First-Year Students

Three Phases of Orientation

At Ohio University, orientation takes place in three phases. The first phase is Pre-BSO online modules that must be completed prior to attending an orientation program. These modules are available in May for students entering in the summer or fall semesters and December for students entering in the spring.

The second phase of the process is attending an orientation program. The third phase is completion of Post-BSO online modules. For students entering in the fall semester, these modules will be available in July. For students entering in spring or summer semesters, the modules will be available 5-7 business days after completion of your orientation programs.

BSO Programs for Students Admitted for Fall Semester

BSO Programs for first-year students starting at Ohio University in the fall semester take place in May, June and July.  First-year programs are 1.5 days with the program beginning in the morning on the first day and ending around noon on the second day. Students are expected to stay on campus for the overnight component of these 1.5-day programs.

For students who are unable to attend the sessions in May, June and July due to extenuating circumstances, such as travelling from out-of-state or studying abroad during all available dates, additional BSO programs are available in August. Students who may need to take advantage of those later sessions should contact us.  

Sign-up and dates

Fees

Family and Guest Orientation

 

Students Admitted for Spring or Summer Semester

BSO Programs for first-year students starting at Ohio University in the spring semester take place in January.  Students admitted for the summer semester attend orientation in May. These orientations are one-day programs. 

Students who are unable to attend the posted dates, should contact us to discuss additional options to meet the orientation requirement. 

Program Goals and Learning Outcomes for Students

The following goals and outcomes have been identified for the entire orientation process, which includes Pre-BSO Modules, a live program (virtual or in-person), and Post-BSO Modules. Our programs ensure all students belong to the OHIO community, succeed as a new student, and own their unique experiences.

  • Belong to the OHIO Community
    • Goal #1: Students will feel connected to the Ohio University community and begin to develop a sense of belonging.
    • This goal is demonstrated through the following learning outcomes and/or experiences:
      • Students will be able to recall one peer in their academic college and one peer outside of their academic college with whom they made an initial connection.
      • Students will express a feeling of belonging to the OHIO community.
      • Students will evaluate their decision to attend OHIO demonstrate confidence in that choice.
      • Students will be able to identify two faculty or staff members who can be part of their network of support.
  • Succeed as a New Student
    • Goal #2: Students will understand expectations inside and outside of the classroom, as well as tools for student success, including systems, policies, and community norms.
    • This goal is demonstrated through the following learning outcomes and/or experiences:
      • Students will explain Ohio University’s values and how they can be a contributing member of our community.
      • Students will be able to locate and explain policies that impact the student experience.
      • Students will demonstrate appropriate use of systems to accomplish specific tasks.
      • Students will understand their first-semester course requirements and the academic expectations of their intended program and/or college.
  • Own Their Unique Experiences
    • Goal #3: Students will take ownership of their college experience and identify their unique needs.
    • This goal is demonstrated through the following learning outcomes and/or experiences:
      • Students will identify resources and support programs that meet their specific needs as an individual.
      • Students will be able to name at least three campus resources or programs and summarize the appropriate situation(s) for which they may be needed.
      • Students will be able to describe their unique lived experiences and how that experience will impact them as a student.
      • Students will compare and contrast involvement and engagement opportunities to determine which ones are best for them.