We’ve got a series of webinars planned to help you choose Graduate Studies at 91ŃÇÉ«.

Wherever you are in your graduate school journey, holding an offer, waiting on a decision, or simply exploring your options, the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) invites you to Choose Grad 91ŃÇÉ«, a week-long lunch-hour webinar series designed to support your decision-making process. Running from March 23 to March 27, 2026, this series helps demystify graduate studies at 91ŃÇÉ« and gives you a clearer picture of what it’s like to be part of our graduate community.

Across five online sessions, you’ll hear from decanal leadership, faculty, staff, current students, and alumni about why 91ŃÇÉ« is an excellent place to pursue graduate studies and how a 91ŃÇÉ« degree can help you make an impact beyond the University. All webinars take place online via Zoom from 12:00 to 1:00 P.M. ET. Registration is free and now open.

TOPIC: Navigating A Graduate Degree with Dean MacLachlan

DATE: Monday, March 23, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: In this webinar, our Vice Provost & Dean (Alice MacLachlan) will be speaking on the role of the student in a graduate degree, degree types and structures in the different disciplines, forming your individualised research ideas, and supports for personal and research development.

TOPIC: Learning about Grad School from Our Alumni – Panel Discussion

DATE: Tuesday, March 24, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Entering a master’s program or continuing into a PhD presents many considerations for students to think about. We want to help support future students in their decision-making process! Associate Dean Academic, Cheryl van Daalen-Smith, will be speaking with both master’s and doctoral alumni to learn about their graduate student experience, and how their degrees have supported their future aspirations. The panelists will bring rich perspectives to future students grappled with various questions and share resources available to graduate students in the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

TOPIC: How to Pay for Grad School: Funding, Scholarships, Bursaries, OSAP, and more

DATE: Wednesday, March 25, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Join us to learn more about the many kinds of financial support available to graduate students to help fund their studies. This session will cover the separate categories of financial support, including funding packages, scholarships, other awards, bursaries, and OSAP. Learn more about which supports require an application, which supports you are automatically considered for, and the various timelines associated with each.

TOPIC: Discussion Panel with Current Scholars

DATE: Thursday, March 26, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Join us to learn more about the graduate student experience at 91ŃÇÉ«. Our student panellists will discuss a range of topics, including their application experience, the transition from undergraduate to graduate studies, funding, scholarships, program experiences, research & supervision experience, and much more.

TOPIC: Coming to Canada - The International Student Experience

DATE: Friday, March 27, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Coming to Canada: The International Student Experience is an engaging session designed to help prospective and newly admitted students understand what life in Canada truly looks like, from navigating academics and campus culture to settling into a new country with confidence. Through real stories, practical guidance, and honest insights into the challenges and opportunities international students face, this session prepares learners to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Attendees will leave with a clearer picture of what to expect, where to find support, and how to make the most of their Canadian journey.

Supporting Your Transition: Pre-Arrival Webinars

New students are encouraged to look ahead to program orientation events, many of which will take place over the summer or at the start of the Fall semester. To support early preparation, the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) offers a series of virtual pre-arrival webinars designed to help ensure a smooth transition into your program. These sessions serve as a guide to the key steps between acceptance and the start of classes.

TOPIC: Study Permit Application Support Session for Graduate Students

DATE: Wednesday, April 1, 2026

TIME: 9:00–10:00 a.m. ET

Details of Session: Join our support session led by 91ŃÇÉ« International’s licensed immigration advisors. Learn how to navigate the study permit application process, avoid common mistakes, and get answers to your questions. This session is designed to ensure you feel confident as you take this important step toward studying in Canada.

TOPIC: You've Been Admitted! What's Next?

DATE: Tuesday, April 28, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: In this session, we will go over a checklist of useful resources such as: how to accept your offer, submitting required documentation to meet conditions, accommodations for students with a disability, setting up Passport 91ŃÇÉ« and your email account, how to register for academic terms, how to enrol in courses, getting your YU card, the cost of living in Toronto, transit options, health plans and services, attending GRAD@91ŃÇÉ« and more! 

TOPIC: How to Pay for Grad School: Funding, Scholarships, Bursaries, OSAP, and more

DATE: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Join us to learn more about the many kinds of financial support available to graduate students to help fund their studies. In this session we will cover each of these separate categories of financial support: Funding Packages Scholarships Other Awards Bursaries OSAP Learn more about which supports require an application, which supports you are automatically considered for, and the various timelines associated with each.

TOPIC: Ask Us Anything: Applying for a Study Permit for Graduate Programs

DATE: Wednesday, May 20, 2026

TIME: 9:00–10:00 a.m. ET

Details of Session: Join 91ŃÇÉ« International’s licensed immigration advisors for an interactive Q&A session designed to help you understand the process and get answers to what matters most to you.

TOPIC: Discover Graduate Supervision at 91ŃÇÉ«

DATE: Tuesday, June 16, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: This webinar explores the role supervision plays in graduate studies, highlighting how it shapes your learning experience. Designed for new graduate students, we will unpack the Ontario Principles for Graduate Supervision, focusing on student responsibilities. Hearing from current grad students, participants will learn tips for effective supervisor-student relationships, do’s and don’ts for understanding expectations, and making the most of your supervisory experience. Our goal is to help start you off on a successful grad school journey. 

