Fall 2006

Online courses for parents

The University of Minnesota has developed two online courses for parents aimed at helping decrease risky behaviors among undergraduate students.

Studies show that while parents cannot monitor their students' actions daily, they do continue to influence the way students conduct themselves during the college years. Students who perceive that their parents know what they are doing are less likely to engage in behaviors they know their parents disapprove of.

One course addresses the risks associated with binge drinking. It provides information, support, and education to help family members talk with their student about alcohol use and abuse. It also provides national and campus-based statistics, tips for talking about alcohol, comments from parents and students, online discussion opportunities, and a list of resources available on campus.

The second course addresses personal finance and the responsible use of credit. Parents often express dismay at the number of credit card offers their students receive, many before their student even graduates from high school. This course offers parents tools and support to assist them in talking to their student about financial responsibility.

Both courses are available to parents of current University of Minnesota students at no charge. Parents can take the courses online at their own convenience. To sign up for either course, send an e-mail to parent@umn.edu. Please indicate the course you are registering for, as well as your student's name and his or her University ID number or birth date. We will not maintain any record of your student's identification, but we need it to confirm U of M enrollment in order to provide you access to the courses. After we confirm your student's enrollment, we will send you instructions on accessing the courses.