communication and language support; language and cross-
cultural support; and learning support.
22 University Libraries
https://www.library.cmu.edu/
The University Libraries offers a wide range of information, resources, and
services supporting graduate students in coursework, research, teaching, and
publishing. The library licenses and purchases books, journals, media, and
other needed materials in various formats. Library liaisons, consultants, and
information specialists provide in-depth and professional assistance and
advice in all-things information, including:
Locating and obtaining specific resources
6 Providing specialized research support
Advanced training in the use and management of data
Sign up for workshops and hands-on topic-specific sessions such as data
visualization with Tableau, cleaning data with OpenRefine, and getting started
with Zotero. Weekly drop-in hours for Digital Humanities and for Research
Data Research Management are scheduled during the academic year. Start at
the library home page to find the books, journals, and databases you need; to
identify and reach out to the library liaison in your field; to sign up for
scheduled workshops; and to connect with consultants in scholarly publishing,
research data management, and digital humanities.
23 Research at CMU
https://www.cmu.edu/research/
The primary purpose of research at the university is the advancement of
knowledge in all fields in which the university is active. Research is regarded
as one of the university’s major contributions to society and as an essential
element in education, particularly at the graduate level and in faculty
development. Research activities are governed by several university policies.
Guidance and more general information are found by visiting the Research at
Carnegie Mellon website.
24 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance
https://www.cmu.edu/research-compliance/
The Office of Research Integrity & Compliance (ORIC) is designed to support
research at Carnegie Mellon University. The staff work with researchers to
ensure research is conducted with integrity and in accordance with federal and
Pennsylvania regulation. ORIC assists researchers with human subject
research, conflicts of interest, responsible conduct of research, export
controls, and institutional animal care & use. ORIC also provides consultation,
advice, and review of allegations of research misconduct.
25 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety
26 Counseling & Psychological Services
https://www.cmu.edu/counseling/
Counseling & Psychological Services (CaPS) affords the opportunity for
students to talk privately about academic and personal concerns in a safe,
confidential setting. An initial consultation at CaPS can help clarify the nature
7of the concern, provide immediate support, and explore further options if
needed. These may include a referral for counseling within CaPS, to another
resource at Carnegie Mellon, or to another resource within the larger
Pittsburgh community. CaPS also provides workshops and group sessions on
mental health related topics specifically for graduate students on campus.
CaPS services are provided at no cost. Appointments can be made in person, or
by telephone at 412-268-2922.
27 Health Services
https://www.cmu.edu/HealthServices/
University Health Services (UHS) is staffed by physicians, advanced practice
clinicians and registered nurses who provide general medical care, allergy
injections, first aid, gynecological care, and contraception as well as on-site
pharmaceuticals. The CMU Student Insurance Plan covers most visit fees to see
the physicians and advanced practice clinicians & nurse visits. Fees for
prescription medications, laboratory tests, diagnostic procedures and referral
to the emergency room or specialists are the student’s responsibility and
students should review the UHS website and their insurance plan for detailed
information about the university health insurance requirement and fees.
UHS also has a registered dietician and health promotion specialists on staff to
assist students in addressing nutrition, drug and alcohol and other healthy
lifestyle issues. In addition to providing direct health care, UHS administers
the Student Health Insurance Program. The Student Health Insurance plan
offers a high level of coverage in a wide network of health care providers and
hospitals. Appointments can be made by visiting UHS’s website, walk-in, or by
telephone, 412-268-2157.
28 Campus Wellness
https://www.cmu.edu/wellness/
At Carnegie Mellon, we believe our individual and collective well-being is
rooted in healthy connections to each other and to campus resources. The
university provides a wide variety of wellness, mindfulness and connectedness
initiatives and resources designed to help students thrive inside and outside
the classroom.
29 Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI)
https://www.cmu.edu/wellbeing/resources/religious-spiritual/index.html
Carnegie Mellon is committed to the holistic growth of our students, including
8creating opportunities for spiritual and religious practice and exploration.
RSLI has relationships with local houses of worship from various traditions
and many of these groups are members of CMU’s Council of Religious
Advisors. They also offer programs and initiatives that cross traditional
religious boundaries in order to increase knowledge of and appreciation for
the full diversity of the worldview traditions. RSLI staff are available to support
students across the spectrum of religious and spiritual practice and would be
more than happy to help you make a connection into a community of faith
during your time at CMU.
30 University Police
https://www.cmu.edu/police/
x2323
The University Police Department is located at 4551 Filmore Street . The
department’s services include police patrols and call response, criminal
investigations, fixed officer and foot officer patrols, event security, and crime
prevention and education programming as well as bicycle and laptop
registration. Visit the department’s website for additional information about
the staff, emergency phone locations, crime prevention, lost and found,
fingerprint services, and annual statistic reports. Carnegie Mellon University
publishes an annual campus security and fire safety report describing the
university’s security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault, and fire safety policies.
The report also contains statistics about the number and type of crimes
committed on the campus and the number and cause of fires in campus
residence facilities during the preceding three years. Graduate students can
obtain a copy by contacting the University Police Department at x2323. The
annual security and fire safety report is also available online at:
https://www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports/
31 Shuttle and Escort Services
https://www.cmu.edu/parking/transport/
Parking and Transportation coordinates the Shuttle Service and Escort Service
provided for CMU students, faculty, and community. The Shuttle & Escort
website has full information about these services, stops, routes, tracking and
schedules.
932 The WORD
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/
The WORD is Carnegie Mellon University’s online student handbook and
serves as the foundation for the department (and sometimes college)
handbook. The WORD contains university-wide academic policy information
and resources, community policies and resources, and describes the university
level procedures used to review possible violations of these standards. It is
designed to provide all students with the tools, guidance, and insights to help
you achieve your full potential as a member of the Carnegie Mellon
community. Graduate students are encouraged to bookmark this site and refer
to it often. University policies can also be found in full text at:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/.
10 | mcds-student-handbook-2023_2024.txt |
Master of Science in
Intelligent Information Systems
Student Handbook
2023-2024
Last revision date: September 1, 2023
Revised: August 2023
The information contained in this graduate handbook template focuses on the
resources and locations available at the Carnegie Mellon Pittsburgh Campus.Contents
1 Welcome 6
1.1 Vision ................................................................................................................................................. 6
1.2 Mission .............................................................................................................................................. 6
1.3 The MIIS Degree ............................................................................................................................. 6
1.4 MIIS Contact Information ........................................................................................................... 7
1.5 Carnegie Mellon University Statement of Assurance ........................................................... 8
1.6 The Carnegie Mellon Code ........................................................................................................... 9
1.7 University Policies and Expectations ........................................................................................ 9
1.8 Academic Calendar ...................................................................................................................... 10
2 The Language Technologies Institute 10
2.1.1 Mailboxes & Office Supplies ............................................................................................ 10
2.1.2 Photocopies and Printers ................................................................................................... 10
2.1.3 Office Space for MS Students ........................................................................................... 10
2.1.4 Computers for MS Students ............................................................................................. 10
3 CMU Degree Completion and Certification 11
3.1 Standard Degree Requirements & Degree Certification ..................................................... 11
3.2 Statute of Limitations .................................................................................................................. 12
3.3 Additional Guidance for Students ........................................................................................... 12
4 MIIS Degree Requirements and Related Policies/Protocols 13
4.1 Program Options ............................................................................................................................ 13
4.2 Required Units for Degree Attainment .................................................................................... 13
4.3 Core Requirements ....................................................................................................................... 13
4.4 Approved Qualifying Courses ................................................................................................... 14
4.4.1 Breadth Courses: Human Language ................................................................................ 15
4.4.2 Breadth Courses: Language Technology Applications ............................................... 15
4.4.3 Breadth Courses: Machine Learning ............................................................................... 15
4.5 Practice Requirements .................................................................................................................16
4.6 Registration Process/Procedures ............................................................................................... 17
4.7 Drop/Add/Withdraw Procedures ............................................................................................. 17
4.8 Transfer Courses and Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) ...................... 17
4.9 Internships ...................................................................................................................................... 18
4.10 Advising ........................................................................................................................................... 18
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 24.11 LTI Orientation ............................................................................................................................. 19
4.12 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures ................................. 19
4.13 Intellectual Property Policy ....................................................................................................... 20
5 Grading and Evaluation 20
5.1 Grading Scale/System .................................................................................................................. 20
5.2 Pass/Fail Grades ............................................................................................................................ 20
5.3 Independent Study ....................................................................................................................... 21
5.4 University Policy on Grades ...................................................................................................... 21
5.5 Process for Appealing Final Grades ......................................................................................... 21
5.6 Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses .................................................................................... 21
5.7 End of Semester Evaluation ....................................................................................................... 22
5.8 Satisfactory Progress .................................................................................................................... 22
5.9 Academic Integrity ....................................................................................................................... 22
6 Academic Policies 23
6.1 MIIS Academic Policies .............................................................................................................. 23
6.1.1 Double Counting Courses ................................................................................................. 24
6.1.2 Duration of Study ................................................................................................................. 24
6.1.3 Deferral ................................................................................................................................... 24
6.1.4 Maximum and Minimum Course Loads ........................................................................ 24
6.1.5 Transfer Credit ..................................................................................................................... 24
6.1.6 Transferring into the MIIS Program ............................................................................... 25
6.1.7 Transferring Out of the MIIS Program ........................................................................... 25
6.2 LTI Academic Policies ................................................................................................................. 26
6.2.1 Verification of Enrollment ................................................................................................. 26
6.2.2 “Grandfather” policy ........................................................................................................... 26
6.2.3 Time Away from Academic Responsibilities ................................................................ 26
6.2.4 Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption ............................................... 26
6.2.5 External Employment/Consulting .................................................................................. 27
6.2.6 Leave of Absence .................................................................................................................. 27
6.2.7 Withdrawal of a Degree ..................................................................................................... 27
6.2.8 Winter and Summer Breaks .............................................................................................. 27
7 Safeguarding Educational Equity 27
7.1 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities .......................................................................... 27
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 37.2 Sexual Misconduct Policy .......................................................................................................... 28
7.3 Gestational and Parental Accommodations .......................................................................... 28
7.4 Consensual Intimate Relationship Policy Regarding Undergraduate Students .......... 29
7.5 Employment Eligibility Verification ........................................................................................ 30
8 Financial Support 30
8.1 Graduate Student Funding ........................................................................................................ 30
8.2 University Financial Aid .............................................................................................................. 31
8.3 Health Insurance ............................................................................................................................ 31
8.4 Emergency Loans .......................................................................................................................... 32
8.5 Office of the Dean of Students Emergency Support Funding ............................................ 32
9 Additional University Resources 32
9.1 The HUB Student Services Center ........................................................................................... 32
9.2 Student Information Online (SIO) ........................................................................................... 32
9.3 ID Cards .......................................................................................................................................... 33
9.4 Transcripts ..................................................................................................................................... 33
9.5 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA......................................................................................... 33
9.6 Professional Development .......................................................................................................... 34
9.7 University Libraries ..................................................................................................................... 34
9.8 Computing Services ..................................................................................................................... 35
9.9 Family and Dependents Resources .......................................................................................... 35
9.10 Domestic Partner Registration .................................................................................................. 35
9.11 Housing ........................................................................................................................................... 36
9.12 Dining .............................................................................................................................................. 36
9.13 Parking and Transportation ....................................................................................................... 36
9.14 Copying, Printing and Mailing Services ................................................................................. 37
9.15 University Center ......................................................................................................................... 37
9.16 Athletic/Fitness Facilities .......................................................................................................... 37
9.17 CMU Alert ...................................................................................................................................... 38
Appendix 39
A.1 Key Resources for Graduate Student Support ...................................................................... 39
A
A.1.1 Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs ................................................................. 39
A.1.2 Office of the Dean of Students .......................................................................................... 40
A.1.3 The Division of Student Affairs ........................................................................................ 40
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 4A.1.4 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion ..................................................................... 41
A.1.5 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities.................................................................. 41
A.1.6 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation ........................ 41
A.1.7 Graduate Student Assembly ............................................................................................. 42
A.1.8 Office of International Education (OIE) ........................................................................ 42
A.1.9 Veterans and Military Community ................................................................................. 43
A.1.10 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline ....................................................................................... 43
A.1.11 Policy Against Retaliation ................................................................................................. 43
A.2 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support .................................................................... 43
A.2.1 Computing and Information Resources ......................................................................... 43
A.2.2 Student Academic Success Center ................................................................................. 44
A.2.3 University Libraries ............................................................................................................ 44
A.2.4 Research at CMU................................................................................................................. 45
A.2.5 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance .................................................................. 45
A.3 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety ............................................................................ 45
A.3.1 Counseling & Psychological Services ............................................................................. 45
A.3.2 Health Services ..................................................................................................................... 45
A.3.3 Campus Wellness ................................................................................................................ 46
A.3.4 Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI) ............................................................. 46
A.3.5 University Police .................................................................................................................. 46
A.3.6 Shuttle and Escort Services ............................................................................................... 47
A.4 The WORD .................................................................................................................................... 48
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 51 Welcome
Welcome to the Language Technologies Institute. While this handbook (and your college
graduate student handbook) is specific to your academic experience in the LTI, there are
several other resources and offices that graduate students are encouraged to consult during
their tenure at Carnegie Mellon University. Information about The Word, the student
handbook, the Office of Graduate and Postdoc Affairs, the Office of the Dean of Student
Affairs, and others, are included in Appendix A of this handbook.
1.1 Vision
Carnegie Mellon University will have a transformative impact on society through continual
innovation in education, research, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
1.2 Mission
To create a transformative educational experience for students focused on deep disciplinary
knowledge; problem solving; leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills; and
personal health and well-being.
To cultivate a transformative university community committed to (a) attracting and retaining
diverse, world-class talent; (b) creating a collaborative environment open to the free exchange
of ideas, where research, creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship can flourish; and (c)
ensuring individuals can achieve their full potential.
To impact society in a transformative way — regionally, nationally, and globally — by engaging
with partners outside the traditional borders of the university campus.
1.3 The MIIS Degree
The Master of Science in Intelligent Information Systems (MIIS) is a professional degree
offered by the Language Technologies Institute (LTI), a graduate department in the School of
Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University. The MIIS degree provides advanced study
and practical experience in areas of Computer Science focused on the processing and analysis
of unstructured and semi-structured information, for example, text, image, video, speech, and
audio information. It is a practice-oriented professional degree designed for students who
want to rapidly master advanced content-analysis, mining, and intelligent information
technologies prior to beginning or resuming leadership careers in industry and government.
There are significant differences between CMU's different departments and degree programs
in philosophical approach, procedures, policies, and regulations. Each department issues a
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 6handbook that informs graduate students of their program requirements and procedures and
ensures that students have written access to the standard information outlined below. This
handbook describes the policies, procedures, and requirements for the Master of Science in
Intelligent Information Systems (MIIS) degree.
While this handbook is specific to your academic experience in the department, there are
several other resources and offices graduate students are encouraged to consult during their
tenure at Carnegie Mellon University. Information about The Word, the Student Handbook,
the Office of Graduate and Postdoc Affairs, the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and others
are included in Appendix A of this handbook.
All policies not explicitly described in this document conform to School of Computer Science
(SCS) policies and university policies described in The Word, the Student Handbook and at
the University Policies website. It is the responsibility of each member of the Carnegie Mellon
community to be familiar with university policies and guidelines.
1.4 MIIS Contact Information
The people responsible for administering the MIIS degree are:
Brianna Eriksen Teruko Mitamura
Academic Program Manager Program Director, MIIS
GHC 6415 Professor, LTI
412-268-4277 GHC 6711
bfreema2@andrew.cmu.edu 412-268-6596
teruko@andrew.cmu.edu
Kate Schaich Robert Frederking
Administrative Manager Chair of Graduate Programs, LTI
GHC 6415 Principal Systems Scientist
412-268-4788 412-268-6656
kschaich@andrew.cmu.edu ref@cs.cmu.edu
Mona Diab
Director, LTI
GHC 5415
412-268-3669
mdiab@andrew.cmu.edu
In addition, students may confer with the Graduate Education Office
(graded@andrew.cmu.edu) regarding issues of process or other concerns as they navigate
conflicts.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 7The Language Technologies Institute is located primarily on the 5th and 6th floors of the Gates
Hillman Complex (GHC) on Carnegie Mellon’s Pittsburgh campus. The address and contact
information of the LTI are:
Language Technologies Institute
Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Avenue
Gates Hillman Complex 5404, LTI
Pittsburgh, PA 15241-3891
412-268-6591 (phone)
412-268-6298 (fax)
http://www.lti.cs.cmu.edu/
1.5 Carnegie Mellon University Statement of Assurance
Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate in admission, employment or administration
of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap or disability,
age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, ancestry, belief, veteran status or genetic
information. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate and is required
not to discriminate in violation of federal, state, or local laws or executive orders.
Inquiries concerning the application of and compliance with this statement should be directed
to the university ombudsperson, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh,
PA 15213, telephone 412-268-1018. Obtain general information about Carnegie Mellon
University by calling 412-268-2000.
Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security and fire safety report
describing the university's security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault, and fire safety policies, and
containing statistics about the number and type of crimes committed on the campus, and the
number and cause of fires in campus residence facilities during the preceding three years. You
can obtain a copy by contacting the Carnegie Mellon Police Department at 412-268-2323. The
annual security and fire safety report also is available online
at www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports.
Information regarding the application of Title IX, including to admission and employment
decisions, the sexual misconduct grievance procedures and process, including how to file a
report or a complaint of sex discrimination, how to file a report of sexual harassment, and how
the university responds to such reports is available at www.cmu.edu/title-ix. The Title IX
coordinator may be reached at 5000 Forbes Ave., 140 Cyert Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15213; 412-268-
7125; or tix@cmu.edu.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 81.6 The Carnegie Mellon Code
Students at Carnegie Mellon, because they are members of an academic community dedicated
to the achievement of excellence, are expected to meet the highest standards of personal,
ethical, and moral conduct possible.
These standards require personal integrity, a commitment to honesty without compromise, as
well as truth without equivocation and a willingness to place the good of the community
above the good of the self. Obligations once undertaken must be met, commitments kept.
As members of the Carnegie Mellon community, individuals are expected to uphold the
standards of the community in addition to holding others accountable for said standards. It is
rare that the life of a student in an academic community can be so private that it will not affect
the community as a whole or that the above standards do not apply.
The discovery, advancement and communication of knowledge are not possible without a
commitment to these standards. Creativity cannot exist without acknowledgment of the
creativity of others. New knowledge cannot be developed without credit for prior knowledge.
Without the ability to trust that these principles will be observed, an academic community
cannot exist.
The commitment of its faculty, staff and students to these standards contributes to the high
respect in which the Carnegie Mellon degree is held. Students must not destroy that respect
by their failure to meet these standards. Students who cannot meet them should voluntarily
withdraw from the university.
The Carnegie Mellon Code can also be found on-line at https://www.cmu.edu/student-
affairs/theword/.
1.7 University Policies and Expectations
It is the responsibility of each member of the Carnegie Mellon community to be familiar with
university policies and guidelines. In addition to this departmental graduate student
handbook, the following resources are available to assist you in understanding community
expectations:
www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword//index.html
The Word/Student Handbook
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-
Academic Integrity Policy
life/academic-integrity.html
www.cmu.edu/policies/
University Policies Website
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 9http://www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/index.html
Office of Graduate and Postdoc Affairs
Due to the changing nature of conditions and expectations surrounding public health and
safety requirements, please visit www.cmu.edu/coronavirus for the most up to date
information.
Please see Appendix A for additional information about The Word and University resources.
1.8 Academic Calendar
The Academic Calendar can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/calendar/index.html and
provides information on all deadlines including registration dates, class start dates, add/drop
deadlines, exam dates and more.
2 The Language Technologies Institute
2.1.1 Mailboxes & Office Supplies
The LTI mailboxes, printers, copiers, and other departmental resources are in GHC 5404.
2.1.2 Photocopies and Printers
The use of a photocopier or printer requires you to log in with your CMU ID card. LTI’s printers
are located in GHC 5404 and GHC 6604. The School of Computer Science provides a number of
black-and-white and color printers for use by students. The SCS Computer Facilities publishes a
list of printers online at http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~help/printing/.
2.1.3 Office Space for MS Students
To help create a sense of community, full time students in the LTI’s MIIS program have access to a
shared office space.
2.1.4 Computers for MS Students
Students are expected to provide their own laptop computers that can be used to access
university resources and complete course assignments. Laptops running Windows, MacOS,
and Linux software are all acceptable.
Master’s students will be given a CS user id. A CS user id is required to use the LTI computer
cluster, and other SCS services. The School of Computer Science has a Help Center located at
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 10GHC 4201. They can be contacted at help@cs.cmu.edu, extension 8-4231 from a campus
phone, or 412-268-4231 from an outside line.
MS students will be given access to the LTI’s computer cluster on an as-needed basis, to be
used for course assignments, directed study projects, and/or the capstone project. The LTI
cluster provides storage and computation for projects involving large datasets and/or lengthy
computation.
3 CMU Degree Completion and Certification
3.1 Standard Degree Requirements & Degree Certification
Carnegie Mellon graduate students are expected to complete their degree requirements within
the standard length of time for their program of study as outlined in the relevant Graduate
Student Handbook. Standard program lengths for graduate students vary significantly ranging
from two semesters for some full-time master’s programs to several or more years for doctoral
programs. Upon completion of the graduate program degree requirements, the degree will be
certified by the student’s academic program in the semester in which the student completes
the requirements.
Early Completion
Graduate students who consider the completion of all degree requirements in less than the
standard length of time for their program of study may consult with their degree-granting
program or department to determine if early degree certification is allowed and under what
circumstances.
Extended or Longer-than-Standard Completion
Longer-than-standard degree completion may occur due to academic interruptions in making
progress toward the degree as defined by the academic program, interruptions of full-time study
or progress towards the degree due to serious, documented medical issues, or other unusual or
unforeseen circumstances.
Master’s students who require longer than the standard time to complete their degree
requirements are expected to remain in close contact with their graduate program, and will be
certified at the end of the semester in which they have completed their degree requirements.
Students shall reference CMU Policy on Master’s Student Statute of Limitations:
www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/masters-students-statute-of limitations.html
regarding guidelines and restrictions which place an upper limit on the maximum length of
time allowable for master’s degree completion and certification.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 113.2 Statute of Limitations
As outlined in the Master’s Students Statute of Limitations,
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/masters-students-statute-of-
limitations.html students will complete all requirements for the master’s degree within a
maximum of seven years from original matriculation as a master’s student, or less if required
by a more restrictive department, school or college policy. Once this time-to-degree limit has
lapsed, the person may resume work towards a master’s degree only if newly admitted to a
currently offered master’s degree program under criteria determined by that program.
Under extraordinary circumstances, such as leave of absence, military or public service, family
or parental leave, or temporary disability, a school or college may, upon the relevant
department's recommendation and with the written approval of the dean (or designate), defer
the lapse for a period commensurate with the duration of that interruption. Students who are
pursuing a master’s degree as part-time students for all semesters of their program, as
approved by their program, may also appeal to their program or department for extension of
the time to degree limit.
3.3 Additional Guidance for Students
Program of Study
Students seeking guidance about their program of study and degree requirements should
consult with their academic advisor and/or appropriate associate dean.
Financial Aid and Student Account
Students are expected to make normal progress toward their degree in order to graduate within
the standard timeframe for their program of study. Under U.S. Federal Title IV regulations,
student eligibility for federal financial aid is contingent upon enrollment in and successful
completion of courses that are counted as credit toward their current degree program. To
receive the maximum amount of federal financial aid for which they may be eligible, students
must enroll each semester in at least 36 units that count toward their current degree level. (See
separate guidance regarding integrated degree completion.) Students should consult with their
designated college liaison in The HUB regarding billing and financial aid, particularly for early
completion, longer-than standard completion, or integrated undergraduate and master’s degree
programs.
International Students
Immigration status for students in F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrant status is tied to making normal
progress toward completing degree requirements. Therefore, F-1 and J-1 students who are
considering completing their degree requirements early, anticipating longer-than-standard
completion, or moving from an undergraduate to a graduate student classification (integrated
undergraduate-graduate study) should consult with their designated advisor in the Office of
International Education (OIE) to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 124 MIIS Degree Requirements and Related Policies/Protocols
4.1 Program Options
The MIIS degree is offered in two options:
Option 1. Standard MIIS degree (MIIS-16) - A 16-month track that is completed in three
academic semesters (fall, spring, fall) and a summer internship.
Option 2. MIIS: Advanced Study degree (MIIS-21) - A 21-month track that is completed in
four academic semesters (fall, spring, fall, spring) and a summer internship.
MIIS: Advanced Study track offers in depth degree in one of the following areas of
concentration:
• Human Language for Language Technologies
• Language Technology Application
• Machine Learning for Language Technologies
Part-time options are available in some cases.
4.2 Required Units for Degree Attainment
To complete the Master of Science in Intelligent Information Systems, a student must satisfy
three types of requirements. Curricular requirements ensure that MIIS students receive
instruction in core intelligent information systems technologies while also allowing an
opportunity to specialize in areas of personal interest. Practice requirements are opportunities
to apply and hone new skills while building state-of-the-art systems. Grade requirements ensure
that students have demonstrated a certain level of skill while completing degree requirements.
All three types of requirements are described below.
MIIS-16 students must take at least 84 units (typically 7 12-unit courses) of qualifying and
elective courses that satisfy human language, machine learning, and language technology
applications breadth requirements and 66 practice units for a total of 150 units to attain the
Standard MIIS degree.
MIIS-21 students must take at least 108 units (typically 9 12-unit courses) of qualifying and
elective courses and 66 practice units to satisfy their degree requirements, making it a total of
174 units to attain the MIIS: Advanced Study degree.
4.3 Core Requirements
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 13A MIIS student must complete the following curricular requirements:
1. Qualifying courses:
MIIS-16 students must pass 72 units (typically 6 12-unit courses) and MIIS-21 students
must complete 96 units (typically 8 12-unit courses) in qualifying master’s courses.
A qualifying master’s course is defined as:
a. Any graduate course (600-level or higher) offered by the Language Technologies
Institute; and
b. Any graduate course (600-level or higher) from the list of approved qualifying
courses (Section 3.2.4).
2. Free elective: Students must pass 12 units (typically 1 course) in elective master’s
course(s). A free elective is defined as:
a. A graduate course (600-level or higher) with content relevant to the MIIS
program objectives offered by the School of Computer Science; and
b. A course approved by the student's advisor and the degree Program Director.
c. A student may not use the same course to satisfy both a qualifying course
requirement and an elective course requirement.
3. Breadth requirements: Students must demonstrate breadth by passing one course in
each of the following areas. In addition, MIIS-21 students must take two more LTI
courses (24 units total) in one of the following areas of concentration:
• Human language;
• Machine learning; and
• Language technology applications.
The department maintains and publishes a list of courses that satisfy each of these
requirements (Sections 3.2.5 – 3.2.7). Some courses used to satisfy a breadth requirement
can also satisfy qualifying course requirements. A student should get approval from the
director for the breadth courses, if not listed below.
4.4 Approved Qualifying Courses
Any graduate course (600-level or higher) offered by the Language Technologies Institute is
a qualifying course.
Any two graduate courses (600-level or higher) offered by departments within the SCS
relevant to the MIIS degree other than LTI (Machine Learning or Computer Science
departments, etc.) may be counted as approved qualifying courses.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 14Any course from the following list is an approved qualifying course.
• 02-712, Computational Methods for Biological Modeling and Simulation
• 05-631, Software Structures for User interfaces
• 05-813, Human Factors
• 10-708, Probabilistic Graphical Models
• 16-720, Computer Vision
• 17-631 Information Security, Privacy & Policy
• 17-781, Mobile and IoT Computing Services
4.4.1 Breadth Courses: Human Language
• 11-611, Natural Language Processing
• 11-624, Human Language for Artificial Intelligence
• 11-711, Advanced NLP
• 11-722, Grammar Formalisms
• 11-724, Human Language for Artificial Intelligence
• 11-727, Computational Semantics for NLP
• 11-737, Multilingual NLP
4.4.2 Breadth Courses: Language Technology Applications
• 11-642, Search Engines
• 11-688, Concepts in Digital Multimedia and Cyber Forensics
• 11-692, Speech Processing
• 11-697. Introduction to Question Answering
• 11-751, Speech Recognition and Understanding
• 11-767, On-Service Machine Learning
• 11-797, Question Answering
• 11-830, Computational Ethics For NLP
4.4.3 Breadth Courses: Machine Learning
• 11-641, Machine Learning for Text and Graph-Based Mining
• 11-661, Language and Statistics
• 11-663, Applied Machine Learning
• 11-747, Neural Networks for NLP
• 11-755, Machine Learning for Signal Processing
• 11-761, Language and Statistics
• 11-777, Multimodal Machine Learning
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 15• 11-785, Introduction to Deep Learning
• 10-601, Introduction to Machine Learning (Master’s)
• 10-605, Machine Learning with Large Datasets
• 10-701, Introduction to Machine Learning (PhD)
• 10-707, Advanced Deep Learning
• 10-708, Probabilistic Graphical Models
• 10-714, Deep Learning Systems
• 10-715, Advanced Introduction to Machine Learning
4.5 Practice Requirements
A student must complete at least 66 practice-oriented course units and satisfy the following
practice-oriented requirements for both MIIS-16 and MIIS-21 programs.
1. Directed study requirement: Students must pass 24 units (typically 12 units x 2
semesters) in directed study under the supervision of their advisor. Directed study is a
structured, task-oriented form of independent study that provides deep, hands-on
experience in a particular technology area and an opportunity to work closely with a
member of the faculty.
2. Internship requirement: Students must complete a one-semester (typically summer)
internship at an organization (typically a company or government agency) approved by
the MIIS Program Director. Internships are an opportunity to apply new skills in a
professional setting and to learn about software development in a ‘real world’
organization. Students with prior professional experience may petition the MIIS
Program Director to waive this requirement.
MIIS students that do an internship during the summer semester are required to present
their internship at a poster session at the beginning of the following Fall semester. The
poster and the student’s participation in the poster session are part of the internship
requirement. Participation is required unless waived in writing by the MIIS Program
Director.
3. Capstone requirements: Students must complete a capstone project (36 units) and a
capstone planning seminar (6 units). The capstone requirement gives students
experience with collaborative, team-oriented software development; significant hands-
on experience with the techniques studied in the classroom; and an opportunity to work
on a large software application.
a. The capstone project (36 units) is a large, group-oriented demonstration of
student skill in one or more areas covered by the degree. Typically, the result of
the capstone project is a major software application. The capstone project is
supervised by a member of the faculty who meets with students on a weekly
basis to monitor progress and provide guidance.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 16b. The capstone planning seminar (6 units) organizes students into groups; defines
capstone project goals, requirements, success metrics, and deliverables; and
identifies and acquires data, software, and other resources required for successful
completion of the project. The planning seminar must be completed in the
semester prior to taking the capstone project.
4.6 Registration Process/Procedures
Students are responsible for registering for their courses. Use the Stellic Degree Audit
Application to monitor your progress and plan your degree. Students can search for relevant
courses in a number of ways and share your plan with your advisor directly through the
application.
Navigate to the SIO Academic Info tab and select Enrollment Status and the upcoming
semester to confirm the following:
• Enrollment Status is 'Eligible to Enroll' (if not, email thehub@andrew.cmu.edu)
• Maximum units for which you can plan to register for (overloads are reviewed and
permitted only after registration week)
• Class Level, College and Department are correct (if incorrect, please contact your home
academic department)
The registration process can be completed within SIO (Student Information Online) by
following 4 easy steps: https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/docs/4-easy-steps.pdf
If students have any questions about course selection, students may reach out to MIIS program
director, Teruko Mitamura.
4.7 Drop/Add/Withdraw Procedures
Students taking undergraduate and master’s level courses must follow the procedures and
deadlines for adding, dropping, or withdrawing from courses as identified on the academic
calendar. Information can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/course-
changes/index.html. Please note that there is a separate calendar for doctoral courses that does
not apply to Masters’ students.
4.8 Transfer Courses and Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE)
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 17Carnegie Mellon University offers students the opportunity to take courses for credit through
a cross-registration program (see Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-
registration below) and through the receipt of transfer credit from other accredited
institutions. The Carnegie Mellon University transcript will include information on such
courses as follows: Carnegie Mellon courses and courses taken through the university's cross-
registration program will have grades recorded on the transcript and be factored into the QPA.
All other courses will be recorded on this transcript indicating where the course was taken,
but without grades. Such courses will not be considered for academic actions, honors or QPA
calculations.
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/transfer-credit-evaluation-and-
assignment.html
NOTE: Suspended students may take courses elsewhere; however, they may receive transfer
credit only if their college’s and department's policies allow this.
4.9 Internships
If the experience will have units attached to it, the program should have deliverables from the
student commensurate with the number of units they are taking. This can be in the form of
interim and final reports on the experience, presentations in the following semester regarding
the experience, assessments of their experience as it relates to their course of study, etc.
Students are responsible for identifying and applying for internships on their own. The LTI and
the university provide several types of support for students seeking internships.
An annual poster session helps spread information from MIIS students that recently completed
internships to MIIS students that will soon seek internships; other LTI professional master’s
programs have similar internship-oriented poster sessions that MIIS students may attend. The
university offers resume-writing and interviewing workshops to help prepare students and fall
and spring employment fairs to help students connect with companies. The university’s Career
& Professional Development Center https://www.cmu.edu/career/ provides other services as
well.
If a student cannot find an internship, the MIIS program will arrange an on-campus internship
with a university-based project. This internship may be unpaid.
International students are required to consult with Office of International Education for
eligibility before seeking an internship/co-op or signing an offer contract (required addition to
ensure the university is in compliance with immigration laws for F & J status students).
4.10 Advising
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 18Each student has a faculty advisor charged with guiding the education and monitoring the
progress of the student through the program. The advisor also supervises the student's directed
study projects. This personal student-advisor relationship ensures that every student receives
the necessary faculty mentoring. The advisor also provides the student with career advice.
How and when the advisor is selected: Advisors are selected during the first month of the
program. Students are expected to attend the LTI Orientation Faculty Research Talks in which
faculty describe their interests and areas of expertise, and to be proactive about meeting
individually with potential advisors. Typically, if a student and faculty member agree to enter
an advising relationship, it is approved by the Program Director. If a student has not found an
advisor after one month in the program, the Program Director will assign an advisor to the
student.
How to change advisors: The initial advisor selection should be made carefully. However, it is
possible to change advisors. To do so, the student should find another faculty member willing
to serve as an advisor, and then make a request to the Program Director to switch advisors. The
LTI follows the long-standing SCS policy that both the new and old advisors need to agree to
the change; typically, this is not a problem, assuming the new advisor has agreed in advance, as
described here. It is to the student's advantage to avoid switching advisors, especially late in
their graduate studies, because forging a strong student-advisor relationship takes time.