TOPIC: Navigating Course Registration and Online Resources at 91ŃÇÉ«

DATE: Thursday, June 25, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: In this session, we will go over the various web platforms at 91ŃÇÉ« that you should become familiar with. This includes: Registering Online, Enrolling in Courses, our Faculty of Graduate Studies’ website, your graduate program website, 91ŃÇɫ’s Events Calendar, Better Together, Appointment Booking Portals, Important Contacts, Incoming Class Facebook Group, and more!

TOPIC: A New Chapter: Dean MacLachlan Welcomes New Graduate Students to 91ŃÇÉ«

DATE: Tuesday, July 21, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: In this special session from the Dean of Graduate Studies, we are excited to connect with you and introduce you to the incredible opportunities that await you at 91ŃÇÉ«. This conversation is your chance to learn more about our vibrant academic community, the support systems in place to help you succeed, and the lifelong connections you’ll build here. We look forward to answering your questions, sharing insights and resources, and helping you navigate this exciting new graduate studies chapter.

TOPIC: A Day in the Life of an MA Student

DATE: Tuesday, August 11, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: This session will feature a group of current MA students from a variety of programs talking about their experiences during the transition to graduate school. We'll discuss what 'a day in the life' looks like, what the most surprising thing about graduate school was, tips and tricks for incoming students, and more!

TOPIC: A Day in the Life of an MSc/MASc Student

DATE: Tuesday, August 18, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: This session will feature a group of current MSc/MASc students from a variety of programs talking about their experiences during the transition to graduate school. We'll discuss what 'a day in the life' looks like, what the most surprising thing about graduate school was, tips and tricks for incoming students, and more!

Kickstart Fall 2026 with Confidence!

Our new GradForward series at 91ŃÇÉ« offers a comprehensive lineup of 30-minute virtual sessions designed to support both incoming and continuing graduate students. Scheduled from September 8 to September 11, 2026, these sessions cover essential topics such as scholarships and awards, graduate funding, academic integrity, professional skills development, student affairs, and effective use of graduate portals. Led by experienced faculty and staff, the series aims to equip students with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate their graduate studies successfully. All sessions are free and accessible via Zoom, providing an excellent opportunity for students to engage with the University's support services and build a strong foundation for their academic journey.

TOPIC: Scholarships & Awards

DATE: Wednesday, September 9, 2026

TIME: 10:00 am - 10:30 am ET

Host Team: Graduate Awards & External Scholarships

Details of Session: In this session, learn about information on awards, scholarships and other financial sources that you can apply to through the Financial Aid, Awards and Scholarships (FAAS) system at 91ŃÇÉ«.

TOPIC: Graduate Funding

DATE: Wednesday, September 9, 2026

TIME: 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm ET

Host Team: Graduate Finance & Funding

Details of Session: In this session, learn about information on funding graduate education, scheduling an appointment with your Graduate Funding Advisor, and the Financial Aid, Awards and Scholarships (FAAS) system at 91ŃÇÉ«.

TOPIC: Academic Integrity & Professional Skills Development Opportunities

DATE: Thursday, September 10, 2026

TIME: 10:00 am - 10:30 am ET

Host Team: Graduate Academic Affairs

Details of Session: In this session, learn about the mandatory Academic Integrity Module for new graduate students and related resources to assist you in your new academic journey. Building off these, the session will then focus on helpful resources and involvement opportunities to support your academic and career goals, including the Graduate and Postdoctoral Professional Skills (GPPS) program and the Individualized Development Plan (IDP).

TOPIC: Graduate Supervision

DATE: Thursday, September 10, 2026

TIME: 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm ET

Host Team: Graduate Supervision Support Hub

Details of Session:In this session, learn the roles and responsibilities of both students and supervisors in fostering a productive and professional academic relationship.

TOPIC: Graduate Student Wellness Services

DATE: Friday, September 11, 2026

TIME: 9:00 am - 9:30 am ET

Host Team: Graduate Student Wellness Services

Details of Session: In this session, learn about FGS' Graduate Student Wellness Services and how it aims to support and enhance your mental health and well-being during your studies.

TOPIC: Navigating Graduate Portals for FGS Processes

DATE: Friday, September 11, 2026

TIME: 11:00 am - 11:30 am ET

Host Team: Continuous Improvement

Details of Session: In this session, obtain a walk through our graduate portals and discover how to use them for specific FGS processes.

TOPIC: Student Affairs

DATE: Friday, September 11, 2026

TIME: 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm ET

Host Team: Graduate Student Affairs

Details of Session: In this session, learn about the key processes and policies that impact you around registration, graduate milestones, and processes like petitions. Get a brief look at some key timelines you will experience as a graduate student. 

iThenticate is a web-based service that checks for similarity in the text between a submitted document and a corpus of published text (including published journal articles and the public internet). In partnership with 91ŃÇÉ« Libraries (YUL), the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) is piloting the voluntary use of this software to a select number of interested graduate students and their supervisors to strengthen the integrity of one’s thesis or dissertation (or other major publication being finalized). The goal is to provide graduate students and their supervisors with a way to engage in constructive and informed conversations about citation practices, paraphrasing, and appropriate reuse of material, including self-citation. This initiative is designed to support learning and promote shared understandings between supervisors and students, rather than serve as a punitive measure.

