The University of Waterloo Senate is comprised of faculty, undergraduate and graduate students, alumni, governors, and administrative staff who are both elected and ex-officio members. This governing body of the institution is the highest authority on academic matters and meets regularly to discuss topics such as academic programs, educational policies, appointments, and other academic priorities.
At the April 8, 2024 meeting, the following items were approved:
- New type II graduate diploma in climate change, and major modifications to the MA plan in Recreation and Leisure Studies
- Recommendation of the 2024-25 annual University operating budget to the Board of Governors
- Reports to recommend the membership of Senate committees/council as well as elections of Senators to the Board of Governors, with some nominations acclaimed and others proceeding to elections
- Delegation of Senate’s authority for the approval of the roster of graduands jointly to the chair and vice-chair of Senate for convocation ceremonies scheduled in June 2024 and October 2024, with direction that reports on the complete roster of graduands be brought forward to Senate for information following their respective convocation
- Revisions to academic regulations:
- Amendments to several sections of the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, following a holistic review of the calendar that began in Fall 2023 with the aim of renewing and updating the calendar
- Academic regulation revisions to Doctor of Optometry Academic Regulations, Course Grades and Credits, and Online Courses
Additionally, Senate received for information:
- Recipients of the Distinguished Teaching Awards and the Amit & Meena Chakma Award for Exceptional Teaching by a Student
- Recipients of the University Professor designation
- A representation from a student on concerns with the University’s response to the ongoing situation in Gaza
For more information
Visit the Senate website to find the meeting agenda and related materials for all recent Senate meetings, as well as dates for upcoming meetings. The Secretariat will make Zoom links available to those wishing to attend meetings virtually.
If you have any questions, please contact the Secretariat at senate@uwaterloo.ca.