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 March 4, 2024 meeting, the following items were approved:
- New specialization plans in systems design engineering, one new option plan in quantum engineering, and two new option plans in biology
- Inactivation of the International Studies in Engineering Option as well as the Society, Technology, and Values Option
- Amendments to Policy 3 – Sabbatical and Other Leaves for Faculty Members and cancellation of Policy 43 – Special Conditions for Employment for Deans, with further recommendation for final approval by the Board of Governors
- Committee appointments for the Distinguished Teacher Awards, and for the Amit & Meena Chakma Award for Exceptional Teaching by a Student
- Approval of one individual as a candidate to receive the honorary title Distinguished Professor Emeritus
- Revisions to academic regulations:
- Faculty of Engineering Dean’s Honour’s List
- Invalid credit combinations in for the Faculty of Environment’s Business Option and Sustainability Financial Management
Additionally, Senate received reports for information:
- Update on the 2023/24 annual operating budget of the University
- Annual update presentations from the presidents of FAUW, WUSA, and GSA
- Faculty update presentation – Arts
- Undergraduate and graduate admissions data, with projections for Fall 2024
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