Graduate students interested in participating must discuss the initiative with their graduate supervisor and complete the .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Senate Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures

Academic integrity is fundamental to a university’s intellectual life. The mission of 91ŃÇÉ« is the pursuit, preservation, and dissemination of knowledge. Central to this mission, is the relationship between teaching and learning. Honesty, fairness, and mutual respect must form the basis of this relationship in the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge in the University. 91ŃÇÉ« embraces the International Centre for Academic Integrity’s definition of academic integrity as acting in all academic matters with honesty, trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility, and the courage to act in accordance with these values (ICAI, 2021).

Students in the Faculty of Graduate Studies are expected to conform to strict standards of academic honesty as specified in the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures. A lack of familiarity with relevant university policies on the part of a student does not constitute a defence against its application to them.

Any breach of academic conduct is a serious offence to both the University community and the academic enterprise. Any suspected breach, no matter how small it may appear, and following the guiding principle of presumption of innocence, requires investigation to bring the matter to a close. The Faculty of Graduate Studies has established the following complementary procedures specific to the investigation and resolution of alleged violations of the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures for students engaged in academic work in the Faculty of Graduate Studies. The procedures conform to and are to be read in conjunction with the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures.

Jurisdiction

Allegations of a breach of academic conduct against a student engaged in academic work in the Faculty of Graduate Studies, with the exception of master’s students in the Schulich School of Business, shall be dealt with according to these procedures. Master’s students in the Schulich School of Business shall follow the procedures governing academic conduct established in the Schulich School of Business.

Representation

At all stages of an investigation, students have the right to a representative of their choosing. Specifically, the advocates on behalf of individual students regarding allegations of academic misconduct.

Investigating Potential Academic Misconduct

The Person of Primary Responsibility (PPR) refers to the person or panel who coordinates the implementation of the Senate policy and procedures. The PPR in the Faculty of Graduate Studies is the Associate Dean Academic, who is an Ex-Officio Non-voting Member of the Appeals and Academic Honesty Committee (AAHC) – a Standing Committee of the Council of the Faculty of Graduate Studies

Under the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures, the PPR delegates authority to the relevant Graduate Program Director (GPD), who acts as the Person of Primary Responsibility (PPR) Designate on facilitating academic conduct matters to conclusion. The GPD is encouraged to enlist the support of the Faculty of Graduate Studies’ Graduate Academic Affairs unit who can assist in coordinating all administrative aspects of an investigation.

The GPD must request either a block (if the suspected breach is part of a course) or an alert (if the suspected breach is not part of a course) on the student’s record by contacting the Faculty of Graduate Studies’ Graduate Academic Affairs Unit once notified of potential academic misconduct. A block prohibits withdrawal from the course in question, while an alert prohibits withdrawal from the program. In both cases, limits are placed on the ability to obtain transcripts. The Faculty of Graduate Studies shall also initiate a check for past offences to inform next steps.

When a faculty member directing a course, or having or sharing responsibility for a student’s research or other academic activities, becomes aware of a possible violation of academic conduct, it is the responsibility of the faculty member to consult with the GPD. If the faculty member is not the supervisor of the student, then the supervisor (or advisor), if on file, shall be informed as soon as possible. This responsibility extends to any person involved in/interacting with a student’s academic activities e.g., students participating in a group assignment, exam invigilator, placement supervisor, etc.

If the external examiner, or other oral examination committee member, believes that the thesis/dissertation research involves a possible breach of academic conduct, that individual shall indicate such in writing to the Chair of the Oral Examination, who in turn will notify the GPD.

In instances where the GPD is the faculty member involved in identifying possible academic misconduct, a member of the graduate faculty as designated by the Executive Committee of the program (excluding the Graduate Program Director) may take charge of the matter if the circumstances of the possible violation indicate a real, perceived, or potential conflict of interest that may impact the integrity of the investigation.

In exceptional circumstances, and in collaboration with the GPD, the PPR may designate a representative to facilitate an investigation.

Conducting Exploratory Outreach

Based on the evidence collected in partnership with the faculty member, once it is determined that there are reasonable grounds to discuss the potential academic misconduct with the student, the GPD will notify them in writing at the first available opportunity. The GPD should communicate the following:

1. the allegation and a summary of the evidence available and the possibility that a sanction will be imposed;
2. that they will not be permitted to withdraw from the course in question (if applicable) and that a block or alert will be placed on their record;
3. their right to provide a response to the allegations in writing or in person, or to discuss the allegations with the GPD (in person, by phone or videoconference), and if a response is not received within 10 business days, the GPD may continue and conclude the investigation without the student;
4. their right to be assisted by a Support Person (if they choose), who may provide support and advice and speak on behalf of the student; and
5. that they will be provided any additional evidence that becomes available over the course of the investigation and afforded the opportunity to respond.

Normally, the faculty member involved will participate in the exploratory outreach led by the GPD except in exceptional circumstances precluding their participation.

Issuing a Recommendation

Following the conclusion of the investigation, the GPD will determine, on a balance of probabilities, whether a breach occurred. If it is determined that misconduct did not occur, the allegation will be dismissed and all records of the allegation will be destroyed.

If it is determined that a breach occurred, the GPD will take into account the circumstances of the case in deciding appropriate sanction(s), in consultation with the faculty member involved, and in accordance with the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures.

Barring exceptional circumstances, sanctions for academic misconduct in course work shall not exceed the level of failure in the course.

