Registration FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
M.S.W. Program - Portland

Listed below are some frequently asked questions concerning registering for classes for the M.S.W. program. If you have additional questions please contact Jodene Rudolf, in the Office of Student Affairs at jodene@pdx.edu or 503-725-3949.

Why I am unable to login to use the computer registration system? I receive an error message.

There are a couple of reasons why login may fail. Each student was issued a temporary password upon admission to the University (your birthdate in 6 digit format). If you haven't already done so you will need to create a new password--but be certain to write down your new password as the SSW is not able to retrieve that information for you. If you are unable to recall your password or the password you use does not work you will need to contact the Registrar's Office for assistance at 503-725-3412 and choose option 0.

In some instances, a student's access to the computerized registration system may be blocked due to registration holds. These are executed through the Registrar's Office. If this should happen an error message would say that the student is temporarily unable to access the system. Contact the Registrar's Office at 503-725-3412 (choose option 0) to find the reason for the block and what measures need to be taken to lift the temporary block.

I am trying to register for classes but the computer system tells me there's a 'major restriction' code. Why am I blocked from registering?

Check to make sure you are registering on the correct day. (registration dates/times) Students who are going into their final year of the program are given an advanced standing and register on the first day of registration. Students in the first year of their program register on the second day of registration. If you check registration days and are attempting to register on the correct date but still unable to register contact Jodene Rudolf, in the Office of Student Affairs, at jodene@pdx.edu or 503-725-3949.

I am a commuting student and need all my classes on Wednesdays. However, all the Wednesday classes are closed already! What do I do now?

Although we try our best to facilitate each commuting student's individual request for same day classes we cannot guarantee that space will be available in a desired class. If a student has a particular hardship due to employment, distance of commute, or childcare, for example, an individual request in writing should go to our designated registration e-mail account at mswregis@pdx.edu. The M.S.W. Program Director will consider each request carefully and attempt to negotiate satisfactory resolutions on a case by case basis. Students making special requests should state clearly the reason for the particular scheduling need.

I am a graduating student and need a particular course to graduate. When I try to register for the class it says the class is closed.

All students are guaranteed a space in required classes. However, we cannot guarantee that a student will be able to take the required class on a particular day or time or with a preferred instructor. If a student has a specific scheduling request the request needs to be sent in writing to our designated registration e-mail account at mswregis@pdx.edu.There are no guaranteed spaces in elective courses. However, priority is given to graduating students to ensure they are able to meet the necessary requirements. It is the responsibility of the student to track their progress in the program (see M.S.W. Advisory Checklist). Each student should plan their schedules to maximize their ability to meet the M.S.W. program requirements.

I have questions about which elective meets a particular concentration requirement. Who should I talk to?

You may consult the Projected Electives List to see if the elective you are considering meets a specific requirement. Should you need clarification concerning program requirements please contact your advisor.

I am unable to register for the elective that I'm really interested in. When will it be offered again?

You may consult the Projected Electives List for a forecast of elective courses.

I am trying to register for the Practice class (SW 530, 531, 532 and SW 533, 536, 580 (ADV) and the system won't let me complete my registration--it says 'co-req' error. Why is this?

Students must enroll in Practice (SW 530, 531, 532 or SW 533, 536, 580 (ADV) and Field Instruction (SW 500) at the same time because SW 500 is a 'co-requisite'. The computer system recognizes the concurrent enrollment requirement and prevents the student from registering for one course without the other.

Which section of Field Instruction (SW 500) do I sign up for? There are many sections to choose from. Is it ok just to sign up with the instructor I prefer?

With the exception of fall term (all students enroll in one section for fall term) students must enroll in the section of Field Instruction (SW 500) that is being taught by their assigned advisor. If you do not know who your advisor is you may contact Jessica Slothower, in the Office of Field Instruction, at jaslot@pdx.edu or 503-725-5317.

Do I take the same instructor each term for Practice class SW 530, 531, 532 and SW 533, 536, 580 (ADV) or can I switch to a different instructor next term?

Students may continue with the same instructor for their practice classes. However, spaces are only considered 'reserved' the first week of registration. Students trying to switch instructors must first contact both their current instructor and the intended new instructor for authorization to switch sections. Registration with authorization can then take place one week after the registration window opens if space is available. Any student attempting to switch sections on the first week of registration will be disenrolled from that section and notified accordingly. If you have questions concerning this policy you may contact Jodene Rudolf in the Office of Student Affairs at jodene@pdx.edu or 503-725-3949.

I will be out of town on the assigned registration day. Can you register me for classes?

We are not able to register students for their classes on registration day. As situations warrant, students may ask a fellow student in the program to register them for classes. Keep in mind that spaces in classes are on a first-come first-serve basis. Generally speaking, students are required to be available to register for classes on the assigned registration day. Online registration has effectively facilitated the ability of students to register from remote locations provided they have internet access.