This summer, the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) will introduce a new way to recognize and celebrate professional development across the 91ÑÇÉ« graduate community. Beginning in May 2026, digital badges will be launched to acknowledge participation and achievement among graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, administrative staff, and graduate-appointed faculty.
The initiative marks an important step in highlighting the many ways members of the graduate community build skills, expand knowledge, and contribute to academic and professional life at 91ÑÇÉ«. Starting in Summer 2026, badges will be awarded for participation in FGS-led sessions, capturing a wide range of professional development activities.
For graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, these badges will recognize key milestones—from completing the Academic Honesty Module to participating in the Graduate Wellness Certificate and engaging in webinar series such as Scholarly Skills. They will also reflect involvement in workshops focused on scholarship applications, research development, and essential academic skills, helping participants showcase their growth in meaningful and tangible ways.
A design illustrating new digital badge in FGS
As the initiative grows, it will expand in Fall 2026 to include administrative staff across the graduate community. These badges will recognize participation in the annual FGS professional development curriculum, supporting staff in strengthening their knowledge and enhancing their capacity to navigate the complex processes involved in graduate education.
A logo of MyCreds
Graduate-appointed faculty will also play an important role in this initiative. In addition to participating in the broader professional development curriculum, faculty members will be able to earn badges for key skill-building opportunities, including supervision, conflict resolution, and effective mentorship.
Developed in partnership with , this initiative positions FGS among a select group of Canadian institutions offering digital recognition for graduate-level professional development. Owned by the Association of Registrars of the Universities and Colleges of Canada (ARUCC), MyCreds is a national digital credential network that enables the issuing, receiving, and secure exchange of official and professional documents for qualification holders. FGS and MyCreds are excited to launch this innovation and look forward to expanding its impact across the graduate community.