4.11 LTI Orientation
Prior to the beginning of each Fall semester the LTI provides lectures and faculty research
talks to help students learn about the work done by CMU faculty and to provide an
opportunity for advisors to recruit new students. Students are expected to attend them and to
treat them as seriously as a course, because they provide a good introduction to the broad
range of research done at the LTI. Students do not have to register for the LTI Orientation
Faculty Research Talks, nor do they receive a grade, however the department is serious about
its expectation that new students will attend these talks.
The LTI Orientation Canvas course is a mandatory course designed to increase incoming LTI
graduate students' awareness and understanding of CMU's community standards and the
resources that CMU offers the students. The course includes several administrative tasks,
training, and educational sessions. The students will be enrolled into the course by the
program administrator in early August. All MIIS students are expected to complete all
assignments by the end of their first semester in the program. Each assignment has its own due
date.
4.12 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures
Graduate students will find the Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance
Procedures on the Graduate Education Resource webpage. This document summarizes
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 19processes available to graduate students who seek review of academic and non-academic issues.
Generally, graduate students are expected to seek informal resolution of all concerns within the
applicable department, unit, or program before invoking formal processes. When an informal
resolution cannot be reached, however, a graduate student who seeks further review of the
matter is to follow the formal procedures outlined here. These appeal and grievance procedures
shall apply to students in all graduate programs of the University. Students should refer to the
department specific information in this handbook for department and college information about
the administration and academic policies of the program.
Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures - Office of Graduate and
Postdoctoral Affairs - Carnegie Mellon University (cmu.edu)
4.13 Intellectual Property Policy
The MIIS degree program adheres to Carnegie Mellon University policy on intellectual
property: http://www.cmu.edu/policies/documents/IntellProp.html
5 Grading and Evaluation
5.1 Grading Scale/System
Students must demonstrate their mastery of material taught in courses and their success in
applying their skills in directed study and capstone projects by satisfying the following grade
requirements:
1. Minimum grade: A student must obtain a B- or better grade in all courses, which count
towards core requirements. If a student receives a C or better, that course may count as an
elective towards the degree requirements.
2. Minimum QPA: A student must maintain an average QPA of at least 3.0 in courses and
projects used to satisfy degree requirements.
3. Pass/fail: Pass/fail grades are not permitted for courses and projects used to satisfy a degree
requirement. Graduate students who are required to take additional undergraduate courses to
build up the core foundations of computer science may not elect the pass/fail option for these
courses.
5.2 Pass/Fail Grades
Pass/fail grades are not permitted for courses used to satisfy a degree requirement, except for
the 11-696 (A) Capstone Planning Seminar and 11-935 (R) LTI Practicum that are a Pass/Fail.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 20Graduate students who are required to take additional undergraduate courses to build up the
core foundations of computer science may not elect the pass/fail option for these courses.
5.3 Independent Study
An independent study can be counted as an Elective course, but it cannot be counted as a
Qualifying course.
5.4 University Policy on Grades
This policy offers details concerning university grading principles for students taking courses
and covers the specifics of assigning and changing grades, grading options, drop/withdrawals,
and course repeats. It also defines the undergraduate and graduate grading standards.
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/grading.html
5.5 Process for Appealing Final Grades
Final grades will be changed only in exceptional circumstances and only with the approval of
the instructor and the department, unit or program. Grading is a matter of sound discretion of
the instructor and final grades are rarely changed without the consent of the instructor who
assigned the grade. The following circumstances are the unusual exceptions that may warrant
a grade appeal: (a) the final grade assigned for a course is based on manifest error (e.g., a clear
error such as arithmetic error in computing a grade or failure to grade one of the answers on an
exam), or (b) the faculty or staff member who assigned the grade did so in violation of a
university policy.
Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures - Office of Graduate and
Postdoctoral Affairs - Carnegie Mellon University (cmu.edu)
5.6 Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses
Carnegie Mellon University offers students the opportunity to take courses for credit through
a cross-registration program (see Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-
registration below) and through the receipt of transfer credit from other accredited
institutions. The Carnegie Mellon University transcript will include information on such
courses as follows: Carnegie Mellon courses and courses taken through the university's cross-
registration program will have grades recorded on the transcript and be factored into the QPA.
All other courses will be recorded on this transcript indicating where the course was taken,
but without grade. Such courses will not be taken into account for academic actions, honors or
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 21QPA calculations. (Note: Suspended students may take courses elsewhere; however, they may
receive transfer credit only if their college’s and department's policies allow this.)
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/transfer-credit-evaluation-and-
assignment.html
5.7 End of Semester Evaluation
Near the end of each semester, the student must prepare a statement that describes their
achievements in the current semester and plans for the next semester. At the end of the
semester, the faculty evaluates each student's academic progress. The student's advisor serves
as the student's advocate in this process. The result of the evaluation is a letter from the
faculty to the student that indicates whether the student is making satisfactory progress towards
completing the degree.
A good letter typically indicates that the student is making satisfactory progress. If the student
is doing exceptionally good work, a stronger adjective such as excellent might be used, but this
is unusual.
If a student seems to be having trouble, the faculty determines whether it believes that the
student can finish the degree, and if so, what needs to be accomplished to get back on track.
This type of letter should be considered a serious warning. It is not a permanent "black mark"
on the student's record; if the student begins making satisfactory progress again, there is no
official record of the letter in the student's transcript.
In the most serious cases, the faculty gives the student an N-1 letter that specifies a list of
conditions that the student must satisfy by specific deadlines. Failure to meet all the specified
conditions may result in the student's termination from the program.
5.8 Satisfactory Progress
If a student does not make satisfactory progress each semester toward completing the degree,
the LTI may remove the student from the program or strongly encourage the student to
consider switching to the four-semester program (MIIS-21) to complete all the requirements.
5.9 Academic Integrity
Please review the University Policy on Academic Integrity
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/academic-integrity.html. The policy
includes the University expectations around academic integrity and provides definitions of
cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized assistance.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 22A review of the University’s Academic Disciplinary Actions procedures
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/academic-discipline/index.html is also
recommended. These procedures outline the process for investigating, reporting, and
adjudicating violations of the University Policy on Academic Integrity. The procedures also
outline the appeal process.
In the midst of self-exploration, the high demands of a challenging academic environment can
create situations where some students have difficulty exercising good judgment. Academic
challenges can provide many opportunities for high standards to evolve if students actively
reflect on these challenges and if the community supports discussions to aid in this process. It
is the responsibility of the entire community to establish and maintain the integrity of our
university.
Carnegie Mellon University educates its students to become professionals who will serve
society with integrity. The university also creates and disseminates new knowledge and
expressions of knowledge in ways that benefit society. Carnegie Mellon strives to serve the
changing needs of society through the three primary goals outlined in its mission statement: to
create and disseminate knowledge and art through research and artistic expression, teaching
and learning and transfer to society, to serve students by teaching them leadership and
problem-solving skills, and the values of quality, ethical behavior, responsibility to society and
commitments to work, to pursue the advantages provided by a diverse community, open to the
exchange of ideas, where discovery and artistic creativity can flourish.
In any presentation, creative, artistic or research, it is the ethical responsibility of each student
to identify the conceptual sources of the work submitted. Failure to do so is dishonest and is
the basis for a charge of cheating or plagiarism, which is subject to disciplinary action.
The university has a very clear and specific protocol for responding to alleged violations of
academic integrity. Carnegie Mellon's Academic Disciplinary Actions Overview for Graduate
Students describes procedures for disciplinary actions against graduate students in cases of
alleged violations of academic regulations and the appeal process.
Important note: The LTI implements the above policy’s option of “conven[ing] a disciplinary
hearing according to the procedures of the department/program”. Our procedure is as follows:
a first violation is grounds for dismissal from the graduate program. If we decide to not
immediately dismiss, the first violation will result in the student being on disciplinary
probation. If a student commits a second violation while on probation, the penalty is
dismissal from the graduate program.
6 Academic Policies
6.1 MIIS Academic Policies
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 236.1.1 Double Counting Courses
A Masters student who uses courses taken as part of another degree program (at Carnegie
Mellon or elsewhere) toward their program requirements cannot use those same courses
toward any other M.S. degree offered by the School of Computer Science without prior
approval. (SCS policy)
6.1.2 Duration of Study
MIIS-16 students enrolled for full-time study are expected to complete the degree in three
semesters of academic study and one summer internship (16 months total).
MIIS-21 students enrolled for full-time study are expected to complete the degree in four
semesters of academic study and one summer internship (21 months total).
MIIS-16 students enrolled for part-time study are expected to complete the program in six
semesters of academic study and one summer internship (27 months total).
MIIS-21 students enrolled for part-time study are expected to complete the program in seven
semesters of academic study and one summer internship (31 months total).
See also the ‘Statute of Limitations’ policy.
6.1.3 Deferral
MIIS students are given the opportunity to defer their enrollment. The deferral request must
be approved by the program director. The deferral can only be used once for the period of one
academic year.
6.1.4 Maximum and Minimum Course Loads
A student in the program may not take more than sixty (60) units per semester without
permission from the program director.
A student in the program must be registered for a minimum thirty-six (36) units per semester
to be considered a full-time student or twelve (12) units per semester to be considered a part-
time student. All international students are required by US Federal law to maintain full-time
status. Reduced Course Load is not permitted for MIIS students. Failure to maintain full-time
status will result in loss of a student visa (and, therefore, “permit of stay”). (MIIS policy)
6.1.5 Transfer Credit
An equivalent graduate course previously completed at Carnegie Mellon, or another
institution may be permitted to satisfy one of the MIIS breadth requirements. The decision on
whether a course may be used to satisfy a breadth requirement is made by the MIIS Program
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 24Director. Typically, the student will provide the Program Director with the syllabus of the
external course, and the Program Director will use that and the student’s transcript to make
the decision.
Satisfying a breadth requirement with a course from another institution does not reduce the
number of CMU course units that must be taken to attain the MIIS degree.
See the section on “Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption” on page 25.
6.1.6 Transferring into the MIIS Program
Transfers into the MIIS program are not permitted during a student’s first semester at CMU.
Students must begin their study at CMU in the program that admitted them.
Students may request to transfer into the MIIS program after completing their first semester
and before the add/drop deadline of the spring semester. The student must make the request
in writing (or email) to the MIIS Program Director. The MIIS Program Director will inform
the student about what application materials are required, for example, an explanation of why
a transfer is desired, a proposed plan of study, a proposed advisor, and CMU transcripts.
Students that are already enrolled in an LTI degree program are not required to retake GRE
and TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo exams or to produce new transcripts from other universities.
The MIIS program will conduct an expedited admissions process after receiving such a
request. The program will explicitly consider whether the coursework done prior to the
transfer will allow the student to be “on schedule” by the end of the spring semester, so that
the student can participate in a capstone project with other MIIS students during the next fall
semester.
MIIS students are allowed to switch tracks (MIIS-16 to MIIS-21 and vice versa) after
beginning their first semester at CMU. Ideally, all switch requests must be filed within the
first semester of the program. It is highly recommended to not switch tracks more than
once! Though not forbidden, multiple track switching may negatively impact immigration
records of international students. Students also must understand that extension of their stay
in the program will lead to additional financial obligations.
U.S. citizens, virtually, have no restrictions on how many times they can switch if it is done for
a legitimate reason. To confirm legitimacy of the reason to switch tracks ALL students must
seek their advisor's approval and the approval of the Director of the MIIS program.
6.1.7 Transferring Out of the MIIS Program
The MIIS program does not prevent students from transferring to another degree program.
Each degree program has its own rules about whether and when transfers into the program are
permitted. A student that is interested in transferring out of the MIIS degree program should
consult the handbook and Program Director of the desired degree program to learn whether
transfers are permitted, and if so, how, and when to request such a transfer.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 256.2 LTI Academic Policies
6.2.1 Verification of Enrollment
Enrollment Services is the only University office that can provide an official letter of
enrollment, official transcript, and enrollment verification. Enrollment verification can be
requested online through The HUB at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/student-
records/verifications/enrollment.html.
6.2.2 “Grandfather” policy
A student can graduate under the policies in effect at the time that the student entered the
program; or, at the student's choice, the student can graduate under policies that are adopted
after the student entered the program. If it is not realistic to follow a particular policy exactly,
the department may approximate the policy as closely as possible; this situation is rare and
typically arises only when a student is enrolled in the program for an extended period.
6.2.3 Time Away from Academic Responsibilities
Graduate students should not assume that their time-off follows the academic calendar of
courses. Many are coming from an undergraduate environment where their university
employment followed their course schedule. For many graduate degree programs, there is an
expectation that graduate students continue research during academic breaks and time away
from campus which may or may not be negotiated with the students. If there are requirements
for student time beyond a typical week day, this should be specified. Clarify that University
Holidays are also student holidays, and students need to consult their faculty about coverage if
they have challenges with taking time off during University Holidays. For example, if
experiments are running that need to be monitored continuously students should speak with
their faculty about arrangements to take an equal number of days off at another time.
6.2.4 Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption
The LTI may grant transfer credit or issue an exemption for equivalent graduate courses
previously completed at another institution. This decision rests with the director of the
program. If a student is exempt from a required course due to prior courses or experience, the
student can replace that course with an open elective. The student does not receive credit for
the external course but can take any course that could normally count toward the degree in its
place. If a student receives credit for prior coursework completed at CMU or elsewhere, the
student receives that many units of credit, and the total amount of required coursework is
reduced by that amount.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 266.2.5 External Employment/Consulting
Since the MIIS program places heavy demands on student time, external employment and/or
consulting are strongly discouraged. Exceptional students who wish to consult should discuss
this with their Advisor. International students must also have approval in advance from the
Office of International Education (OIE) for any outside employment.
6.2.6 Leave of Absence
The LTI discourages Leaves of Absence (LOA), since students usually do not return, despite
good intentions. However, a student in good standing may be granted a LOA of at most 1 year,
upon written request to the Program Director and with consent of the student's advisor. It is
the responsibility of the student on LOA to contact the LTI to initiate a return to the program.
6.2.7 Withdrawal of a Degree
The University reserves the right to withdraw a degree even though it has been granted should
there be discovery that the work upon which it was based or the academic records in support
of it had been falsified. In such a case, withdrawal of the degree will occur promptly upon
discovery of the falsification. The complete reference to this University policy is available at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/withdrawal-of-a-degree.html.
6.2.8 Winter and Summer Breaks
Students supported by research projects are expected to remain on campus working during
breaks in classes. A two-week vacation is typically allowed in the summer. The normal
winter break policy is that the student works 40 hours per week for two weeks and takes
vacation for the other two weeks.
7 Safeguarding Educational Equity
7.1 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
http://www.cmu.edu/education-office/disability-resources/
The Office of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University has a continued mission
to provide physical, digital, and programmatic access to ensure that students with
disabilities have equal access to their educational experience. We work to ensure that
qualified individuals receive reasonable accommodations as guaranteed by the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students
who would like to receive accommodations can begin the process through Disability
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 27Resources' secure online portal (https://rainier.accessiblelearning.com/cmu/) or email
access@andrew.cmu.edu to begin the interactive accommodation process.
Students with physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional disabilities are encouraged to self-
identify with the Office of Disability Resources and request needed accommodations. Any
questions about the process can be directed to access@andrew.cmu.edu, or call (412) 268-
6121.
7.2 Sexual Misconduct Policy
The University prohibits sex-based discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating/
domestic violence, and stalking. The University also prohibits retaliation against individuals
who bring forward such concerns or allegations in good faith.
The University’s Sexual Misconduct Policy is available at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/sexual-misconduct/index.html.
The University’s Policy Against Retaliation is available at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/whistleblower.html.
If you have been impacted by any of these issues, you are encouraged to make contact with
any of the following resources:
Office of Title IX Initiatives
https://www.cmu.edu/title-ix/, 412-268-7125, tix@cmu.edu
o
University Police
https://www.cmu.edu/police/, 412-268-2323
o
Additional resources and information can be found at:
https://www.cmu.edu/title-ix/resources-and-information/resources.html.
7.3 Gestational and Parental Accommodations
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/programs-services/maternity-accommodation-protocol.html
Providing holistic student support is a top priority at Carnegie Mellon. The protocols on this
page are designed to support the parental needs of students and their families.
Students seeking any of the Parental Accommodations described below must register with
the Office of the Dean of Students by contacting the office for an appointment by calling
412-268-2075.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 28Students are encouraged to register with the Office of the Dean of Students ninety (90) days in
advance of the anticipated arrival of the child as applicable in the individual circumstance. At
the time of registering, students will have the opportunity to consult about resources,
procedures, funding options and preparation for discussing academic accommodations with the
student’s academic department. Students should also consult with their academic advisors
either before or in conjunction with registering with the Office of the Dean of Students.
Accommodations for Gestational Parents
The birth of a child is a significant life event that may require time away from academic pursuits
for delivery and recovery from delivery of a newly born child. Students whose anticipated
delivery date is during the course of a semester may need to take time away from their academic
responsibilities. Carnegie Mellon students seeking time away are afforded two options as
possible accommodation:
• Short-Term Accommodation for Gestational Parents – A short term absence from
academic responsibilities up to a maximum of six (6) weeks. Short-Term
Accommodation may be extended by two (2) weeks, for a total of eight (8) weeks,
where a longer absence is medically necessary. Prior to the absence students must
work with relevant university faculty and staff to adjust their course work, research,
teaching and other academic responsibilities during the period of absence. This may
include extensions of time to complete assignments, incomplete grades, and/or
dropping courses, shifting research responsibilities and adjusting TA assignments.
Students who take a Short-Term Accommodation will remain enrolled.
• Formal Leave of Absence– A formal leave of absence under the Student Leave Policy.
Generally, the Student Leave Policy permits students to take a leave of absence for a
full-semester, mini-semester, or for the time remaining in the semester during which
the leave is taken. Students who take a Formal Leave of Absence (
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/student-leave.html ) drop
all remaining courses for the semester and are unenrolled for the semester.
International students must consult with the Office of International Education (
https://www.cmu.edu/oie/ ) before considering this option due to visa implications.
Financial Assistance for Student Parents
Carnegie Mellon also offers the following options for financial assistance to students who
become parents while enrolled:
Interest Free Loan – Any student who becomes a parent is eligible to apply for an interest-
free parental loan (https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/loans/) from the Office of the
Dean of Students.
7.4 Consensual Intimate Relationship Policy Regarding Undergraduate
Students
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 29This policy addresses the circumstances in which romantic, sexual, or amorous
relationships/interactions with undergraduate students, even if consensual, are inappropriate
and prohibited. The purpose of this policy is to assure healthy professional relationships. This
policy is not intended to discourage consensual intimate relationships unless there is a
conflicting professional relationship in which one party has authority over the other as in the
policy.
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/consensual-relationships.html
7.5 Employment Eligibility Verification
If you are receiving a stipend, are a TA, or are planning to have a position with CMU then
Employment Eligibility Verification is required. Form I-9 must be completed within 3 business
days of beginning work for any type of compensation (stipend or employment). Additional
details are highlighted below. To ensure compliance with federal law, Carnegie Mellon
University maintains the Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9) Policy
https://www.cmu.edu/hr/assets/hr/restrict/employment-eligibility-verification-policy.pdf
covering the university’s I-9 and E-Verify requirements:
● Every individual receiving a stipend from CMU or employed by CMU must comply
with the I-9 Policy by completing the Form I-9 within three business days following
the first day of stipend start date/employment.
● Individuals who expect to work on a federally funded project are further responsible
for submitting an E-Verify Processing Request Form to the Office of Human
Resources if required.
● For more information, please see CMU’s Guidance for Completing the Form I-9 and
E-Verify Requirements at CMU https://www.cmu.edu/hr/assets/recruiting/restrict/i-9-
guidance.pdf , or visit the Human Resources Service website to learn more about
Form I-9 and E-Verify https://www.cmu.edu/hr/service-center/new-faculty-staff/i-9-e-
verify/index.html and to schedule an appointment to complete the Form I-9
https://go.oncehub.com/I9Appointment.
● Students who fail to complete the Form I-9 in a timely manner may have stipend
payments suspended. If employed by the university, an individual who fails to timely
complete the Form I-9 may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including
termination of employment.
8 Financial Support
8.1 Graduate Student Funding
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 30The LTI does not provide financial aid or support to students in the professional master’s
programs. Students are encouraged to seek financial aid and support from other sources. The
HUB website (https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/financial-aid/index.html) provides the Graduate
Financial Aid Guide, information about funding options and how to apply for financial aid and
other helpful links. Additional information on financial issues for graduate students can be
found on the web at http://www.cmu.edu/hub/new-grad/.
Teaching assistantships are awarded to faculty members who then award these positions to
selected students. Teaching assistant duties include, but are not limited to, holding office
hours, conducting recitation classes, and grading. There are minimum English proficiency
requirements that must be met for a student to accept a teaching assistantship. Pennsylvania
state law requires that all students who are not native speakers of English take and pass a
state administered proficiency test. Support for teaching activities can be found through the
Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence, located in Warner Hall 425. Students who will be
T.A.s for the department are encouraged to visit the Teaching Center and to take advantage
of the information and services located there.
Students in the professional master’s programs are not prohibited from seeking support as
Teaching Assistants and Research Assistants. However, typically, fulltime master’s students
do not have time for these activities. Research Assistantships are most likely to be awarded to
students in CMU’s research-oriented degree programs.
MIIS students can apply for TA positions only with the permission of the program director.
Teaching Assistantships are especially discouraged for first semester students.
8.2 University Financial Aid
Graduate students should consult the graduate student financial aid information found on The
HUB website (http://www.cmu.edu/finaid/graduate/index.html.) Students will find the
Graduate Financial Aid Guide, information about funding options and how to apply for
financial aid and other helpful links.
8.3 Health Insurance
Carnegie Mellon has a Student Health Insurance policy requiring full-time, degree seeking
students to carry adequate medical insurance. Students must either purchase the plan offered
by the University or an application for a waiver can be made if the student is “enrolled as the
dependent, partner/spouse or principal in an employer or government-sponsored insurance
plan” (see the Carnegie Mellon University Student Health Insurance Policy at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/student-health-insurance.html.
It is the responsibility of each student to make arrangements with Student Health Services to
either pay for their insurance at the beginning of the semester or elect a payment plan over the
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 31course of the academic year. More information is available at the Student Health Services Web
site www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/HealthServices/insurance.
8.4 Emergency Loans
https://www.cmu.edu/sfs/billing/emergency-loans.html
All students regardless of their program are eligible for the Emergency Student Loan, which is
an interest-free and emergency-based loan repayable within 30 days. It is available through the
Office of the Dean of Student Affairs; students may apply for the loan by stopping into the
Student Affairs Office, Warner Hall 301, or by calling (412) 268-2075 for an appointment.
8.5 Office of the Dean of Students Emergency Support Funding
Graduate students who find themselves in need of immediate funds for emergency situations
should contact the Office of the Dean of Students: https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/
to inquire about the types of emergency funding available to enrolled students.
9 Additional University Resources
9.1 The HUB Student Services Center
thehub@andrew.cmu.edu and http://www.cmu.edu/hub/
The HUB is located in Warner Hall, Lower Level. The HUB staff delivers comprehensive
service and counsel to students and families regarding financial aid, billing and payment,
registration, and academic records. The Assistant Directors in The HUB serves as contacts for
specific colleges and assist enrolled students with key aspects of the enrollment
process. Student can find their assigned HUB Assistant Director on their Student Information
Online (SIO) Resource page. Questions that need specialized, in-depth attention can be
directed to the student's assigned Assistant Director. For general questions and information,
students may email The HUB or call 412-268-8186.
9.2 Student Information Online (SIO)
Student Information Online (SIO) is a secure site where students can find important,
personalized information, including E-Bills and student account information, financial aid
status and eligibility, grades and QPA, and course schedules. Students can update their and
their spouse's or domestic partner's contact information, sign up for E-Check & E-Refund,
authorize their spouses, domestic partners or other individual to receive a copy of their E-Bill,
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 32request verifications, view their housing and meal plan assignments, and much more. Students
can log on to SIO by going to www.cmu.edu/hub/sio and entering their Andrew User ID and
password.
On SIO, students will designate an emergency contact address of a relative or family friend to
be contacted in the case of an emergency. If students do not want their name and address
published in the campus directory, they must notify the HUB in writing.
MIIS students are responsible for notifying the University of all address changes in a timely
manner. Students will be held responsible for any failure to receive official college notices due
to not having a correct address on file; F-1 students may jeopardize their status if address
information is not kept current.
Students can change their address using SIO, which is available via the HUB website
(http://www.cmu.edu/hub/index.html).
9.3 ID Cards
Graduate students can obtain their ID card from The HUB once they have been entered into
SIO for the semester. These cards identify their holders as members of the campus
community. Student cards are deactivated upon the cardholder’s separation from the
university.
Affiliate ID Cards are available for spouses and partners of graduate students that allow them
to access Carnegie Mellon’s campus. These cards are available through The HUB to spouses
and partners of graduate students who are enrolled for the current academic year in a full-time
graduate degree program. The card is valid for one year. For information about domestic
partner registration, visit the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs webpage:
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/domestic-partner/index.html.
For more information about student and affiliate ID cards (spouse, domestic partners and
dependent children), please visit: https://www.cmu.edu/idplus/idcards/index.html.
9.4 Transcripts
Information about and instructions for ordering transcripts are available at:
https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/student-records/transcripts/. Transcript questions may be
directed to uro-transcripts@andrew.cmu.edu.
9.5 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/privacy-rights-students.html
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 33This university policy notifies students of their rights under the federal Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). According to FERPA, students have the right to:
• inspect and review their education records;
• request an amendment to their education record if they believe they are inaccurate or
misleading;
• request a hearing if their request for an amendment is not resolved to their satisfaction;
• consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information from their education
records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent;
• file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education Family Policy Compliance
Office if they believe their rights under FERPA have been violated.
For questions about Student Privacy Rights, FERPA or filing a complaint, contact John
Papinchak, University Registrar, jp7p@andrew.cmu.edu, in Enrollment Services.
9.6 Professional Development
https://www.cmu.edu/career/
The Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) at Carnegie Mellon is a centralized
career center staffed by a team of seasoned and highly educated professionals who orchestrate
the career exploration, experiential learning, and career networking needs of students and
alumni.
CMU's career and professional development model is grounded in discipline-specific career
development, experiential learning, and employer relations shaped by strong connections with
the university's seven academic colleges. The center's success is founded upon a solid
understanding of career and professional development theory, integration of technology, and
an unwavering commitment to providing personalized attention towards meeting the unique
individual needs of students, alumni, and employers. The CDPC is located on the Lower Level
of the University Center, 412-268-2064
The Office of the Assistant Vice Provost for Graduate Education (AVPGE) offers a robust
schedule of professional development opportunities. Some are geared towards a specific
population (master’s students, PhD students at the beginning of their program, graduate
students seeking tenure track positions, etc.) and others are open to all graduate students
(time management, balancing, staying healthy). A full schedule of programs can be found at:
http://www.cmu.edu/graduate/.
9.7 University Libraries
http://search.library.cmu.edu
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 34There are three main libraries at Carnegie Mellon: Hunt Library, Mellon Institute Library and
Engineering & Science Library with the combined mission of providing access and help to
graduate students in finding the information needed, teaching graduate students to evaluate
available information and use reliable sources. The libraries’ digital resources and services,
including off-campus/ wireless access to databases and e-journals, offer online access. There
are also two neighboring libraries open to Carnegie Mellon graduate students: Carnegie
Library of Pittsburgh and University of Pittsburgh Libraries. Visit the University Libraries
website for information about all mentioned library locations and hours, on-line resources, and
FAQ’s.
9.8 Computing Services
www.cmu.edu/computing/
Computing Services is located in Cyert Hall 285. Computing Services develops, maintains,
and supports the computing infrastructure for Carnegie Mellon students, faculty members
and staff members. This includes the campus wired and wireless networks, public computer
labs or “clusters,” cable television and telephone services, computing related documentation
and support through the Help Center. In addition, Computing Services provides standard
classroom technologies for over 100 lecture halls, classrooms, and seminar rooms across
campus. The website contains addition information regarding The Help Center hours,
location and contact information, computing cluster hours and location, the Carnegie Mellon
web portal, computing security and policies and guidelines. Students can email the Help
Center at advisor@andrew.cmu.edu with questions and for assistance.
9.9 Family and Dependents Resources
The Graduate Student Assembly website maintains a resource page for spouses, domestic
partners and families of graduate students: https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/Resources-for-
Graduate-Students/Partner-and-Family-Resources.html, including The Student Parent
Association, new mother rooms, and links to resources around campus and the Pittsburgh
area.
Affiliate ID Cards are available for spouses and domestic partners of graduate students that
allow them to access Carnegie Mellon’s campus. These cards are available through The HUB
to spouses and partners of graduate students who are enrolled for the current academic year in
a full-time graduate degree program. The card is valid for one year. For more information
about student and affiliate ID cards, please visit:
https://www.cmu.edu/idplus/idcards/sponsored.html.
9.10 Domestic Partner Registration
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 35Carnegie Mellon extends certain benefits to domestic partners of students. Eligible students
may elect benefits for their domestic partners through the registration process orchestrated by
the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs, 3rd floor Warner Hall. Information regarding the
benefits avail-able for domestic partners, eligibility for domestic partner benefits, registration
instructions and forms can be located at: https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/domestic-
partner/index.html.
9.11 Housing
The university does not currently offer housing to graduate students. The Office of Housing
and Dining Services does provide community housing information to assist graduate students
who are seeking housing in the communities surrounding the university, including
information on the legal aspects of renting an apartment, moving checklists and the off-
campus housing database. This information can be located at: https://www.cmu.edu/housing/.
9.12 Dining
https://www.cmu.edu/dining/
Dining services and operations are offered through the Office of Housing and Dining Services.
The office operates dining locations open around campus in academic buildings, Hunt Library,
and the University Center. These locations offer flexible hours with options from the early
morning through late night. The Dining Service website contains information about dining
locations, hours of operation, graduate student dining plans forms, nutritional information,
and weekly menus for dining locations.
9.13 Parking and Transportation
https://www.cmu.edu/parking/
Graduate students will find information about parking and availability, parking policies,
transportation options and Port Authority Transit usage with a valid university ID on the
Parking and Transportation Services site. The Parking and Transportation Services office is
located in the lower level of the University Center, LL#8. There is limited parking on campus
and the varying permit rates can be found on the website. All parking areas of campus are
either by permit, metered or by the hour in the garage. Parking and Transportation Services
will ticket any car parked in a permit area without a permit or at an expired meter. The city
monitors the metered parking along Margaret Morrison, Frew and Tech Streets and will ticket
at expired meters as well.
The university offers shuttle and escort services operated through University Police. The
Shuttle Service operates several routes within Oakland, Squirrel Hill and Shadyside areas, as
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 36well as to university sites located outside of the main campus. The Escort Service offers
vehicle routes within a radius of campus between 6:30 pm-6 am daily. Information regarding
up-to-date shuttle and escort schedules, pick-up/drop-off locations, routes and usage policies
can be found at: www.cmu.edu/police/shuttleandescort/.
9.14 Copying, Printing and Mailing Services
Carnegie Mellon offers community members easy access to UPS, copy centers, printing and
mailing services, and postal services.
Mailing and postal services https://www.cmu.edu/postoffice/
Printing and copy services https://www.cmu.edu/tartanink/copyprint/index.html
9.15 University Center
www.cmu.edu/university-center
The University Center is a centerpiece of the campus that provides a space for special events,
physical fitness, student organizations and various activities, as well as accommodating retail
and dining services. As the campus crossroads, the University Center functions as a place for
students to interact, get involved and enjoy new experiences. Visit the University Center
website for information about campus eateries, ATMs and PNC Bank, fitness rooms and
schedules, retail stores, scheduling University Center space, the public prayer room, student
organizations and the Wright-Rogal Chapel.
The University Center Information Desk is the location if you want to know about upcoming
campus events or have questions about Carnegie Mellon in general, call the Information Desk
at 412-268-2107. The Information Desk not only provides information about campus events,
but also sells postage stamps, makes copies, sends faxes, distributes campus maps, manages a
lost & found, and has information brochures about Pittsburgh and the campus.
9.16 Athletic/Fitness Facilities
www.cmu.edu/athletics
For the participant or the spectator, Carnegie Mellon offers intercollegiate athletics,
intramural sports, physical education classes and club sports. The Athletics Department also
offers aerobics classes in the University Center and Skibo Gym as well as occasional
workshops and instruction related to fitness and health. The Athletics Office is located in the
Skibo Gymnasium.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 37Skibo Gym facilities include courts for basketball, volleyball, badminton, as well as weight-
training and aerobic equipment. The University Center’s recreational facilities include an
eight-lane pool, racquetball and squash courts, aerobics room, fitness center and gym for
basketball and volleyball. All users must present a current Carnegie Mellon Card to use these
facilities.
9.17 CMU Alert
www.cmu.edu/alert
CMU Alert sends voice and/or text messages to registered phones in the event of a campus
emergency that threatens public safety or during tests of the system in the spring and fall
semesters. Students can register for CMU Alert through the website.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 38A Appendix
Appendix A
2023-2024
Highlighted University Resources for Graduate Students
Note: The following pages are meant to broadly include only some of the resources available to
graduate students. It is not an exhaustive appendix of resources, and students are strongly
encouraged to visit the various websites linked below for the most up-to-date information.
A.1 Key Resources for Graduate Student Support
A.1.1 Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate
graded@cmu.edu
The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs provides university-wide support for all
graduate students and academic programs, with a focus on supporting graduate student
success at Carnegie Mellon. Examples of resources offered through the Office of Graduate and
Postdoctoral Affairs include, but are not limited to:
• Website with university resources, contact information for CMU
programs and services, possible financial assistance and potential
funding opportunities, and various procedural and policy information
• Newsletter to all graduate students with information on activities,
resources, and opportunities
• Professional development seminars and workshops, and various
programming and events for the graduate student community
The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs also works directly with the colleges and
departments on issues related to graduate students and serve as a resource for developing
policy and procedures. The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs partners with many
other offices and organizations, such as the Graduate Student Assembly, to support the
holistic graduate student educational experience.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 39A.1.2 Office of the Dean of Students
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/
The Office of the Dean of Students provides central leadership of the metacurricular
experience at Carnegie Mellon including the coordination of student support. Graduate
students will find the enrollment information for Domestic Partner Registration and Parental
Accommodations in the Office of the Dean of Students or on their website. This Office also
manages the Student Emergency Support Funding process. There are currently three forms of
support funding for enrolled students: emergency student loans, student parental loans, and
the Tartan Emergency Support Fund. Inquiring students will be provided with additional
information about the various types of funding during a consultation meeting with a member
of the Dean of Students team. Tuition costs are not eligible for Student Emergency Support
funding.
College Liaisons and the Student Support Resources team serve as additional resources for
graduate students. College Liaisons are senior members of the Division of Student Affairs who
work with departments and colleges addressing student concerns across a wide range of
issues. College Liaisons are identified on the Important Contacts list in Student Information
Online (SIO). The Student Support Resources team offers an additional level of support for
students who are navigating a wide range of life events. Student Support Resources staff
members work in partnership with campus and community resources to provide coordination
of care and support appropriate to each student’s situation.