Where the GPD believes the evidence gathered points to academic conduct grave enough to warrant a suspension, expulsion, or other penalties that are negatively transformational, or it is a second or subsequent incident by the student, they shall refer the matter in the first instance to the Appeals and Academic Honesty Committee (AAHC) through the Faculty of Graduate Studies’ Graduate Academic Affairs unit. In cases where there is disagreement on appropriate sanction(s) between the GPD and faculty member involved, the GPD will contact the Associate Dean Academic in the Faculty of Graduate Studies who will assist in reaching a resolution.

Reporting Outcome of Recommendation to the Faculty of Graduate Studies

The recommendation will be provided to the student in writing and include:

1. a summary of the investigation;
2. a summary of evidence gathered;
3. the response of the student to the allegation;
4. the sanction(s) being imposed and rationale for the sanction(s), in accordance with the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures;
5. notice of the forthcoming review by the Appeals and Academic Honesty Committee (AAHC) who will ultimately issue a decision on the matter;
6. and a request that the student acknowledge receipt of the decision via email contact information provided in the decision letter or email sent to the student.

Absent the receipt of student acknowledgement within 10 business days either 1) accepting the recommendation, 2) accepting the findings but suggesting an alternate sanction(s), or 3) disputing that a breach of academic conduct occurred, the recommendation will stand and be communicated to AAHC through the Faculty of Graduate Studies’ Graduate Academic Affairs unit.

Appeals and Academic Honesty Committee (AAHC) Review and Decision

AAHC shall consider the facts and circumstances of the case and determine, on a balance of probabilities, whether a breach has occurred and/or whether the sanction(s) imposed by the GPD is appropriate.

AAHC receiving a recommendation accepted by the student, or not acknowledged by the student, will normally impose the sanction(s) suggested; however, if it is of the opinion that an alternate sanction(s) would be more appropriate, the committee will issue a revised decision.

AAHC receiving a recommendation whereby the student accepts the findings but puts forward an alternate sanction(s) suggestion will determine appropriate sanction and issue a decision.

AAHC receiving a recommendation being disputed by the student that a breach of academic conduct occurred shall hold a formal hearing on the matter to reach a conclusion.

In all cases, the committee may conduct outreach for further information from relevant parties prior to issuing a decision. Normally, the AAHC will only call for a formal hearing in cases of a dispute that a breach of academic conduct has occurred.

When a sanction is issued for activities related to course work, the student cannot retroactively withdraw from the course.

The Faculty of Graduate Studies will maintain a record of each finding of academic misconduct. The purpose of this record is to allow access to information on previous offence(s) and to aid in determining sanctions in the event a new case is opened. This record of offence(s) shall not be used for any other purpose.

Formal Hearing at the Faculty Level, when Required

The Appeals and Academic Honesty Committee (AAHC) through the Faculty of Graduate Studies’ Graduate Academic Affairs unit shall produce a case file summarizing the matter and, with the support of the GPD and faculty member involved, include all available evidence where possible.

AAHC through the Faculty of Graduate Studies’ Graduate Academic Affairs unit shall endeavour with the GPD to secure the participation of two faculty members (minimum one) and one graduate student from the graduate program of the student in question to become voting members of a now augmented committee for the purposes of the hearing to add discipline-specific expertise to the deliberations. All committee members are expected to act with impartiality, meaning freedom from bias or prejudice, ensuring fairness and neutrality in the application of the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures. The Chair of this augmented committee shall be non-voting, except in the case of a tie.

All parties will receive not less than 10 business days notice of the time and location of the hearing, which may be held in person or by videoconference. All parties must inform AAHC of their intention to call witnesses – individuals who may offer information pertinent to the possible academic misconduct – and names of these witnesses at least five business days prior to the hearing. If the student wishes to produce a written response to the case file, it must be provided at least five business days prior to the hearing, and will be shared with the committee and GPD. At the discretion of the committee, the case file, or portions therein, may be shared with witnesses.

Prior to the hearing, if the student acknowledges the accuracy of, or agrees with, the original recommendation of the GPD, the student may waive the right to a hearing by submitting a written statement to AAHC indicating such. The committee will then issue a decision at its earliest opportunity to reach a conclusion on the matter.

Role of the GPD:

• Summarize the case and offer viewpoints on behalf of the graduate program
• Be able to speak to programmatic and disciplinary norms in relation to the matter
• Be prepared to offer introductory and closing remarks
• Be prepared to answer questions from all participants to the best of their ability
• Be prepared to reaffirm the initial recommendation or provide an alternate recommendation in light of new information presented at or leading up to the hearing
• Are non-voting for the purposes of the hearing
• Maintain confidentiality on the matter

Role of the Student:

• Summarize the case and offer their point of view
• Be able to speak to relevant circumstances that led to the allegation
• Be prepared to offer introductory and closing remarks
• Be prepared to answer questions from all participants to the best of their ability
• Be prepared to reaffirm the initial response to the recommendation or provide an alternate suggestion in light of new information presented at or leading up to the hearing
• Are non-voting for the purposes of the hearing
• Maintain confidentiality on the matter

Role of Witnesses:

• Provide a short summary of their involvement in the case (normally as part of the GPD or student’s summary of the case, where appropriate)
• Offer information pertinent to the matter
• Be prepared to answer questions from all participants to the best of their ability
• Are non-voting for the purposes of the hearing
• Maintain confidentiality on the matter

Role of Augmented Committee Members:

• Consider the facts and circumstances of the case and make informed decisions based on the evidence and other relevant information presented
• Be prepared to ask questions to learn new information or seek clarification
• For program members of the student in question, add discipline-specific expertise to the deliberations
• Consider the inherent power imbalance and associated unconscious biases involved in situations of academic dishonesty to inform decision making
• Are voting members for the purposes of the hearing
• Maintain confidentiality on the matter

It is expected that, should a formal hearing be required, formal hearings are held within 6 months of a file arriving at the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Formal and documented leaves by students are excepted from this timeline.

