Orientation - Bethune College

Welcome to YorkU - we're glad you're here!

Meet Normy the dragon - the Bethune College mascot

If you are a student in the Faculty of Science or Lassonde School of Engineering - welcome home to Bethune College!

What is a College at YorkU? “York is a big university. Colleges exist to help make a big university feel small. They are a place to study, hang out, and participate in a smaller, more intimate setting. They are a place where you can feel at home.” Learn more about the College system at YorkU.

Faculty of Science Academic Orientation

Lassonde Academic Orientation

July & August "Find My Class Tours" for new Science and Lassonde students

Social Orientation Week

Orientation for Parents & Loved Ones

Population Specific Orientations

Summer Preparation Courses

Helpful Links

Faculty of Science Academic Orientation

FAQs for Faculty of Science Academic Orientation @ Keele Campus

Meet students, staff, and faculty from your program area.
Receive important information for getting started at YorkU.
Learn about programs and services available to support your YorkU journey.
Connect with other new students and your Peer Mentor.
Have a fun day!

For a detailed schedule, please visit https://science2026.eventbrite.com

Academic Orientation (1:00pm-5:00pm)

Willingness to participate in fun activities throughout the day.
Readiness to meet new people and take in new information.
Reusable water bottle - YorkU does not sell bottles of water on campus.
Something to capture notes/reminders with.
Small snacks will be provided during Academic Orientation - please bring additional food items with you as needed.
Pack light - you will be moving around throughout the day.

Optional Evening Programming (5:00pm-8:00pm)

At super time, you will have an opportunity to eat with your Mentoring Group. Pizza will be provided by Bethune College Council.
The evening Soccer Game is outdoors - pack any needed clothing or accessories for the weather.

Orientation Day is only for new students and you will not be able to bring a guest. Don't worry - you will meet lots of great people at your Orientation!

Parents, family members, and loved ones are invited to join in Parent & Family Orientation activities.

We've got you! Visit yorku.ca/orientation for details about Orientation for your Faculty or Campus.

Academic Orientation for Lassonde School of Engineering

Save the date! Tuesday, September 1st, 2026 & Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026

"Find My Class Tours" for Science & Engineering Students

Get a head start on the semester by joining our Find My Classes Tour!

Select a tour time slot through Doodle.
Email us your class schedule at bcorient@yorku.
On the day of your scheduled tour, arrive at Bethune College 5-10 minutes before your scheduled start time. Don't worry, we'll provide directions!

We know it can be scary navigating a big university and figuring out where you'll need to go. On your Find My Class Tour, upper year students will lead small groups of new students around campus to locate your classrooms and help answer any questions you may have.

Please note:

To sign-up for a Find My Class Tour, you must first be enrolled in your Fall courses.
These tours are limited to students starting their studies at York University in Fall 2026.
Register early as spaces are limited.

Social Orientation Week 2026 runs from Sunday, August 30th - Sunday, September 6th.

Social Orientation is an optional (but highly recommended) week of activities hosted by your College Council full of great people and fun activities that you won't want to miss!

While most Orientation activities are free, there is a cost associated with Social Orientation Week. Find your Orientation Week now.

Orientation for Parents & Loved Ones

Is someone in your life starting their studies at York University? We're so glad you want to help!

Learn how you can support your student while they are at university through online resources and your very own Orientation event.

Population Specific Orientations

All new students are expected to attend their Academic Orientation. If you identify with any of the following populations, we encourage you to join in this additional session made just for you. We want to ensure that you are seen and feel welcomed.