2.7 Student Employment
Related Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board Policy: 4.5 Student Employees
Related Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board Procedure: None
Purpose: To comply with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Policy 4.5 with regards to student employees and wages
rates established for this classification of employee.
Part 1: Definitions
Work study. A type of financial aid which is primarily need-based and for which a student must be employed in a position
identified for this purpose. The financial aid funds for these positions are provided by either or both federal and state financial
aid programs. Work study employment must conform to the applicable federal, state and/or institutional work study program
regulations which address source of funds for the positions, placement on payroll and other terms and conditions of
employment. Payroll for these positions is processed through the college's student payroll system.
Student help. A category of employment at the college for enrolled students. Normandale Community College sets criteria for
employment such as credit load, wages, and maximum hours. The college will also determine whether selection of a student
will be determined on student need. Positions may be funded by any appropriate source of campus funds. Student eligibility is
verified each enrollment term. Payroll for these positions is processed through the college’s Payroll for these positions is processed
through the campus student payroll system.
Graduate assistant. A form of employment at the college for graduate students enrolled at a system university. Usually, a
graduate student assists in instruction, research, or other activities related to their graduate program. Positions may be funded
by any appropriate source of college funds and processed through the college’s student payroll system Classified or Unclassified
student worker. A category of state employment defined by the Department of Employee Relations
for students who are enrolled in colleges or universities, including those that are not part of the Minnesota State Colleges and
Universities. Positions may be funded by any appropriate source of campus funds and are processed through the state SEMA4
payroll system. Eligibility as a student must be verified every six months. Other criteria for employment are outlined in DOER
Administrative Procedures. These positions have their wage rates set by collective bargaining unit agreements and are not
subject to this policy.
Part 2: Wage Rates
Subpart A: Work Study, Student Help and Graduate Assistants. The president of the college is granted authority to
establish wage rates for work-study students, student help and graduate assistants at or above the minimum wage rate
required by law. The president shall consult with the college's student association and may consult with other student
groups as appropriate prior to changing wage rates.
Subpart B: Classified or Unclassified Student Worker. The wages and other terms and conditions of employment are
prescribed within the applicable state collective bargaining agreement.
Part 3: Benefits
The college will comply with all federal and state laws, regulations, and rules, as well as with collective bargaining agreements
and the policies and practices of the Minnesota State system. The college does not currently offer benefits for Student
Employees beyond those mandated.
Policy History:
Date of Adoption: Established prior to 2011
Policy Owner: Vice President of People & Culture
Date and Subject of Revisions: January 2024 – updated links and verbiage in alignment with Board Policy 4.5
Next Review Date: 2029