Order of Events of a Formal Hearing

The GPD and student will provide summaries of the case and other relevant information on the matter. Both parties will be allowed a full and fair opportunity to present their evidence and to respond to the evidence presented to them. Parties are permitted to cross-examine each other, or each other’s witnesses, in matters related to the possible academic misconduct. The timing and extent of witness participation will be made at the discretion of the committee.

Question periods will allow for all participants to learn new information or to seek clarification. When the parties have presented relevant evidence and information, and committee members have concluded their questions, each party may present closing remarks.

Following this the parties shall be temporarily excused, and the committee will discuss in a closed session to determine whether a breach of academic conduct has occurred. A finding of academic misconduct supported by a majority of committee members shall be binding. Parties will re-join the hearing to receive the decision. If it is determined that a breach of academic conduct has occurred, the GPD and the student will be given the opportunity to recommend an appropriate sanction(s). Parties will then depart the hearing, and the committee will discuss in a closed session to determine an appropriate sanction(s). The decision will be communicated in writing to the necessary parties following the hearing.

Exceptions to these procedures may be made at the discretion of the committee. The Chair of the committee has full authority to assure an orderly and expeditious hearing. Any person who disrupts a hearing, or who fails to adhere to the rulings of the committee may be required to leave. The committee has the discretion to make rulings as to admissibility of evidence or the suitability of cross-examination. The committee is not bound by formal rules of evidence applicable in courts of law.

Electronic recordings of the hearing are not permitted.

Appeals

Students may appeal a decision of academic misconduct to the Senate Appeals Committee (SAC) in accordance with their timelines, procedures and grounds (reasons) for the appeal to be considered.

In addition to the financial support, FGS also recognized the need for a broader conversation around the experiences of graduate supervisors and students. That’s why, in partnership with Memorial University (MUN) and the Canadian Association for Graduate Studies (CAGS), FGS organized a national conference on best practices for Graduate Supervision in Canada. This event attracted hundreds of graduate supervisors and administrators from across the country, making it a pivotal moment for sharing knowledge, resources, and strategies to improve graduate education and mentorship.

FGS has also taken bold steps to integrate the values of DEDI into academic practice and policy. The FGS Faculty Council, alongside various standing committees, has begun implementing decolonizing frameworks and promoting inclusive academic resources for both students and staff. This work was essential in confronting the systemic inequities embedded in graduate education.

As part of their ongoing efforts to attract exceptional scholars and researchers from underrepresented groups, FGS proudly announced the recipients of the 2024 Provost’s Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black and Indigenous Scholars. This prestigious fellowship program, offering a $70,000 salary for two years, gives talented Black and Indigenous scholars the opportunity to delve into groundbreaking research projects while receiving mentorship and support from leading academic figures. These fellows were at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of knowledge, tackling crucial problems from Indigenous sociocultural resurgence to sustainable solutions for drinking water management.

Meanwhile, FGS had also made important strides in sustainability. As part of 91ŃÇÉ«'s broader Sustainability Strategy, the Faculty of Graduate Studies revised its thesis and dissertation defence practices. By reducing the need for long-distance travel, FGS contributed significantly to the university’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint.

Another significant milestone in FGS’ 60th year was the overhaul of Intellectual Property Policy for Graduate Programs. This update emphasizes clear and transparent guidelines for intellectual property rights, while also addressing the unique considerations of Indigenous knowledge, knowledge keepers and communities. The Faculty of Graduate Studies took an active role in decolonizing approaches to intellectual property, recognizing the importance of protecting Indigenous intellectual contributions and ensuring that those contributions were respected within academic and research contexts.

FGS is making strides in outreach and recruitment. In response to the growing global demand for graduate education, FGS ramped up its efforts to attract students from diverse backgrounds. Our recruitment team hosted over 40 information sessions, nearly 100 office hour drop-ins, and numerous other events designed to engage prospective students. From Experience Grad 91ŃÇÉ« (our institutional open house) to virtual sessions for Markham-bound students, FGS committed to helping students navigate the application process, with special attention to those who needed additional support. By partnering with internal groups like 91ŃÇÉ« International, ACMAPS, and the Career Centre, FGS ensured that prospective students had the resources they needed to succeed.

As part of its commitment to continuous service improvement, embarked on a comprehensive project to transform five pan-university graduate processes: 1) Graduate Petition Portal 2.0, 2) Proposal Milestone, 3) Supervisor & Supervisory Committee, 4) Oral Exam, and 5) Progress Report. This initiative, powered by Flowable technology, sought to move graduate processes online, making them more transparent and streamlined. Processes were digitized, allowing for easier access and improved service delivery for students and faculty alike.

FGS is equally proud of new and exciting development from the graduate programs themselves – including, this year, the announcement of a new PhD program in Disaster and Emergency Management (DEM), slated for commence in Fall 2025. 91ŃÇÉ« is extremely proud to be able to offer Canada’s first-ever doctoral program in DEM. Disaster studies has become an expanding academic and professional field that is sure to experience increased relevancy for the foreseeable future.

