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Graduate Supervision

The Faculty of Graduate Studies endorses the 2023 Ontario Council on Graduate Studies’ Principles for Graduate Supervision at Ontario Universities.

Note: A link for the Graduate Supervisor and Supervisory Committee (SSC) Portal and resources for Student, Graduate Appointed Faculty Members, Graduate Program Directors and Graduate Program Assistants can be found on the Graduate Studies Portals Page.

The Graduate Supervisor and Supervisory Committee (SSC) Portal is where doctoral students and thesis stream master’s students submit a request to establish a supervisor and supervisory committee. Faculty members agree to serve on a student’s supervisory committee, and it is approved by the Graduate Program Director. The members of a student’s supervisory committee are sent to the Faculty of Graduate Studies for review and approval, and this is documented on the student's record.   

Master's Supervision

Graduate supervision serves an important role in training promising scholars. Positive, respectful, professional, and productive working relationships are paramount to the success of graduate students and their advisors/supervisors. These guidelines are designed to support an environment in which such a professional working relationship can flourish.

Students and supervisors are strongly encouraged to review and discuss the “Discussion Topics to Inform Productive Supervisory Relationships Guidelines for Advisors/Supervisors and Graduate Students” document, as a way of clarifying mutual expectations and setting the foundation for a productive supervisory relationship

The supervisor’s principal task consists of helping students realize their scholarly potential. This can only be accomplished in a relationship that offers insights born of experience, and furnishes the requisite challenges, stimulation, guidance and genuine support. The student has a right to expect expertise, accessibility and support from the supervisor. The supervisor must offer substantive and procedural assistance with the design, planning and conduct of feasible research projects, introduction to the network of scholars in the area of specialization, and support for the presentation and publication of research results. At the same time, the supervisor must ensure that the scholarly standards of the university and the discipline are met in the student’s work.

It is the responsibility of the supervisor to:

  1. Be reasonably accessible to the student for consultation and discussion of the student’s academic progress and research problems. The frequency of such meetings will vary according to the discipline involved and the stage and nature of the student’s work, but should normally occur at once a month, and never less than once each term.
  2. Give timely response to submitted written work, with constructive and concrete suggestions for improvements. This normally means within 3 weeks or as agreed upon between supervisor and student.
  3. Make satisfactory arrangements in advance with the approval of the Graduate Program Director for the supervision of the student when on leave or sabbatical, or on extended absence from the university.
  4. Convene an annual meeting of the supervisory committee, normally in the spring, to evaluate the student’s Report on Progress, and submit a copy of the completed Report to the Graduate Program Director after the meeting. Apart from highlighting the student’s academic progress thus far, the Progress Report should also clearly identify the challenges, if any, facing the student, including considerations for students with disability.
  5. In conjunction with the Graduate Program Office, ensure the student is aware of University, Faculty and program requirements and standards to which the thesis/dissertation is expected to conform.
  6. Assist the student with attempts to acquire external funding, including meeting appropriate deadlines, and to engage in scholarly development (e.g., conference presentations and publications).
  7. Offer supervision and advice appropriate to the stage of the student’s work, helping the student to establish and modify a suitable timetable for completion of the various stages of the thesis/dissertation project:
    • at the proposal stage, assist the student with selection of a suitable and manageable topic and approach;
    • at the research stage, assist the student with initial research design and subsequent modification, with alleviating current and anticipated problems, with interpretation and analysis of findings, and with bringing the project to completion;
    • at the writing stage, assist the student with appropriate and timely feedback on individual draft chapters, and with revision to the draft thesis/dissertation as an integrated whole;
    • at the oral defence stage, advise the student on preparation for the examination and assist the student to interpret and comply with any changes recommended by the examining committee.
  8. When the final draft of the thesis or dissertation is complete, ensure that all members of the committee have read the document and are agreed that it is ready to proceed to an oral defence. Suggest possible members of the examining committee to the Graduate Program Director (i.e., outside examiner, external examiner). Ensure that a master’s thesis is sent to the examining committee at least 15 business days prior to the date of the examination, and a doctoral dissertation at least 20 business days prior to the date of the examination.
  9. Appropriately acknowledge in published material the contributions of the student, including consideration of joint authorship of publications. Where the student’s research comprises a component of the supervisor’s research program, and joint publication is envisaged, it must be recognized that the responsibility for utilization of data and for publications is held jointly by the supervisor and student. Endeavour to clarify at the outset of the supervisory relationship expectations regarding the responsibility and publication credit for work initiated, designed and researched by the student, but supported financially or otherwise by the supervisor.
  10. Conform to basic principles of academic integrity and professionalism in the development of a mature and objective relationship with the student. It must be recognized that there is a power imbalance in the supervisory relationship and that any form of harassment or exploitation of students is unacceptable.
  11. Conform to the graduate program and Faculty processes in the event of a supervisory relationship which is unsatisfactory for any reason or in situations where there is a change of supervisors for any reason.
  12. Even though “each student has final responsibility for her or his academic honesty” (Senate Policy on Academic Honesty), it is incumbent on the supervisor to ensure, to the extent that it is practicable in the circumstances, the academic integrity of primary research data, and the consistency with academic integrity and practice of interpretations relating to such data.

