Support Services

Kent State has several resources available if you find yourself in need of technology, academic, or personal support. Whether you are struggling in a course, need help writing a paper, or are actively working to achieve your goals, use the resources below to start building your support system: 

Academic Success Center 
The Academic Success Center provides online Tutoring assistance to students. 

Adult and Veteran Services 
Meeting the specific needs of non-traditional students and students serving in the military. Several services are available to online students. 

Canvas 
The Kent State Help Desk is available to support students with Canvas 24/7. Additionally, you can chat with Canvas support by logging in to Canvas > click Help from the left navigation > choose Chat with Canvas Support (Student). 

Career Exploration and Development 
Kent State Exploration and Development offers a variety of career counseling information online. 

CARES Center 
CARES is an acronym that stands for Crisis, Advocacy, Resources, Education, and Support. The CARES Center works collaboratively with students to secure resources that meet their basic needs. The center works to connect all Kent State students with both on and off-campus resources supporting their financial, food, housing, and mental well-being basic needs. 

  • Basic Needs Support 
    Kent State University is committed to supporting the overall well-being of our students. This support may take the form of assisting students with basic needs such as food and housing. We recognize that the absence of secure housing and access to food makes it difficult for students to achieve their best in and out of the classroom. If you, or someone you know, are unable to afford groceries or lack a safe, secure, and reliable place to live, please visit the CARES Center basic needs support site. 
  • Mental Well-Being 
    Mental health challenges may also make it difficult for students to reach their full potential. KSU’s mental health and wellness resource page provides information on education and awareness, mental health services, and advocacy intervention. Please visit Kent State’s mental health resources and support site to learn more.  

Center for Sexual and Relationship Violence Support Services (SRVSS) 
If you have experienced a recent or past sexual assault, relationship abuse, sexual harassment, or stalking, you may be feeling overwhelmed and confused about what to do and where to go for help. SRVSS is available to listen without judgment and to offer information, options, resources, and emotional support. We also assist individuals who may be assisting a friend/loved one through a difficult time. 

FLASHcard 
The FLASHcard is your Kent State University ID that may be needed to confirm your identity when taking online proctored assessments. Check the FLASHcard FAQs for instructions and a distance learning application form. 

Kent State University Libraries 
The following are a few of the services and resources available from the library: 

  • Library Tutorials: New to the library? The Kent State University Library has several tutorials on how to use the tools available and lists many of the services that are offered. 
  • Ask a Librarian: Need help, but can't get to the Library? You can now get expert help from a KSU Librarian via instant text messaging. 
  • Library Services for Distance Learning Students: University Libraries provide a variety of services to off-campus and distance-learning students. These include off-campus delivery (to home or work), ebook access, and access to OhioLINK services. 
  • Library Research: The library offers several services for research including information about the collection, numerous databases to search, e-books, a journal finder, managing your research, and tools to assist with citation. 
  • Course Reserves (Ares): Occasionally your professor may require you to read articles found in the electronic reserves section of the library. You will need a password and a link to a directory set-up for your online course. 
  • Copyright and Fair Use: It is very important when creating papers, projects, and presentations to make sure all sources and materials are used appropriately. Knowledge of copyright laws and fair use doctrine can help avoid unauthorized or inappropriate use of copyrighted materials. 
  • Citation and Writing Resources: Proper citation is critical to scholarly writing and avoiding accusations of plagiarism. There are many resources available on the library website to help online students learn how to properly cite reference sources in their writing. Links to both MLA and APA are listed as well as many others. 

One Stop 
The One Stop has services to help you with questions about registration, financial aid, billing, and transcripts. 

Student Accessibility Services 
Student Accessibility Services (SAS) provides assistance to students with varying degrees and types of disabilities in order to maximize educational opportunity and academic potential. 

Technology  
The Kent State Technology Help Center can help you with problems with the LMS, logging in to your online course, and hardware and software issues. Contact TechHelp by submitting a Support Ticket or getting help via a LiveChat with support staff. You can also call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 330-672-HELP. 

University Bookstore 
Textbooks, computer hardware, and computer software applications can be purchased online through the KSU bookstore. 

Writing Commons 
The Writing Commons provides online tutoring to help students improve their writing skills.