Our Faculty’s legacy of excellence has only just begun. With its unwavering commitment to research excellence and knowledge creation, DEDI, sustainability, and transformative graduate education, FGS is setting the stage for a future where exceptional academic opportunities are accessible to all, and where diverse scholars can thrive and contribute to socially engaged research and problem-solving. The next 60 years promise even greater possibilities, as we continue to push the boundaries of what higher education could be, for everyone.

Announcement of appointment of new vice-provost & dean, and associate dean students: FGS welcomed two new members to our community. The Board of Governors appointed Dr. Alice MacLachlan to the position of Vice-Provost & Dean, Graduate Studies, and Dr. Tokunbo Ojo joined as the new Associate Dean, Students. Both MacLachlan and Ojo bring their diverse and expansive perspectives, which help them work together with various stakeholders within the Faculty and across campus to advance the UN SDGs and the University Academic Plan (UAP).

Faculty of Graduate Studies Council undergoes major revisioning: FGS Council’s mandate and membership were revised to represent more fully, effectively and efficiently the range of stakeholders in graduate and postdoctoral educational development to facilitate positive change for the campus community.

New record set for graduate student registration for our Personal Wellness & Learning Skills certificate program: FGS partners with Learning Skills Services (LSS) to arm graduate students with proactive tools to protect and improve their personal wellness. This year, there was a 73% increase in graduate student registrations for the fall 2023 cohort. Thank you to our FGS partners for promoting the Certificate in Personal Wellness & Learning Skills to graduate students.  

C4: Cross-Campus Capstone Classroom welcomes graduate students in pilot opportunity: The Graduate Studies Pilot is an award-winning, immersive, experiential and interdisciplinary initiative that provides graduate students with the opportunity to take C4 for academic credit. It is a unique space where students actively work on real-world, research-design projects with community and industry partners - all of which are linked directly to the UN SDGs.

The Updating of Offer Letters for graduate admission: Offer letters were revamped for all graduate programs to provide applicants with more details about offers of admission, including awards and funding, creating a more comprehensive application process.

The Inclusion of an EDI Question on the central application: Graduate applicants can optionally identify themselves as a member of an equity-seeking group on their application. Graduate programs have received resources and training on how to use this information in practices of holistic admission, with the aim of increasing admission of applicants with disabilities as well as Black, Indigenous, racialized and 2SLGBTQI+ peoples.

Fall 2023 cohort completes Academic Integrity Educational Modules: All incoming graduate students are required to complete The FGS Academic Integrity Module to have a better understanding of what constitutes a scholastic offence, as well as their responsibilities in relation to a variety of academic principles. Through this initiative, community members are able to maintain the highest standards of academic honesty throughout their studies in accordance with the Senate Policy on Academic Honesty.

Ontario Graduate Scholarships: The Faculty of Graduate Studies has earmarked 10% of our central Ontario Graduate Scholarship quota to support black scholars who exemplify excellence. Graduate Programs nominated eligible meritorious incoming black students to receive $15,000 for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Academic Excellence Fund (AEF) expansion: Launched in the Fall of 2021, the AEF continues expanding. Additional funding is now available to students who identify as having a disability to supplement the costs of assistive devices, accessibility software and communication support while participating in an eligible AEF research activity. Additionally, AEF supported our graduate students to register and attend Congress 2023, which helped over 250 scholars disseminate their cutting-edge research to the broader academic community.

The Bennett Family Graduate Scholarship for Black & Indigenous Students: The Bennett Family Foundation has created an endowment to support meritorious Black and Indigenous scholars. The scholarship is open to graduate students who identify as Black and/or Indigenous. Master’s students are eligible to receive up to $40,000 for the duration of their degree and Doctoral students are eligible to receive up to $60,000 for the duration of their degree.

Seven students awarded Vanier Canada Scholarships: The award, presented by the Government of Canada, aims to support first-rate doctoral students who undertake graduate studies in the fields of social sciences and humanities, natural sciences and/or engineering and health. Candidates are evaluated based on three equally weighted selection criteria: academic excellence, research potential, and leadership. All seven recipients from 91ŃÇÉ« will be awarded $50,000 annually for up to three years to support their research projects.

Recipients for the 2023 Provost’s Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black & Indigenous Scholars announced: Doug Anderson and Jean de Dieu Uwisengeyimana have been named recipients of the 2023 Provost’s Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black and Indigenous Scholars. The Fellowship program seeks to attract outstanding scholars who will push the boundaries of knowledge in necessary ways. With a salary of $70,000 provided each year for a two-year term, award recipients will be able to dedicate their time to pursuing a proposed project, working alongside a supervisor and other mentors.

Six graduates have been awarded thesis and dissertation prizes by FGS for their outstanding scholarly work: The prizes are bestowed to celebrate exceptional master’s and doctoral research work from the recent academic calendar year. From creating the world’s largest dataset on honeybee genomics to demystifying the function of consciousness, the winners of this year’s award are breaking new ground with their research. The value of the awards is $2,000 for doctoral dissertations and $1,000 for master’s theses.

Three graduate students earn Governor General's Gold Medal: The Governor General's awards are considered the highest honour earned by exemplary Canadian scholars throughout every level of academia. Three graduates from 91ŃÇÉ« received this year’s Governor General's Gold Medals: Lawrence Garcia, Kathleen Dogantzis and Aaron Tucker. Through their commitment to innovation through their research, the winners are contributing to the advancement of SDG goals.