A.1.3 The Division of Student Affairs
The Division of Student Affairs includes (not an exhaustive list):
• Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation
• Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC)
• Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion
• Cohon University Center
• Counseling & Psychological Services (CaPS)
• Dining Services
• Office of Community Standards and Integrity (OCSI)
• Office of Student Leadership, Involvement, and Civic Engagement
(SLICE)
• University Health Services (UHS)
• Wellness Initiatives
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 40A.1.4 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion
https://www.cmu.edu/student-diversity/
Diversity and inclusion have a singular place among the values of Carnegie Mellon University.
The Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion actively cultivates a strong, diverse and inclusive
community capable of living out these values and advancing research, creativity, learning and
development that changes the world.
The Center offers resources to enhance an inclusive and transformative student experience in
dimensions such as access, success, campus climate and intergroup dialogue. Additionally, the
Center supports and connects historically underrepresented students and those who are first
in their family to attend college in a setting where students’ differences and talents are
appreciated and reinforced, both at the graduate and undergraduate level. Initiatives
coordinated by the Center include, but are not limited to:
• First generation/first in family to attend college programs
• LGBTQ+ Initiatives
• Race and ethnically focused programs, including Inter-University
Graduate Students of Color Series (SOC) and PhD SOC Network
• Women’s empowerment programs, including Graduate Women’s
Gatherings (GWGs)
A.1.5 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
https://www.cmu.edu/disability-resources/
The Office of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University has a continued mission to
provide physical, digital, and programmatic access to ensure that students with disabilities
have equal access to their educational experience. The Office works to ensure that qualified
individuals receive reasonable accommodations as guaranteed by the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students who would
like to receive accommodations can begin the process through Disability Resources' secure
online portal or email access@andrew.cmu.edu to begin the interactive accommodation
Process.
Students with physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional disabilities are encouraged to self-
identify with the Office of Disability Resources and request needed accommodations. Any
questions about the process can be directed to access@andrew.cmu.edu, or call (412) 268-
6121.
A.1.6 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation
https://www.cmu.edu/teaching/
The Eberly Center offers a wide variety of confidential, consultation services and professional
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 41development programs to support graduate students as teaching assistants or instructors of
record during their time at Carnegie Mellon University and as future faculty members at other
institutions. Regardless of one's current or future teaching context and duties, Eberly’s goal is
to disseminate evidence-based teaching strategies in ways that are accessible and actionable.
Programs and services include campus-wide Graduate Student Instructor Orientation events
and our Future Faculty Program, both of which are designed to help participants be effective
and efficient in their teaching roles. The Eberly Center also assists departments in creating and
conducting customized programs to meet the specific needs of their graduate student
instructors. Specific information about Eberly Center support for graduate students is found
at:
https://www.cmu.edu/teaching/graduatestudentsupport/
A.1.7 Graduate Student Assembly
https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is the branch of Carnegie Mellon Student Government
that represents and advocates for the diverse interests of all graduate students at CMU. GSA is
composed of representatives from the different graduate programs and departments who want
to improve the graduate student experience at the different levels of the university. GSA is
funded by the Student Activities Fee from all graduate students. GSA passes legislation,
allocates student activities funding, advocates for legislative action locally and in Washington
D.C. on behalf of graduate student issues and needs, and otherwise acts on behalf of all
graduate student interests. GSA’s recent accomplishments are a testament to their making a
difference, and steps to implementing the vision laid out by the strategic plan.
https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/about-the-gsa/strategic-plan.html
GSA offers an expanding suite of social programming on and off-campus to bring graduate
students from different departments together and build a sense of community. GSA is the host
of the Graduate Student Lounge on the 3rd floor of the Cohon University Center. GSA also
maintains a website of graduate student resources on and off-campus. GSA continues to rely
on student feedback to improve the graduate student experience at CMU. Feel free to contact
them at gsa@cmu.edu to get involved, stop by their office in the Cohon University Center
Room 304 or become a representative for your department.
A.1.8 Office of International Education (OIE)
https://www.cmu.edu/oie/
Carnegie Mellon hosts international graduate and undergraduate students who come from
more than 90 countries. The Office of International Education (OIE) is the liaison to the
University for all non-immigrant students and scholars, as well the repository for study abroad
opportunities. OIE provides many services including: advising on personal, immigration, study
abroad, academic, and social and acculturation issues; presenting programs of interest such as
international career workshops, tax workshops, and cross-cultural and immigration
workshops; international education and statistics on international students in the United
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 42States; posting pertinent information to students through email and the OIE website and
conducting orientation and pre-departure programs.
A.1.9 Veterans and Military Community
https://www.cmu.edu/veterans/
Military veterans are a vital part of the Carnegie Mellon University community. Graduate
students can find information on applying for veteran education benefits, campus services,
veteran’s groups at CMU, and non-educational resources through the Veterans and Military
Community website. There are also links and connections to veteran resource in the
Pittsburgh community. The ROTC and Veteran Affairs Coordinator can be reached at
urovaedbenefits@andrew.cmu.edu or 412-268-8747.
A.1.10 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline
https://www.cmu.edu/hr/resources/ethics-hotline.html
The health, safety and well-being of the university community are top priorities at Carnegie
Mellon University. CMU provides a hotline that all members of the university community
should use to confidentially report suspected unethical activity, violations of university policy,
or violations of law. Students, faculty and staff can anonymously file a report by calling 1-844-
587-0793 or visiting https://cmu.ethicspoint.com/. All submissions are reported to appropriate
university personnel and handled discreetly.
The hotline is NOT an emergency service. For emergencies, call University Police at 412-
268-2323.
A.1.11 Policy Against Retaliation
It is the policy of Carnegie Mellon University to protect from retaliation any individual who
makes a good faith report of a suspected violation of any applicable law or regulation,
university Policy or procedure, any contractual obligation of the university, and any report
made pursuant to the Carnegie Mellon University Code of Business Ethics and Conduct.
Additional details regarding the Policy Against Retaliation are available at:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/whistleblower.html
A.2 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support
A.2.1 Computing and Information Resources
https://www.cmu.edu/computing/
Computing Services maintains and supports computing resources for the campus community,
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 43including the campus wired and wireless networks, printing, computer labs, file storage, email
and software catalog. As members of this community, we are all responsible for the security of
these shared resources. Be sure to review the Safe Computing
(https://www.cmu.edu/computing/safe/) section and the University Computing Policy
(https://www.cmu.edu/policies/information-technology/computing.html)
Visit the Computing Services website (https://www.cmu.edu/computing/) to learn more. For
assistance the Computing Services Help Center is available at 412-268-4357 (HELP) or
ithelp@cmu.edu.
A.2.2 Student Academic Success Center
https://www.cmu.edu/student-success/
The Student Academic Success Center’s (SASC) work to support success focuses on creating
spaces for students to engage in their coursework and approach to learning through many group
and individual program options. SASC supports student success by providing academic
coaching, subject-specific tutoring, effective communication strategies, accommodations for
students with disabilities, and language support for multilingual learners. SASC engages with
faculty and staff to improve the coordination and professional development for academic
advisors. Visit the SASC website for more information about services offered in areas such as
communication and language support; language and cross-cultural support; and learning
support.
A.2.3 University Libraries
https://www.library.cmu.edu/
The University Libraries offers a wide range of information, resources, and services supporting
graduate students in coursework, research, teaching, and publishing. The library licenses and
purchases books, journals, media, and other needed materials in various formats. Library
liaisons, consultants, and information specialists provide in-depth and professional assistance
and advice in all-things information, including:
• Locating and obtaining specific resources
• Providing specialized research support
• Advanced training in the use and management of data
Sign up for workshops and hands-on topic-specific sessions such as data visualization with
Tableau, cleaning data with OpenRefine, and getting started with Zotero. Weekly drop-in
hours for Digital Humanities and for Research Data Research Management are scheduled
during the academic year. Start at the library home page to find the books, journals, and
databases you need; to identify and reach out to the library liaison in your field; to sign up for
scheduled workshops; and to connect with consultants in scholarly publishing, research data
management, and digital humanities.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 44A.2.4 Research at CMU
https://www.cmu.edu/research/
The primary purpose of research at the university is the advancement of knowledge in all fields
in which the university is active. Research is regarded as one of the university’s major
contributions to society and as an essential element in education, particularly at the graduate
level and in faculty development. Research activities are governed by several university
policies. Guidance and more general information are found by visiting the Research at
Carnegie Mellon website.
A.2.5 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance
https://www.cmu.edu/research-compliance/
The Office of Research Integrity & Compliance (ORIC) is designed to support research at
Carnegie Mellon University. The staff work with researchers to ensure research is conducted
with integrity and in accordance with federal and Pennsylvania regulation. ORIC assists
researchers with human subject research, conflicts of interest, responsible conduct of research,
export controls, and institutional animal care & use. ORIC also provides consultation, advice,
and review of allegations of research misconduct.
A.3 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety
A.3.1 Counseling & Psychological Services
https://www.cmu.edu/counseling/
Counseling & Psychological Services (CaPS) affords the opportunity for students to talk
privately about academic and personal concerns in a safe, confidential setting. An initial
consultation at CaPS can help clarify the nature of the concern, provide immediate support,
and explore further options if needed. These may include a referral for counseling within
CaPS, to another resource at Carnegie Mellon, or to another resource within the larger
Pittsburgh community. CaPS also provides workshops and group sessions on mental health
related topics specifically for graduate students on campus. CaPS services are provided at no
cost. Appointments can be made in person, or by telephone at 412-268-2922.
A.3.2 Health Services
https://www.cmu.edu/HealthServices/
University Health Services (UHS) is staffed by physicians, advanced practice clinicians and
registered nurses who provide general medical care, allergy injections, first aid, gynecological
care, and contraception as well as on-site pharmaceuticals. The CMU Student Insurance Plan
covers most visit fees to see the physicians and advanced practice clinicians & nurse visits.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 45Fees for prescription medications, laboratory tests, diagnostic procedures and referral to the
emergency room or specialists are the student’s responsibility and students should review the
UHS website and their insurance plan for detailed information about the university health
insurance requirement and fees.
UHS also has a registered dietician and health promotion specialists on staff to assist students
in addressing nutrition, drug and alcohol and other healthy lifestyle issues. In addition to
providing direct health care, UHS administers the Student Health Insurance Program. The
Student Health Insurance plan offers a high level of coverage in a wide network of health care
providers and hospitals. Appointments can be made by visiting UHS’s website, walk-in, or by
telephone, 412-268-2157.
A.3.3 Campus Wellness
https://www.cmu.edu/wellness/
At Carnegie Mellon, we believe our individual and collective well-being is rooted in healthy
connections to each other and to campus resources. The university provides a wide variety of
wellness, mindfulness and connectedness initiatives and resources designed to help students
thrive inside and outside the classroom.
A.3.4 Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI)
https://www.cmu.edu/wellbeing/resources/religious-spiritual/index.html
Carnegie Mellon is committed to the holistic growth of our students, including creating
opportunities for spiritual and religious practice and exploration. RSLI has relationships with
local houses of worship from various traditions and many of these groups are members of
CMU’s Council of Religious Advisors. They also offer programs and initiatives that cross
traditional religious boundaries in order to increase knowledge of and appreciation for the full
diversity of the worldview traditions. RSLI staff are available to support students across the
spectrum of religious and spiritual practice and would be more than happy to help you make a
connection into a community of faith during your time at CMU.
A.3.5 University Police
https://www.cmu.edu/police/
x2323
The University Police Department is located at 4551 Filmore Street. The department’s services
include police patrols and call response, criminal investigations, fixed officer and foot officer
patrols, event security, and crime prevention and education programming as well as bicycle
and laptop registration. Visit the department’s website for additional information about the
staff, emergency phone locations, crime prevention, lost and found, fingerprint services, and
annual statistic reports. Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security and
fire safety report describing the university’s security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault, and fire
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 46safety policies. The report also contains statistics about the number and type of crimes
committed on the campus and the number and cause of fires in campus residence facilities
during the preceding three years. Graduate students can obtain a copy by contacting the
University Police Department at x2323. The annual security and fire safety report is also
available online at:
https://www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports/
A.3.6 Shuttle and Escort Services
https://www.cmu.edu/parking/transport/
Parking and Transportation coordinates the Shuttle Service and Escort Service provided for
CMU students, faculty, and community. The Shuttle & Escort website has full information
about these services, stops, routes, tracking and schedules.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 47A.4 The WORD
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/
The WORD is Carnegie Mellon University’s online student handbook and serves as the
foundation for the department (and sometimes college) handbook. The WORD contains
university-wide academic policy information and resources, community policies and
resources, and describes the university level procedures used to review possible violations of
these standards. It is designed to provide all students with the tools, guidance, and insights to
help you achieve your full potential as a member of the Carnegie Mellon community. Graduate
students are encouraged to bookmark this site and refer to it often. University policies can also
be found in full text at: https://www.cmu.edu/policies/.
MIIS Graduate Student Handbook Page 48 | miis-handbook_2023-2024.txt |
Master of Language Technologies
Student Handbook
2023 - 2024
Revised: July 26th, 2023
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 1Contents
1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 6
1.1 Welcome ........................................................................................................................ 6
1.2 The MLT Degree ............................................................................................................. 6
1.3 MLT Contact Information ............................................................................................... 7
1.4 University Policies and Expectations .............................................................................. 8
1.5 Carnegie Mellon University Statement of Assurance ..................................................... 8
1.6 The Carnegie Mellon Code ............................................................................................. 9
1.7 Vision .............................................................................................................................. 9
1.8 Mission ......................................................................................................................... 10
1.9 Consensual Intimate Relationship Policy Regarding Undergraduate Students ............. 10
2 The Language Technologies Institute .................................................................................. 10
2.1 Mailboxes & Office Supplies ......................................................................................... 10
2.2 Photocopies and Printers ............................................................................................. 10
2.3 Office Space for MS Students ....................................................................................... 11
2.4 Computers for MS Students ......................................................................................... 11
3 Master’s Degree Completion and Certification ................................................................... 11
3.1 Standard Degree Requirements and Degree Certification ........................................... 11
3.1.1 Graduate Students ................................................................................................ 11
3.1.2 Early Completion ................................................................................................... 11
3.1.3 Extended or Longer-than-Standard Completion (Statute of Limitations) .............. 12
3.1.4 Additional Guidance for Students ......................................................................... 12
4 MLT Degree Attainment ...................................................................................................... 13
4.1 Course Requirements ................................................................................................... 13
4.1.1 Grade Requirements ............................................................................................. 14
4.1.2 Research Speaking Requirement .......................................................................... 14
4.1.3 Withdrawal of a Degree ........................................................................................ 14
4.2 Advising ........................................................................................................................ 14
4.3 Optional Masters’ Thesis .............................................................................................. 15
4.4 Definitions of LTI Terminology ...................................................................................... 17
4.5 Recommended Electives outside of SCS ....................................................................... 17
4.6 LTI Orientation ............................................................................................................. 18
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 24.7 End of Semester Evaluation .......................................................................................... 18
4.8 Enrollment Verification ................................................................................................ 18
4.9 University Policies on Grades and Grading ................................................................... 19
4.9.1 University Policy on Grades .................................................................................. 19
4.9.2 University Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses ................................................. 19
4.10 Academic Integrity ....................................................................................................... 19
5 Academic Policies ................................................................................................................ 20
5.1 MLT Academic Policies ................................................................................................. 20
5.1.1 Duration of Study .................................................................................................. 20
5.1.2 Double-Dipping ..................................................................................................... 20
5.1.3 Pass/Fail Grades .................................................................................................... 21
5.1.4 Independent Study................................................................................................ 21
5.1.5 Transfer Credit ...................................................................................................... 21
5.1.6 External Internships .............................................................................................. 21
5.1.7 Transferring Into the MLT Program ....................................................................... 22
5.1.8 Transferring Out of the MLT Program ................................................................... 22
5.1.9 Drop/Add/Withdraw Procedures .......................................................................... 22
5.1.10 Statute of Limitations ............................................................................................ 22
5.1.11 Teaching Requirements ........................................................................................ 23
5.2 LTI Academic Policies.................................................................................................... 23
5.2.1 “Grandfather” policy ............................................................................................. 23
5.2.2 Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption .......................................... 23
5.2.3 External Employment/Consulting ......................................................................... 24
5.2.4 Leave of Absence .................................................................................................. 24
5.2.5 Satisfactory Progress ............................................................................................. 24
5.2.6 Winter and Summer Breaks .................................................................................. 24
5.3 CMU Academic Policies ................................................................................................ 24
5.3.1 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities ............................................................ 24
5.3.2 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures ....................... 25
5.3.3 Process for Appealing Final Grades ....................................................................... 25
5.3.4 Safeguarding Educational Equity: Sexual Misconduct Policy ................................. 26
5.3.5 Gestational and Parental Accommodation ........................................................... 26
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 36 Financial Issues .................................................................................................................... 27
6.1 Graduate Student Funding ........................................................................................... 27
6.2 University Financial Aid ................................................................................................ 28
6.3 Conference Travel Funding ........................................................................................... 28
6.4 Office of the Dean of Students Emergency Support Funding ....................................... 28
6.5 Health Insurance .......................................................................................................... 28
6.6 Emergency Loans .......................................................................................................... 29
6.7 Employment Eligibility Verification .............................................................................. 29
7 Additional University Resources .......................................................................................... 29
7.1 The HUB Student Services Center ................................................................................ 29
7.2 Student Information Online (SIO) ................................................................................. 30
7.3 ID Cards ........................................................................................................................ 30
7.4 Transcripts .................................................................................................................... 30
7.5 Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-registration ....................... 31
7.6 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA ................................................................................ 31
7.7 Academic Calendar ....................................................................................................... 31
7.8 Professional Development ........................................................................................... 32
7.9 University Libraries ....................................................................................................... 32
7.10 Computing Services ...................................................................................................... 33
7.11 Family and Dependents Resources ............................................................................... 33
7.12 Domestic Partner Registration ..................................................................................... 33
7.13 Housing ........................................................................................................................ 34
7.14 Dining ........................................................................................................................... 34
7.15 Parking and Transportation .......................................................................................... 34
7.16 Copying, Printing and Mailing Services ......................................................................... 35
7.17 University Center .......................................................................................................... 35
7.18 Athletic/Fitness Facilities .............................................................................................. 35
7.19 CMU Alert ..................................................................................................................... 36
A Appendix: Highlighted University Resources for Graduate Students and The WORD, Student
Handbook .................................................................................................................................... 36
A.1 Key Offices for Graduate Student Support ................................................................... 36
A.1.1 Graduate Education Office .................................................................................... 36
A.1.2 Office of the Dean of Students .............................................................................. 37
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 4A.1.3 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion ............................................................... 37
A.1.4 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation ......................... 38
A.1.5 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline ............................................................................. 38
A.1.6 Policy Against Retaliation ...................................................................................... 39
A.1.7 Graduate Student Assembly ................................................................................. 39
A.1.8 Language and Cross-Cultural Support ................................................................... 40
A.1.9 Office of International Education (OIE) ................................................................. 40
A.1.10 Veterans and Military Community ........................................................................ 41
A.2 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support ............................................................. 41
A.2.1 Computing and Information Resources ................................................................ 41
A.2.2 Research at CMU .................................................................................................. 41
A.2.3 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance ........................................................... 41
A.2.4 Student Academic Success Center ........................................................................ 42
A.2.5 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance ........................................................... 44
A.3 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety .................................................................... 44
A.3.1 Counseling & Psychological Services ..................................................................... 44
A.3.2 Health Services ...................................................................................................... 44
A.3.3 Campus Wellness .................................................................................................. 45
A.3.4 Religious & Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI) ............................................................. 45
A.3.5 University Police ................................................................................................... 45
A.3.6 Shuttle & Escort Services ...................................................................................... 46
A.4 The WORD .................................................................................................................... 46
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 51 Introduction
1.1 Welcome
Welcome to the Language Technologies Institute. While this handbook (and your college
graduate student handbook) is specific to your academic experience in the LTI, there are several
other resources and offices that graduate students are encouraged to consult during their
tenure at Carnegie Mellon University. Information about The Word, the student handbook, the
Office of Graduate and Postdoc Affairs, the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs, and others,
are included in Appendix A of this handbook.
1.2 The MLT Degree
The Master of Language Technologies (MLT) is a research-oriented Master of Science degree
offered by the Language Technologies Institute (LTI), a graduate department in the School of
Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University. The MLT program is a 24-month program
consisting of courses, directed research, and an optional Masters' Thesis. Typical research
areas include speech processing, information retrieval, machine translation, natural language
processing, machine learning, and computational biology. Many MLT graduates continue on to
PhD programs in the LTI or other leading universities. Other graduates go on to work in the
computer industry, many at major corporate research laboratories.
There are significant differences between CMU's different departments and degree programs in
philosophical approach, procedures, policies, and regulations. Each department issues a
handbook that informs graduate students of their program requirements and procedures and
ensures that students have written access to the standard information outlined below. This
handbook describes the policies, procedures, and requirements for the Master of Language
Technologies (MLT) degree.
While this handbook is specific to your academic experience in the department, there are
several other resources and offices graduate students are encouraged to consult during their
tenure at Carnegie Mellon University. Information about The Word, Carnegie Mellon University
Student Handbook, the Office of the Assistant Vice Provost for Graduate Education, the Office
of the Dean of Student Affairs and others are included in Appendix A of this handbook.
All policies not explicitly described in this document conform to School of Computer Science
(SCS) policies and university policies described in The Word, Carnegie Mellon University Student
Handbook and at the University Policies website.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 61.3 MLT Contact Information
The people responsible for administering the MLT degree are:
Kate Schaich Robert Frederking
Program Manager, MLT Program Director, MLT
Graduate Program Manager, LTI Principal Systems Scientist
GHC 6415 GHC 6515
412-268-4788 412-268-6656
kschaich@cs.cmu.edu ref@cs.cmu.edu
Robert Frederking Mona Diab
Chair of Graduate Programs, LTI Director, LTI
Principal Systems Scientist GHC 5415
GHC 6515 412-268-6656
mdiab@andrew.cmu.edu
In addition, students may confer with the Graduate Education Office
(graded@andrew.cmu.edu) regarding issues of process or other concerns as they navigate
conflicts.
The Language Technologies Institute is located primarily on the 5th and 6th floors of the Gates
Hillman Complex (GHC) on Carnegie Mellon’s Pittsburgh campus. The address and contact
information of the LTI are:
Language Technologies Institute
Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Avenue
Gates Hillman Complex 5402, LTI
Pittsburgh, PA 15241-3891
412-268-6591 (phone)
412-268-6298 (fax)
http://www.lti.cs.cmu.edu/
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 71.4 University Policies and Expectations
It is the responsibility of each member of the Carnegie Mellon community to be familiar with
university policies and guidelines. In addition to this departmental graduate student handbook,
the following resources are available to assist you in understanding community expectations:
• The Word/Student Handbook: www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword//index.html
• Academic Integrity Policy: www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-
life/academic-integrity.html
• University Policies Website: www.cmu.edu/policies/
• Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs:
www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/index.html
Due to the changing nature of conditions and expectations surrounding public health and safety
requirements, please visit www.cmu.edu/coronavirus for the most up to date information.
Please see Appendix A for additional information about The Word and other university
resources.
1.5 Carnegie Mellon University Statement of Assurance
Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate in admission, employment or administration
of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap or
disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, ancestry, belief, veteran
status or genetic information. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate
and is required not to discriminate in violation of federal, state or local laws or executive
orders.
Inquiries concerning the application of and compliance with this statement should be directed
to the university ombudsman, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA
15213, telephone 412-268-1018. Obtain general information about Carnegie Mellon University
by calling 412-268-2000.
Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security and fire safety report
describing the university's security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault and fire safety policies, and
containing statistics about the number and type of crimes committed on the campus, and the
number and cause of fires in campus residence facilities during the preceding three years. You
can obtain a copy by contacting the Carnegie Mellon Police Department at 412-268-2323. The
annual security and fire safety report also is available online at
www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports.
Information regarding the application of Title IX, including to admission and employment
decisions, the sexual misconduct grievance procedures and process, including how to file a
report or a complaint of sex discrimination, how to file a report of sexual harassment, and how
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 8the university responds to such reports is available at www.cmu.edu/title-ix. The Title IX
coordinator may be reached at 5000 Forbes Ave., 140 Cyert Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15213; 412-
268-7125; or tix@cmu.edu.
1.6 The Carnegie Mellon Code
Students at Carnegie Mellon, because they are members of an academic community dedicated
to the achievement of excellence, are expected to meet the highest standards of personal,
ethical and moral conduct possible.
These standards require personal integrity, a commitment to honesty without compromise, as
well as truth without equivocation and a willingness to place the good of the community above
the good of the self. Obligations once undertaken must be met, commitments kept.
As members of the Carnegie Mellon community, individuals are expected to uphold the
standards of the community in addition to holding others accountable for said standards. It is
rare that the life of a student in an academic community can be so private that it will not affect
the community as a whole or that the above standards do not apply.
The discovery, advancement and communication of knowledge are not possible without a
commitment to these standards. Creativity cannot exist without acknowledgment of the
creativity of others. New knowledge cannot be developed without credit for prior knowledge.
Without the ability to trust that these principles will be observed, an academic community
cannot exist.
The commitment of its faculty, staff and students to these standards contributes to the high
respect in which the Carnegie Mellon degree is held. Students must not destroy that respect by
their failure to meet these standards. Students who cannot meet them should voluntarily
withdraw from the university.
The Carnegie Mellon Code can also be found on-line at http://www.cmu.edu/student-
affairs/theword/code.html
1.7 Vision
Carnegie Mellon University will have a transformative impact on society through continual
innovation in education, research, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 91.8 Mission
To create a transformative educational experience for students focused on deep disciplinary
knowledge; problem solving; leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills; and personal
health and well-being.
To cultivate a transformative university community dedicated to a) attracting and retaining
diverse, world-class talent; b) creating a collaborative environment open to the free exchange
of ideas, where research, creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship can flourish; and c)
ensuring individuals can achieve their full potential.
To impact society in a transformative way—regionally, nationally, and globally—by engaging
with partners outside the traditional borders of the university campus.
1.9 Consensual Intimate Relationship Policy Regarding Undergraduate
Students
This policy addresses the circumstances in which romantic, sexual, or amorous
relationships/interactions with undergraduate students, even if consensual, are inappropriate
and prohibited. The purpose of this policy is to assure healthy professional relationships. This
policy is not intended to discourage consensual intimate relationships unless there is a
conflicting professional relationship in which one party has authority over the other as in the
policy.
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/consensual-relationships.html
2 The Language Technologies Institute
2.1 Mailboxes & Office Supplies
Mailboxes, printers, copiers, and other departmental resources are in GHC 5404.
2.2 Photocopies and Printers
The use of a photocopier or printer requires you to log in with your CMU ID card. LTI’s printers
are located in GHC 5404 and GHC 6604. The School of Computer Science provides a number of
black-and-white and color printers for use by students. The SCS Computer Facilities publishes a
list of printers online at http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~help/printing/.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 102.3 Office Space for MS Students
To help them create a sense of community, full time students in the LTI’s MLT program have
access to a shared office space.
2.4 Computers for MS Students
Students are expected to provide their own laptop computers that can be used to access
university resources and complete course assignments. Laptops running Windows, MacOS, and
Linux software are all acceptable.
MS students will be given a CS user ID. A CS user ID is required to use the LTI computer cluster,
department printers, and other SCS services. The School of Computer Science has a Help Center
located at 4203 GHC. They can be contacted at help@cs.cmu.edu, extension 8-4231 from a
campus phone, or 412-268-4231 from an outside line.
MS students will be given access to the LTI’s computer cluster on an as-needed basis, to be
used for course assignments, directed study projects, and/or capstone projects. The LTI cluster
provides storage and computation for projects involving large datasets and/or lengthy
computation.
3 Master’s Degree Completion and Certification
3.1 Standard Degree Requirements and Degree Certification
3.1.1 Graduate Students
Carnegie Mellon graduate students are expected to complete their degree requirements within
the standard length of time for their program of study as outlined in the relevant Graduate
Student Handbook. Standard program lengths for graduate students vary significantly-- ranging
from two semesters for some full-time master’s programs to several or more years for doctoral
programs. Upon completion of the graduate program degree requirements, the degree will be
certified by the student’s academic program in the semester in which the student completes
the requirements.
3.1.2 Early Completion
Graduate students who consider the completion of all degree requirements in less than the
standard length of time for their program of study may consult with their degree-granting
program or department to determine if early degree certification is allowed and under what
circumstances.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 113.1.3 Extended or Longer-than-Standard Completion (Statute of Limitations)
Longer-than-standard degree completion may occur due to academic interruptions in making
progress toward the degree as defined by the academic program, interruptions of full-time
study or progress towards the degree due to serious, documented medical issues, or other
unusual or unforeseen circumstances.
Master’s students who require longer than the standard time to complete their degree
requirements are expected to remain in close contact with their graduate program, and will be
certified at the end of the semester in which they have completed their degree requirements.
Students shall reference CMU Policy on Master’s Student Statute of Limitations
(www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/masters-students-statute-of limitations.html)
regarding guidelines and restrictions which place an upper limit on the maximum length of time
allowable for master’s degree completion and certification.
3.1.4 Additional Guidance for Students
• Program of Study: Students seeking guidance about their program of study and degree
requirements should consult with their academic advisor and/or appropriate associate
dean.
• Financial Aid and Student Account: Students are expected to make normal progress
toward their degree to graduate within the standard timeframe for their program of
study. Under U.S. Federal Title IV regulations, student eligibility for federal financial aid
is contingent upon enrollment in and successful completion of courses that are counted
as credit toward their current degree program. To receive the maximum amount of
federal financial aid for which they may be eligible, students must enroll each semester
in at least 36 units that count toward their current degree level. (See separate guidance
regarding integrated degree completion.) Students should consult with their designated
college liaison in The HUB regarding billing and financial aid, particularly for early
completion, longer-than standard completion, or integrated undergraduate and
master’s degree programs.
• International Students: Immigration status for students in F-1 and J-1 non-immigrant
status is tied to making normal progress toward completing degree requirements.
Therefore, F-1 and J-1 students who are considering completing their degree
requirements early, anticipating longer-than-standard completion, or moving from an
undergraduate to a graduate student classification (integrated undergraduate-graduate
study) should consult with their designated advisor in the Office of International
Education (OIE) to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 124 MLT Degree Attainment
4.1 Course Requirements
In order to complete the Master of Language Technologies degree, the student must pass 120
or more course units of senior-to-graduate courses, and meet the following criteria:
• within those 120 units, at least 72 units of “LTI” courses and 24 units of “SCS” courses,
• within those 72 units, 11-711, 11-791 (or an equivalent, see below), and one ``Task
Orientation Focus'' class, and
• within those 72 units, at least one of the following:
an LTI lab course,
o
11-792, or
o
project-oriented Masters’ thesis;
o
• Of the remaining 24 units, 12 must be 11-910 Directed Research;
• The final 12 units are an Open Elective.
The student must also complete two summers of full-time directed research, attend the LTI
Colloquium (11-700) each semester, and satisfy the Research Speaking Requirement described
elsewhere.
Since 11-791 is not being offered currently, the faculty have defined a list of acceptable
substitute courses:
• 11-727: Computational Semantics for NLP (only if the course project was done as a
group project)
• 11-731: Machine Translation
• 11-747: Neural Networks for NLP
• 11-751: Speech Recognition
• 11-775: Large-Scale Multimedia
• 11-776: Multimodal Affective Computing
• 11-777: Multimodal Machine Learning
• 11-785: Deep Learning
• 11-797: Question Answering
Students may request to have other LTI courses with a group engineering project component to
be added to this list.
For definitions of quoted terms, see the section on “Definitions of LTI Terminology.”
Unless approved by the Program Director in advance, the course requirements must be
satisfied by actual classroom courses, not credit given for research or independent study.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 13Note that a Masters’ Thesis is not required in general, although a thesis project may be used to
satisfy the “lab” requirement.
4.1.1 Grade Requirements
Students must demonstrate their mastery of material taught in courses and their success in
applying their skills in directed study by satisfying the following grade requirements:
1. Minimum grade: Only courses with a grade of C (2.0) or higher are counted as satisfying
a degree requirement.
2. Pass/fail: Pass/fail grades are not permitted for courses and projects used to satisfy a
degree requirement.
4.1.2 Research Speaking Requirement
To emphasize student research, improve public speaking skills, and increase internal awareness
of LTI work, all MLT students must complete an oral presentation in their second year (by the
end of May). The presentation should consist of a 20-minute talk plus time for discussion. It
must be advertised to the LTI mailing lists at least one week before your presentation, and the
public will be invited.
At least two CMU faculty members will attend the presentation, including the research advisor.
After the presentation, these faculty members will convene and provide written feedback to
both the student and the chair of graduate programs (the form for this is available on the LTI
website). This feedback will help the student refine speaking skills with respect to talk structure,
content, and delivery.
4.1.3 Withdrawal of a Degree
The University reserves the right to withdraw a degree even though it has been granted should
there be discovery that the work upon which it was based or the academic records in support of
it had been falsified. In such a case, withdrawal of the degree will occur promptly upon
discovery of the falsification. The complete reference to this University policy is available at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/withdrawal-of-a-degree.html.
4.2 Advising
Each student has a faculty advisor charged with guiding the education and monitoring the
progress of the student through the program. The advisor also supervises the student's directed
study projects. This personal student-advisor relationship ensures that every student receives
the necessary faculty mentoring. The advisor also provides the student with career advice.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 14How and when the advisor is selected: the Marriage Process: Advisors are selected during the
first month of the program. Students are expected to attend the LTI's Orientation (“Immigration
Course,” or IC) lectures, in which faculty describe their interests and areas of expertise, and to
be proactive about meeting individually with potential advisors. After meeting with several
potential advisors, each student will be asked to indicate a first, second, and third choice for
advisor. Meanwhile, the potential advisors determine how many new students they can take,
and indicate their preferences. Finally, the entire LTI faculty meets as a “Marriage Committee”
to determine the best set of matches.
Some entering MLT students are prefunded, meaning they have received and accepted a
funding letter from a faculty member before the Marriage Process. (Even students who are
prefunded must attend the research talks, to become acquainted with the LTI’s research
projects.) Even self-supporting MLT students are expected to perform research with a faculty
advisor, since research experience is an important part of our graduate programs. Until a
student finds a specific advisor, the chair of the LTI graduate programs serves as the advisor.
How to change advisors: The initial advisor selection should be made carefully. However, it is
possible to change advisors. To do so, the student should find another faculty member willing
to serve as an advisor, and then make a request to the Program Director to switch advisors. The
LTI follows the long-standing SCS policy that both the new and old advisors need to agree to the
change; typically, this is not a problem (assuming the new advisor has agreed in advance, as
described here). It is to the student's advantage to avoid switching advisors, especially late in
their graduate studies, because forging a strong student-advisor relationship takes time.
4.3 Optional Masters’ Thesis
MLT students may optionally elect to complete a Masters’ Thesis; it is not required. Students
who intend to apply for the PhD program should consider the MLT Thesis as one of several
ways to demonstrate their research potential. Other possibilities include innovative research in
a research project or class project work.
The MLT Thesis must be completed according to the following guidelines. Note in particular the
October 31 proposal deadline!
