Graduate students and postdoctoral scholars are essential to the University of Waterloo's academic and research mission. Their contributions advance discovery, strengthen our research capacity, enrich our learning environment, and help address complex challenges facing society.
Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) provides institutional leadership for graduate studies and postdoctoral affairs across the University. Working collaboratively with faculties, departments/schools, and administrative partners, we support the graduate student lifecycle, from marketing and recruitment through admissions, funding, enrolment, academic progression, thesis completion, degree conferral, and convocation. We also support postdoctoral scholars through institutional guidance, professional development, networking opportunities, and administrative oversight.
Our role extends beyond service delivery. GSPA provides the leadership infrastructure that helps ensure graduate studies and postdoctoral affairs are administered consistently, effectively, and in alignment with the University's academic and research priorities. We oversee policies, processes, systems, and data that support informed decision-making, uphold academic integrity and regulatory compliance, and strengthen the University's capacity to support graduate students and postdoctoral scholars.
Graduate studies and postdoctoral affairs are strengthened through collaboration across the University. The strength of Waterloo's graduate and postdoctoral community depends on the contributions of faculty, staff, and administrative leaders across our faculties and administrative units. Through strong partnerships, shared expertise, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we work together to support the success of graduate students and postdoctoral scholars and advance the University's academic and research mission.
This website is intended to support the faculty and staff who contribute to graduate studies and postdoctoral affairs across Waterloo. I encourage you to explore the resources, contacts, and information available here and to connect with our team as we continue to strengthen and advance excellence at the University.
Dr. Justin Wan
Associate Vice-President, Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs
Professor, David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science
University of Waterloo