Ramesh Venkatesa Perumal becomes 91ŃÇɫ’s first School of Nursing doctoral graduate: A sessional assistant professor in the Faculty of Health became in February of 2023, when he successfully defended his dissertation, “Impact of Social Support and mentoring on the career advancement of internationally educated nurses.” He began his doctoral work in September 2018 and was one among several others positioned to be the inaugural doctoral candidate of the new PhD in Nursing program.

91ŃÇÉ« Postdoctoral Fellow is Holland Bloorview’s first EMBARK (Empowering Black Academics, Researchers and Knowledge Creators) scientist: Recognized for his exceptional contributions to pediatric health care, 91ŃÇÉ« postdoctoral Fellow De-Lawrence Lamptey has been named Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital’s inaugural EMBARK scientist. The first program of its kind in Canada, EMBARK fills an important gap in amplifying diverse Black voices in disability research.

The FGS community have come together this year to make a difference on compelling issues of our times. 91ŃÇɫ’s contribution to the SDG challenge was at the forefront of a number of these initiatives from creating funding opportunities for students to attend university (SDG 1: No Poverty; SDG 4: Quality Education) to updating admission applications (SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities) to securing grants that foster innovation in our community (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Thank you to all the staff, faculty and students who made 2023 a memorable one.

Supports to Help Avoid Academic Dishonesty

Frequently Asked Questions – Graduate Students

What is the Academic Integrity Module?

The Faculty of Graduate Studies Academic Integrity Module (FGS AIM) is designed to provide the graduate community with information and resources on the expectations of academic integrity at 91ŃÇÉ«. Community members have an obligation to maintain the highest standards of academic honesty throughout their studies in accordance with the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures. Upon completion of this module, students will have a better understanding of what constitutes a scholastic offence, as well as their responsibilities in relation to a variety of academic principles.

Who needs to complete the module?

All incoming graduate students who commenced their degree January 2023 onwards must complete the FGS Academic Integrity Module.

If you began your degree prior to 2023, there is no requirement to complete this training.

What will happen if I don’t complete the module by the deadline?

An alert will be placed on your student account that will not allow you to:

• Register for upcoming terms
• Add or drop courses

For this reason, it is highly recommended you complete the module as soon as possible, and ideally close to the commencement of your studies to help inform your graduate coursework.

How do I access the module? When will the invitation to complete it be sent to me?

You will receive an email invitation to your email address on file from gsaahc@yorku.ca directing you to the . Upon logging in using your Passport 91ŃÇÉ« credentials, you will find the Faculty of Graduate Studies - Academic Integrity Module’s access card under “My courses” tab.

• If your degree commences in the Fall Term, you will receive an email invitation in late August.
• If your degree commences in the Winter Term, you will receive an email invitation in January during the first week of classes.
• If your degree commences in the Summer Term, you will receive an email invitation in May during the first week of classes.

I logged into eClass platform but the module is not available. What should I do?

If you do not see the Academic Integrity Module, please write to gsaahc@yorku.ca, provide your name and student number, and request access.

How much time do I have to complete the module once I receive the invitation?

You will be provided approximately 5 weeks from receipt of the invitation to complete the module.

How long does it take to complete the module?

The module should take you roughly 1.5 hours to complete. This includes engaging with educational information contained in 7 sub-modules, followed by consideration of answers on a 10-question quiz.

I registered for my first term late and am commencing my studies later in the year. Will I be given additional time to complete the module?

Yes, you will have several weeks to complete the module once you register for the term, timing of which will vary depending on the exceptional circumstances.

Can I enrol myself in the Academic Integrity Module to complete it earlier?

No – the module will only be visible on eClass once you have received an invitation to your email address on file from gsaahc@yorku.ca.

Can I complete the module by using a link that my friend shared with me/or I found online?

No – the access link to the module should exclusively come from an invitation to your email address on file from gsaahc@yorku.ca.

I already completed a degree at 91ŃÇÉ« and therefore have ample knowledge of academic integrity matters. Do I still need to complete the module?

Yes – students commencing a new graduate degree must complete the module.

I am taking a graduate diploma at 91ŃÇÉ«. Do I need to complete the module?

Yes – incoming graduate diploma students in standalone diploma programs must complete the Academic Integrity Module.

I am a visiting student taking a graduate course(s) at 91ŃÇÉ«. Do I need to complete the module?

Yes – incoming visiting graduate students must complete the Academic Integrity Module.

My graduate program shared other academic integrity resources and/or requirements with me. Do I still need to complete the module?

While graduate students may receive additional resources and/or requirements from their program related to academic integrity, completion of the Academic Integrity Module is still required for incoming graduate students as outlined above.

I have multiple Passport 91ŃÇÉ« logins due to being both a student and a staff member. What happens if I try to complete the module under an account that is not my student account?

Satisfactory completion of the module must be done using your student account in order to appropriately register your completion.

I completed the module but the alert on my account was not removed. When will it be actioned?

Alerts are not removed instantaneously – a bulk removal takes place every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 3:00 p.m. The latest you can complete the module to be included in the update list is by 12:00 p.m. of the same day. For example, if you need the alert to be removed from your account on a Wednesday, you will need to complete it any time before that Wednesday at 12:00 p.m.