• There are two course components required for students who elect to complete the M.S.
Thesis: 11-928 – Masters’ Thesis I (with the chosen thesis advisor, typically for 12 units,
typically in the Fall of their second year) and 11-929 – Masters’ Thesis II in the following
Spring.
• Each of these two courses counts towards 6 units of MLT-level LTI course credit; if the
student goes on to an LTI PhD, the second course (11-929) counts towards one PhD lab
requirement.
• The MLT thesis may focus on either a significant research result or a significant
implementation of a new technology. The student should work with their advisor to
define an interesting but bounded thesis research project. The MLT thesis culminates in
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 15a publication-quality paper that clearly describes the work in terms of its research
significance.
• The MLT thesis committee will be composed of a thesis advisor and two additional
readers, to be chosen by the student in consultation with the advisor, during the Fall
Masters’ Thesis I course. At least 2 of the 3 committee members must be SCS faculty
working in Language Technologies.
• To receive a final grade for the first semester's course, the student must have prepared
a written proposal of at least five pages, describing the scientific thesis to be
investigated, any relevant research already completed by the student, a comparison
with related work by others, and a detailed description of the work to be done in the
next semester. The proposal MUST be accepted by the committee by the end of
October, or the student will not be allowed to enroll in 11-929 – Masters’ Thesis II!
• Sometime during the semester when the student enrolls in 11-929 – Masters’ Thesis II
(typically, their final semester), the student will distribute a draft of the thesis to the
committee for initial review. This should be done as early as feasible, to avoid last-
minute surprises that could delay final approval of the thesis.
• The thesis work culminates in submission of the final version of the thesis document,
followed by a public presentation of the work in an LTI seminar (or other suitable public
forum). Since the defense is public, the LTI graduate program administrator must
receive all the information required for a public announcement at least one week before
the defense. The Masters’ Thesis presentation is somewhat less rigorous than a PhD
thesis defense. The presentation must communicate the research work done, similar to
a conference paper presentation. The committee will observe the presentation, and
then decide whether the thesis and presentation were acceptable, or whether further
work is required. Unlike a PhD defense, only a simple majority vote of the committee is
required for approval.
• Although students are required to enroll in the appropriate course sequence of two
Masters’ Thesis courses, it is not required that students finish the thesis by the end of
that second semester. If a student requires more time to revise the thesis to the
committee's satisfaction, and adequately present the work, an incomplete grade will be
assessed in the Masters’ Thesis course, until such time as the work and presentation are
accepted. The student will still be allowed to walk in Spring Commencement, if all other
requirements for the MLT degree have been completed. Students should note that any
financial support beyond the end of the semester will be on a case-by-case basis, and
must be arranged in advance with the project supporting them. Students are strongly
encouraged to finish the thesis work within one (1) year following the semester they
enroll for the first Masters’ Thesis course.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 164.4 Definitions of LTI Terminology
We define here some of the terms as used in this handbook:
• An “LTI course” is any 12-unit course with a number of 11-XXX; a 6-unit course with an
11-XXX counts as 1/2 of an LTI course. Unless otherwise specified, "course" means an
actual classroom course, not credit given for research or independent study. Note that
we will allow any one MLD (10-xxx) graduate-level course to count as an “LTI course.”
• An “SCS course” is any 12-unit course with a course number indicating a unit of the
School of Computer Science (including LTI); a 6-unit course with such a number counts
as 1/2 of an SCS course. Unless otherwise specified, "course" means an actual classroom
course, not credit given for research or independent study. Note: Recommended
electives that are technically outside of the SCS now count towards this requirement; for
example, Digital Signal Processing in ECE. Please see the Program Director for approval
of electives as “SCS.”
• “LTI Focus Areas” are sets of courses defined on the LTI course webpage under “Course
Categories.” If a student believes a new course should be added to a Focus Area, they
should notify the Chair of the LTI Graduate Programs. He will decide, with advice from
faculty in the appropriate area, whether it should be in the Focus Area, and if approved
it will be added to the LTI Focus Area webpage.
A “Task-Orientation Focus Course” is simply a course belonging to that LTI Focus
o
Area, as listed on the “Course Categories” webpage.
• An LTI “lab course” is simply a course in the list of lab courses defined in the LTI “Course
Categories” webpage.
4.5 Recommended Electives outside of SCS
Students are free to take elective courses outside the SCS, at Carnegie Mellon or cross-
registered at the University of Pittsburgh, as long as the student fulfills the requirements of
their program as described above. The student should discuss any such electives in advance
with their advisor; typical choices might include ECE courses for Speech students, Pitt Linguistics
courses, or Statistics courses.
Note: recommended electives outside of the SCS count towards the “SCS” course requirement.
Please see the Program Director for approval of electives as “SCS.”
Note also that students need advance approval for any courses not covered by their normal
tuition (e.g., summer courses). The grading of outside courses is the responsibility of the
department offering the course; however, the LTI's Minimum Course Grade Policy described
above still applies (“B-” is the minimum for PhD, “C” for MLT).
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 174.6 LTI Orientation
At the beginning of each Fall semester, the LTI provides a set of lectures and talks to help
students learn about the work done by CMU faculty and to provide an opportunity for advisors
to recruit new students. Students are expected to attend them and treat them seriously,
because they provide a good introduction to the broad range of research done at the LTI.
Students do not register for the LTI Orientation, nor do they receive a grade; however, the
department is serious about its expectation that new students will attend these talks.
For many years, these talks were called "the Immigration Course (IC)", which caused confusion.
The older name has been retired; however, people who have been at CMU a long time may
occasionally use the older name.
4.7 End of Semester Evaluation
Near the end of the spring and fall semesters, the student must prepare a statement that
describes their achievements in the current semester, and plans for the next semester. At the
end of the semester, the faculty evaluates each student's academic progress. The student's
advisor serves as the student's advocate in this process. The result of the evaluation is a letter
from the faculty to the student that indicates whether the student is making satisfactory
progress towards completing the degree.
A good letter typically indicates that the student is making satisfactory progress. If the student
is doing exceptionally good work, a stronger adjective such as excellent might be used, but this
is unusual.
If a student seems to be having trouble, the faculty determines whether it believes that the
student can finish the degree, and if so, what needs to be accomplished to get back on track.
This type of letter should be considered a serious warning. It is not a permanent “black mark”
on the student's record; if the student begins making satisfactory progress again, there is no
official record of the letter in the student's transcript.
In the most serious cases, the faculty gives the student an N-1 letter that specifies a list of
conditions that the student must satisfy by specific deadlines. Failure to meet all of the
specified conditions may result in the student's termination from the program.
4.8 Enrollment Verification
Enrollment Services is the only University office that can provide an official letter of enrollment,
official transcript and enrollment verification. Enrollment verification can be requested online
through The HUB at: http://www.cmu.edu/hub/transcripts/verifications/enrollment.html.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 184.9 University Policies on Grades and Grading
4.9.1 University Policy on Grades
ww.cmu.edu/policies/documents/Grades.html
This policy offers details concerning university grading principles for students taking courses
and covers the specifics of assigning and changing grades, grading options, drop/withdrawals,
and course repeats. It also defines the undergraduate and graduate grading standards.
4.9.2 University Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses
www.cmu.edu/policies/documents/TransferCredit.html
Carnegie Mellon University offers students the opportunity to take courses for credit through a
cross-registration program (see Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-
registration below) and through the receipt of transfer credit from other accredited institutions.
The Carnegie Mellon University transcript will include information on such courses as follows:
Carnegie Mellon courses and courses taken through the university's cross-registration program
will have grades recorded on the transcript and be factored into the QPA. All other courses will
be recorded on this transcript indicating where the course was taken, but without grade. Such
courses will not be taken into account for academic actions, honors, or QPA calculations. (Note:
Suspended students may take courses elsewhere; however, they may receive transfer credit
only if their college’s and department's policies allow this.)
4.10 Academic Integrity
Please review the University Policy on Academic Integrity:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/academic-integrity.html
The policy includes the University expectations around academic integrity and provides
definitions of cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized assistance.
A review of the University’s Academic Disciplinary Actions procedures is also recommended.
These procedures outline the process for investigating, reporting, and adjudicating violations of
the University Policy on Academic Integrity. The procedures also outline the appeals process.
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/academic-integrity.html
In the midst of self-exploration, the high demands of a challenging academic environment can
create situations where some students have difficulty exercising good judgment. Academic
challenges can provide many opportunities for high standards to evolve if students actively
reflect on these challenges and if the community supports discussions to aid in this process. It is
the responsibility of the entire community to establish and maintain the integrity of our
university.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 19Carnegie Mellon University educates its students to become professionals who will serve
society with integrity. The university also creates and disseminates new knowledge and
expressions of knowledge in ways that benefit society. Carnegie Mellon strives to serve the
changing needs of society through the three primary goals outlined in its mission statement: to
create and disseminate knowledge and art through research and artistic expression, teaching
and learning and transfer to society; to serve students by teaching them leadership, problem-
solving skills, and the values of quality, ethical behavior, responsibility to society and
commitments to work; and to pursue the advantages provided by a diverse community, open
to the exchange of ideas, where discovery and artistic creativity can flourish.
In any presentation, creative, artistic or research, it is the ethical responsibility of each student
to identify the conceptual sources of the work submitted. Failure to do so is dishonest and is
the basis for a charge of cheating or plagiarism, which is subject to disciplinary action.
The university has a very clear and specific protocol for responding to alleged violations of
academic integrity. Carnegie Mellon's Academic Disciplinary Actions Overview for Graduate
Students describes procedures for disciplinary actions against graduate students in cases of
alleged violations of academic regulations and the appeal process. Please see
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/academic-discipline/ for more information.
Important note: The LTI implements the above policy’s option of “conven[ing] a disciplinary
hearing according to the procedures of the department/program.” Our procedure is as follows:
a first violation is grounds for dismissal from the graduate program. If we decide not to
immediately dismiss, the first violation will result in the student being on disciplinary probation.
If a student commits a second violation while on probation, the penalty is dismissal from the
graduate program.
5 Academic Policies
5.1 MLT Academic Policies
5.1.1 Duration of Study
MLT students enrolled for full-time study are expected to complete the degree in two calendar
years (24 months). This includes two summers of full-time directed research.
See also the “Statute of Limitations” policy.
5.1.2 Double-Dipping
A Masters student who uses courses taken as part of another degree program (at Carnegie
Mellon or elsewhere) toward their program requirements cannot use those same courses
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 20toward any other M.S. degree offered by the School of Computer Science without prior
approval. This is an SCS-wide policy.
5.1.3 Pass/Fail Grades
Pass/fail grades are not permitted for courses used to satisfy a degree requirement. Graduate
students who are required to take additional undergraduate courses to build up the core
foundations of computer science may not elect the pass/fail option for these courses.
5.1.4 Independent Study
For an Independent Study to satisfy an MLT student’s coursework requirements, it must be
approved by the MLT Program Director in advance. In consultation with the CMU faculty
member who will be supervising the Independent Study, the student should produce a short
(half-page to one page) description of the goals of the Independent Study, and how the results
will be evaluated, and submit it to the Program Director before the end of the Add period of the
semester of the proposed study. The study should be planned so that it is finished in time for
the supervising faculty member to give a grade at the end of the semester. Independent
studies may be undertaken for 6 or 12 units. Normally only one Independent Study would be
approved during a student’s MLT coursework.
5.1.5 Transfer Credit
An equivalent graduate course previously completed at another institution may be permitted to
satisfy one of the MLT course requirements. The decision on whether a course may be
transferred is made by the MLT Program Director. Typically, the student will provide the
Program Director with the syllabus of the external course, and the Program Director will use
that and the student’s transcript to make the decision.
See the section on “Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption.”
All MLT students are required to take a minimum of 96 units of coursework at CMU.
5.1.6 External Internships
MLT students may only engage in internships if their advisors recommend it, since the program
is 24 months, including summers. International students are required to consult with the Office
of International Education for eligibility before seeking an internship/co-op or signing an offer
contract.
We caution all students to be aware of potential intellectual property (IP) problems with
internships, and to review any IP agreements with their advisors before signing them. It is
possible to lose ownership of your ideas.
Important: See also section 4.2.3, External Employment/Consulting.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 215.1.7 Transferring Into the MLT Program
Transfers into the MLT program are not permitted during a student’s first semester at CMU.
Students must begin their study at CMU in the program that admitted them; this is a university
policy.
Students may request to transfer into the MLT program after completing their first semester.
The student must make the request in writing (or email) to the MLT/PhD Admissions Chair. The
MLT/PhD Admissions Chair will inform the student about what application materials are
required; for example, an explanation of why a transfer is desired, a proposed plan of study, a
proposed advisor, and CMU transcripts. Students that are already enrolled in an LTI degree
program are not required to retake GRE and TOEFL exams or to produce new transcripts from
other universities. The MLT program will conduct an expedited admissions process after
receiving such a request.
5.1.8 Transferring Out of the MLT Program
The MLT program does not prevent students from transferring to another degree program.
Each degree program has its own rules about whether and when transfers into the program are
permitted. A student that is interested in transferring out of the MLT degree program should
consult the handbook and Program Director of the desired degree program to learn whether
transfers are permitted, and if so, how and when to request such a transfer.
5.1.9 Drop/Add/Withdraw Procedures
Students taking undergraduate and Masters’ level courses must follow the procedures and
deadlines for adding, dropping, and withdrawing from courses as identified on the academic
calendar. Information can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/course-
changes.index. Please note that there is a separate calendar for doctoral courses that does not
apply to Masters’ students.
5.1.10 Statute of Limitations
As outlined in the Master’s Students Statute of Limitations,
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/masters-students-statute-of-
limitations.html. Students will complete all requirements for the masters’ degree within a
maximum of seven years from original matriculation as a masters’ student, or less if required by
a more restrictive department, school, or college policy. Once this time-to-degree limit has
lapsed, the person may resume work towards a masters’ degree only if newly admitted to a
currently offered masters’ degree program under criteria determined by that program.
See also the ‘Duration of Study’ policy.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 225.1.11 Teaching Requirements
MLT students do not normally serve as Teaching Assistants (TAs). If an MLT student wants to
TA a course, they must get the approval of their research advisor.
In the unusual case of an MLT student TAing, note that graduate students are required to have
a certain level of fluency in English before they can instruct in Pennsylvania, as required by the
English Fluency in Higher Education Act of 1990. Through this Act, all institutions of higher
education in the state are required to evaluate and certify the English fluency of all instructional
personnel, including teaching assistants and interns. The full University policy can be reviewed
at https://www.cmu.edu/policies/faculty/evaluation-certification-english-fluency-
instructors.html.
The fluency of all instructional personnel will be rated by Language Support in the Student
Academic Success Center to determine at what level of responsibility the student can TA. In
addition to administering the International Teaching Assistant (ITA) Test (a mandatory
screening for all non-native speakers of English), Language Support in the Student Academic
Success Center helps teaching assistants who are non-native English speakers develop fluency
and cultural understanding to teach successfully at Carnegie Mellon. Visit the Student Academic
Success Center website for additional information: https://www.cmu.edu/student-success/.
5.2 LTI Academic Policies
5.2.1 “Grandfather” policy
A student can graduate under the policies in effect at the time that the student entered the
program; or, at the student's choice, the student can graduate under policies that are adopted
after the student entered the program. If it is not realistic to follow a particular policy exactly,
the department may approximate the policy as closely as possible; this situation is rare and
typically arises only when a student is enrolled in the program for an extended period of time.
5.2.2 Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption
The LTI may grant transfer credit or issue an exemption for equivalent graduate courses
previously completed at another institution. This decision rests with the chair of the particular
program. If a student is exempt from a required course due to prior courses or experience, the
student can replace that course with an open elective. The student does not receive credit for
the external course, but can take any course that could normally count toward the degree in its
place. If a student receives credit for prior coursework completed at CMU or elsewhere, the
student receives that many units of credit, and the total amount of required coursework is
reduced by that amount.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 235.2.3 External Employment/Consulting
Students funded by LTI research projects are normally expected to work exclusively for those
projects. Since consulting may provide useful experience, students are generally permitted to
consult, at most, one eight-hour day per seven-day week, only with the advisor's consent.
International students must also have approval in advance from the Office of International
Education (OIE); otherwise, they may be in violation of their visa status.
Important: Any work for pay outside of the funding research project must be approved in
advance by the advisor (and OIE, for international students). This includes paid TAing,
consulting, online free-lancing, etc.
5.2.4 Leave of Absence
The LTI discourages Leaves of Absence (LOA), since students usually do not return, despite good
intentions. However, a student in good standing may be granted a LOA of at most 1 year, upon
written request to the Program Director and with consent of the student's advisor. It is the
responsibility of the student on LOA to contact the LTI to initiate a return to the program.
5.2.5 Satisfactory Progress
If a student does not make satisfactory progress each semester toward completing the degree,
the LTI may remove the student from the program. See section on “End of Semester
Evaluation.”
5.2.6 Winter and Summer Breaks
Students supported by research projects are expected to remain on campus working during
breaks in classes. A two-week vacation is typically allowed in the summer. The normal winter
break policy is that the student works 40 hours per week for two weeks, and takes vacation for
the other two weeks.
5.3 CMU Academic Policies
5.3.1 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
http://www.cmu.edu/disability-resources
The Office of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University has a continued mission to
provide physical and programmatic campus access to all events and information within the
Carnegie Mellon community. We work to ensure that qualified individuals receive reasonable
accommodations as guaranteed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students who would like to receive accommodations can begin
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 24the process through Disability Resources’ secure online portal or email
access@andrew.cmu.edu to begin the interactive accommodation process.
Students with physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional disabilities are encouraged to self-
identify with the Office of Disability Resources and request needed accommodations. Any
questions about the process can be directed to access@andrew.cmu.edu or call 412-268-6121.
5.3.2 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/appeal-grievance-procedures.html
Graduate students will find the Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance
Procedures on the Graduate Education Resource webpage. This document summarizes
processes available to graduate students who seek review of academic and non-academic
issues. Generally, graduate students are expected to seek informal resolution of all concerns
within the applicable department, unit, or program before invoking formal processes. When an
informal resolution cannot be reached, however, a graduate student who seeks further review
of the matter is to follow the formal procedures outlined here. These appeal and grievance
procedures shall apply to students in all graduate programs of the University. Students should
refer to the department specific information in this handbook for department and college
information about the administration and academic policies of the program.
5.3.3 Process for Appealing Final Grades
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/academic/appeal-of-grades-and academic-
actions.html
Final grades will be changed only in exceptional circumstances and only with the approval of
the instructor and the department, unit, or program. Grading is a matter of sound discretion of
the instructor, and final grades are rarely changed without the consent of the instructor who
assigned the grade. The following circumstances are the unusual exceptions that may warrant a
grade appeal:
a) The final grade assigned for a course is based on manifest error (e.g., a
clear error such as arithmetic error in computing a grade or failure to
grade one of the answers on an exam)
b) The faculty or staff member who assigned the grade did so in violation of
University policy.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 255.3.4 Safeguarding Educational Equity:
Sexual Misconduct Policy
The University prohibits sex-based discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating/
domestic violence, and stalking. The University also prohibits retaliation against individuals
who bring forward such concerns or allegations in good faith. The University’s Sexual
Misconduct Policy is available at https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-
governance/sexual-misconduct/index.html. The University’s Policy Against Retaliation is available
at https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/whistleblower.html. If you have
been impacted by any of these issues, you are encouraged to make contact with any of the
following resources:
• Office of Title IX Initiatives, https://www.cmu.edu/title-ix/ 412-268-7125, tix@cmu.edu
• University Police, 412-268-2323
Additional resources and information can be found at: https://www.cmu.edu/title-ix/resources-
and-information/resources.html.
5.3.5 Gestational and Parental Accommodation
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/programs-services/maternity-accommodation protocol.html
Providing holistic student support is a top priority at Carnegie Mellon. The protocols on this
page are designed to support the parental needs of students and their families.
Students seeking any of the parental accommodations described below must register with
the Office of the Dean of Students by contacting the office for an appointment by calling 412-
268-2075.
Students are encouraged to register with the Office of the Dean of Students ninety (90) days in
advance of the anticipated arrival of the child as applicable in the individual circumstances. At
the time of registration, students will have the opportunity to consult about resources,
procedures, funding options, and preparation for discussing academic accommodations with
the student’s academic department. Students should also consult with their academic advisors
either before or in conjunction with registering with the Office of the Dean of Students.
Accommodations for Gestational Parents
The birth of a child is a significant life event that may require time away from academic pursuits
for delivery and recovery from delivery of a newly born child. Students whose anticipated
delivery date is during the course of a semester may need to take time away from their
academic responsibilities. Carnegie Mellon students seeking time away are afforded two
options as a possible accommodation:
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 26• Short-term accommodation for gestational parents – A short-term absence
from academic responsibilities up to a maximum of six (6) weeks. Short term
accommodations may be extended by two (2) weeks for a total of eight (8)
weeks, where a longer absence is medically necessary. Prior to the absence
students must work with relevant university faculty and staff to adjust their
course work, research, teaching and other academic responsibilities during the
period of absence. This may include extensions of time to complete assignments,
incomplete grades, and/or dropping courses, shifting research responsibilities
and adjusting TA assignments. Students who take a short-term accommodation
will remain enrolled.
• Formal Leave of Absence - A formal leave of absence under the Student Leave
Policy. Generally, the Student Leave Policy permits students to take a leave of
absence for a full-semester, mini-semester, or for the time remaining in the
semester during which the leave is taken. Students who take a Formal Leave of
Absence (https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/student-
leave.html) drop all remaining courses for the semester and are unenrolled for
the semester. International students must consult with the Office of
International Education (https://www.cmu.edu/oie/) before considering this
option due to visa implications.
Financial Assistance for Student Parents
Carnegie Mellon also offers the following options for financial assistance to students who
become parents while enrolled:
Interest-free Loan – Any student who becomes a parent is eligible to apply for an interest-free
parental loan (https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/loans/) from the Office of the Dean
of Students.
6 Financial Issues
6.1 Graduate Student Funding
For all LTI MLT students, full funding (tuition plus stipend) is guaranteed for the first year. This
support is normally continued for the duration of the program, subject to continuing
satisfactory progress and availability of funding. The fellowship includes full tuition and fees,
and a monthly MLT stipend. In addition, the LTI pays a dependency allowance of 10% of the
student's monthly stipend to any student with a child, unless they have a spouse who earns
more than $200 per month.
If an MLT student receives an outside graduate fellowship (e.g., NSF, Fulbright), the student is
expected to accept it in place of the LTI’s graduate fellowship. As an extra incentive to do so,
the LTI will supplement the award so that the student will receive full tuition and a combined
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 27stipend 10 percent higher than that of the standard LTI graduate fellowship. Students are
required to inform the LTI about any external funding that they receive.
6.2 University Financial Aid
Graduate students should consult the graduate student financial aid information found on The
HUB website: http://www.cmu.edu/finaid/graduate/index.html.
6.3 Conference Travel Funding
Students funded by a research project receive travel funding according to policies set by the
individual projects. Students who have no project funding may be provided with partial funding,
with a larger amount available for travel to present a refereed conference paper. There is an LTI
form that must be filled out in advance.
6.4 Office of the Dean of Students Emergency Support Funding
Graduate students who find themselves in need of immediate funds for emergency situations
should contact the Office of the Dean of Students (see Appendix A), www.cmu.edu/student-
affairs/index.html, to inquire about the types of emergency funding available to enrolled
students.
6.5 Health Insurance
Carnegie Mellon has a Student Health Insurance policy requiring full-time, degree-seeking
students to carry adequate medical insurance. Students must either purchase the plan offered
by the University, or an application for a waiver can be made if the student is “enrolled as the
dependent, partner/spouse or principal in an employer or government-sponsored insurance
plan” (see the Carnegie Mellon University Student Health Insurance Policy at
http://www.cmu.edu/policies/documents/StudentInsurance).
The LTI does not cover student health insurance, regardless of the students’ funding situation.
It is the responsibility of each student to make arrangements with Student Health Services to
either pay for their insurance at the beginning of the semester, or elect a payment plan over
the course of the academic year. More information is available at the Student Health Services
Web site www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/HealthServices/insurance.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 286.6 Emergency Loans
http://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/index.html
All students, regardless of their program, are eligible for the Emergency Student Loan, which is
an interest-free and emergency-based loan repayable within 30 days. It is available through the
Office of the Dean of Student Affairs; students may apply for the loan by stopping in to the
Student Affairs Office, Warner Hall 301, or by calling (412) 268-2075 for an appointment.
6.7 Employment Eligibility Verification
If you are receiving a stipend, are a TA, or are planning to have a position with CMU then
Employment Eligibility Verification is required. Form I-9 must be completed within 3 business
days of beginning work for any type of compensation (stipend or employment). Additional
details are highlighted below. To ensure compliance with federal law, Carnegie Mellon
University maintains the Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9) Policy [pdf] covering the
university’s I-9 and E-Verify requirements:
• Every individual receiving a stipend from CMU or employed by CMU
must comply with the I-9 Policy by completing the Form I-9 within three business
days following the first day of stipend start date/employment.
• Individuals who expect to work on a federally funded project are further
responsible for submitting an E-Verify Processing Request Form to the Office of
Human Resources if required.
• For more information, please see CMU’s Guidance for Completing the Form I-9
and E-Verify Requirements at CMU [pdf], or visit the Human Resources Service
website to learn more about Form I-9 and E-Verify and to schedule an
appointment to complete the Form I-9.
• Students who fail to complete the Form I-9 in a timely manner may have stipend
payments suspended. If employed by the university, an individual who fails to
timely complete the Form I-9 may be subject to disciplinary action up to and
including termination of employment.
7 Additional University Resources
7.1 The HUB Student Services Center
thehub@andrew.cmu.edu and http://www.cmu.edu/hub/
The HUB is located in Warner Hall, Lower Level. The HUB staff delivers comprehensive service
and counsel to students and families regarding financial aid, billing and payment, registration
and academic records. The Assistant Directors in The HUB serve as contacts for specific colleges
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 29and assist enrolled students with key aspects of the enrollment process. Students can find their
assigned HUB Assistant Director on their Student Information Online (SIO) Resource
page. Questions that need specialized, in-depth attention can be directed to the student's
assigned Assistant Director. For general questions and information, students may email The
HUB or call 412-268-8186.
7.2 Student Information Online (SIO)
Student Information Online (SIO) is a secure site where students can find important,
personalized information, including E-Bills and student account information, financial aid status
and eligibility, grades and QPA, and course schedules. Students can update their contact
information (and that of their spouse or partner); sign up for E-Check & E-Refund; authorize
their spouses, domestic partners or other individuals to receive a copy of their E-Bill; request
verifications; view their housing and meal plan assignments; and much more. Students can log
on to SIO by going to www.cmu.edu/hub/sio and entering their Andrew User ID and password.
On SIO, students will designate an emergency contact address of a relative or family friend to
be contacted in the case of an emergency. If students do not want their name and address
published in the campus directory, they must notify the HUB in writing.
7.3 ID Cards
Graduate students can obtain their ID card from their program manager, department, or
college. These cards identify their holders as members of the campus community. Student
cards are deactivated upon the cardholder’s separation from the university.
Affiliate ID Cards are available for spouses and partners of graduate students, which allow them
to access Carnegie Mellon’s campus. These cards are available through The HUB to spouses and
partners of graduate students who are enrolled for the current academic year in a full-time
graduate degree program. The card is valid for one year. For information about domestic
partner registration, visit the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs webpage:
http://www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/dean/domestic_partner/.
For more information about student and affiliate ID cards (spouse, domestic partners and
dependent children), please visit: http://www.cmu.edu/idplus/idcards/cardtypes.html.
7.4 Transcripts
Information about and instructions for ordering transcripts are available at:
www.cmu.edu/hub/transcripts.html. Transcript questions may be directed to esg-
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 30transcripts@andrew.cmu.edu.
7.5 Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-registration
http://www.cmu.edu/policies/documents/CrossRegister.html
Cross-registration provides an opportunity for enriched educational programs by permitting
full-time graduate students to cross-register for courses (usually no more than one per
semester) at a Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) Institution. Full-time Carnegie
Mellon degree students are eligible and the PCHE course may not count towards full-time
status unless the student is enrolled in an inter-university program. Students interested in
taking advantage of this opportunity should be familiar with the Policy on Grades for Transfer
Courses already outlined previously in this handbook.
Note: Suspended students may take courses elsewhere; however, they may receive transfer
credit only if their college and department policies allow this.
7.6 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA
www.cmu.edu/policies/documents/StPrivacy.html
This university policy notifies students of their rights under the federal Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). According to FERPA, students have the right to:
• inspect and review their education records;
• request an amendment to their education record if they believe they are inaccurate or
misleading;
• request a hearing if their request for an amendment is not resolved to their satisfaction;
• consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information from their education
records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent;
• file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education Family Policy Compliance Office
if they believe their rights under FERPA have been violated.
For questions about Student Privacy Rights, FERPA or filing a complaint, contact John
Papinchak, University Registrar, jp7p@andrew.cmu.edu, in Enrollment Services.
7.7 Academic Calendar
The official academic calendar is published by Enrollment Services. It is not uncommon for
departments and colleges to have academic requirements that differ from or are in addition to
those presented in the academic calendar provided to the campus community by Enrollment
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 31Services. You may find the CMU academic calendar here: www.cmu.edu/hub/calendar.html.
This provides information on deadlines including registration dates, class start dates, add/drop
deadlines, and more.
7.8 Professional Development
The Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC)
(www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/career/index.html) at Carnegie Mellon is a centralized career
center staffed by a team of seasoned and highly-educated professionals who orchestrate the
career exploration, experiential learning, and career networking needs of students and alumni.
CMU's career and professional development model is grounded in discipline-specific career
development, experiential learning, and employer relations shaped by strong connections with
the university's seven academic colleges. The center's success is founded upon a solid
understanding of career and professional development theory, integration of technology, and
an unwavering commitment to providing personalized attention towards meeting the unique
individual needs of students, alumni, and employers. The CDPC is located on the Lower Level of
the University Center, 412-268-2064.
The Office of the Assistant Vice Provost for Graduate Education (AVPGE) offers a robust
schedule of professional development opportunities. Some are geared towards a specific
population (master’s students, PhD students at the beginning of their program, graduate
students seeking tenure track positions, etc.) and others are open to all graduate students (time
management, balancing, staying healthy). A full schedule of programs can be found at:
http://www.cmu.edu/graduate/.
7.9 University Libraries
http://library.cmu.edu
The University Libraries offers a wide range of information resources and services supporting
graduate students in course-work, research, teaching, and publishing. The library licenses and
purchases books, journals, media and other needed materials in various formats. Library
liaisons, consultants and information specialists provide in-depth and professional assistance
and advice in all-things information - including locating and obtaining specific resources,
providing specialized research support, advanced training in the use and management of data.
Sign up for workshops and hands-on topic-specific sessions such as data visualization with
Tableau, cleaning data with OpenRefine, and getting started with Zotero. Weekly drop-in hours
for Digital Humanities and for Research Data Research Management are scheduled during the
academic year. Start at the library home page to find the books, journals and databases you
need; to identify and reach out to the library liaison in your field; to sign up for scheduled
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 32workshops; and to connect with consultants in scholarly publishing, research data
management, and digital humanities.
7.10 Computing Services
www.cmu.edu/computing/
Computing Services is located in Cyert Hall 285. Computing Services develops, maintains, and
supports the computing infrastructure for Carnegie Mellon students, faculty members, and staff
members. This includes the campus wired and wireless networks, public computer labs or
“clusters,” cable television and telephone services, computing related documentation and
support through the Help Center. In addition, Computing Services provides standard classroom
technologies for over 100 lecture halls, classrooms, and seminar rooms across campus. The
website contains addition information regarding The Help Center hours, location and contact
information, computing cluster hours and location, the Carnegie Mellon web portal, computing
security, and policies and guidelines. Students can email the Help Center at
advisor@andrew.cmu.edu with questions and for assistance.
7.11 Family and Dependents Resources
The Graduate Student Assembly website maintains a resource page for spouses, domestic
partners, and families of graduate students: www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/resources/family.html,
including The Student Parent Association, new mother rooms, and links to resources around
campus and the Pittsburgh area.
Affiliate ID Cards are available for spouses and domestic partners of graduate students that
allow them to access Carnegie Mellon’s campus. These cards are available through The HUB to
spouses and partners of graduate students who are enrolled for the current academic year in a
full-time graduate degree program. The card is valid for one year. For more information about
student and affiliate ID cards, please visit: http://www.cmu.edu/idplus/idcards/cardtypes.html.
7.12 Domestic Partner Registration
Carnegie Mellon extends certain benefits to domestic partners of students. Eligible students
may elect benefits for their domestic partners through the registration process orchestrated by
the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs, 3rd floor Warner Hall. Information regarding the
benefits available for domestic partners, eligibility for domestic partner benefits, registration
instructions, and forms can be located at:
www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/dean/domestic_partner/index.html.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 337.13 Housing
The university does not currently offer housing to graduate students. The Office of Housing and
Dining Services does provide community housing information to assist graduate students who
are seeking housing in the communities surrounding the university, including information on
the legal aspects of renting an apartment, moving checklists, and the off-campus housing
database. This information can be located at: www.cmu.edu/housing/community-
housing/index.html.
7.14 Dining
www.cmu.edu/dining/
Dining services and operations are offered through the Office of Housing and Dining Services.
The office operates dining locations open around campus in academic buildings, Hunt Library,
and the University Center. These locations offer flexible hours with options from the early
morning through late night. The Dining Service website contains information about dining
locations, hours of operation, graduate student dining plans forms, nutritional information, and
weekly menus for dining locations.
7.15 Parking and Transportation
www.cmu.edu/parking/
Graduate students will find information about parking and availability, parking policies,
transportation options and Port Authority Transit usage with a valid university ID on the Parking
and Transportation Services site. The Parking and Transportation Services office is located in
the lower level of the East Campus Garage. There is limited parking on campus and the varying
permit rates can be found on the website. All parking areas of campus are either by permit,
metered, or by the hour in the garage. Parking and Transportation Services will ticket any car
parked in a permit area without a permit or at an expired meter. The city monitors the metered
parking along Margaret Morrison, Frew and Tech Streets and will ticket at expired meters as
well.
The university offers shuttle and escort services operated through University Police. The Shuttle
Service operates several routes within Oakland, Squirrel Hill and Shadyside areas, as well as to
University sites located outside of the main campus. The Escort Service offers vehicle routes
within a radius of campus between 6:30 pm-6 am daily. Information regarding up-to-date
shuttle and escort schedules, pick-up/drop-off locations, routes and usage policies can be found
at: www.cmu.edu/police/shuttleandescort/.
SafeWalk provides another option to campus community members walking across and around
campus during late-night hours. SafeWalk is a student volunteer organization that provides
campus escorts for all members of the Carnegie Mellon community. SafeWalk operates nightly
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 34during the regular academic year (except certain holidays and break periods) from 10pm until
2am. Students, faculty, and staff may request an escort by calling 412-268-SAFE (8-7233 from a
campus phone), by approaching an escort team, or by stopping by the SafeWalk dispatch area
in the University Center, Lower Level near the Post Office Package Pick-Up window, between
10pm-2am. SafeWalk will escort to locations approximately one mile from campus. Additional
SafeWalk information can be found at: www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/safewalk.
