The College of Earth and Mineral Sciences aims to be the most student-centered college in Penn State history, and the Ryan Family Student Center (RFSC) serves as the core of our efforts. The recently renovated RFSC integrates tutoring, advising, student engagement, student work space, and areas for casual interaction into a one-stop shop for student success. A visit to the RFSC shows the vibrant and engaging academic atmosphere we foster for our students—our goal is to create a warm, welcoming, and small-college feel amid the rich activities taking place on the University Park campus.
Watch video to learn more about the Ryan Family Student Center
Faculty and Staff in the Ryan Family Student Center are dedicated to helping students succeed throughout their time at Penn State. The student center includes advisers, tutors, and other specialized faculty and staff members who provide invaluable resources and guidance to students.
Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
This CANVAS webpage will help you navigate the resources that our college has to offer. It is the online hub for information about the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences and contains information about academic advising, academic progress, tutoring, and opportunities outside the classroom. You must be an undergraduate in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences to access this CANVAS site.
If you are an undergraduate student in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences and do not see EMS Undergrad Canvas on your Canvas dashboard, please email studentcenter@ems.psu.edu to request to be added.
The Ryan Family Student Center is located in 14 Dieke Building (on the ground floor).
In addition, the Student Center houses the office of the EMS Student Council and the office of the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education — putting our administrative leaders in close proximity to our student leaders.
The Ryan Family Student Center first opened its doors to students in 2004. It was named in honor of notable alumni John T. Ryan Sr. and Jr. and their families. John T. Ryan Sr., after receiving a bachelor’s degree in mining engineering in 1908 from Penn State, went on to co-found the Mine Safety Appliances Company, which helped improve safety in the mining industry throughout the twentieth century. Both John Ryan Sr. and Jr. served on Penn State's Board of Trustees and were highly influential in the University's development.