For this reason, it is highly recommended you complete the module as soon as possible to avoid scenarios where you need to action some graduate activity on your student account but have yet to complete this requirement.

I need to enrol in/drop a course urgently, but there is an alert on my account because I have not completed the module. What should I do?

The Faculty of Graduate Studies strongly recommends that you complete the module at your earliest opportunity. If you are unable to complete the module and must action something on your student account, please email gsaahc@yorku.ca for assistance.

What mark do I need to receive on the quiz? How many attempts do I have?

The 10-question multiple choice quiz necessitates a mark of 100%. Please note that, as this is an educational resource, you have an unlimited number of attempts to pass the quiz and there are no ramifications for unsatisfactory completions.

I completed some sections of the module but had to leave midway through. What happens now? Can I return where I left off?

Yes – Your progression will be saved at any stage you leave the module. You can always log in with your student account at to resume your activity. When logged in, click on the module you last visited; you will be prompted if you want to resume your activity on the module.

How many times do I have to complete this module as a graduate student at 91ŃÇÉ«?

Unless you undertake another graduate degree or diploma or register for courses as a new non-degree student, you are only required to complete the Academic Integrity Module once.

Who is my main point of contact if I encounter any issues with the Academic Integrity Module?

Please email gsaahc@yorku.ca with your full name and student number (SIS ID) with a brief description of the issue for assistance. Please allow up to 2 business days for a response.

Frequently Asked Questions – Program and Diploma Administrators

Graduate Student Wellness Services welcomed their first clinical practicum student. The addition to the Wellness Consultation & Counselling team during the 2021-22 academic year provides greater access to grad-specific counselling at 91ŃÇÉ«. This initiative promotes good health and well-being (SDG #3) through the easily accessible wellness consultations, which can provide a starting point for students seeking to enhance their personal mental health.

Meta endowed a prestigious $250k fellowship. This endowment establishes the first-ever corporate-sponsored graduate fund for sustaining vision research at 91ŃÇÉ«, which the University has dedicated to its Centre for Vision Research. SDG #9 (Industry, innovation, and infrastructure) emphasizes how important it is to promote innovation in order to enable positive change and foster a successful community. 91ŃÇÉ« has been producing cutting-edge work in vision research for decades and now has further support to continue this globally impactful work.

Four outstanding scholars were named recipients of the 2022 Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black and Indigenous Scholars. Sylvester Aboagye, Landing Badji, Leora Gansworth and Graeme Reed are this year’s recipients of the fellowship. This important initiative sets individuals up for a successful career by providing four scholars annually with a salary of $70,000 per year for a two-year term and supporting their research and collaboration endevours.

FGS partnered with the Office of the University Registrar (OUR) and the Indigenous Council to build an Indigenous Queue in Grad Adjudication. This new feature enables the review and contextualization of Indigenous applications by Indigenous Faculty members and responds to the Indigenous Framework's call to increase the recruitment and admission of Indigenous applicants. This initiative acts as a key opportunity area for 91ŃÇÉ« to facilitate greater access to higher education and is reflective of SDG #10 (Reduced Inequality). 91ŃÇÉ« aims to promote an inclusive research culture by creating policies and initiatives that encourage equality and hopes that other institutions follow suit.

The number of Indigenous Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Awards increased annually for Indigenous graduate scholars. The additional resource will enable Indigenous researchers to access much needed funding, promote culturally responsive research and engage in collaborative initiatives.

Academic integrity training becomes mandatory for incoming Graduate students. FGS’ commitment to academic honesty is at the forefront of this initiative. By establishing a mandatory academic integrity training requirement for incoming graduate students effective 2023, 91ŃÇÉ« is committed to academic honesty.

FGS standardized program-level guidelines for Graduate Milestone Examinations. To enhance the graduate student experience and support timely completion of studies, FGS supported the creation of Standardized program-level guidelines for Graduate Milestone Examinations such as the comprehensive examinations and research evaluations.

Postdoctoral researchers now have access to the Individualized Development Plan (IDP). The IDP is employed to structure conversations with one’s supervisor concerning professional skills development and to provide a framework for navigating various opportunities at the institution. This resource acts as a valuable tool for postdocs that can enable them to build a successful career.

FGS partnered with UIT to build an online portal for graduate petitions. Digitizing the petition process eliminates a paper based and manual process, allowing submission tracking and online access for ease of file review. This initiative is a key opportunity to support the graduate student experience and improves the quality and efficiency of services. Introducing online platforms into the community and eliminating paper use also promotes sustainable lifestyles, which is an important part of SDG #12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Future students can find out more about 91ŃÇÉ« and everything the university is undertaking for the success of the community through the newly Launched Choose Grad 91ŃÇÉ« initiative– the first ever graduate conversion event. These events include: 1) a breakdown of the different parts of an offer of admission, which may include different types of funding; 2) a networking opportunity with alumni who have translated their studies into successful careers; 3) a chance to compare admissions offers and learn how to navigate the degree once the applicants have accepted their offer from 91ŃÇÉ«.

91ŃÇɫ’s SDG Challenge is ongoing, and the new year will welcome a number of other important initiatives, inspiring members of the 91ŃÇÉ« community to act as agents of positive change.

Contact

If you are a graduate student with questions regarding academic honesty, or are a Graduate Program Director or faculty member navigating a suspected breach of academic honesty, please contact the Graduate Academic Affairs Assistant at gsaahc@yorku.ca for support and guidance.