Student Affairs and Services
UCW’s Student Affairs and Services department is dedicated to supporting students holistically. Operating under this department are Student Life, Student Advising and Support Services, Accessibility Services, the Career Development Centre and Alumni Engagement Services. The department’s focus is on helping students find resources, resolve challenges and connect with the community as well as UCW services.
Through the various programs and services under Student Affairs and Services, our goal is to foster the development of students’ skills and knowledge, guide them in exploring career opportunities and offer ongoing support post-graduation. Our commitment is to empower students to address concerns, advocate for their needs and achieve success in collaboration with these integral subdivisions.
Services and Contact Information
Student Life
Student Life, operating within the Student Affairs and Services department, aims to enhance student experiences through engaging events and activities while fostering learning and creating a sense of belonging. Initiatives like New Student Orientation (NSO), the Peer2Peer Program and the IMPACT Volunteer Program, as well as Student Clubs/Associations, support student success beyond classrooms.
Student Life offers information on university services, community support and learning opportunities. This team also promotes community involvement and volunteering, enriching student life through diverse events and leadership development. More specifically, the team provides resources on student associations, events, volunteering, faith and spirituality and contributes to transformative learning experiences and a purposeful transition into university life. For any inquiries, please contact [email protected].
Student Advising and Support Services
Within Student Advising and Support Services, various units are dedicated to supporting UCW students in different aspects of their academic journey. These units include Outreach, General Student Advising (GSA), International Student Advising (ISA) and Student Rights and Responsibilities (SRRA).
The Outreach and General Student Advising teams serve as the first contact point for students, offering advice, support and guidance on campus resources. The Outreach team facilitates check-ins and addresses general inquiries with new and returning students each term to understand their needs better. Every term, students can expect a call from our Outreach team.
The General Student Advising team focuses on providing ongoing support for students who are facing challenges or need additional guidance, helping them navigate student life at the University and in Vancouver. The GSA team provides in-person, virtual and email support to all students, focusing on assisting students in finding resources in the community or within UCW.
Students may need specialized support during their time at UCW to better understand their rights and responsibilities as students, including managing their temporary residence in Canada and navigating UCW processes.
Students can connect with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), available through our International Student Advising team. The team provides general advice and consultation for international students in various matters, including study permits and work eligibility, support on intercultural transition and other immigration requirements applicable to post-secondary students. ISA specializes in providing guidance and support to students to remain compliant with Canada’s immigration policy during their studies at UCW.
Empowering students is a key goal of UCW’s Student Advising and Support Services. At times, students may need additional support to address concerns and help maintain a safe learning community at UCW. The Student Rights and Responsibilities Advisors (SRRA) assist students who need help understanding UCW policies and procedures, including navigating appeal and complaint processes. The SRRA also supports UCW’s commitment to a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment, and follows up with students who impact our community or who have engaged in violations of Policy 9014 – Student Rights and Responsibilities.
For inquiries related to Student Advising and Support Services contact [email protected]
Accessibility Services
The Accessibility Services team is committed to supporting eligible students in navigating their disability-related health conditions, which may be permanent, persistent or prolonged, by assessing their functional limitations and barriers to academic success. Accessibility Services collaborates with faculty and staff to implement accessible solutions in a timely manner. Accessibility Services supports UCW in meeting its legal duty to accommodate in accordance with the Accessible BC Act and the Human Rights Act. For more details, please review Policy 5051 – Academic Accommodation for Students with Accessibility Needs. For further inquiries or registration, please reach out to [email protected].
Career Development Centre
As a central resource hub and support centre, the Career Development team at UCW guides students throughout the entire career development cycle. Career Advisors and Specialists, seasoned professionals in career development, assist students in exploring, planning and managing their careers. They offer support in acquiring employment preparatory skills, such as writing cover letters and resumés, interview techniques and networking strategies aligned with occupational and professional goals. These professionals provide personalized one-on-one career advising and coaching, mentoring and learning facilitation, along with group learning through workshops and events aimed at enhancing career readiness and increasing employability, job search skills and job market competitiveness. Additionally, they have developed valuable career and job search resources, including a roadmap to career success for all UCW students. For inquiries, contact [email protected].
The Career Development Centre, through the Graduate Practicum Program, collaborates with employers and professional associations to create meaningful work-integrated learning opportunities that allow students to apply academic knowledge, fostering professional growth and career development. Reach out to [email protected] for more information.
Alumni Engagement Services
Alumni Engagement Services (AES) exists to facilitate a lasting relationship with alumni after they graduate from UCW and as they progress in their careers. Our purpose is to build a strong and supportive network, assisting alumni in their personal and professional development and providing valuable benefits. We communicate with our alumni via newsletters and the Alumni Portal. Joining the Alumni Portal gives alumni the ability to connect with their peers, access to exclusive discounts, a directory of alumni-owned businesses, upcoming events, job opportunities and career and mentorship resources. Our events include workshops and panel talks for lifelong learning, reunions for networking and more! For questions related to alumni services, please contact [email protected].
