Student Services
Campus Safety
The peacefulness of the University’s gothic architecture may evoke the feeling of ivory towers, but our urban location requires us to educate students in the practical realities of city life. Entering students receive instruction, as part of Orientation, on negotiating life in the city, using public and University transportation, contacting University Police, and protecting personal possessions. This education is ongoing. The University’s publication Common Sense, which is updated annually, includes information and advice about these topics and other security issues. All entering students also receive a guide to personal emergency planning (PDF). As necessary, the University posts campus-wide safety awareness alerts to notify the community about crimes that might be repeated and to remind students, faculty, and staff to take safety precautions. An urban environment is challenging, but once students learn basic safety precautions and how to manage city life with confidence, Chicago offers a rich set of unique cultural and recreational opportunities.
- What safety services are available to students?
The University has in place a number of programs that promote a secure and supportive community environment. The University of Chicago Police, in coordination with City of Chicago Police, provide a constant presence in Hyde Park, Kenwood, Oakland, and Woodlawn. Emergency telephones in these neighborhoods provide quick access to police assistance. A University official designated as dean-on-call is available twenty-four hours a day to help students in the event of accidents, injuries, crime, or other emergencies. The University Police maintain a late-night, on-call bus service (SafeRide) and umbrella coverage services at all times. Additionally, students are encouraged to enroll in the University’s electronic emergency notification system, cAlert.
- What if a campus emergency occurs?
The University of Chicago has an extensive emergency management plan to respond to and recover from campus-wide emergencies. The University’s Emergency Management website is the primary source for getting up-to-date information in case of a campus emergency. Additionally, students are encouraged to enroll in the University’s electronic emergency notification system, cAlert, which enables University officials to contact the community in case of an emergency.