7.16 Copying, Printing and Mailing Services
Carnegie Mellon offers community members easy access to FedEx, copy centers, printing and
mailing services, and postal services. More information regarding these services, locations and
contact information can be found in The Word at:
www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword//campus_resources/copyprintmail.html.
7.17 University Center
www.cmu.edu/university-center
The University Center is a centerpiece of the campus that provides a space for special events,
physical fitness, student organizations and various activities, as well as accommodating retail
and dining services. As the campus crossroads, the University Center functions as a place for
students to interact, get involved and enjoy new experiences. Visit the University Center
website for information about campus eateries, ATMs and PNC Bank, fitness rooms and
schedules, retail stores, scheduling University Center space, the public prayer room, student
organizations, and the Wright-Rogal Chapel.
The University Center Information Desk is the location if you want to know about upcoming
campus events or have questions about Carnegie Mellon in general. You can call the
Information Desk at 412-268-2107. The Information Desk not only provides information about
campus events, but also sells postage stamps, makes copies, sends faxes, distributes campus
maps, manages a lost & found, and has informational brochures about Pittsburgh and the
campus.
7.18 Athletic/Fitness Facilities
www.cmu.edu/athletics
For the participant or the spectator, Carnegie Mellon offers intercollegiate athletics, intramural
sports, physical education classes and club sports. The Athletics Department also offers
aerobics classes in the University Center, as well as occasional workshops and instruction
related to fitness and health. The Athletics Office is located in the Skibo Gymnasium.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 35The University Center’s recreational facilities include an eight-lane pool, racquetball and squash
courts, class studios, a fully-equipped fitness center, and a gym for basketball and volleyball. All
users must present a current Carnegie Mellon Card to use these facilities.
7.19 CMU Alert
www.cmu.edu/alert
CMU Alert sends voice and/or text messages to registered phones in the event of a campus
emergency that threatens public safety or during tests of the system in the spring and fall
semesters. Students can register for CMU Alert through the website.
A Appendix: Highlighted University Resources for Graduate Students and The
WORD, Student Handbook
A.1 Key Offices for Graduate Student Support
A.1.1 Graduate Education Office
www.cmu.edu/graduate; grad-ed@cmu.edu
The Graduate Education Office serves as a hub for connecting graduate students to relevant
campus experts and resources to support their academic success, understanding of university
level policies and practices and to assist them in advancing their personal and professional
development.
Examples of resources offered through the Graduate Education Office include, but are not
limited to:
• Website with university resources, contact information for CMU programs and services,
calendar of events related to graduate students
• Bi-monthly email to all graduate students with information on activities, resources and
opportunities
• Professional Development Seminars and Workshops
• GSA/Provost Conference Funding Grants
• GSA/Provost Small Research Grants (GuSH)
• Consultations on issues related to the graduate student experience
The Graduate Education Office also works with the colleges and departments by informing and
assisting in developing policy and procedures relevant to graduate students and working with
departments on issues related to graduate students. Additionally we partner with many other
offices and organizations, such as the Graduate Student Assembly, to support the holistic
graduate student educational experience.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 36A.1.2 Office of the Dean of Students
http://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean
The Office of the Dean of Students provides central leadership of the metacurricular experience
at Carnegie Mellon, including the coordination of student support. Vice President of Student
Affairs and Dean of Students Gina Casalegno leads the Division of Student Affairs, which
includes the offices and departments listed below (not an exhaustive list):
• Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation
• Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC)
• Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion
• Cohon University Center
• Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS)
• Dining Services
• Office of Community Standards and Integrity (OCSI)
• Office of Student Leadership, Involvement, and Civic Engagement (SLICE)
• University Health Services (UHS)
• Wellness Initiatives
Graduate students will find the enrollment information for Domestic Partner Registration and
Childbirth/Maternity Accommodations in the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and on the
website. The Office of the Dean of Student Affairs also manages the Student Emergency
Support Funding process. There are three forms of support funding for enrolled students:
emergency student loans, maternity loans, and the Tartan Emergency Support Fund. These
funds are made available through generous gifts of alumni and friends of the University, as well
as support from student organizations, the Undergraduate Student Senate, and the Graduate
Student Assembly. Students will be provided with additional information about the various
types of funding during a consultation meeting with a member of the Dean of Students team.
Tuition costs are not eligible for Student Emergency Support Funding.
Additional resources for graduate students include College Liaisons and the Student Support
Resources team. College Liaisons are senior members of the Division of Student Affairs who
work with departments and colleges addressing student concerns across a wide range of issues.
College Liaisons are identified on the student SIO page in the Important Contacts list. The
Student Support Resources team offers an additional level of support for students who
are navigating any of a wide range of life events. Student Support Resources staff members
work in partnership with campus and community resources to provide coordination of care and
support appropriate to each student’s situation.
A.1.3 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion
https://www.cmu.edu/student-diversity
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 37Diversity and inclusion have a singular place among the values of Carnegie Mellon University.
The Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion actively cultivates a strong, diverse and
inclusive community capable of living out these values and advancing research, creativity,
learning and development that changes the world.
The Center offers resources to enhance an inclusive and transformative student experience in
dimensions such as access, success, campus climate and intergroup dialogue. Additionally, the
Center supports and connects historically underrepresented students and those who are first in
their family to attend college in a setting where students’ differences and talents are
appreciated and reinforced, both at the graduate and undergraduate level. Initiatives
coordinated by the Center include, but are not limited to:
• First generation/first in family to attend college programs
• LGBTQ+ initiatives
• Race and ethnically-focused programs, including Inter-University Graduate Students of
Color Series (SOC) and PhD SOC Network
• Women’s empowerment programs, including Graduate Women’s Gatherings (GWGs)
• Transgender and non-binary student programs
A.1.4 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation
www.cmu.edu/teaching
We offer a wide variety of confidential, consultation services and professional development
programs to support graduate students as teaching assistants or instructors of record during
their time at Carnegie Mellon University and as future faculty members at other institutions.
Regardless of one’s current or future teaching context and duties, our goal is to disseminate
evidence-based teaching strategies in ways that are accessible and actionable. Programs and
services include campus-wide Graduate Student Instructor Orientation events and our Future
Faculty Program, both of which are designed to help participants be effective and efficient in
their teaching roles. The Eberly Center also assists departments in creating and conducting
customized programs to meet the specific needs of their graduate student instructors. Specific
information about Eberly Center support for graduate students can be found at:
www.cmu.edu/teaching/graduatestudentsupport/index.html.
A.1.5 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline
https://www.cmu.edu/hr/resources/ethics-hotline.html
The health, safety, and well-being of the university community are top priorities at Carnegie
Mellon University. CMU provides a hotline that all members of the university community
should use to confidentially report suspected unethical activity relating to areas below:
• Academic and Student Life
• Bias Reporting
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 38• Discriminatory Harassment/Sexual Misconduct/Title IX
• Employee Misconduct
• Employment Related
• Environmental Health and Safety/Pandemic Safety
• Financial Matters
• Health and Wellness
• Information Systems and Data Privacy
• Public Safety and Criminal Activity
• Research and Intellectual Property
Students, faculty, and staff can anonymously file a report by calling 1-844-587-0793 or visiting -
cmu.ethicspoint.net. All submissions will be reported to appropriate university personnel.
The hotline is NOT an emergency service. For emergencies, call University Police at 412-268-
2323.
A.1.6 Policy Against Retaliation
It is the policy of Carnegie Mellon University to protect from retaliation any individual who
makes a good faith report of a suspected violation of any applicable law or regulation,
University policy or procedure, any contractual obligation of the University, and any report
made pursuant to the Carnegie Mellon University Code of Business Ethics and Conduct.
Additional details regarding the Policy Against Retaliation are available at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/whistleblower.html
A.1.7 Graduate Student Assembly
www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/index.html
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is the branch of Carnegie Mellon Student Government
that represents, and advocates for the diverse interests of all graduate students at CMU. GSA is
composed of representatives from the different graduate programs and departments who want
to improve the graduate student experience at the different levels of the university. GSA is
funded by the Student Activities Fee from all graduate students. GSA passes legislation,
allocates student activities funding, advocates for legislative action locally and in Washington
D.C. on behalf of graduate student issues and needs, and otherwise acts on behalf of all
graduate student interests. Our recent accomplishments are a testament to GSA making a
difference, and steps to implementing the vision laid out by the strategic plan.
https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/About-the-GSA/Strategic-Plan.html.
GSA offers an expanding suite of social programming on and off-campus to bring graduate
students from different departments together and build a sense of community. GSA is the host
of the Graduate Student Lounge on the 3rd floor of the Cohon University Center- a great place
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 39to study or meet up with friends. GSA also maintains a website of graduate student resources
on and off-campus. Through GSA’s continued funding for professional development and
research conferences, the GSA/Provost Conference Funding Program and GSA/Provost GuSH
Research Grants are able to run, as managed by the Graduate Education Office. As we move
forward, GSA will continue to rely on your feedback to improve the graduate student
experience at CMU. Feel free to contact us at gsa@cmu.edu to get involved, stop by our office
in the Cohon University Center Room 304 or become a representative for your department.
A.1.8 Language and Cross-Cultural Support
More than 60% of graduate students at Carnegie Mellon are international students, and others
are nonnative speakers of English who have attended high school or undergraduate programs
in the US. Many of these students want to hone their language and cross-cultural skills for
academic and professional success. Students can choose from sessions on:
• how to give a strong presentation
• writing academic emails
• expectations and strategies for clear academic writing
• how to talk about yourself as a professional in the U.S.
• developing clearer pronunciation
• using accurate grammar
• building fluency, and more.
Students can make an appointment with a Language Development Specialist to get
individualized coaching on language or cross-cultural issues.
The Student Academic Success Center is also charged with certifying the language of
International Teaching Assistants (ITAs), ensuring that nonnative English speakers have the
language proficiency needed to succeed as teaching assistants in the Carnegie Mellon
classroom. Students preparing to do an ITA Certification should plan to take classes offered by
the language support team at the SASC from the beginning of their first semester. Start by
contacting the language support team at the SASC website or attend a Language Support
Orientation at the SASC or in your department.
A.1.9 Office of International Education (OIE)
www.studentaffairs.cmu.edu/oie/
Carnegie Mellon hosts international graduate and undergraduate students who come from
more than 90 countries. The Office of International Education (OIE) is the liaison to the
University for all non-immigrant students and scholars, as well the repository for study abroad
opportunities and advisement. OIE provides many services including: advising on personal,
immigration, study abroad, academic, and social and acculturation issues; presenting programs
of interest such as international career workshops, tax workshops, and cross-cultural and
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 40immigration workshops; international education and statistics on international students in the
United States; posting pertinent information to students through email and the OIE website,
and conducting orientation and pre-departure programs.
A.1.10 Veterans and Military Community
http://www.cmu.edu/veterans/
Military veterans are a vital part of the Carnegie Mellon University community. Graduate
students can find information on applying veteran education benefits, campus services,
veteran’s groups at CMU, non-educational resources and international military service
information through the Veterans and Military Community website. There are also links and
connections to veteran resource in the Pittsburgh community. The Naval ROTC and Veteran
Affairs Offices are located at 4615 Forbes Avenue, uro-vaedbenefits@andrew.cmu.edu, 412-
268-8747.
A.2 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support
A.2.1 Computing and Information Resources
www.cmu.edu/computing
Computing Services maintains and supports computing resources for the campus community,
including the campus wired and wireless networks, printing, computer labs, file storage, email,
and software catalog. As members of this community, we are all responsible for the security of
these shared resources. Be sure to review the Safe Computing section
(https://www.cmu.edu/computing/safe) and the University Computing Policy
(https://www.cmu.edu/policies/information-technology/computing.html).
A.2.2 Research at CMU
www.cmu.edu/research/index.shtml
The primary purpose of research at the university is the advancement of knowledge in all fields
in which the university is active. Research is regarded as one of the university’s major
contributions to society and as an essential element in education, particularly at the graduate
level and in faculty development. Research activities are governed by several university policies.
Guidance and more general information is found by visiting the Research at Carnegie Mellon
website.
A.2.3 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance
www.cmu.edu/research-compliance/index.html
The Office of Research Integrity & Compliance (ORIC) is designed to support research at
Carnegie Mellon University. The staff work with researchers to ensure research is conducted
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 41with integrity and in accordance with federal and Pennsylvania regulation. ORIC assists
researchers with human subject research, conflicts of interest, responsible conduct of research,
export controls, and institutional animal care & use. ORIC also provides consultation, advice,
and review of allegations of research misconduct.
A.2.4 Student Academic Success Center
https://www.cmu.edu/student-success
Student Academic Support Programs
A.2.4.1 Communication & Language Support
• Communication Support: The program offers free consultations for all CMU students on
their written, oral, and visual projects. Our trained communication consultants help
communicators convey ideas clearly and effectively on a variety of STEM and humanities
topics. Consultants support communication excellence on essays, technical reports, oral
presentations, slides, data visualization, advanced English language learning, and many
other project types. Clients can bring in a project at any stage, including brainstorming
ideas, organizing thoughts, responding to instructor feedback, or putting finishing
touches on the final draft. Support is offered in several modes:
One-on-one Communication Tutoring (in-person or synchronous Zoom meeting):
o
Clients meet with a consultant to improve the logic, clarity, and flow of writing or
presentation and receive expert feedback that will strengthen a project. When
making an appointment, clients upload a draft, instructor prompts, and rubrics
so the consultants can use specific criteria to give relevant feedback. See the
appointment types offered here: https://www.cmu.edu/student-
success/programs/communication-support/make-an-appointment.html
Video Response (asynchronous): Clients upload documents in advance, then
o
receive a 20 to 30 minute video with a consultant’s feedback. The feedback
video will be received within 5 days of the scheduled appointment.
Group Appointments: Participate with your group to accomplish peer reviews or
o
focus on collaborative presentation strategies.
Workshops: Workshops are available on a variety of topics and help attendees
o
learn research-backed communication strategies.
https://www.cmu.edu/student-success/calendar.html
Resources: An online collection of handouts and videos that concisely explain
o
specific communication strategies are available. https://www.cmu.edu/student-
success/other-resources/index.html
A.2.4.2 Language and Cross-Cultural Support
More than 60% of graduate students at Carnegie Mellon are international students, and others
are non-native speakers of English who have attended high school or undergraduate programs
in the U.S. Many of these students want to hone their language and cross-cultural skills for
academic and professional success. Students can make an appointment with a Language
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 42Development Specialist to get individualized coaching on language or cross-cultural issues.
Students can choose from sessions on:
• How to give a strong presentation
• Writing academic emails
• Analyzing expectations and strategies for clear academic writing
• How to talk about yourself as a professional in the U.S.
• Developing clearer pronunciation
• Using accurate grammar
• Building fluency
and more. Students can make an appointment with a Language Development Specialist to get
individualized coaching on language or cross-cultural issues.
The Student Academic Success Center is also charged with certifying the language of
International Teaching Assistants (ITAs), ensuring that nonnative English speakers have the
language proficiency needed to succeed as teaching assistants in the Carnegie Mellon
classroom. Students preparing to do an ITA Certification should plan to take classes offered by
the language support team at the SASC website or attend a Language Support Orientation at
the SASC or in your department.
A.2.4.3 Learning Support
• Peer Tutoring: Weekly tutoring appointments are offered one-on-one and small group
format to students from any discipline who need assistance with a course that may not
be supported by our other services. Weekly appointments give students the opportunity
to interact regularly with the same tutor to facilitate deeper understanding of concepts.
Students can register online through the Student Academic Success website.
• Academic Coaching: Academic Coaching provides holistic one-on-one peer support and
group workshops to help students find and implement their conditions for success. We
assist students in improving time management, productive habits, organization, stress
management, and study skills. Students will request support through the Academic
Success Center website and attend in-person meetings or meet using video and audio
conferencing technology to provide all students with support.
• “Just in Time” Workshops: The Student Academic Success team is available to partner
with instructors and departments to identify skills or concepts that would benefit from
supplemental offerings (workshops, boot camps) to support students’ academic success
and learning. We are eager to help convene and coordinate outside of the classroom
skill-building opportunities that can be open to any student interested in building skill or
reinforcing course concept mastery.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 43A.2.5 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance
www.cmu.edu/research-compliance/index.html
The Office of Research Integrity & Compliance (ORIC) is designed to support research at
Carnegie Mellon University. The staff work with researchers to ensure research is conducted
with integrity and in accordance with federal and Pennsylvania regulation. ORIC assists
researchers with human subject research, conflicts of interest, responsible conduct of research,
export controls, intellectual property rights and regulations, and institutional animal care & use.
ORIC also consults on, advises about and handles allegations of research misconduct.
A.3 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety
A.3.1 Counseling & Psychological Services
https://www.cmu.edu/counseling
Counseling & Psychological Services (CaPS) affords the opportunity for students to talk privately
about academic and personal concerns in a safe, confidential setting. An initial consultation at
CaPS can help clarify the nature of the concern, provide immediate support, and explore
further options if needed. These may include a referral for counseling within CaPS, to another
resource at Carnegie Mellon, or to another resource within the larger Pittsburgh community.
CaPS also provides workshops and group session on mental health related topics specifically for
graduate students on campus. CaPS services are provided at no cost. Appointments can be
made in person or by telephone at 412-268-2922.
A.3.2 Health Services
www.cmu.edu/HealthServices
University Health Services (UHS) is staffed by physicians, advanced practice clinicians, and
registered nurses who provide general medical care, allergy injections, first aid, gynecological
care and contraception, and on-site pharmaceuticals. The CMU Student Insurance Plan covers
most visit fees to see the physicians and advanced practice clinicians & nurse visits. Fees for
prescription medications, laboratory tests, diagnostic procedures and referral to the emergency
room or specialists are the student’s responsibility and students should review the UHS website
and their insurance plan for detailed information about the university health insurance
requirement and fees.
UHS also has a registered dietician and health promotion specialists on staff to assist students
in addressing nutrition, drug and alcohol, and other healthy lifestyle issues. In addition to
providing direct health care, UHS administers the Student Health Insurance Program. The
Student Health Insurance plan offers a high level of coverage in a wide network of health care
providers and hospitals. Appointments can be made by visiting UHS’s website, walk-in, or by
telephone, 412-268-2157.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 44A.3.3 Campus Wellness
http://www.cmu.edu/wellness/
At Carnegie Mellon, we believe our individual and collective well-being is rooted in healthy
connections to each other and to campus resources. The university provides a wide variety of
wellness, mindfulness and connectedness initiatives and resources designed to help students
thrive inside and outside the classroom. The BeWell@CMU e-newsletter seeks to be a
comprehensive resource for CMU regarding all wellness-inspired events, announcements and
professional and personal development opportunities. Sign up for the Be Well monthly
newsletter via https://bit.ly/BeWellNewsletter or by contacting the Program Director for
Student Affairs Wellness Initiatives, at alusk@andrew.cmu.edu.
A.3.4 Religious & Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI)
www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/spirituality
Carnegie Mellon is committed to the holistic growth of our students, including creating
opportunities for spiritual and religious practice and exploration. We have relationships with
local houses of worship from various traditions and many of these groups are members of
CMU’s Council of Religious Advisors. We also offer programs and initiatives that cross
traditional religious boundaries in order to increase knowledge of and appreciation for the full
diversity of the worldview traditions. Our RSLI staff are here to support students across the
spectrum of religious and spiritual practice and would be more than happy to help you make a
connection into a community of faith during your time at CMU.
A.3.5 University Police
http://www.cmu.edu/police/
412-268-2323
The University Police Department is located at 4551 Filmore Street. The department’s services
include police patrols and call response, criminal investigations, fixed officer and foot officer
patrols, event security, crime prevention and education programming, and bicycle and laptop
registration. Visit the department’s website for additional information about the staff,
emergency phone locations, crime prevention, lost and found, fingerprint services, and annual
statistic reports.
Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security and fire safety report
describing the university’s security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault, and fire safety policies and
containing statistics about the number and type of crimes committed on the campus and the
number and cause of fires in campus residence facilities during the preceding three years.
Graduate students can obtain a copy by contacting the University Police Department at 412-
268-6232. The annual security and fire safety report is also available online at
https://www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports/.
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 45A.3.6 Shuttle & Escort Services
Parking and Transportation coordinates the Shuttle and Escort Service provided for CMU
students, faculty, and community. The Shuttle & Escort website has full information about
these services, stops, routes, tracking, and schedules.
https://www.cmu.edu/parking/shuttle/index.html
A.4 The WORD
http://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/
The WORD is Carnegie Mellon University’s student handbook and serves as the foundation for
the department (and sometimes college) handbook. The WORD contains University-wide
academic policies and resources, community policies and resources, and describes the
University-level procedures used to review possible violations of these standards. It is designed
to provide all students with the tools, guidance, and insights to help you achieve your full
potential as a member of the Carnegie Mellon community. Information about the following is
included in The WORD (not an exhaustive list) and graduate students are encouraged to
bookmark this site and refer to it often:
Carnegie Mellon Vision, Mission
Statement of Assurance
Carnegie Mellon Code
Academic Standards, Policies and Procedures
Educational Goals
Academic and Individual Freedom
Academic Disciplinary Actions Overview
Statement on Academic Integrity Standards for Academic & Creative Life
Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
Master’s Student Statute of Limitations
Conduct of Classes
Copyright Policy
Cross-college & University Registration
Doctoral Student Status Policy
Evaluation & Certification of English Fluency for Instructors
Final Exams for Graduate Courses
Grading Policies
Intellectual Property Policy
Privacy Rights of Students
Student’s Rights
Research
Human Subjects in Research
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 46Office of Research Integrity & Compliance
Office of Sponsored Programs
Policy for Handling Alleged Misconduct of Research
Policy on Restricted Research
Tax Status of Graduate Student Awards
Campus Resources & Opportunities
Alumni Relations
Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
Athletics, Physical Fitness & Recreation
Carnegie Mellon ID Cards and Services
Cohon University Center
Copying, Printing & Mailing
Division of Student Affairs
Domestic Partner Registration
Emergency Student Loan Program
Gender Programs & Resources
Health Services
Dining Services
The HUB Student Services Center
ID Card Services
Leonard Gelfand Center
LGBTQ Resources
Multicultural and Diversity Initiatives
Opportunities for Involvement
Parking and Transportation Services
Shuttle and Escort Services
Spiritual Development
University Police
Student Activities
University Stores
Community Standards, Policies and Procedures
Active Medical Assistance Protocol
Alcohol and Drugs Policy
AIDS Policy
Bicycle/Wheeled Transportation Policy
Damage to Carnegie Mellon Property
Deadly Weapons
Discriminatory Harassment
Disorderly Conduct
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Policy
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 47Freedom of Expression Policy
Health Insurance Policy
Immunization Policy
Missing Student Protocol
Non-Discrimination Policy
On-Campus Emergencies
Pets
Political Activities
Recycling Policy
Riotous and Disorderly Behavior
Safety Hazards
Scheduling and Use of University Facilities
Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Policy
Smoking Policy
Student Accounts Receivable and Collection Policy and Procedures
Student Activities Fee
Student Enterprises
Workplace Threats and Violence Policy
University policies can also be found in full text at: http://www.cmu.edu/policies/
MLT Graduate Student Handbook Page 48 | mlt-student-handbook-2023-2024.txt |
Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies
Student Handbook
2023-2024
Last revision: Tuesday, August 29, 2023
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 1L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 2Contents
1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 9
1.1 Degrees Offered .................................................................................................................................. 9
1.2 Department Personnel ..................................................................................................................... 10
1.3 University Policies and Expectations .......................................................................................... 10
1.4 The Academic Calendar .................................................................................................................. 11
1.5 Carnegie Mellon University Statement of Assurance ............................................................. 11
1.6 The Carnegie Mellon Code ............................................................................................................. 12
2 The Language Technologies Institute ......................................................................................... 12
2.1 Pittsburgh Campus Location ......................................................................................................... 12
2.2 Office Space ........................................................................................................................................ 13
2.3 Mailboxes and Office Supplies ...................................................................................................... 13
2.4 Photocopies and Printers ................................................................................................................ 13
2.5 Computers for LTI Ph.D. Students ............................................................................................... 13
3 Standard Degree Requirements & Degree Certification ....................................................... 14
3.1 LTI Ph.D. Degree Requirements ................................................................................................... 14
3.1.1 Course Requirements ............................................................................................................. 14
3.1.2 Grade Requirements ............................................................................................................... 15
3.1.3 Proficiency Requirements ...................................................................................................... 15
3.1.4 The Ph.D. Dissertation ............................................................................................................ 16
3.1.5 Research Speaking Requirement ......................................................................................... 17
3.2 Advising .............................................................................................................................................. 17
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 33.3 LTI Orientation ................................................................................................................................. 18
3.4 End of Semester Evaluation............................................................................................................ 18
3.5 Electives Outside of SCS ................................................................................................................. 19
3.6 Completing an M.S. Degree Enroute to a Ph.D. ........................................................................ 19
3.7 Grading and Evaluation ................................................................................................................. 20
3.7.1 University Policy on Grades ................................................................................................. 20
3.7.2 University Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses ......................................................... 20
3.8 Academic Integrity ........................................................................................................................... 21
3.9 Withdrawal of a Degree ................................................................................................................. 22
3.10 Employment Eligibility Verification ........................................................................................... 22
3.11 Additional Guidance for Students ............................................................................................... 22
3.11.1 Program of Study ..................................................................................................................... 23
3.11.2 Financial Aid and Student Account ................................................................................... 23
3.11.3 International Students ........................................................................................................... 23
4 Ph.D. Academic Policies ................................................................................................................. 23
4.1 Duration of Study ............................................................................................................................ 23
4.1.1 Department Policy on Double Counting Courses .......................................................... 24
4.1.2 External Internships .............................................................................................................. 24
4.1.3 Maximum Courseload ........................................................................................................... 25
4.1.4 Pass/Fail Grades ...................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.5 Transfer Credit ........................................................................................................................ 25
4.1.6 Residency Requirements ...................................................................................................... 25
4.1.7 Transferring Into the Ph.D. Program .................................................................................. 26
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 44.1.8 Transferring Out of the Ph.D. Program ............................................................................. 26
4.2 LTI Academic Policies .................................................................................................................... 26
4.2.1 “Grandfather” Policy .............................................................................................................. 26
4.2.2 Definition of Transfer Credit vs. Course Exemption ...................................................... 26
4.2.3 External Employment/Consulting...................................................................................... 26
4.2.4 Leave of Absence ..................................................................................................................... 27
4.2.5 Satisfactory Progress .............................................................................................................. 27
4.2.6 Time Away from Academic Responsibilities ................................................................... 27
4.3 CMU Academic Policies ................................................................................................................ 27
4.3.1 Drop/Add/Withdraw Procedures ....................................................................................... 27
4.3.2 Doctoral Student Status ........................................................................................................ 28
4.3.3 ABD versus ABD in Absentia (ABS) ................................................................................... 28
4.3.4 Statute of Limitations: Time to Degree.............................................................................. 28
4.3.5 University Financial Aid ....................................................................................................... 29
4.3.6 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities ..................................................................... 29
4.3.7 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures ............................ 29
4.3.8 Sexual Misconduct Policy..................................................................................................... 29
4.3.9 Gestational and Parental Accommodations ..................................................................... 30
4.3.10 Accommodations for Gestational Parents ........................................................................ 30
4.3.11 Parental Accommodation for Doctoral Students ............................................................. 31
4.3.12 Financial Assistance for Student Parents .......................................................................... 31
4.3.13 Consensual Intimate Relationship Policy Regarding Undergraduate Students .... 32
5 Financial Support ............................................................................................................................. 32
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 55.1 Graduate Student Funding ........................................................................................................... 32
5.2 Conference Travel Funding ........................................................................................................... 32
5.3 Research Funding ............................................................................................................................ 33
5.4 Office of the Dean of Students Emergency Support Funding ............................................... 33
5.5 Health Insurance .............................................................................................................................. 33
6 Additional University Resources ................................................................................................. 33
6.1 The HUB Student Services Center .............................................................................................. 33
6.2 Student Information Online (SIO) .............................................................................................. 34
6.3 ID Cards ............................................................................................................................................. 34
6.4 Transcripts ........................................................................................................................................ 35
6.5 Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-registration ...................... 35
6.6 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA ............................................................................................ 35
6.7 Professional Development ............................................................................................................. 36
6.8 University Libraries ........................................................................................................................ 36
6.9 Computing Services ........................................................................................................................ 37
6.10 Family and Dependents Resources ............................................................................................. 37
6.11 Domestic Partner Registration ..................................................................................................... 37
6.12 Housing .............................................................................................................................................. 37
6.13 Dining ................................................................................................................................................. 38
6.14 Parking and Transportation .......................................................................................................... 38
6.15 Copying, Printing, and Mailing Services ................................................................................... 38
6.16 University Center ............................................................................................................................ 38
6.17 Athletic/Fitness Facilities .............................................................................................................. 39
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 66.18 CMU Alert ......................................................................................................................................... 39
Appendix A ................................................................................................................................................ 40
A.1 Key Resources for Graduate Student Support .......................................................................... 41
A.1.1 Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs ..................................................................... 41
A.1.2 Office of the Dean of Students .............................................................................................. 41
A.1.3 The Division of Student Affairs ........................................................................................... 42
A.1.4 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion ........................................................................ 42
A.1.5 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities ..................................................................... 43
A.1.6 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation ........................... 43
A.1.7 Graduate Student Assembly ................................................................................................ 44
A.1.8 Office of International Education (OIE) ........................................................................... 44
A.1.9 Veterans and Military Community .................................................................................... 44
A.1.10 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline .......................................................................................... 45
A.1.11 Policy Against Retaliation .................................................................................................... 45
A.2 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support ....................................................................... 45
A.2.1 Computing and Information Resources ............................................................................ 45
A.2.2 Student Academic Success Center ..................................................................................... 46
A.2.3 University Libraries ................................................................................................................ 46
A.2.4 Research at CMU .................................................................................................................... 47
A.2.5 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance ..................................................................... 47
A.3 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety ............................................................................... 47
A.3.1 Counseling & Psychological Services ................................................................................ 47
A.3.2 Health Services ........................................................................................................................ 47
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 7A.3.3 Campus Wellness ................................................................................................................... 48
A.3.4 Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI) ................................................................ 48
A.3.5 University Police ..................................................................................................................... 48
A.3.6 Shuttle and Escort Services .................................................................................................. 49
A.4 The WORD ....................................................................................................................................... 49
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 8
1 Introduction
Welcome to the Language Technologies Institute, a graduate department in the School of
Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University. You have joined a Ph.D. program that focuses
on excellence, creativity, and training the next generation of research leaders. While the next few
years will be a time of hard work and intense concentration, we hope that your time at the LTI
will also be rewarding professionally and personally.
Obtaining a Ph.D. is a long and often intense journey. A healthy work-life balance helps to keep it
in perspective. Carnegie Mellon is located in Pittsburgh, a city with a rich industrial and labor
heritage. In the past, it was the heart of the U.S. steel industry, a source for quality packaged foods,
an important financial hub, and an early pioneer in railroads, radio, and nuclear power. This is a
city where people worked hard and made things that changed the world. Today, Pittsburgh has
reinvented itself as a leader in Computer Science and medicine, but it is still a place where people
work hard and make things that change the world. It is also an informal city, where people don’t
take themselves too seriously and remember to have fun. It is home to excellent museums,
competitive professional sports teams, inexpensive magic shows, and free music during the
summer, with skiing and magnificent state parks nearby. Your stay here will be more rewarding
if you make time for exploring the many activities that Pittsburgh and Southwest Pennsylvania
have to offer.
There are significant differences between CMU's different departments and degree programs in
philosophical approach, procedures, policies, and regulations. Each department issues a
handbook that informs graduate students of their program requirements and procedures and
ensures that students have written access to standard information. This handbook describes the
policies, procedures, and requirements for the Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies.
All policies not explicitly described in this document conform to School of Computer Science
(SCS) policies and university policies. For information about Carnegie Mellon requirements and
policies, please see the university’s handbook The Word, the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral
Affairs web page, the Office of the Dean of Students web page, and other resources contained in
Appendix A of this handbook.
Welcome! We hope that your time here is a life-changing experience.
1.1 Degrees Offered
The Language Technologies Institute offers two Ph.D. programs and four Master degrees.
• Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies (LTI Ph.D.)
• Dual-Degree Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies (CMU-PT Ph.D.)
• Masters in Language Technologies (MLT)
• Master of Science in Intelligent Information Systems (MIIS)
• Master of Computational Data Science (MCDS)
• Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation (MSAII)
This handbook applies to the LTI Ph.D.
The Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies (LTI Ph.D.) is focused on understanding
and extending the state of the art in computational linguistics, natural language processing,
dialogue systems, information retrieval, machine translation, speech processing, video
understanding, multimodal systems, automated reasoning, and other topics related to analysis
and understanding of unstructured information (e.g., machine learning, and software engineering
of intelligent systems).
1.2 Department Personnel
The people responsible for administering the LTI Ph.D. degree are:
Jamie Callan Stacey Young
Ph.D. Program Director Ph.D. Academic Program Manager
Professor LTI Graduate Program Manager
GHC 5419 GHC 6415
callan@cs.cmu.edu staceyy@cs.cmu.edu
412-268-4525 412-268-2623
Mona Diab
LTI Director
Professor
GHC 5723
mdiab@andrew.cmu.edu
412-268-3669
Joan Axelson Julie Nys
Office Manager Employment Processes Manger
GHC 5405 GHC 5405
jaxelson@andrew.cmu.edu jnys@andrew.cmu.edu
412-268-7517 412-268-3515
1.3 University Policies and Expectations
It is the responsibility of each member of the Carnegie Mellon community to be familiar with
university policies and guidelines. In addition to this departmental graduate student handbook,
the following resources are available to assist you in understanding community expectations.
• The Word/Student Handbook:
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword//index.html
• Academic Integrity Policy:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and- student-life/academic-
integrity.html
University Policies Website:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/
• Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs:
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/policies/index.html
Due to the changing nature of conditions and expectations surrounding public health and safety
requirements please visit https://www.cmu.edu/coronavirus/ for the most up to date information.
Please see Appendix A for additional information about The Word and University
resources.
1.4 The Academic Calendar
The Academic calendar can be found at https://www.cmu.edu/hub/calendar/index.html and
provides information on all deadlines, including registration dates, class start dates, add/drop
deadlines, exam dates, and more.
Some doctoral course-sections follow a separate Academic Calendar.
1.5 Carnegie Mellon University Statement of Assurance
Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate in admission, employment, or administration
of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap or disability,
age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, ancestry, belief, veteran status, or genetic
information. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate and is required not
to discriminate in violation of federal, state, or local laws or executive orders.
Inquiries concerning the application of a compliance with this statement should be directed to
the university ombudsperson, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA
15213 (412-268-1018). Obtain general information about Carnegie Mellon University by calling
412-268-2000.
Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security and fire safety report describing
the university’s security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault, and fire safety policies, and containing
statistics about the number and type of crimes committed on campus, and the number and cause
of fires in campus residence facilities during the preceding three years. You can obtain a copy by
contacting the Carnegie Mellon Police Department at 412-268-2323. The annual security and fire
safety report also is available online at www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports .
Information regarding the applicable grievance procedures for alleged violations
of the Statement of Assurance is available at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/forms-and-documents/soa-violations.pdf.
The Office for Institutional Equity and Title IX may be reached at 412-268-7125
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 11or institutionalequity@cmu.edu.
1.6 The Carnegie Mellon Code
Students at Carnegie Mellon, because they are members of an academic community dedicated to
the achievement of excellence, are expected to meet the highest standards of personal, ethical, and
moral conduct possible.
These standards require personal integrity, a commitment to honesty without compromise, as
well as truth without equivocation and a willingness to place the good of the community above
the good of the self. Obligations once undertaken must be met, commitments kept.
As members of the Carnegie Mellon community, individuals are expected to uphold the standards
of the community in addition to holding others accountable for said standards. It is rare that the
life of a student in an academic community can be so private that it will not affect the community
as a whole or that the above standards do not apply.
The discovery, advancement and communication of knowledge are not possible without a
commitment to these standards. Creativity cannot exist without acknowledgment of the
creativity of others. New knowledge cannot be developed without credit for prior knowledge.
Without the ability to trust that these principles will be observed, an academic community
cannot exist.
The commitment of its faculty, staff and students to these standards contributes to the high
respect in which the Carnegie Mellon degree is held. Students must not destroy that respect by
their failure to meet these standards. Students who cannot meet them should voluntarily
withdraw from the university.
The Carnegie Mellon Code can also be found here: https://www.cmu.edu/student-
affairs/theword/.
2 The Language Technologies Institute
2.1 Pittsburgh Campus Location
The Language Technologies Institute is located primarily on the 5th and 6th floors of the Gates
Hillman Complex (GHC) on Carnegie Mellon’s Pittsburgh campus. The address and contact
information of the LTI are shown below.
Language Technologies Institute
Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Avenue
Gates Hillman Complex
Pittsburgh, PA 15241-3891
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 12412-268-6298 (fax)
http://www.lti.cs.cmu.edu/
Office locations for faculty, staff, and Ph.D. students can be found on the LTI website.
2.2 Office Space
Most Ph.D. students in residence on the Pittsburgh campus are given an office in which to study
and do research. Typically, offices are shared with other Ph.D. students, but they may also be
shared with staff, visitors, or other members of the LTI.
Offices are assigned by the LTI’s Office Manager (see Section 1.2, Department Personnel, for
contact information).
2.3 Mailboxes and Office Supplies
Mailboxes and office supplies are in GHC 5404.
2.4 Photocopies and Printers
Printers and photocopies are available to LTI students. The use of a photocopier or printer
requires you to log in with your CMU ID card. LTI students may use printers/photocopiers
scattered throughout the School of Computer Science buildings, but the machines in GHC 5404
and GHC 6604 are the most convenient. The SCS Computing Facilities publishes a list of printers
online at https://computing.cs.cmu.edu/desktop/printer-list.
2.5 Computers for LTI Ph.D. Students
Ph.D. students are responsible for having their own laptop computers to support their education
and research. Students are free to choose their own operating system (e.g., Linux, MacOs,
Windows).
Many Ph.D. advisors also provide access to computer clusters, cloud computing, or other
resources to support computationally-intense research.
Ph.D. students are given access to the LTI’s computer cluster on an as-needed basis, to be used for
course assignments, directed study projects, and/or capstone projects. The LTI cluster provides
storage and computation for projects involving large datasets and/or lengthy computation.
Ph.D. students receive two types of user ids: An Andrew id and a CS id. All CMU students have
an Andrew id. Computer Science students also have a CS id that provides access to SCS-specific
resources (e.g., computer clusters). CS ids are being phased out very slowly, so it is likely that you
will need both types of user id.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 13The School of Computer Science has a Help Center in GHC 4201. It can be contacted at
help@cs.cmu.edu , extension 8-4231 from a campus phone, or 412-268-4231 from an outside line
(M-F, 9am-5pm).
3 Standard Degree Requirements & Degree Certification
3.1 LTI Ph.D. Degree Requirements
To complete the Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies degree, the student must satisfy
the following requirements:
• Pass at least 96 units of graduate level courses, with additional requirements detailed
below;
• Satisfy proficiencies in Writing, Presentation, Programming, and Teaching;
• Propose, write, and defend a Ph.D. dissertation (thesis);
• Attend the LTI Colloquium (11-700) each semester; and
• Satisfy the Research Speaking Requirement.
The sections below provide more detail about each of these requirements.
3.1.1 Course Requirements
To complete the course requirements for the Ph.D. in Language and Information Technologies
degree, the student must pass 96 or more course units of graduate courses, and meet the following
criteria:
• At least 72 units of “LTI” courses and 24 units of “SCS” courses,
• At least one class in each “LTI Focus Area”, and
• At least two labs, in two different research areas.
For definitions of quoted terms, see the section on “Definitions of LTI Terminology”.
Unless approved by the Program Director in advance, the course requirements must be satisfied
by actual classroom courses, not credit given for research or independent study.
An “LTI course” is any 12-unit course with a number of 11-XXX; a 6-unit course with 11-XXX
counts as one-half of an LTI course. Unless otherwise specified, "course" means an actual
classroom course, not credit given for research or independent study. Note that the LTI allows
any one MLD (10-XXX) graduate course to count as an "LTI course".
An “SCS course” is any 12-unit course with a course number indicating a unit of the School of
Computer Science (including LTI); a 6-unit course with such a number counts as one-half of an
SCS course. Unless otherwise specified, "course" means an actual classroom course, not credit
given for research or independent study. Note: Recommended electives that are technically
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 14outside of the SCS now count towards this requirement; for example, Digital Signal Processing in
ECE. Please see the Program Director for approval of electives as “SCS.”
“LTI Focus Areas” are sets of courses defined on the LTI course webpage under “Course
Categories.” If a student believes a new course should be added to a Focus Area, they should make
a request to the Ph.D. Program Director. They will decide, with advice from faculty in the
appropriate area, whether it should be in the Focus Area. If approved, it will be added to the LTI
Focus Area webpage.
A “Task-Orientation Focus Course” is a course belonging to that LTI Focus Area, as listed on
the LTI’s “Course Categories” webpage.
An LTI “lab course” is a course in the list of lab courses defined on the LTI’s “Course Categories”
webpage.
3.1.2 Grade Requirements
Students must demonstrate their mastery of material taught in courses and their success in
applying their skills in directed study by satisfying the following grade requirements.
Minimum grade: Only courses with a grade of B (3.0) or higher are counted as satisfying a degree
requirement.
Pass/fail: Pass/fail grades are not permitted for courses and projects used to satisfy a degree
requirement.
3.1.3 Proficiency Requirements
The LTI Ph.D. does not require any Qualifying Exams. Instead, a LTI Ph.D. student is required to
demonstrate proficiency in the following four areas.
• Writing: This is satisfied by producing a peer-reviewed conference paper, or the
equivalent (a written report that at least two SCS faculty certify as being of conference-
paper quality).
• Presentation: This is satisfied by the oral presentation of a conference paper, or the
equivalent (an oral presentation that at least two SCS faculty certify as being of
conference-talk quality).
• Programming: This is satisfied by demonstrating competence in computer programming
of language technology; this is normally satisfied in the course of the student's research
and/or project work.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 15• Teaching: This is satisfied by two (2) successful Teaching Assistantships (TA-ships), as
determined by the faculty member for whom the student serves as TA. Typically, one of
these will be for an undergraduate class, and one for a graduate-level class. One of the two
TA-ships may be in some form of pre-approved "alternate service", such as an SCS “v-unit.”
The Program Coordinator must be notified in advance of a TA-ship, or it may not be accepted.
Graduate students are required to have a certain level of fluency in English before they can instruct
in Pennsylvania, as required by the English Fluency in Higher Education Act of 1990. Through this
Act, all institutions of higher education in the state are required to evaluate and certify the English
fluency of all instructional personnel, including teaching assistants and interns. The full university
policy can be reviewed at:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/faculty/evaluation-certification-english-fluency-instructors.html
The fluency of all instructional personnel will be rated by Language Support in the Student
Academic Success Center to determine at what level of responsibility the student can TA.
In addition to administering the International Teaching Assistant (ITA) Test (a mandatory
screening test for any non-native speaker of English), Language Support in the Student Academic
Success Center helps teaching assistants who are non-native English speakers develop fluency
and cultural understanding to teach successfully at Carnegie Mellon. Visit the Student Academic
Success Center website for additional information:
https://www.cmu.edu/student-success/
3.1.4 The Ph.D. Dissertation
The Ph.D. dissertation is the defining feature of a Ph.D. degree. The process of completing a Ph.D.
dissertation has three important milestones.
• Thesis Topic: During the Ph.D. student’s third year, the student should be working hard
to find a thesis topic. The thesis topic typically develops from the directed research that
the student has been carrying out with the student’s advisor. The topic is a well-defined
research problem that is interesting and unsolved, and for which the student has a
believable proposed solution. When the dissertation is finished, there will be a “thesis
statement” that describes the claimed solution to the research problem that is the thesis
topic.
• Thesis Proposal: Near the end of the student’s third year, the student will compose a
dissertation proposal. In this document, the student will specify the problem the research
addresses (the thesis topic); the significance of the problem and expected scientific
contributions; other relevant research, including competing approaches; some preliminary
results; the work that still must be completed; evaluation metrics for that work; and a
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 16projected timeline for completion. Before presenting the proposal, the student will also
secure approval for a dissertation committee, which consists of the student’s advisor, at
least two other SCS faculty members working in language technologies, and at least one
external member.
University rules require that the time and place of the proposal presentation be publicly
announced at least one week before the presentation. The student should coordinate this
with the Ph.D. Program Coordinator. The public thesis proposal protects the student by
guaranteeing that the proposed research is interesting to the larger scientific community
and demonstrating that the student will finish the program if the work is completed as
outlined.
• Thesis Defense: The dissertation document itself, normally expected at the end of the fifth
year, will include a detailed description of all the work done, including a clear evaluation
and a discussion of its scientific contributions. There are no fixed style or document length
guidelines or requirements; the only format requirement is that the title page should be
suitable to be issued as an LTI Technical Report. The dissertation defense is a public
presentation and defense of the dissertation results.
Note: University rules again require that the time and place of the dissertation defense be
publicly announced at least one week prior to the defense. This should also be coordinated
with Ph.D. Program Coordinator.
Note: At the time of the public announcement, a draft of the thesis document must be
made available online.
3.1.5 Research Speaking Requirement
To emphasize student research, improve public speaking skills and increase internal awareness
of LTI work, all LTI Ph.D. students must complete an oral presentation at the LTI each year (by
the end of May). The presentation should consist of a 20-minute talk plus time for discussion. It
must be advertised to the LTI mailing lists at least one week before your presentation, and the
public will be invited. (The thesis proposal and defense each count towards this requirement.)
At least two LTI faculty members will attend the presentation, including the research advisor.
After the presentation, these faculty members will convene and provide written feedback to both
the student and the Program Director of graduate programs (the form for this is available on the
LTI website). This feedback will help the student refine speaking skills with respect to talk
structure, content, and delivery.
3.2 Advising
Each student has a faculty advisor charged with guiding the education and monitoring the
progress of the student through the program. The advisor also supervises the student's directed
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 17study projects. This personal student-advisor relationship ensures that every student receives the
necessary faculty mentoring. The advisor also provides the student with career advice.
How and when the advisor is selected (The Matching Process): Advisors are selected during
the first month of the program. Students are expected to attend the LTI's Orientation lectures,
(Section 3.3) in which faculty describe their interests and areas of expertise, and to be proactive
about meeting individually with potential advisors. After meeting with several potential advisors,
each student will be asked to indicate a first, second and third choice for advisor. Meanwhile, the
potential advisors determine how many new students they can take and indicate their
preferences. Finally, the entire LTI faculty meets as a "Matching Committee" to determine the best
set of matches.
Until a student finds a specific advisor, the Program Director of the LTI graduate programs serves
as the advisor.
How to change advisors: The initial advisor selection should be made carefully. However, it is
possible to change advisors. To do so, the student should find another faculty member willing to
serve as an advisor, and then make a request to the Program Director to switch advisors. The LTI
follows the long-standing SCS policy that both the new and old advisors need to agree to the
change; typically, this is not a problem (assuming the new advisor has agreed in advance, as
described here). It is to the student's advantage to avoid switching advisors, especially late in their
graduate studies, because forging a strong student-advisor relationship takes time.
3.3 LTI Orientation
At the beginning of each Fall semester, the LTI provides 2-3 weeks of lectures and talks to help
students learn about the work done by CMU faculty and to provide an opportunity for advisors
to recruit new students. Students are expected to attend them and treat them as seriously as a
standard course, because they provide a good introduction to the broad range of research done at
the LTI. Students do not register for the LTI Orientation, nor do they receive a grade; however,
the department is serious about its expectation that new students will attend these talks.
For many years, these talks were called "the Immigration Course (IC)." The intuition behind this
name is that the talks help orient newly-arrived students – immigrants into the CMU
environment. As a result, some students understood the name to indicate that the talks would be
about US immigration and visa requirements. The older name has been retired; however, people
who have been at CMU a long time may occasionally use the older name.
3.4 End of Semester Evaluation
Near the end of each semester, the student must prepare a statement that describes his or her
achievements in the current semester and plans for the next semester.
At the end of the semester, the faculty evaluates each student's academic progress. The student's
advisor serves as the student's advocate in this process. The result of the evaluation is a letter from
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 18the faculty to the student that indicates whether the student is making satisfactory progress
towards completing the degree.
A good letter typically indicates that the student is making satisfactory progress. If the student is
doing exceptionally good work, a stronger adjective such as excellent might be used, but this is
unusual.
If a student seems to be having trouble, the faculty determines whether it believes that the student
can finish the degree, and if so, what needs to be accomplished to get back on track. This type of
letter should be considered a serious warning. It is not a permanent "black mark" on the student's
record; if the student begins making satisfactory progress again, there is no official record of the
letter in the student's transcript.
In the most serious cases, the faculty gives the student an “N-1” letter that specifies a list of
conditions that the student must satisfy by specific deadlines. Failure to meet all the specified
conditions may result in the student's termination from the program.
3.5 Electives Outside of SCS
Students may take elective courses outside the SCS, at Carnegie Mellon or cross-registered at the
University of Pittsburgh, as long as the student fulfills the requirements of their program as
described above. The student should discuss any such electives in advance with their advisor.
Typical choices might include ECE courses for Speech students, Pitt Linguistics courses, or
Statistics courses.
Students interested in taking recommended electives outside the SCS should pay particular
attention to the following issues.
• Recommended electives outside of the SCS count towards the “SCS” course requirement.
Please see the Program Director for approval of an elective as an “SCS course”.
• Students need advance approval for any courses not covered by their normal tuition (e.g.,
summer courses).
• The grading of outside courses is the responsibility of the department offering the course;
however, the LTI's Minimum Course Grade Policy described above still applies (“B” is the
minimum for Ph.D.).
3.6 Completing an M.S. Degree Enroute to a Ph.D.
Courses that satisfy LTI Ph.D. degree requirements may also be used to satisfy requirements for
one M.S. degree. The most common choice is the LTI’s Master of Language Technologies (MLT)
degree because its requirements are similar (but not identical) to the Ph.D. requirements. Other
M.S. degrees within the LTI and outside of the LTI are also possible.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 19Students interested in an M.S. degree other than the MLT degree should discuss their plans with
their Ph.D. advisor due to the additional courses and project work that may be involved.
3.7 Grading and Evaluation
3.7.1 University Policy on Grades
Carnegie Mellon’s Grading policy offers details concerning university grading principles for
students taking courses and covers the specifics of assigning and changing grades, grading
options, drop/withdrawals, and course repeats. It also defines the undergraduate and graduate
grading standards.
Process for Appealing Final Grades
Final grades will be changed only in exceptional circumstances and only with the approval of the
instructor and the department, unit, or program.
Grading is a matter of sound discretion of the instructor and final grades are rarely changed
without the consent of the instructor who assigned the grade. The following circumstances are
the unusual exceptions that may warrant a grade appeal: (a) the final grade assigned for a course
is based on manifest error (e.g., a clear error such as arithmetic error in computing a grade or
failure to grade one of the answers on an exam), or (b) the faculty or staff member who assigned
the grade did so in violation of a university policy.
See the university’s Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures web page
for more information. https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/academic/appeal-of-
grades-and-academic-actions.html
3.7.2 University Policy on Grades for Transfer Courses
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/transfer-credit-
evaluation-and-assignment.html
Carnegie Mellon University offers students the opportunity to take courses for credit through a
cross-registration program (see Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-
registration below) and through the receipt of transfer credit from other accredited institutions.
The Carnegie Mellon University transcript will include information on such courses as follows:
Carnegie Mellon courses and courses taken through the university's cross-registration program
will have grades recorded on the transcript and be factored into the QPA. All other courses will
be recorded on this transcript indicating where the course was taken, but without grade. Such
courses will not be taken into account for academic actions, honors or QPA calculations.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 203.8 Academic Integrity
In the midst of self-exploration, the high demands of a challenging academic environment can
create situations where some students have difficulty exercising good judgment. Academic
challenges can provide many opportunities for high standards to evolve if students actively reflect
on these challenges and if the community supports discussions to aid in this process. It is the
responsibility of the entire community to establish and maintain the integrity of our university.
Carnegie Mellon University educates its students to become professionals who will serve society
with integrity. The university also creates and disseminates new knowledge and expressions of
knowledge in ways that benefit society.
Carnegie Mellon strives to serve the changing needs of society through the three primary goals
outlined in its mission statement: To create and disseminate knowledge and art through research
and artistic expression, teaching and learning and transfer to society; to serve students by
teaching them leadership, problem- solving skills, and the values of quality, ethical behavior,
responsibility to society and commitments to work; and to pursue the advantages provided by a
diverse community, open to the exchange of ideas, where discovery and artistic creativity can
flourish.
In any presentation, creative, artistic or research, it is the ethical responsibility of each student to
identify the conceptual sources of the work submitted. Failure to do so is dishonest and is the
basis for a charge of cheating or plagiarism, which is subject to disciplinary action.
Please review the University Policy on Academic Integrity.
The policy includes the University expectations around academic integrity and provides
definitions of cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized assistance.
A review of the University’s Academic Disciplinary Actions procedures is also recommended.
Important note: The LTI implements the above policy’s option of “conven[ing] a disciplinary
hearing according to the procedures of the department/program.” Our procedure is as follows: A
first violation is grounds for dismissal from the graduate program. If we decide not to immediately
dismiss, the first violation will result in the student being on disciplinary probation.
If the student commits a second violation while on probation, the penalty is dismissal from the
graduate program.
These procedures outline the process for investigating, reporting, and adjudicating violations of
the University Policy on Academic Integrity. The procedures also outline the appeal process.
Please see the Appeals of Course Level Action section of The Word and the Office of Community
Standards & Integrity web page for more information.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 213.9 Withdrawal of a Degree
The University reserves the right to withdraw a degree even though it has been granted should
there be discovery that the work upon which it was based or the academic records in support of
it had been falsified. In such a case, withdrawal of the degree will occur promptly upon discovery
of the falsification. See the university’s Withdrawal of a Degree policy for more information.
3.10 Employment Eligibility Verification
If you are receiving a stipend, are a TA, or are planning to have a position with CMU then
Employment Eligibility Verification is required. Form I-9 must be completed within 3 business
days of beginning work for any type of compensation (stipend or employment). Additional details
are highlighted below. To ensure compliance with federal law, Carnegie Mellon University
maintains the Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9) Policy [pdf] covering the university’s
I-9 and E-Verify requirements:
• Every individual receiving a stipend from CMU or employed by CMU must comply with
the I-9 Policy by completing the Form I-9 within three business days following the first
day of stipend start date/employment.
• Individuals who expect to work on a federally funded project are further responsible for
submitting an E-Verify Processing Request Form to the Office of Human Resources if
required.
• For more information, please see CMU’s Guidance for Completing the Form I-9 and E-
Verify Requirements at CMU [pdf], or visit the Human Resources Service website to
learn more about Form I-9 and E-Verify and to schedule an appointment to complete the
Form I-9.
• Students who fail to complete the Form I-9 in a timely manner may have stipend payments
suspended. If employed by the university, an individual who fails to timely complete the
Form I-9 may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of
employment.
For more information:
• See CMU’s Guidance for Completing the Form I-9 and E-Verify Requirements at CMU,
or
• Visit the Human Resources Service website to learn more about Form I-9 and E-Verify
and to schedule an appointment to complete the Form I-9.”
3.11 Additional Guidance for Students
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 223.11.1 Program of Study
Students seeking guidance about their program of study and degree requirements should consult
with their academic advisor and/or appropriate associate dean.
3.11.2 Financial Aid and Student Account
Students are expected to make normal progress toward their degree in order to graduate within
the standard timeframe for their program of study. Under U.S. Federal Title IV regulations,
student eligibility for federal financial aid is contingent upon enrollment in and successful
completion of courses that are counted as credit toward their current degree program. To receive
the maximum amount of federal financial aid for which they may be eligible, students must enroll
each semester in at least 36 units that count toward their current degree level. (See separate
guidance regarding integrated degree completion.)
Students should consult with their designated college liaison in The HUB regarding billing and
financial aid, particularly for early completion, longer-than-standard completion, or integrated
undergraduate and master’s degree programs.
3.11.3 International Students
Immigration status for students in F-1 and J-1 non-immigrant status is tied to making normal
progress toward completing degree requirements. Therefore, F-1 and J-1 students who are
considering completing their degree requirements early, anticipating longer-than-standard
completion, or moving from an undergraduate to a graduate student classification (integrated
undergraduate-graduate study) should consult with their designated advisor in the Office of
International Education (OIE) to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
4 Ph.D. Academic Policies
4.1 Duration of Study
The target duration of the LTI Ph.D. is five years, although six years is also common.
Carnegie Mellon graduate students are expected to complete their degree requirements within
the standard length of time for their program of study as outlined in this Graduate Student
Handbook. Upon completion of the graduate program degree requirements, the degree will be
certified by the student’s academic program in the semester in which the student completes the
requirements.
Early Completion
The Ph.D. is granted when all degree requirements are satisfied. Some students complete the
program in fewer than five years.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 23Extended or Longer-than-Standard Competition
Longer-than-standard degree completion may occur due to academic interruptions in making
progress toward the degree as defined by the academic program, interruptions of full-time study
or progress towards the degree due to serious, documented medical issues, or other unusual or
unforeseen circumstances.
Doctoral students who require an extended period to complete their degree requirements must
consult with their academic program and are subject to the CMU Policy on Doctoral Student
Status (https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/doctoral-student-status.html),
specifically the “Time to Degree.”
4.1.1 Department Policy on Double Counting Courses
An LTI Ph.D. student who uses courses taken as a Master’s degree student (at Carnegie Mellon
or elsewhere) toward their program requirements cannot use those same courses toward any
other Master’s degree offered by the school. The LTI (like other SCS units) allows its Ph.D.
students who have passed the requirements for an LTI Master’s degree to receive the master’s
degree without any additional work. Any other sharing of coursework by an LTI student between
more than one CMU degree (e.g., receiving an MLD Master’s degree that includes courses taken
as an LTI Ph.D. student) must be explicitly approved by the LTI, on a case-by-case basis, in
advance.
4.1.2 External Internships
The LTI provides summer support for its Ph.D. students, so Ph.D. students are expected to do
research at Carnegie Mellon during the summer. However, outside experience can be a valuable
educational experience, Ph.D. students in good standing are allowed to do an external internship.
Some students may benefit from more than one internship, especially if they require access to
proprietary data for their work, thus, with the approval of the student’s advisor, a student can intern up
to four (4) times during their Ph.D. degree. Interning more than four (4) times requires approval
from the Ph.D. Program Director.
Any internship must be planned in consultation with the student’s advisor and the LTI Ph.D.
Coordinator. If an internship is part of a fully-funded external fellowship (e.g., Microsoft Research
Fellowship), the student does not need prior LTI approval, but should still coordinate with their
advisor. International students must consult with Office of International Education (OIE) for
eligibility before seeking an internship or signing an offer contract.
Internships are typically scheduled during the summer. In certain cases, it is possible to schedule
an internship during the fall or spring semester; the details are complex, especially for
international students, so the student should discuss this as early as possible with the Ph.D.
Program Director. International students must coordinate carefully with the LTI in any event, due
to visa restrictions.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 24Note that self-funded Ph.D. students (e.g., those registered for five units while on semester
internship) are not permitted to receive a partial stipend for the semester of their internship, while
full-time LTI-sponsored students are eligible for a partial stipend.
All students are cautioned to be aware of potential intellectual property (IP) problems with
internships, and to review any IP agreements with their advisors before signing them. It is possible
to lose ownership of your ideas.
If the student is to receive academic credit for the internship, it must have deliverables from the
student commensurate with the number of units, they are taking. This can be in the form of
interim and final reports on the experience, presentations in the following semester regarding the
experience, assessments of their experience as it relates to their course of study, etc.
4.1.3 Maximum Courseload
Ph.D. students are permitted to register for a maximum of 54 units of coursework per semester.
4.1.4 Pass/Fail Grades
Pass/fail grades are not permitted for courses used to satisfy a degree requirement.
Graduate students who are required to take additional undergraduate courses to build up the core
foundations of computer science may not elect the pass/fail option for these courses.
4.1.5 Transfer Credit
An equivalent graduate course previously completed at another institution may be permitted to
satisfy one of the Ph.D. course requirements. The decision on whether a course may be transferred
is made by the Ph.D. Program Director.
Typically, the student will provide the Program Director with the syllabus of the external course,
and the Program Director will use that and the student’s transcript to make the decision.
See the section on “Definition of transfer credit versus course exemption.”
A student may not receive transfer credit for more than four courses.
4.1.6 Residency Requirements
The university requires Ph.D.s to spend at least one year of residency at Carnegie Mellon.
The SCS requires that all Ph.D. students must take at Carnegie Mellon a minimum of 48 units of
the total coursework required by their respective programs.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 254.1.7 Transferring Into the Ph.D. Program
The LTI does not allow direct transfers from its master’s programs into its Ph.D. program. The
student must apply for the Ph.D. at the usual time. However, students that are already enrolled in
an LTI degree program are not required to retake GRE and TOEFL exams or to produce new
transcripts from other universities.
4.1.8 Transferring Out of the Ph.D. Program
The Ph.D. program does not prevent students from transferring to another degree program. A
student who is interested in transferring out of the Ph.D. degree program should consult the
handbook and Program Director of the desired degree program to learn whether transfers are
permitted, and if so, how, and when to request such a transfer.
4.2 LTI Academic Policies
4.2.1 “Grandfather” Policy
A student can graduate under the policies in effect at the time that the student entered the
program; or, at the student's choice, the student can graduate under policies that are adopted after
the student entered the program. If it is not realistic to follow a particular policy exactly, the
department may approximate the policy as closely as possible; this situation is rare and typically
arises only when a student is enrolled in the program for an extended period of time.
4.2.2 Definition of Transfer Credit vs. Course Exemption
The LTI may grant transfer credit or issue an exemption for equivalent graduate courses previously
completed at another institution. This decision rests with the director of the particular program.
If a student is exempt from a required course due to prior courses or experience, the student can
replace that course with an open elective. The student does not receive credit for the external
course but can take any course that could normally count toward the degree in its place.
If a student receives credit for prior coursework completed at CMU or elsewhere, the student
receives that many units of credit, and the total amount of required coursework is reduced by that
amount.
4.2.3 External Employment/Consulting
Students funded by LTI research projects are expected to work primarily for those projects. Since
consulting provides useful experience, students are generally permitted to consult at most one
day per seven-day week, with the advisor's consent. International students must also have
approval in advance from the Office of International Education (OIE); otherwise, they may be in
violation of their visa status. See also External Internships.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 264.2.4 Leave of Absence
The LTI discourages Leaves of Absence (LOA), since students usually do not return, despite good
intentions. However, a student in good standing may be granted a LOA of at most 1 year, upon
written request to the Ph.D. Program Director and with consent of the student's advisor. It is the
responsibility of the student on LOA to contact the LTI to initiate a return to the program.
Students taking or returning from a leave of absence must follow the university’s leave of absence
process.
4.2.5 Satisfactory Progress
If a student does not make satisfactory progress each semester toward completing the degree, the
LTI may remove them from the program. See section on “End of Semester Evaluation.”
4.2.6 Time Away from Academic Responsibilities
Ph.D. students that are supported by sponsored research, fellowships, or scholarships are
expected to remain on campus and work fulltime on their education and research throughout the
year, regardless of whether classes are in session or not. 40 hours per week is a common level of
effort.
Ordinarily, students are not expected to work during official university holidays, however
students may need to consult their advisor about expectations and alternate arrangements if there
are challenges with taking time off during a university holiday, for example, if an experiment
requires continuous monitoring. In such situations, the student and their advisor may agree for
the student to take an equal number of days off at another time.
Students with fulltime financial support are entitled to four weeks per year of paid vacation,
which must be scheduled in consultation with their advisor.
4.3 CMU Academic Policies
4.3.1 Drop/Add/Withdraw Procedures
Add, drop, withdrawals, and pass/no pass election procedures and deadlines are described on a
Hub web page. Note that the deadlines for doctoral courses may differ slightly; see the deadlines
for doctoral course sections in the Academic Calendar.
Doctoral students, visiting/non-degree students, and certificate students do not receive vouchers
and do not participate in the voucher process.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 274.3.2 Doctoral Student Status
Carnegie Mellon’s Policy for Doctoral Student Status covers time limits on doctoral degree
student status, a definition of All But Dissertation status, a definition of In Residence (ABD) and In
Absentia (ABS) status for doctoral students and the tuition and fees charged for students In
Residence and students In Absentia.
4.3.3 ABD versus ABD in Absentia (ABS)
Following university policy, an LTI Ph.D. student is considered "All-But-Dissertation" (ABD)
when they have completed all requirements for the LTI's Ph.D. degree except for the thesis defense
(in particular, the student has had a thesis proposal accepted). Note that ABD status is different
from ABD in absentia (ABS) status. A student in ABS status cannot receive any support from the
university (including any research projects within the university), cannot use most university
facilities, and does not pay any tuition until they are ready to defend their thesis. ABS students
must register for five (5) units of dissertation research in the semester they defend; in keeping
with university policy, the LTI (and its projects and faculty) cannot pay for these five units. The
student can (and should) register for these five units only after they defend; just in case the defense
date slips to the next semester.
Students entering ABD or ABS status must complete the All But Dissertations Status Agreement.
4.3.4 Statute of Limitations: Time to Degree
As outlined in the Doctoral Student Status Policy, students will complete all requirements for the
Ph.D. degree within a maximum of ten years from original matriculation as a doctoral student, or
less if required by a more restrictive department or college policy. Once this time-to-degree limit
has lapsed, the person may resume work towards a doctoral degree only if newly admitted to a
currently offered doctoral degree program under criteria determined by that program. Under
extraordinary circumstances, such as leave of absence, military or public service, family or
parental leave, or temporary disability, a school or college may, upon the relevant department's
recommendation and with the written approval of the dean, defer the lapse of All But Dissertation
status for a period commensurate with the duration of that interruption. Students, who are
pursuing the Ph.D. degree as part-time students for all semesters of their program, as approved by
their program, may also appeal to their program or department for extension of the time to degree
limit.
Under extraordinary circumstances, such as leave of absence, military or public service, family or
parental leave, or temporary disability, a school or college may, upon the relevant department’s
recommendation and with the written approval of the dean, defer the lapse of All But Dissertation
status for a period commensurate with the duration of that interruption.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 28Students, who are pursuing the Ph.D. degree as part-time students for all semesters of their
program, as approved by their program, may also appeal to their program or department for
extension of the time to degree limit.
4.3.5 University Financial Aid
Graduate students should consult the graduate student financial aid information found on The
HUB website. Students will find the Graduate Financial Aid Guide, information about funding
options and how to apply for financial aid and other helpful links.
4.3.6 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
The Office of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University has a continued mission to
provide physical, digital, and programmatic access to ensure that students with disabilities have
equal access to their educational experience. We work to ensure that qualified individuals receive
reasonable accommodations as guaranteed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students who would like to receive
accommodations can begin the process through Disability Resources' secure online portal
(https://rainier.accessiblelearning.com/cmu/) or email access@andrew.cmu.edu to begin the
interactive accommodation process. Students with physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional
disabilities are encouraged to self-identify with the Office of Disability Resources and request
needed accommodations. Any questions about the process can be directed to
access@andrew.cmu.edu , or call (412) 268-6121.
4.3.7 Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures
Graduate students will find the Summary of Graduate Student Appeal and Grievance Procedures
on the Graduate Education Resource webpage. This document summarizes processes available to
graduate students who seek review of academic and non-academic issues. Generally, graduate
students are expected to seek informal resolution of all concerns within the applicable
department, unit, or program before invoking formal processes. When an informal resolution
cannot be reached, however, a graduate student who seeks further review of the matter is to
follow the formal procedures outlined here. These appeal and grievance procedures shall apply to
students in all graduate programs of the University. Students should refer to the department
specific information in this handbook for department and college information about the
administration and academic policies of the program.
4.3.8 Sexual Misconduct Policy
The University prohibits sex-based discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating/
domestic violence, and stalking. The University also prohibits retaliation against individuals who
bring forward such concerns or allegations in good faith.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 29The University’s Sexual Misconduct Policy is available at
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/sexual-misconduct/index.html
The University’s Policy Against Retaliation is available at:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/whistleblower.html
If you have been impacted by any of these issues, you are encouraged to make contact with any of
the following resources:
• Office for Institutional Equity and Title IX: 412-268-7125,
institutionalequity@cmu.edu
• On campus resources for institutional equity and Title IX
• University Police: 412-268-2323
Additional resources and information can be found at: https://www.cmu.edu/title-ix/resources-
and-information/index.html
4.3.9 Gestational and Parental Accommodations
Providing holistic student support is a top priority at Carnegie Mellon. The protocols described
at https://www.cmu.edu/graduate/programs-services/maternity-accommodation-protocol.html
are designed to support the parental needs of students and their families.
Students seeking any of the Parental Accommodations described below must register with
the Office of the Dean of Students by contacting the office for an appointment by calling 412-
268-2075.
Students are encouraged to register with the Office of the Dean of Students ninety (90) days in
advance of the anticipated arrival of the child as applicable in the individual circumstance. At the
time of registering, students will have the opportunity to consult about resources, procedures,
funding options and preparation for discussing academic accommodations with the student’s
academic department. Students should also consult with their academic advisors either before or
in conjunction with registering with the Office of the Dean of Students.
