In response to COVID-19 and effective as of Thursday, March 19, York University will offer only required services on our physical campuses. Most campus buildings will close, with limited access as needed for required services; therefore, the FGS Office will not be accessible in person. Academic programs of the winter 2020 term, however, and the administrative processes that make it run smoothly are very much operational in electronically assisted formats, conducted remotely. We wanted to reach out to let you know that the services you need from FGS are up and running. More than that, we wanted to remind you that you are our focus, front and center in our endeavours. Social distancing is challenging, but interpersonal connection and support must not be lost. We aim to make FGS truly connected.
Some basics:
The most up-to-date, pan-university information is available on the YorkU Coronavirus website:
returntocampus.blog.yorku.ca/
The “Community Communications” tab includes a separate “Student Communications” section in addition to all the other useful information.
The Faculty of Graduate Studies’ COVID-19—Information for Graduate Students site
gradstudies.yorku.ca/covid-19-update-grads/
contains information pertinent to graduate students and programs. For specific questions, your Graduate Program Assistant is, as always, here to help. Send an email or call.
Some Particulars:
Grad Connect Wellness Services
gradstudies.yorku.ca/current-students/wellness-services/
Wellness Consultations are available via phone and videoconferencing options, with expanded hours. Appointments are now available between 8:00am–6:00pm . Monday–Friday.
York Library
www.library.yorku.ca/web/covid-19-york-libraries-services-and-operations-update/
All research and instruction questions and consultations are virtual. Use the Ask a Question web site or contact your Subject librarian. In-person services have to be suspended, so that includes in-person access to and circulation of all print resources. Please know that you are not required to return books during the COVID-19 outbreak, and fines will not accrue during this period.
Funding
All funding commitments for the winter term continue.
Internal and External Scholarships are proceeding as planned.
Graduate Funding Advising will continue by phone and email.
Graduate Courses
The winter term continues, but now in online format. All FW 2019-20 and W20 graduate courses will adhere to the regular term dates. The term is not extended; however, all course instructors are creating Course Completion Plans. It is important to keep in touch with your professors, peers, and Program Offices for up-to-date information.
Thesis and Dissertation/Research Ethics: Graduate Students are still able to submit all required documentation to their Graduate Program Assistant by email. Signatures from supervisory committee members are to be collected over email, either through a digital signature on the PDF form or an accompanying email attachment stating, “I have read and approved this submission.” Further information including relevant forms can be found on our Research Ethics page.
Comprehensive / Qualifying Examinations can no longer be administered in person, until further notice. Contact your Program about electronically mediated formats and other options.
Thesis and Dissertation Defences may proceed only in an electronically mediated, audio/visual, online format (via Zoom) at this time and until further notice. Contact your Program and remain in touch with your supervisor.
Academic Petitions and Appeals: Graduate students can email petition forms, which are available from the FGS website, personal statements and relevant supporting documents to their Graduate Program Assistant.
Thank you,
The Faculty of Graduate Studies