In consultation with WCU faculty and administration, the Office of International Programs and Services (IPS) determines the visa and employment options for international students, scholars, visitors, and employees, which, in turn, permits the greatest benefit and flexibility to WCU and to the individual. IPS works with federal and state government agencies, international organizations, U.S. and foreign consular posts, and other entities to obtain appropriate visa documentation for admission to the U.S., authorization for employment, and maintenance of legal status for the WCU international population.
In doing so, IPS uses the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) to generate and issue the Visa documents needed to enter and study in the USA.
If you call the main office number, 828.227.7494, you can access the following Staff members during regular office hours, 08:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., on normal business days:
| Name | Title | Phone |
| Dr.Lois Petrovich-Mwaniki | IPS Director / Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) | ext. 3433 |
| Chris Pedo | Int'l Student/Scholar Advisor (DSO) | ext. 2557 |
| Kevin Childers | Student Services Specialist (DSO) | ext. 3455 |
All entering international students must participate in the week-long orientation program conducted by IPS.
FALL 2009 ORIENTATION - August 19-23 (schedule to be announced here before August 1)
Obtaining a NC Driver's License from NCDMV
Obtaining a Social Security Card
Immigration and Employment Forms
Policy # 100
International Travel and International Visitors
Administering Office: Provost's Office
Approved by Executive Council: August 25, 2008
Posted: September 4, 2008
POLICY
Western Carolina University (WCU) is committed to the development of excellent international educational opportunities for its students, and collaborative international instructional/research opportunities for faculty. Additionally, WCU is becoming increasingly involved in regional economic development initiatives that have global impact. It is WCU’s policy to encourage and facilitate these international activities while at the same time ensuring compliance with various federal laws pertaining to export controls, state regulations and university procedures regarding public health/pandemics, and the Institute of International Education “open door” reporting requirements.
See entire Policy