4.3.10 Accommodations for Gestational Parents
The birth of a child is a significant life event that may require time away from academic pursuits
for delivery and recovery from delivery of a newly born child. Students whose anticipated delivery
date is during the course of a semester may need to take time away from their academic
responsibilities. Carnegie Mellon students seeking time away are afforded two options as possible
accommodation:
• Short-Term Accommodation for Gestational Parents – A short term absence from
academic responsibilities up to a maximum of six (6) weeks. Short-Term Accommodation
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 30may be extended by two (2) weeks, for a total of eight (8) weeks, where a longer absence
is medically necessary. Prior to the absence students must work with relevant university
faculty and staff to adjust their course work, research, teaching and other academic
responsibilities during the period of absence. This may include extensions of time to
complete assignments, incomplete grades, and/or dropping courses, shifting research
responsibilities and adjusting TA assignments. Students who take a Short-Term
Accommodation will remain enrolled.
• Formal Leave of Absence– A formal leave of absence under the Student Leave Policy.
Generally, the Student Leave Policy permits students to take a leave of absence for a full-
semester, mini-semester, or for the time remaining in the semester during which the leave
is taken. Students who take a Formal Leave of Absence
(https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/student-leave.html) drop all
remaining courses for the semester and are unenrolled for the semester. International
students must consult with the Office of International Education
(https://www.cmu.edu/oie/) before considering this option due to visa implications.
4.3.11 Parental Accommodation for Doctoral Students
The university offers a Parental Accommodation for qualifying doctoral student parents to include
up to four (4) weeks of time away from academic responsibilities with continued stipend support.
This accommodation can be utilized within six months of the birth or placement of a child
through adoption, foster care or legal guardianship. Gestational parents may utilize both the
Short-Term Accommodation for Gestational Parents and the parental accommodation.
Careful planning and consultation is necessary given the unique contexts and requirements of
each student’s situation. Students will remain fully enrolled and will receive assistance in
navigating the necessary planning and consultation processes.
4.3.12 Financial Assistance for Student Parents
Carnegie Mellon also offers the following options for financial assistance to students who become
parents while enrolled:
Interest Free Loan – Any student who becomes a parent is eligible to apply for an interest-
free parental loan (https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/loans/) from the Office of the Dean
of Students.
Doctoral Stipend Continuation (Gestational Parents) – Doctoral students who are the
gestational parent and who receive an academic stipend funded by Carnegie Mellon are eligible
to continue to receive stipend funding for up to six (6) weeks during a Short-Term
Accommodation for Gestational Parents or during a Formal Leave of Absence. Continued
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 31academic stipend funding may be extended by two (2) weeks, for a total of eight (8) weeks, if an
absence longer than six weeks is medically necessary.
Doctoral Stipend Continuation (Non-gestational Parents) – Doctoral students who receive an
academic stipend funded by Carnegie Mellon and are becoming a parent by adoption, birth, or
through guardianship are eligible to continue to receive stipend funding for up to four (4) weeks
during a Short-Term Parental Accommodation.
4.3.13 Consensual Intimate Relationship Policy Regarding Undergraduate
Students
This policy addresses the circumstances in which romantic, sexual or amorous
relationships/interactions with undergraduate students, even if consensual, are inappropriate and
prohibited. The purpose of this policy is to assure healthy professional relationships. This policy
is not intended to discourage consensual intimate relationships unless there is a conflicting
professional relationship in which one party has authority over the other as in the policy.
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/consensual-relationships.html
5 Financial Support
5.1 Graduate Student Funding
For all LTI Ph.D. students, full funding (tuition plus stipend) is guaranteed for the first year. This
support is normally continued for at least 5 years, with possibility of further continuance, subject
to continuing satisfactory progress and availability of funding. The fellowship includes full tuition
and fees, and a monthly Ph.D. stipend that is fixed across SCS. In addition, the LTI pays a
dependency allowance of 10% of the student's monthly stipend to any student with a child, unless
they have a spouse who earns more than $200 per month.
The impact of outside fellowships and scholarships on departmental support-decrease by the
amount, added bonus, etc.
If a Ph.D. student receives an outside graduate fellowship (e.g., NSF, Fulbright), the student is
expected to accept it in place of the LTI’s graduate fellowship. As an extra incentive to do so, the
LTI will supplement the award so that the student will receive full tuition and a combined stipend
10 percent higher than that of the standard LTI graduate fellowship.
Students are required to inform the LTI about any external funding that they receive.
See also the section on “ABD versus ABD in Absentia (ABS)” (Section 4.3.3).
5.2 Conference Travel Funding
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 32Students funded by research projects receive travel funding according to policies set by the
individual projects. Students who have no project funding may be provided with partial funding,
with a larger amount available for travel to present a refereed conference paper. There is an LTI
form that must be filled out in advance.
5.3 Research Funding
GuSH Research Funding is a source of small research grant funds provided by the Graduate
Student Assembly (GSA) and the Provost’s Office and managed by the Office of Graduate and
Postdoc Affairs. See the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs Research Grant Support page
for information about the application process and deadlines.
5.4 Office of the Dean of Students Emergency Support Funding
Graduate students who find themselves in need of immediate funds for emergency situations
should contact the Office of the Dean of Students. All students, regardless of their program, are
eligible for the Emergency Student Loan, which is an interest-free and emergency-based loan
repayable within 30 days. It is available through the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs; students
may apply for the loan by visiting the Office of the Dean of Students, located in Warner Hall 321
during business hours, by email at sa-esl@andrew.cmu.edu or by calling (412) 268-2075 for an
appointment.
5.5 Health Insurance
Carnegie Mellon has a Student Health Insurance policy requiring full-time, degree seeking
students to carry adequate medical insurance. Students must either purchase the plan offered by
the University or an application for a waiver can be made if the student is “enrolled as the
dependent, partner/spouse or principal in an employer or government-sponsored insurance
plan.”(See the Carnegie Mellon University Student Health Insurance Policy (SHIP)).
It is the responsibility of each student to make arrangements with Student Health Services to
either pay for their insurance at the beginning of the semester or elect a payment plan over the
course of the academic year. More information is available at the Student Health Services Web
site.
6 Additional University Resources
6.1 The HUB Student Services Center
thehub@andrew.cmu.edu and http://www.cmu.edu/hub/
The HUB is located in Warner Hall, Lower Level. The HUB staff delivers comprehensive service
and counsel to students and families regarding financial aid, billing and payment, ID cards, and
registration and academic records. The Assistant Directors in The HUB serve as contacts for
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 33specific colleges and assist enrolled students with key aspects of the enrollment process. Student
can find their assigned HUB Assistant Director on their Student Information Online (SIO)
Resource page. Questions that need specialized, in-depth attention can be directed to the
student's assigned Assistant Director. For general questions and information, students may email
The HUB or call 412-268-8186.
6.2 Student Information Online (SIO)
Student Information Online (SIO) is a secure site where students can find important,
personalized information, including E-Bills and student account information, financial aid status
and eligibility, grades and QPA, and course schedules. Students can update their and their spouses
or domestic partner's contact information, sign up for E-Check & E-Refund, authorize their
spouses, domestic partners or other individual to receive a copy of their E-Bill, request
verifications, view their housing and meal plan assignments, and much more. Students can log on
to SIO by going to www.cmu.edu/hub/sio and entering their Andrew User ID and password.
On SIO, students are encouraged to keep their current local address up to date. This supports a
university initiative to have accurate living information for students for official
program/department/college/university notices, the ability to facilitate wellness checks, ensure
international students are in compliance with visa requirements.
It will designate an emergency contact address of a relative or family friend to be contacted in the
case of an emergency. If students do not want their name and address published in the campus
directory, they must notify the HUB in writing.
6.3 ID Cards
Graduate students can obtain their ID card from The HUB once they have been entered into SIO
for the semester. These cards identify their holders as members of the campus community. Student
cards are deactivated upon the cardholder’s separation from the university.
Affiliate ID Cards are available for spouses and partners of graduate students that allow them to
access Carnegie Mellon’s campus. These cards are available through The HUB to spouses and
partners of graduate students who are enrolled for the current academic year in a full-time
graduate degree program. The card is valid for one year. For information about domestic partner
registration, visit the Office of the Dean of Students webpage: https://www.cmu.edu/student-
affairs/dean/domestic-partner/ .
For more information about student and affiliate ID cards (spouse, domestic partners and
dependent children), please visit: http://www.cmu.edu/idplus/idcards/sponsored.html.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 346.4 Transcripts
All units required for the Ph.D. degree, whether earned in residence or transferred from another
institution, must be recorded on the transcript within ten years of the date on which the student
enrolled in the program (CMU policy), or less if required by a more restrictive department, school,
or college policy. This statutory period can be extended by the SCS Associate Dean for Graduate
Education for special circumstances that do not make it possible for the student to complete the
requirements within the statutory period. Any request for a waiver of the statute of limitations
for the Ph.D. degree must be approved by the Department Head and by the SCS Associate Dean
for Graduate Education. The waiver request must explain the exceptional circumstances that
warrant an extension. For cases in which a waiver is granted, the waiver will cover specific
courses and will specify a time period for completion of the program.
See also the ‘Duration of Study’ policy.
Information about and instructions for ordering transcripts are available at:
https://www.cmu.edu/hub/registrar/student-records/transcripts/index.html
Transcript questions may be directed to cmuregistrar@andrew.cmu.edu.
6.5 Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) and Cross-registration
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/cross-college-university-
registration.html
Cross-registration provides an opportunity for enriched educational programs by permitting full-
time graduate students to cross-register for courses (usually no more than one per semester) at a
Pittsburgh Council on Higher Education (PCHE) Institution.
Full-time Carnegie Mellon degree students are eligible and the PCHE course may not count
towards full-time status unless the student is enrolled in an inter-university program. Students
interested in taking advantage of this opportunity should be familiar with the Policy on Grades
for Transfer Courses already outlined previously in this handbook.
6.6 Student Privacy Rights and FERPA
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/student-and-student-life/privacy-rights-students.html
This university policy notifies students of their rights under the federal Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). According to FERPA, students have the right to:
• inspect and review their education records
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 35• request an amendment to their education record if they believe they are inaccurate or
misleading
• request a hearing if their request for an amendment is not resolved to their satisfaction
• consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information from their education records,
except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent
• file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education Family Policy Compliance Office
if they believe their rights under FERPA have been violated
For questions about Student Privacy Rights, FERPA or filing a complaint, contact John
Papinchak, University Registrar, jp7p@andrew.cmu.edu, in Enrollment Services.
6.7 Professional Development
The Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) at Carnegie Mellon is a centralized
career center staffed by a team of seasoned and highly-educated professionals who orchestrate the
career exploration, experiential learning, and career networking needs of students and alumni.
CMU's career and professional development model is grounded in discipline-specific career
development, experiential learning, and employer relations shaped by strong connections with
the university's seven academic colleges. The center's success is founded upon a solid
understanding of career and professional development theory, integration of technology, and an
unwavering commitment to providing personalized attention towards meeting the unique
individual needs of students, alumni, and employers. The CDPC is located on the Lower Level of
the University Center, 412-268-2064.
The Office of the Assistant Vice Provost for Graduate Education (AVPGE) offers a robust
schedule of professional development opportunities. Some are geared towards a specific
population (master’s students, Ph.D. students at the beginning of their program, graduate
students seeking tenure track positions, etc.) and others are open to all graduate students (time
management, balancing, staying healthy). A full schedule of programs can be found at:
http://www.cmu.edu/graduate/.
6.8 University Libraries
http://search.library.cmu.edu
There are three main libraries at Carnegie Mellon: Hunt Library, Mellon Library, and the Sorrells
Library with the combined mission of providing access and help to graduate students in finding
the information needed, teaching graduate students to evaluate available information and use
reliable sources. The libraries’ digital resources and services, including off-campus/ wireless
access to databases and e-journals, offer online access. There are also two neighboring libraries
open to Carnegie Mellon graduate students: Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and University of
Pittsburgh Libraries. Visit the University Libraries website for information about all mentioned
library locations and hours, on-line resources, and FAQ’s.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 366.9 Computing Services
Computing Services is located in Cyert Hall – Room 285. Computing Services develops,
maintains, and supports the computing infrastructure for Carnegie Mellon students, faculty
members and staff members. This includes the campus wired and wireless networks, public
computer labs or “clusters,” cable television and telephone services, computing related
documentation and support through the Help Center. In addition, Computing Services provides
standard classroom technologies for over 100 lecture halls, classrooms, and seminar rooms across
campus. The website contains addition information regarding The Help Center hours, location
and contact information, computing cluster hours and location, the Carnegie Mellon web portal,
computing security and policies and guidelines. Students can email the Help Center at it-
help@cmu.edu or call 412-268-4357 (HELP) with questions and for assistance.
6.10 Family and Dependents Resources
The Graduate Student Assembly website maintains a resource page for spouses, domestic
partners and families of graduate students: https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/Resources-for-
Graduate-Students/index.html , including The Student Parent Association, new mother rooms,
and links to resources around campus and the Pittsburgh area.
Affiliate ID Cards are available for spouses and domestic partners of graduate students that allow
them to access Carnegie Mellon’s campus. These cards are available through The HUB to spouses
and partners of graduate students who are enrolled for the current academic year in a full-time
graduate degree program. The card is valid for one year. For more information about student and
affiliate ID cards, please visit: http://www.cmu.edu/idplus/idcards/sponsored.html.
6.11 Domestic Partner Registration
Carnegie Mellon extends certain benefits to domestic partners of students. Eligible students may
elect benefits for their domestic partners through the registration process orchestrated by the
Office of the Dean of Students, Warner Hall, room 321. Information regarding the benefits avail-
able for domestic partners, eligibility for domestic partner benefits, registration instructions and
forms can be located at: https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/domestic-
partner/index.html.
6.12 Housing
The university does not currently offer housing to graduate students. The Office of Housing and
Dining Services does provide community housing information to assist graduate students who are
seeking housing in the communities surrounding the university, including information on the
legal aspects of renting an apartment, moving checklists and the off-campus housing database.
This information can be located at: https://www.cmu.edu/housing/our-communities/index.html.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 376.13 Dining
www.cmu.edu/dining/
Dining services and operations are offered through the Office of Housing and Dining Services. The
office operates dining locations open in and around campus. These locations offer flexible hours
with options from the early morning through late night. The Dining Service website contains
information about dining locations, hours of operation, graduate student dining plans forms,
nutritional information, and daily specials for dining locations.’
6.14 Parking and Transportation
www.cmu.edu/parking/
Graduate students will find information about parking and availability, parking policies,
transportation options and Port Authority Transit usage with a valid university ID on the Parking
and Transportation Services site. The Parking and Transportation Services office is located in the
East Campus Garage (by Forbes Avenue entrance). There is limited parking on campus and the
varying permit rates can be found on the website. All parking areas of campus are either by permit,
metered or by the hour in the garage. Parking and Transportation Services will ticket any car
parked in a permit area without a permit or at an expired meter. The city monitors the metered
parking along Margaret Morrison, Frew and Tech Streets and will ticket at expired meters as
well.
The university offers shuttle and escort services operates in the evening/overnight and provides
free transportation from campus to within a block of your home in the Oakland, Squirrel Hill, and
Shadyside neighborhoods, as well as to university sites located outside of the main campus. The
Escort Service offers vehicle routes within a radius of campus between 6:30 pm-4:15 am daily. You
must show your CMU ID to board.
Information regarding up-to-date shuttle and escort schedules, pick-up/drop-off locations, routes
and usage policies can be found at: https://www.cmu.edu/parking/transport/escort.html .
6.15 Copying, Printing, and Mailing Services
Tartan Ink offers community members easy access to UPS services, copy centers, printing and
mailing services, and postal services. Tartan Ink is located on the Lower Level of the Cohon
University Center. More information regarding these services, business hours, locations and
contact information can be found on the Office of Tartan Ink website at:
https://www.cmu.edu/tartanink/aboutus/index.html.
6.16 University Center
www.cmu.edu/university-center
The Jared L. Cohon University Center is a centerpiece of the campus that provides a space for
special events, physical fitness, student organizations and various activities, as well as
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 38accommodating retail and dining services. As the campus crossroads, the University Center
functions as a place for students to interact, get involved and enjoy new experiences. Visit the
University Center website for information about campus eateries, ATMs and PNC Bank, fitness
rooms and schedules, retail stores, scheduling University Center space, the public prayer room,
student organizations, and the Wright-Rogal Chapel.
The University Center Information Desk (first floor of the Cohon Center next to Wean Commons
and Kirr Commons) is the location if you want to know about upcoming campus events or have
questions about Carnegie Mellon in general, call the Information Desk at 412-268-2107. The
Information Desk not only provides information about campus events, but also sells postage
stamps, makes copies, sends faxes, distributes campus maps, manages a lost & found, and has
information brochures about Pittsburgh and the campus.
6.17 Athletic/Fitness Facilities
www.cmu.edu/athletics
For the participant or the spectator, Carnegie Mellon offers intercollegiate athletics, intramural
sports, physical education classes and club sports. The Athletics Department also offers aerobics
classes in the University Center as well as occasional workshops and instruction related to fitness
and health. The administrative offices are located in the Cohon University Fitness Center.
The University Center’s recreational facilities include an eight-lane pool, racquetball and squash
courts, aerobics room, fitness center and gym for basketball and volleyball. With renovations to
Skibo Gym and the new Highmark Center for Health, Wellness, and Athletics scheduled for
completion in 2024, the strength and conditioning facility has been temporarily placed on the
lawn next to the outdoor basketball court close to the Donner locker rooms, Gesling Stadium, and
Weigand Gymnasium. All users must present a valid CMU ID to use these facilities.
6.18 CMU Alert
www.cmu.edu/alert
CMU Alert sends voice and/or text messages to registered phones in the event of a campus
emergency that threatens public safety or during tests of the system in the spring and fall
semesters. Students are automatically registered for CMU-Alert using the current contact
information that has been entered into the Student Information Online (SIO):
https://www.cmu.edu/hub/sio/about.html.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 39Appendix A
2023-2024
Highlighted University Resources for Graduate Students
Note: The following pages are meant to broadly include only some of the resources available to
graduate students. It is not an exhaustive appendix of resources, and students are strongly
encouraged to visit the various websites linked below for the most up-to-date information.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 40A.1 Key Resources for Graduate Student Support
A.1.1 Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs
https://www.cmu.edu/graduate graded@cmu.edu
The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs provides university-wide support for all graduate
students and academic programs, with a focus on supporting graduate student success at
Carnegie Mellon. Examples of resources offered through the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral
Affairs include, but are not limited to:
• Website with university resources, contact information for CMU
programs and services, possible financial assistance and potential funding
opportunities, and various procedural and policy information
• Newsletter to all graduate students with information on activities,
resources, and opportunities
• Professional development seminars and workshops, and various
programming and events for the graduate student community
•
The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs also works directly with the colleges and
departments on issues related to graduate students and serve as a resource for developing policy
and procedures. The Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs partners with many other offices
and organizations, such as the Graduate Student Assembly, to support the holistic graduate
student educational experience.
A.1.2 Office of the Dean of Students
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/dean/
The Office of the Dean of Students provides central leadership of the metacurricular experience
at Carnegie Mellon including the coordination of student support. Graduate students will find
the enrollment information for Domestic Partner Registration and Parental Accommodations in
the Office of the Dean of Students or on their website. This Office also manages the Student
Emergency Support Funding process. There are currently three forms of support funding for
enrolled students: emergency student loans, student parental loans, and the Tartan Emergency
Support Fund. Inquiring students will be provided with additional information about the various
types of funding during a consultation meeting with a member of the Dean of Students team.
Tuition costs are not eligible for Student Emergency Support funding.
College Liaisons and the Student Support Resources team serve as additional resources for
graduate students. College Liaisons are senior members of the Division of Student Affairs who
work with departments and colleges addressing student concerns across a wide range of issues.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 41College Liaisons are identified on the Important Contacts list in Student Information Online
(SIO). The Student Support Resources team offers an additional level of support for students who
are navigating a wide range of life events. Student Support Resources staff members work in
partnership with campus and community resources to provide coordination of care and support
appropriate to each student’s situation.
A.1.3 The Division of Student Affairs
The Division of Student Affairs includes (not an exhaustive list):
• Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation
• Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC)
• Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion
• Cohon University Center
• Counseling & Psychological Services (CaPS)
• Dining Services
• Office of Community Standards and Integrity (OCSI)
• Office of Student Leadership, Involvement, and Civic Engagement (SLICE)
• University Health Services (UHS)
• Wellness Initiatives
A.1.4 Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion
https://www.cmu.edu/student-diversity/
Diversity and inclusion have a singular place among the values of Carnegie Mellon University. The
Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion actively cultivates a strong, diverse and inclusive
community capable of living out these values and advancing research, creativity, learning and
development that changes the world.
The Center offers resources to enhance an inclusive and transformative student experience in
dimensions such as access, success, campus climate and intergroup dialogue. Additionally, the
Center supports and connects historically underrepresented students and those who are first in
their family to attend college in a setting where students’ differences and talents are appreciated
and reinforced, both at the graduate and undergraduate level. Initiatives coordinated by the
Center include, but are not limited to:
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 42• First generation/first in family to attend college programs
• LGBTQ+ Initiatives
• Race and ethnically focused programs, including Inter-University Graduate Students of
Color Series (SOC) and PhD SOC Network
• Women’s empowerment programs, including Graduate Women’s
Gatherings (GWGs)
A.1.5 Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
https://www.cmu.edu/disability-resources/
The Office of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University has a continued mission to
provide physical, digital, and programmatic access to ensure that students with disabilities have
equal access to their educational experience. The Office works to ensure that qualified individuals
receive reasonable accommodations as guaranteed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students who would like to receive
accommodations can begin the process through Disability Resources' secure online portal or
email access@andrew.cmu.edu to begin the interactive accommodation Process.
Students with physical, sensory, cognitive, or emotional disabilities are encouraged to self-
identify with the Office of Disability Resources and request needed accommodations. Any
questions about the process can be directed to access@andrew.cmu.edu, or call (412) 268- 6121.
A.1.6 Eberly Center for Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation
https://www.cmu.edu/teaching/
The Eberly Center offers a wide variety of confidential, consultation services and professional
development programs to support graduate students as teaching assistants or instructors of
record during their time at Carnegie Mellon University and as future faculty members at other
institutions. Regardless of one's current or future teaching context and duties, Eberly’s goal is to
disseminate evidence-based teaching strategies in ways that are accessible and actionable.
Programs and services include campus-wide Graduate Student Instructor Orientation events and
our Future Faculty Program, both of which are designed to help participants be effective and
efficient in their teaching roles. The Eberly Center also assists departments in creating and
conducting customized programs to meet the specific needs of their graduate student instructors.
Specific information about Eberly Center support for graduate students is found at:
https://www.cmu.edu/teaching/graduatestudentsupport/
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 43A.1.7 Graduate Student Assembly
https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is the branch of Carnegie Mellon Student Government
that represents and advocates for the diverse interests of all graduate students at CMU. GSA is
composed of representatives from the different graduate programs and departments who want to
improve the graduate student experience at the different levels of the university. GSA is funded
by the Student Activities Fee from all graduate students. GSA passes legislation, allocates student
activities funding, advocates for legislative action locally and in Washington D.C. on behalf of
graduate student issues and needs, and otherwise acts on behalf of all graduate student interests.
GSA’s recent accomplishments are a testament to their making a difference, and steps to
implementing the vision laid out by the strategic plan.
https://www.cmu.edu/stugov/gsa/about-the-gsa/strategic-plan.html
GSA offers an expanding suite of social programming on and off-campus to bring graduate
students from different departments together and build a sense of community. GSA is the host of
the Graduate Student Lounge on the 3rd floor of the Cohon University Center. GSA also maintains
a website of graduate student resources on and off-campus. GSA continues to rely on student
feedback to improve the graduate student experience at CMU. Feel free to contact them at
gsa@cmu.edu to get involved, stop by their office in the Cohon University Center Room 304 or
become a representative for your department.
A.1.8 Office of International Education (OIE)
https://www.cmu.edu/oie/
Carnegie Mellon hosts international graduate and undergraduate students who come from more
than 90 countries. The Office of International Education (OIE) is the liaison to the University for
all non-immigrant students and scholars, as well the repository for study abroad opportunities.
OIE provides many services including: advising on personal, immigration, study abroad, academic,
and social and acculturation issues; presenting programs of interest such as international career
workshops, tax workshops, and cross-cultural and immigration workshops; international
education and statistics on international students in the United States; posting pertinent
information to students through email and the OIE website and conducting orientation and pre-
departure programs.
A.1.9 Veterans and Military Community
https://www.cmu.edu/veterans/
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 44Military veterans are a vital part of the Carnegie Mellon University community. Graduate
students can find information on applying for veteran education benefits, campus services,
veteran’s groups at CMU, and non-educational resources through the Veterans and Military
Community website. There are also links and connections to veteran resource in the Pittsburgh
community. The ROTC and Veteran Affairs Coordinator can be reached at
urovaedbenefits@andrew.cmu.edu or 412-268-8747.
A.1.10 Carnegie Mellon Ethics Hotline
https://www.cmu.edu/hr/resources/ethics-hotline.html
The health, safety and well-being of the university community are top priorities at Carnegie
Mellon University. CMU provides a hotline that all members of the university community should
use to confidentially report suspected unethical activity, violations of university policy, or
violations of law. Students, faculty and staff can anonymously file a report by calling 1-844-587-
0793 or visiting https://cmu.ethicspoint.com/. All submissions are reported to appropriate university
personnel and handled discreetly.
The hotline is NOT an emergency service. For emergencies, call University
Police at 412-268-2323.
A.1.11 Policy Against Retaliation
It is the policy of Carnegie Mellon University to protect from retaliation any individual who
makes a good faith report of a suspected violation of any applicable law or regulation, university
Policy or procedure, any contractual obligation of the university, and any report made pursuant
to the Carnegie Mellon University Code of Business Ethics and Conduct.
Additional details regarding the Policy Against Retaliation are available at:
https://www.cmu.edu/policies/administrative-and-governance/whistleblower.html
A.2 Key Offices for Academic & Research Support
A.2.1 Computing and Information Resources
https://www.cmu.edu/computing/
Computing Services maintains and supports computing resources for the campus community,
including the campus wired and wireless networks, printing, computer labs, file storage, email
and software catalog. As members of this community, we are all responsible for the security of
these shared resources. Be sure to review the Safe Computing
(https://www.cmu.edu/computing/safe/) section and the University Computing Policy
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 45(https://www.cmu.edu/policies/information-technology/computing.html)
Visit the Computing Services website (https://www.cmu.edu/computing/) to learn more. For
assistance the Computing Services Help Center is available at 412-268-4357 (HELP) or
ithelp@cmu.edu.
A.2.2 Student Academic Success Center
https://www.cmu.edu/student-success/
The Student Academic Success Center’s (SASC) work to support success focuses on creating
spaces for students to engage in their coursework and approach to learning through many group
and individual program options. SASC supports student success by providing academic coaching,
subject-specific tutoring, effective communication strategies, accommodations for students with
disabilities, and language support for multilingual learners. SASC engages with faculty and staff
to improve the coordination and professional development for academic advisors. Visit the SASC
website for more information about services offered in areas such as communication and language
support; language and cross-cultural support; and learning support.
A.2.3 University Libraries
https://www.library.cmu.edu/
The University Libraries offers a wide range of information, resources, and services supporting
graduate students in coursework, research, teaching, and publishing. The library licenses and
purchases books, journals, media, and other needed materials in various formats. Library
liaisons, consultants, and information specialists provide in-depth and professional assistance
and advice in all-things information, including:
• Locating and obtaining specific resources
• Providing specialized research support
• Advanced training in the use and management of data
Sign up for workshops and hands-on topic-specific sessions such as data visualization with
Tableau, cleaning data with OpenRefine, and getting started with Zotero. Weekly drop-in hours
for Digital Humanities and for Research Data Research Management are scheduled during the
academic year. Start at the library home page to find the books, journals, and databases you need;
to identify and reach out to the library liaison in your field; to sign up for scheduled workshops;
and to connect with consultants in scholarly publishing, research data management, and digital
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 46humanities.
A.2.4 Research at CMU
https://www.cmu.edu/research/
The primary purpose of research at the university is the advancement of knowledge in all fields in
which the university is active. Research is regarded as one of the university’s major contributions
to society and as an essential element in education, particularly at the graduate level and in faculty
development. Research activities are governed by several university policies. Guidance and more
general information are found by visiting the Research at Carnegie Mellon website.
A.2.5 Office of Research Integrity & Compliance
https://www.cmu.edu/research-compliance/
The Office of Research Integrity & Compliance (ORIC) is designed to support research at
Carnegie Mellon University. The staff work with researchers to ensure research is conducted with
integrity and in accordance with federal and Pennsylvania regulation. ORIC assists researchers
with human subject research, conflicts of interest, responsible conduct of research, export
controls, and institutional animal care & use. ORIC also provides consultation, advice, and review
of allegations of research misconduct.
A.3 Key Offices for Health, Wellness & Safety
A.3.1 Counseling & Psychological Services
https://www.cmu.edu/counseling/
Counseling & Psychological Services (CaPS) affords the opportunity for students to talk privately
about academic and personal concerns in a safe, confidential setting. An initial consultation at
CaPS can help clarify the nature of the concern, provide immediate support, and explore further
options if needed. These may include a referral for counseling within CaPS, to another resource at
Carnegie Mellon, or to another resource within the larger Pittsburgh community. CaPS also
provides workshops and group sessions on mental health related topics specifically for graduate
students on campus. CaPS services are provided at no cost. Appointments can be made in person,
or by telephone at 412-268-2922.
A.3.2 Health Services
https://www.cmu.edu/HealthServices/
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 47University Health Services (UHS) is staffed by physicians, advanced practice clinicians and
registered nurses who provide general medical care, allergy injections, first aid, gynecological care,
and contraception as well as on-site pharmaceuticals. The CMU Student Insurance Plan covers
most visit fees to see the physicians and advanced practice clinicians & nurse visits. Fees for
prescription medications, laboratory tests, diagnostic procedures and referral to the emergency
room or specialists are the student’s responsibility and students should review the UHS website
and their insurance plan for detailed information about the university health insurance
requirement and fees.
UHS also has a registered dietician and health promotion specialists on staff to assist students in
addressing nutrition, drug and alcohol and other healthy lifestyle issues. In addition to providing
direct health care, UHS administers the Student Health Insurance Program. The Student Health
Insurance plan offers a high level of coverage in a wide network of health care providers and
hospitals. Appointments can be made by visiting UHS’s website, walk-in, or by telephone, 412-
268-2157.
A.3.3 Campus Wellness
https://www.cmu.edu/wellness/
At Carnegie Mellon, we believe our individual and collective well-being is rooted in healthy
connections to each other and to campus resources. The university provides a wide variety of
wellness, mindfulness and connectedness initiatives and resources designed to help students
thrive inside and outside the classroom.
A.3.4 Religious and Spiritual Life Initiatives (RSLI)
https://www.cmu.edu/wellbeing/resources/religious-spiritual/index.html
Carnegie Mellon is committed to the holistic growth of our students, including creating
opportunities for spiritual and religious practice and exploration. RSLI has relationships with
local houses of worship from various traditions and many of these groups are members of CMU’s
Council of Religious Advisors. They also offer programs and initiatives that cross traditional
religious boundaries in order to increase knowledge of and appreciation for the full diversity of
the worldview traditions. RSLI staff are available to support students across the spectrum of
religious and spiritual practice and would be more than happy to help you make a connection into
a community of faith during your time at CMU.
A.3.5 University Police
https://www.cmu.edu/police/ x2323
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 48The University Police Department is located at 4551 Filmore Street. The department’s services
include police patrols and call response, criminal investigations, fixed officer and foot officer
patrols, event security, and crime prevention and education programming as well as bicycle and
laptop registration. Visit the department’s website for additional information about the staff,
emergency phone locations, crime prevention, lost and found, fingerprint services, and annual
statistic reports. Carnegie Mellon University publishes an annual campus security and fire safety
report describing the university’s security, alcohol and drug, sexual assault, and fire safety
policies. The report also contains statistics about the number and type of crimes committed on
the campus and the number and cause of fires in campus residence facilities during the preceding
three years. Graduate students can obtain a copy by contacting the University Police Department
at x2323. The annual security and fire safety report is also available online at:
https://www.cmu.edu/police/annualreports/
A.3.6 Shuttle and Escort Services
https://www.cmu.edu/parking/transport/
Parking and Transportation coordinates the Shuttle Service and Escort Service provided for CMU
students, faculty, and community. The Shuttle & Escort website has full information about these
services, stops, routes, tracking and schedules.
A.4 The WORD
https://www.cmu.edu/student-affairs/theword/
The WORD is Carnegie Mellon University’s online student handbook and serves as the
foundation for the department (and sometimes college) handbook. The WORD contains
university-wide academic policy information and resources, community policies and resources,
and describes the university level procedures used to review possible violations of these
standards. It is designed to provide all students with the tools, guidance, and insights to help you
achieve your full potential as a member of the Carnegie Mellon community. Graduate students are
encouraged to bookmark this site and refer to it often. University policies can also be found in full
text at: https://www.cmu.edu/policies/.
L TI Ph.D. Graduate Student Handbook Page 49 | handbook_phd_2023-2024.txt |
handbook_preprocess.py |
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25 Great Things about SCS: 1. Artificial intelligence, 1955-56: Can you write a working computer program without a computer? Herb Simon (H'90), at left, Allen Newell (IA'57), at right, and Cliff Shaw did. The team created the first artificial intelligence program, Logic Theorist, which could solve logic puzzles in the same way that a human might solve them. Newell demonstrated that it worked by writing the instructions on 3-by-5 index cards that were manipulated on the kitchen table by Newell, his wife, and a group of Carnegie Tech grad students.
25 Great Things about SCS: 2. Multi-core processors, 1971: Multi-core processors are common in today's computers, but they were still science fiction in the early 1970s. But when CMU researchers found their existing machines too slow to keep pace with the advance of speech and graphics programs, they knew they had to do something. They solved the problem by ganging together 16 processors to build a pioneering computer called C.mmp—then topped the feat by linking 50 processors into Cm*.
25 Great Things about SCS: 3. Tutoring machines, 1973: Games and drills, such as flash cards, have long been used to help students learn tough subjects. But the cognitive tutoring programs developed at Carnegie Mellon, beginning in the 1970s, did more than simply drill students on math problems. Cognitive tutors were able to adapt, presenting harder or easier problems as students learned or stumbled. Today, cognitive tutors teach subjects such as algebra to hundreds of thousands of students every year.
25 Great Things about SCS: 4. Speech recognition, 1976: If you have an iPhone, ask Siri to look up "Hearsay I,” the first computer system capable of continuous speech recognition. It was developed by future Turing Award winner and future SCS dean Raj Reddy along with his students. Their work on subsequent systems established many of the principles that still underlie speech recognition software.
25 Great Things about SCS: 5. Emoticons, 1982: Sure, it was just a joke, but (for better or worse) it's endured for more than three decades. CMU researcher Scott Fahlman created the emoticon to clear up misunderstandings on computer message boards. We’ve been looking at the world sideways ever since.
25 Great Things about SCS: 6. Andrew project, 1982: It was long the dream of computer scientists to put a workstation in every home and office, but no one had actually tried to accomplish it until researchers from Carnegie Mellon University and IBM launched the Andrew Project. Soon, every student, faculty member and employee had access to email, word processing, file-transfer services and graphics programs, and CMU was the most-wired campus in the world.
25 Great Things about SCS: 7. Autonomous robots, 1983: Thanks to Red Whittaker (E'75,'79), robots moved off of the assembly lines and into places no human ever could go. His Robotic Reconnaissance Vehicle spent four years inspecting and cleaning up the contaminated reactor building at the crippled Three Mile Island nuclear plant.
25 Great Things about SCS: 8. User interfaces, 1983: Why should humans adapt to fit computers? Shouldn’t computers adapt to fit humans? That was the attitude of CMU researchers, who applied design principles to computer science to develop better, easier-to-use interfaces. They called the new field "human-computer interaction."
25 Great Things about SCS: 9. Machine translation, 1984: Every "Star Trek" fan knows about the universal translator. Scientists in the Language Technologies Institute are moving those gadgets from science fiction to real life. Their pioneering systems include handheld, portable speech-to-speech translators, just like those depicted on the USS Enterprise.
25 Great Things about SCS: 10. Mach kernel, 1985: In computer parlance, a "skernel" is the heart of an operating system, passing input and output requests to and from the processor. At the core of all modern Apple devices --- including iPhones, iPads and MacBooks --- is the Mach kernel, developed at CMU under the leadership of then-professor Rick Rashid.
25 Great Things about SCS: 11. Computer chess, 1990: Could a computer play chess at the level of the world’s best players? For many years, it was considered the "holy grail” of artificial intelligence. Hitech, developed by CMU researcher Hans Berliner (CS’74), was the first computer to achieve grandmaster status. CMU alumni played key roles in developing "Deep Blue,” the IBM machine that beat human chess champion Garry Kasparov in 1997.
25 Great Things about SCS: 12. Java, 1991: As a CMU grad student, James Gosling (CS’83) worked on the Andrew project, which stressed interoperability between computers, whether they were Macs, IBMs or Unix machines. Those lessons served Gosling well when he developed Java, the first programming language able to run on almost any platform.
25 Great Things about SCS: 13. Email attachments, 1992: Steve Jobs liked the email system built into CMU’s Andrew so much that he tried to hire Nathaniel Borenstein (CS’81,’85) and the rest of his team to create a similar program for Apple. Borenstein didn’t take the offer, but he did like Jobs’ idea about attaching documents to email. Borenstein went on to develop the MIME standard that’s used by all email programs to send photos and other files over the Internet.
25 Great Things about SCS: 14. Web search engines, 1994: The World Wide Web was still in its toddler stage when CMU researcher Michael "Fuzzy” Mauldin (CS’83,’89) developed one of the first successful search engines, Lycos. It was the most-visited site on the Web by 1999.
25 Great Things about SCS: 15. Model checking, 1994: CMU professor Edmund Clarke had long stressed the importance of verifying computer hardware and software through a formal problem-solving technique called "model checking.” In 1994, his arguments gained new weight with the discovery that Intel’s amazing new Pentium chip made errors on certain math problems. Clarke would go on to receive the Turing Award for his role in the development of model checking.
25 Great Things about SCS: 16. CAPTCHAs, 2000: "Spam” and malicious attacks were a growing problem on the Internet when hackers developed automated "bots” that could sign up for email and other Web services without human intervention. Luis von Ahn (CS’03,’05), Nick Hopper (CS’04), John Langford (CS’02) and CMU professor Manuel Blum invented a "Completely Automated Public Turing Test to tell Computers and Humans Apart,” or CAPTCHA, to help foil the bots. A later variation, reCAPTCHA, is helping digitize old books and newspapers.
25 Great Things about SCS: 17. Robotic video cameras, 2001: When Baltimore Ravens quarterback Trent Dilfer dropped back to pass, TV viewers of Super Bowl XXXV saw something they’d never seen before --- the motion froze and the view suddenly rotated to show Dilfer’s opposite side. CBS called it Eyevision. The synchronized system of robotic cameras and advanced image processing was the brainchild of CMU’s Takeo Kanade, one of many advances he pioneered in computer vision.
25 Great Things about SCS: 18. Self-driving vehicles, 2007: Carnegie Mellon’s early attempts at self-driving vehicles progressed slowly, creeping around Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park in the late 1990s. But they were going full-throttle by the time CMU’s self-driving SUV, named BOSS, won the 2007 DARPA Urban Challenge road race.
25 Great Things about SCS: 19. Thought reading programs, 2007: Your brain reacts in different ways, depending on what words you’re thinking about --- ways that are measurable with magnetic-resonance imaging, or MRI, machines. CMU researchers Tom Mitchell and Marcel Just are decoding those brain scans and are making progress at reading people’s thoughts.
25 Great Things about SCS: 20. Kidney donor matching, 2008: Organ transplants save lives every day, but more people could likely be saved if it was easier to match recipients with donors who are unrelated. An algorithm developed by CMU scientists is close to enabling a nationwide network that would match living kidney donors with potential recipients whom they've never met in real life.
25 Great Things about SCS: 21. RNA sequencing via videogames, 2010: Thanks to crowdsourcing, science isn’t just for scientists any more. People without formal training in molecular biology are producing new insights into genetic encoding through a videogame called EteRNA, developed by researchers at CMU and Stanford, that allows players to fold and shift RNA molecules to solve on-screen puzzles.
25 Great Things about SCS: 22. Language learning software, 2010: Learning a second language has always been challenging, but a CMU spinoff called Duolingo is proving that it doesn’t have to be expensive. Duolingo has developed language tutoring software that enables users to learn Spanish, English, Italian, German, Portuguese or French for free through its website and mobile apps. In the process, Duolingo users are helping to translate the Web.
25 Great Things about SCS: 23. Question-answering computers, 2011: Searching the Web for information is rarely as simple as asking a question in plain English. So-called "question-answering” machines moved from laboratories to TV screens when an IBM computer called "Watson” defeated two human champions on the game show "Jeopardy!” At the heart of Watson was computer architecture developed by CMU’s Eric Nyberg and his students.
25 Great Things about SCS: 24. Encrypting online information, 2012: Credit card numbers and other data used online is safer thanks to an encryption scheme developed by CMU alumna Shafi Goldwasser (S’79). She shared the 2012 Turing Award for her role in developing practical encoding schemes that are difficult to break.
25 Great Things about SCS: 25. Smart, adaptable traffic signals, 2012: Smart traffic lights developed at CMU’s Robotics Institute are saving time and energy, and cutting down on the amount of air pollution created by idling cars. First rolled out in Pittsburgh’s East Liberty neighborhood, the new signals are being studied around the country.
| 25GreatThings.txt |
History of SCS: For an expanded history of the School of Computer Science and its predecessors at CMU, read "Institutional Memories" in the Summer 2014 issue of The Link magazine.
History of SCS: In 2014, the School of Computer Science celebrated its 25th year as a stand-alone college within Carnegie Mellon University. It was arguably the first college devoted solely to computer science in the United States, and a model for others that followed. But CMU's computer science era begins much earlier—in 1956, with the arrival of an IBM 650 computer on the campus of what was then known as Carnegie Institute of Technology. The IBM 650 had magnetic-drum memory and a processing speed of approximately 60 instructions per second. Herb Simon (H'90), associate dean of the Graduate School of Industrial Administration—now known as CMU's Tepper School of Business—established Carnegie Tech's first Computation Center with the help of its first director, Alan Perlis (S'42).
History of SCS: First freshman-level computer science course:In 1956 and 1957, Simon, Allen Newell (IA'57) and Cliff Shaw of RAND designed the Logic Theorist, a computer program that could develop proofs for theorems in much the same way a human would work. They also developed linked-list data structures, the foundation of computer programming. Perlis, Simon and Newell are credited with defining the term "computer science” as "the theory and design of computers,” as well as (in Newell's words) "the study of the phenomena arising from them.” In 1958, Perlis began teaching the first freshman-level computer programming course in the United States at Carnegie Tech.
History of SCS: Computer science Ph.D. program created: In 1961, the Computation Center and its newest computer, a Bendix G-20, were moved to recently completed Scaife Hall. That same year, Carnegie Tech created an interdisciplinary Ph.D. program called Systems and Communications Sciences, combining elements of computer science, mathematics, psychology, business and electrical engineering. The university's first computer science Ph.D.s were graduates of this program.
History of SCS: Computer Science Department established：In 1965, Carnegie Tech established its Computer Science Department, or CSD, with a $5 million grant from the R.K. Mellon Foundation. Perlis was the first department head. There were no undergraduates; only Ph.D. students were admitted, and the department's focus was on research, much of it funded by the federal government through the Defense Department's Advanced Research Projects Agency, or DARPA. In 1967, Carnegie Institute of Technology merged with the nearby Mellon Institute of Industrial Research to form Carnegie-Mellon University. The Department of Computer Science moved into the newly created Mellon Institute of Science, later renamed Mellon College of Science, or MCS. Future SCS dean Raj Reddy joined the CSD in 1969 after three years as an assistant professor at Stanford. He brought with him research in speech, language and computer vision. But in 1970 and 1971, the new Computer Science Department faced its first crisis, as half of its tenured faculty member-including department head Perli-left for other universities. Joe Traub was recruited from Bell Labs to CMU to become the new department head.
History of SCS: Multi-processor machines emerge: CSD emerged from the brief crisis as a highly agile, interdisciplinary entity, with many new faculty members taking joint appointments with other CMU departments. Several large projects emerged in the Computer Science Department, including C.mmp, the first shared-memory multiprocessor computer, with 16 processing units, and Cm*, a 50-processor computer. These computers were the forerunners of today's ubiquitous multi-core desktops and laptops.
History of SCS: Turing Awards and a Nobel Prize: In 1975, Simon and Newell were awarded the A.M. Turing Award for their work in artificial intelligence. (As of 2014, 12 CMU alumni or faculty have been awarded Turings, sometimes considered the Nobel Prize of computing.) Three years later, Simon received the Nobel Prize in Economics for his work on decision-making theory. As the 1970s progressed, Newell became interested in human-computer interaction, and began a long relationship with Xerox's Palo Alto Research Center, or PARC, which released the Xerox Alto in 1973. Considered a forerunner to many of the computing environments that followed, Alto featured a graphical-user interface and was among the first commercially available workstations controlled with a mouse. Inspired by Alto, Reddy launched a drive for development of CMU's own "three-M” machine—a personal workstation with a megabyte of memory, a megapixel display and at least one million instructions per second of processing power.
History of SCS: Launching a Robotics Institute: In 1979, an executive at Pittsburgh's Westinghouse Electric Corp., Tom Murrin, collaborated with Jordan and Reddy to create the Robotics Institute, with Reddy as its first director. By 1982, the Computer Science Department included more than 30 faculty members and 100 graduate students.
History of SCS: The best-wired campus in the world: Working with IBM in the early 1980s, the university and the Computer Science Department established another new research frontier: Development of a high-speed computer network that would reach virtually every room on campus, along with a GUI-based computing environment, and providing networked PCs or workstations for 7,000 students, faculty members and employees. Called the Andrew Project, it turned Carnegie Mellon into the best-connected, most-wired university in the world—a process Newell called "greening up the campus with computer science.” CMU also became home to a new Software Engineering Institute, funded by the Defense Department, to study computer security and develop best practices in the design of operating systems. Between 1982 and 1985, the amount of sponsored research in the Computer Science Department doubled, from $7.2 million to $15.3 millio-more than the other four departments in the Mellon College of Science combined.
History of SCS: A "school of computer science” is proposed: Feeling that CSD's needs were inadequately represented in MCS, CSD head A. Nico Habermann and then-CMU provost Angel Jordan in 1986 wrote a white paper proposing the creation of "a School of Computer Science.” Responding to concerns from the faculty that the change might be taking place too quickly, the university first established a free-floating Department of Computer Science. The experiment, which lasted two years, was an unqualified success. Separately, and also in 1986, the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center was created as a joint effort between CMU, the University of Pittsburgh and Westinghouse Electric Corp.
History of SCS: SCS is officially formed: CMU's Faculty Senate in the fall of 1988 agreed to President Richard Cyert's plan to elevate the Department of Computer Science to college status. In addition to the Computer Science Department, SCS also incorporated the Robotics Institute, the Center for Machine Translation, and researchers from the Information Technology Center, which had developed Andrew. On Dec. 13, 1988, Cyert (H'89) told faculty and staff that Habermann had been appointed CMU's first Dean of Computer Science, effective Dec. 1, and that the School of Computer Science would soon begin operations. SCS made its formal debut on Dec. 22, 1988, with a reception in the Wherrett Room of Skibo Hall, CMU's student union. The official announcement of CMU's new "graduate School of Computer Science” was made Jan. 3, 1989.
History of SCS: Undergraduate degrees begin: For several years, undergraduates interested in computer science pursued an "applied math/CS” bachelor's degree offered by the Mathematics Department. CSD professor Mary Shaw (CS'72) led CMU's first effort to design an undergraduate curriculum solely in computer science. She and her colleagues were guided by the Carnegie Plan—guidelines established in 1938 under Carnegie Tech President Robert Doherty (A'40, E'48, H'50), outlining the principles of a sound professional education. Drawing on Shaw's plan and also on the work of other faculty members, an undergraduate program in computer science was created during the 1989-90 academic year. Seven CS majors were admitted to the program as sophomores. Another 73 undergraduates were admitted in 1990–91. By 1995, there were 401 undergraduates in the School of Computer Science; in fall 2013, more than 600 undergraduates made up about 37 percent of student enrollment at SCS, along with more than 600 master's degree students.
History of SCS: New departments, new areas of study: Along the way, the Center for Machine Translation became the Language Technologies Institute, and other new departments were formed, including the Human-Computer Interaction Institute (1993), the Institute for Software Research (1999), the Machine Learning Department (2006) and the Ray and Stephanie Lane Center for Computational Biology (2009). SCS's seven degree-granting departments draw faculty and students from a wide variety of disciplines, including engineering, mathematics, social sciences, linguistics and design.
History of SCS: Committed to extending our founders' vision: The School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University enters its second quarter century as a world-leading educational and research institution, embracing all facets of computing. Its graduate programs are consisted ranked with the best in the world by a leading U.S. magazine, while its undergraduate programs are also rated the best in the U.S. by corporate recruiters. In 2013, SCS had 284 faculty members and a total student enrollment of nearly 1,700, including undergraduate, master's and Ph.D. students, and conducted $124 million in research. Indeed, by itself, the Robotics Institute is the largest university robotics research group in the world, with more than 500 people and more than 100 ongoing research projects. A half-century ago, Perlis, Simon and Newell outlined a vision for computer science. The School of Computer Science at CMU remains committed to continuing and extending their vision in the context of big data and connected computing in the 21st century. | AHistoryofSCS.txt |
In CMU FactSheet: Carnegie Mellon University has been a birthplace of innovation since its founding in 1900. Today, CMU is a global leader bringing groundbreaking ideas to market and creating successful startup businesses. Our award-winning faculty are renowned for working closely with students to solve major scientific, technological and societal challenges. We put a strong emphasis on creating things — from art to robots. We have become a model for economic development in forming partnerships with companies such as Uber, Google and Disney. Our students are recruited by some of the world’s most innovative companies.
ICMU Motto "My Heart is in the Work." is word from Andrew Carnegie, the Founder of Carnegie Mellon University in Novermber 15, 1900
CMU is founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1900.
CMU has 16779 Students. CMU has 1529 Faculties. CMU has 117257 Alumni (Living).
CMU's Graduate Students has 35% US students and 65% International Students.
CMU's Undergraduate Students has 76% US students and 24% International Students.
CMU's Faculties has 85% US faculties and 15% International faculties.
ICMU's Alumni has 87% US Alumni and 13% International Alumni.
Honors of CMU includes: Rank 1 SCHOOL OF COMPUTER SCIENCE by U.S. News & World Report, 2022. Rank 1 TIME-BASED/NEW MEDIA by U.S. News & World Report, 2019. Rank 1 MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS by U.S. News & World Report, 2022ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE by U.S. News & World Report, 2022.
Honors of CMU includes: Rank 4 COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING by U.S. News & World Report, 2022. Rank 1 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING by U.S. News & World Report, 2022. Rank 19 AMONG U.S.UNIVERSITIES by Times Higher Education World University Rank 28 UNIVERSITY IN THE WORLD Times Higher Education World University Ranking, 2023. 49.8% OF COMPUTER SCIENCE'S FIRSTYEAR STUDENTS WERE WOMEN IN 2019 -Nearly triple the national average
CMU has: 65 MEMBERS OF NAE2, 146 EMMY AWARDS, 20 MEMBERS OF NAS, 36 MEMBERS OF NAM4, 13 TURING AWARDS 20 NOBEL LAUREATES, 13 Academy Awards and 58 Tony Awards
1,000+ companies greenlighted across the U.S. and internationally Cognitive tutors, which improve the math skills of 500,000+ students each year
CMU isThe first U.S. school to award a degree in drama in 1914 James Gosling (SCS 1983) invented the Java computer programming language.
CMU is The first exclusive higher education partner of the Tony Awards, co-creating the first, national recognition program honoring K-12 theatre educators
CMU is The first smile in an email, created in 1982 by professor Scott FahlmanKevlar Fiber, invented by alumna Stephanie Kwolek (MM 1946)
CMU is The Last Lecture, written by alumni Randy Pausch (SCS 1988) and Jeffrey Zaslow (DC 1980)In 1919, CMU’s first Ph.D. was awarded to Mao Yisheng, father of Chinese bridge construction.
Duolingo, invented by professor Luis von Ahn (CS 2003, 2005), had 10 million downloads in 12 months and was named Apple’s 2013 app of the year.
CMU has 2 National Academy of Engineering 3 National Academy of Sciences 4 Won by alumni and current/former faculty National Academy of Medicine
The leading university center for cybersecurity, providing support to more than 110 centers around the world
The world’s first university robotics department, founded in 1979Alumnus Andy Warhol(CFA1949), pop artist pioneer and cultural icon
CMU is One of only 29 universities invited to be a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global University Leaders Forum
CMU Leadership: President of CMU is Farnam Jahanian. Chair of Board of Trustees is David Coulter. James H. Provost of CMU Garrett Jr.
CMU has following school and colleges: College of Engineering, College of Fine Arts, Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy, Mellon College of Science, School of Computer Science, Tepper School of Business
CMU's Economic impact includes: Attracting major companies - including Google, Intel, Uber and to locate operations and create new jobs in Pittsburgh.
CMU's Economic impact includes: To date, the CMU community has launched more than 400 startups and created more than 152 spinoff companies.
CMU's Economic impact includes: Contributing to the cultural and civic life of the city with performances, exhibitions and research collaborations
| CMUFactSheet.txt |
Andrew Carnegie is A self-educated "working boy" who loved books, Andrew Carnegie emigrated from Scotland in 1848 and settled in Pittsburgh, Pa. Attending night school and borrowing books, Carnegie went from factory worker in a textile mill to successful entrepreneur and industrialist. He rose to prominence by founding what became the world's largest steel producing company by the end of the 19th century.
Carnegie Tech(Carnegie Technical School)
Carnegie Technical Schools: At one point the richest man in the world, Andrew Carnegie believed that "to die rich is to die disgraced." Andrew Carnegie turned his attention to writing, social activism and philanthropy, determined to establish educational opportunities for the general public where few existed.In 1900, Andrew Carnegie donated $1 million for the creation of a technical institute for the city of Pittsburgh, envisioning a school where working-class men and women of Pittsburgh could learn practical skills, trades and crafts that would enhance their careers, lives and communities."My heart is in the work," Andrew Carnegie stated, which would become part of the school's official motto.The Carnegie Technical Schools offered two- and three-year certificates in the arts as well as in engineering disciplines and included a college for women, Margaret Morrison Carnegie College.
Carnegie Tech - Early Years: Soon faced with the demand for baccalaureate programs, Carnegie Technical Schools began offering bachelor's degrees through its College of Engineering and College of Fine Arts, becoming the Carnegie Institute of Technology, or "Carnegie Tech."During the first half of the 20th century, with support from Andrew Carnegie and other funders, Carnegie Tech laid the foundation for a school on the cutting edge. Some key developments were:
Carnegie Tech expanded from two buildings into an elegant 20th century campus designed in the beaux arts architectural style, housing a wealth of machine shops, studios and laboratories — the hands-on center of learning that persists today.
Carnegie Tech pioneered conservatory degree programs in music and drama, in addition to visual art and design programs. The first U.S. drama degree was awarded in 1914 at Carnegie Tech.
Carnegie Tech began offering graduate degrees. In 1919, the first doctorate (in civil engineering) was awarded to Mao Yisheng, a student from China.
Carnegie Tech laid the groundwork for a research institution, recruiting leading scientists, offering sponsored fellowships with government and industry leaders and pioneering nontraditional interdisciplinary research, which brought together physicists, chemists and metallurgists, for example. Interdisciplinary research would become the hallmark of Carnegie Mellon research.
Carnegie Tech initiated the 'Carnegie Plan' in 1938, a new curriculum that required science and engineer students to take courses in humanities and social sciences in order to better understand the needs of society.
Andrew Carnegie died in 1919, but his vision for an educated public lived on after him.
Carnegie Tech - Post-war Years: With the end of World War II, the latter half of the 20th century brought unprecedented growth to Carnegie Tech. In 1956, the arrival of the first IBM computer to campus was revolutionary, initiating a university culture where information technology pervaded virtually all areas of study. CMU culture also changed in 1973 when Margaret Morrison closed and women joined their male peers in classrooms and dorms. The times were changing, and Tech positioned itself at the forefront, opening three new schools:
1948: The Graduate School of Industrial Administration, later renamed the David A. Tepper School of Business, focusing on quantitative analysis and pioneering the field of management science.
1968: School of Urban and Public Affairs, later renamed the H. John Heinz III College, providing graduate training for work in the public sector.
1986: School of Computer Science, pioneering computing and artificial intelligence, led by interdisciplinary efforts of Allen Newell and Herbert Simon.
Carnegie Mellon University
In 1967, Carnegie Tech merged with the Mellon Institute, a science research center founded by the Mellon family of Pittsburgh, to become known as Carnegie Mellon University. The merger built upon a long history of support from the Mellons. It allowed Carnegie Mellon to establish the last of its current pillars: the Mellon College of Science and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, now known as Marianna Brown Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
In 2017, Carnegie Mellon celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Carnegie Tech-Mellon Institute merger, revisiting the shared vision of the founders and recognizing the impact it has had, and will continue to have, in the world of higher education, research and discovery.
In its 115 years, Carnegie Mellon has soared to national and international leadership in higher education and research. A birthplace of innovation since its founding, it continues to be known for innovation, for solving real-world problems and for interdisciplinary collaboration.
CMU alumni can be found across the globe — from Tony Award winners to Nobel Prize and Turing Award winners, from CEOs to entrepreneurs, from professors to artists.
In the 2000s, in response to demand for expanded international educational opportunities, Carnegie Mellon began offering degree programs outside of Pittsburgh.
Today CMU's global presence includes campuses in Qatar and Silicon Valley, Calif., more than a dozen degree-granting locations and more than 20 research partnerships such as Los Angeles; New York City; Washington, D.C.; Australia; China; Portugal and Rwanda.
The Future
CMU is positioned like never before to meet the challenges of the 21st century. In the coming years, the university will see the largest expansion to the Pittsburgh campus since 1900.
At the intersection of technology and humanity, CMU research, innovation and creativity will continue to guide our future as a world-class university.
As outlined in the Strategic Plan 2025, the university will focus on advancing the individual student experience, the broader Carnegie Mellon community experience, and the social impact of Carnegie Mellon throughout the world.
| CMUHistory.txt |
Buggy Races Keep Rolling at Carnegie Mellon
In its 99th year, the tradition is a Spring Carnival treat By Heidi Opdyke
Sweepstakes, also known as the Buggy Races, has come a long way at Carnegie Mellon University. The slick, torpedo-like vessels carrying drivers with nerves of steel are a far cry from the two-man teams that once changed places halfway through a race and rode in everything from rain barrels with bicycle wheels to three-wheeled ash cans 99 years ago.
Today, it takes six people to maneuver the .84 -mile course around Schenley Park's Flagstaff Hill. But while five pushers and a driver navigate the course's hills, dozens of people are needed to make a successful race happen. A year of planning goes into just over two minutes of racing.
The Machine
The basics of a buggy are straightforward, but teams are often secretive in how they build the machines, in particular the way they brake, steer and what types of wheels are used.
Each has a body, pushbar for runners to move the machine up the hills, wheels, a safety harness and driving and braking mechanisms. Some also include fairings, a type of housing around the wheels that help reduce drag, make the vehicle quieter and just looks cool.
Fairings have been a key feature for the Fringe team in recent years, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary of Buggy.
"We have a reputation of being the quietest on the course," said Diya Nuxoll, who wrapped up her bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in December and is working on an advanced studies master's degree in design and manufacturing. Nuxoll leads the Fringe team as one of two head mechanics.
An mural celebrating Buggy can be found in CMU's Stever House. The artwork is part of a larger installation showcasing Sweepstakes and its traditions.
Sweepstakes Slang
Buggy: Vehicle being raced and also a nickname for the competition.
Chute: A section of the freeroll portion of the buggy course (near the southwestern end of Frew Street at its intersection with Schenley Drive) where buggies make the sharp righthand turn from Schenley Drive onto Frew Street.
Chute Flagger: Team member who provides a signal for buggy drivers to know when to start the right-hand turn from Schenley Drive onto Frew Street.
Driver: Person who travels with a buggy and controls the vehicles via steering and braking systems.
Pushbar: Structure attached to a buggy that a person pushes to propel that buggy forward.
Pusher: Person who propels a buggy via a pushbar along one of the five hills of the buggy course.
Shell: Entire outer structure or covering of a buggy that determines that buggy's aerodynamic characteristics.
Transition: Procedure whereby one pusher finishes pushing a buggy and the next pusher in sequence starts to push that same buggy.
Members of Fringe, celebrating their 50th year of Buggy racing, allowed a rare visit into its shop for a behind-the-scenes tour.
This year Fringe is planning to roll four different vehicles, built and maintained in the Fringe workshop in the basement of the East Campus Garage, known as the "Froom."
"We're used to saying everything with 'fr' in front of it but when we say something in front of other people, it gets them confused," said Fringe head mechanic Dave Singh, who will graduate in May with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and biomedical engineering.
Fringe vehicles often are named with the letter "B," like Boson, Blueshift, Bissa and Bumper. Other teams, such as Apex, often use names that connotate fire, while the SDC (Student Dormitory Committee) team, uses names such as Vice, Bane, Avarice and Malice.
This year's buggy names will be under wraps until Thursday, when the Buggy Showcase will take place from noon to 2 p.m. in Weigand Gymnasium in the Cohon University Center. It's one of the few times spectators can see buggies up close.
Dave Singh explains how Fringe builds its buggies. Each team keeps its actual processes a secret, but each buggy has certain features such as a body, pushbar, wheels and driving and braking mechanisms. Behind Singh are other buggies built by Fringe.
Behind the Wheel
Drivers, have the closest connection to the vehicles, aside from the mechanics who spent countless hours building and maintaining individual buggies. While races are brief, each driver must log a number of practice runs to qualify to race. Teams practice nights and weekends throughout the fall and spring semesters as weather permits. Buggies are often built around drivers, so the fit can be snug, and drivers are often less than 5 feet, 3 inches in height. Most — but not all — are women.
Tishya Girdhar, a junior in neuroscience, is social chair for Fringe. She came to CMU wanting to drive, but first she had to get over being claustrophobic. She started as a mechanic and got behind the wheel for last year's Sweepstakes.
"Our team's philosophy is to teach everyone how to do everything," Girdhar said. "But I came to CMU wanting to drive. I wanted to drive so badly."
Amy Chen demonstrates how a driver is positioned inside of Boson, a Fringe buggy built in 2016.
Safety is a top priority for teams. All drivers are required to have five pieces of safety gear: mouth guard, goggles, a harness that includes three points of contact to the body of the buggy, gloves and a helmet. And during practice runs and races, flaggers man the course to let drivers know if it's safe to proceed.
The streets of the race course haven't changed, but the condition of the course varies due to potholes, which can make or break a fast run. The last course records were set in 2017, but this year potholes are making for some challenging conditions, said Amy Chen, a senior in psychology who has been driving for four years.
With the vehicles just inches from the ground, "even poorly filled potholes makes it dangerous to drive," she added.
Depending on Friday and Saturday's conditions, most heats may run just two lanes instead of three. But still, despite some of the challenges, Chen said she wouldn't miss it.
"Being a driver is really fun," Chen said. "I love going fast and going around the course."
| Buggy.txt |
Tartan Facts
Who founded Carnegie Mellon University? Carnegie Technical Schools was founded in 1900 by Andrew Carnegie. Twelve years later it became known as the Carnegie Institute of Technology. In 1967, the school merged with Mellon Institute and became what is known today as Carnegie Mellon University.
What is a Tartan? The Carnegie Mellon athletic teams are nicknamed the "Tartans" as a nod to Andrew Carnegie's Scottish heritage. A tartan is often misrepresented as a fierce warrior from either the Asian tundra or Scottish highlands. In actuality, a Tartan is a twilled woolen fabric with a plaid design. It is of Scottish origin and consists of stripes of various colors and widths against a solid ground, denoting a particular family lineage. The school's founder, Andrew Carnegie, was born in Dunfermline, Scotland, in 1835. Carnegie came to the United States in 1848 and founded Carnegie Technical Schools in Pittsburgh in 1900.
The Scottish terrier mascot performer sports Carnegie tartan attire, while the graphic mascot is wearing a plaid scarf around its neck. So what's the difference between tartan and plaid?You'll know it's a tartan if..."It's a check or pattern in a variety of colours in woven fabric in which bands of colour are repeated in equal proportion in warp (running lengthwise) and weft (running across).""Each stripe of the warp crosses every stripe of the weft, so when vertical and horizontal stripes of the same color cross, the result is solid color at the point of intersection.""The arrangement of colored threads is the same in the warp as in the weft."You can find our official tartan on various items in the University Store.
Source: "Tartan: Romancing the Plaid," by Jeffrey Banks and Doria De La Chapelle
Official Mascot? More than a century after Carnegie Mellon University opened its doors, an official mascot finally made its mark. Although students have dressed as a Scottish terrier — typically referred to as Scotty — for 50 years, it wasn't until 2007 that Carnegie Mellon officially welcomed the Scottish terrier as the university's first mascot.In keeping with tradition, students, faculty, staff and alumni voted to name the new official mascot Scotty. But it's not just the costumed mascot that voters named. The live dog is also known as Scotty to the Carnegie Mellon community.
Department Quick Facts
Name of School: Carnegie Mellon University
City/Zip: Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Founded: 1900
Enrollment (undergrad): 6,982- Fall 2021
Enrollment (graduate and doctoral): 7,062 - Fall 2021
Alumni: 102,577
Nickname: Tartans
Mascot: Scottie Dog
School Colors: Cardinal and Gray
Football Stadium and Track and Field: Gesling Stadium
Capacity: 3,500
Surface: FieldTurf
Basketball/Volleyball Gym: Wiegand Gymnasium
Capacity: 500
Soccer Stadium: CMU Soccer Field
Capacity: 250
Surface: FieldTurf
Affiliation: NCAA Division III
Conference: University Athletic Association | Presidents' Athletic Conference (Football Only)
President: Dr. Farnam Jahanian
Alma Mater, Year: University of Texas at Austin
Athletic Director: Dr. Josh Centor
Alma Mater, Year: Brandeis, 2004
Athletic Department Phone: 412-268-8054
Mailing Address: 5000 Forbes Avenue / Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| Tartan Facts.txt |
The Kiltie Band
The Kiltie Band began in 1908 with a group of just seven students dedicated to supporting Carnegie Tech football, and today's Kiltie Band continues a tradition of excellence originated over a century ago. The Band took the field for its first official performance on November 25th, 1922, on what would have been Andrew Carnegie's 87th birthday.
The Kiltie Marching Band consists of musicians and colorguard and plays at all Carnegie Mellon home football games. There is a new show every week with music ranging from traditional marches and oldies to current pop tunes and jazz standards.
After football season, the Kiltie Concert Band plays a holiday concert and two spring concerts, including a performance at Carnegie Mellon's Spring Carnival. Additionally, a part of the band gets together and acts as a pep band for the basketball teams.
The Kiltie Band is a campus organization recognized by Student Senate and administered by the Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation. Membership is open to all members of the campus/community without audition. Participants must do their best to promote the success of the ensemble through attendance, attitude, and dependability.
FAQs
Q: When are rehearsals?
A: Football season: Mondays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. and Game Day 9:30-11:00a.m. Concert Season: Mondays and Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m.Location is the CUC Studio Theater.
Q: When are performances?
A: The Kiltie Band performs at all home football games, a holiday concert, and two spring concerts. Times and dates for all performances are announced at the first practice.
Q: Are there auditions?
A: No, any member of the campus community with music experience is able to join the Kiltie Band!
Q: Do I have to memorize music?
A: No, the music is changed for every show. You should invest in a good and trusty lyre.
Q: When is the first rehearsal?
A: On the first day of class (Monday) at 5:30 p.m. in the CUC Studio Theater. If you have questions, please email the Direcator at jolisar@andrew.cmu.edu.
Q: Can I borrow a school instrument?
A: There are several Kiltie-owned instruments available for your use. Loans begin at 4:30 p.m. before the first rehearsal.
Q: What do they wear under those kilts?
A: Join and you'll find out!
For more information, visit the Kiltie Band website. | kittle.txt |
About Scotty
The Scottish terrier has long been a familiar figure around Carnegie Mellon's campus. For years students have suited up in an unofficial Scottish terrier costume to excite the fans at athletic events. But the relationship between the Scottish terrier breed and Carnegie Mellon far precedes anybody doing somersaults in a dog costume. Andrew Carnegie, founder of the university, kept a Scottish terrier as his pet.
Scotty's road from popular icon to official mascot of the university began in 2006. Carnegie Mellon formed a Mascot Identity Task Force in November 2006, which consisted of students, faculty, staff and alumni. The Task Force was co-chaired by Director of Athletics Susan Bassett and Dean of Student Affairs Jennifer Church.
The mascot selection process included a series of surveys and a university Town Hall meeting. Nearly 78 percent of 2,370 students surveyed in February 2007 voted for the Scottish terrier, and approximately 25 percent of 400 alumni surveyed thought the Scottish terrier was already the mascot.
In the spring, the Task Force partnered with SME Branding-a firm with more than 17 years of experience creating mascots for professional sports teams and universities-to develop the graphics for the mascot. During October, students and alumni reviewed potential mascot images in focus groups.
Carnegie Mellon's official mascot debuted at the Nov. 10, 2007 home football game. The graphic features a profile of a distinguished, bold Scottish terrier sporting a plaid scarf around his neck. The dog is contained in a shield, representing Carnegie Mellon's Scottish heritage.
The Task Force then partnered with a mascot costume company to design our Scottish terrier in the winter of 2007. The official Scotty costume was unveiled at the 2008 Spring Carnival. | Scotty.txt |
Subsets and Splits