By entering into a graduate program, the student has made a commitment to devoting the time and energy necessary to engage in research and writing a thesis/dissertation which constitutes a substantial and original contribution to knowledge in a field. The supervisor has a right to expect from the student ability, initiative and receptivity to feedback.

It is the responsibility of the student to:

  1. Become informed about and conform to University, Faculty and graduate program requirements and procedures for completion of the graduate degree, with regard to such matters as degree milestones, research ethics, registration and graduation requirements, thesis/dissertation style and quality standards, year-end evaluations, etc.
  2. Advise their supervisor if they are a student with a disability and discuss recommended academic accommodations and possible impact, if any, on the program.
  3. Develop, in conjunction with the supervisor and supervisory committee, an intended timetable for completion of all stages of the thesis/dissertation, and work to realize that timetable, meeting appropriate deadlines.
  4. Meet regularly with the supervisor to review progress. The frequency of such meetings will vary according to the discipline involved and the stage and nature of the student’s work, but should normally occur once a month, and not less than once each term. Interact with other members of the supervisory committee as appropriate.
  5. Keep the supervisor and graduate program office informed of where the student may be contacted, and respond appropriately to all communications received.
  6. Prepare a Report on Progress for an annual meeting with the supervisory committee.
  7. Give serious consideration to and respond to the advice and feedback received from the supervisor and the supervisory committee.
  8. Recognize that the supervisor and other members of the supervisory committee may have other teaching, research and service obligations that may preclude immediate responses.
  9. Recognize that where the student’s research comprises a component of the supervisor’s research program, and joint publication is envisaged, the responsibility for utilization of data and for publications is held jointly by the supervisor and student. In such cases, the thesis/dissertation, or draft papers, together with a copy of the raw data, shall be made available to the supervisor prior to submission for publication.
  10. Conform to the graduate program and Faculty processes in the event of a supervisory relationship that is unsatisfactory for any reason or in situations where there is a change of supervisors for any reason.
  11. Conform to basic principles of academic integrity and professionalism in the development of a mature and objective relationship with the supervisor, the supervisory committee, and other scholars. The entire graduate program, including research and writing of the thesis/dissertation, shall be conducted under the strictest rules of ethics and academic honesty. As stated in the Senate Policy on Academic Honesty, “A lack of familiarity with the Senate Policy and Guidelines on Academic Honesty on the part of a student does not constitute a defence against their application.” With that in mind, it is incumbent on each student to ensure the academic integrity of his or her primary research, and of the interpretations relating to such research.

Role of the Graduate Program Office in Graduate Supervision

The role of the Graduate Program Office (GPO) in supporting graduate student supervision is a very important one. The GPO is responsible for setting program expectations, ensuring that graduate students have a clear sense of understanding of how to successfully fulfill their degree requirements in a timely manner, and assist in resolving difficulties.

Programs differ greatly across Faculties and disciplines and therefore operate in different ways. The GPO role in supervision may include:

  • assisting students in confirming a supervisor;
  • reviewing the student’s progress from time to time and reminding students of important deadlines;
  • reviewing and approving supervisory committee composition;
  • reviewing and filing annual progress reports, with input from both supervisors and students;
  • reviewing, approving and scheduling oral defences;
  • assisting and supporting students with personal difficulties impacting their progress; and
  • participating in the resolution of any supervisor-student conflicts.

Master’s Thesis Supervisory Committees

Master’s thesis supervisory committees consist of a minimum of two faculty members appointed to the Faculty of Graduate Studies, at least one of whom must be from the program in which the student is enrolled, and who serves as the principal supervisor.

In exceptional circumstances, and with the prior approval of the Dean, one additional member may be appointed who is not a member of the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Such recommendations should be sent to the FGS Associate Deans and be accompanied by a brief rationale and an up-to-date curriculum vitae, before submitting a request in the Supervisor & Supervisory Committee Approval Form.

Recommendation for membership of a master’s thesis supervisory committee can be formally initiated by the student or Graduate Program Assistant, after consultation with your Graduate Program Director, via the Supervisor and Supervisory Committee portal. The Supervisor and Supervisory Committee Portal is to be used when recommending the establishment of a supervisory committee, adding members to an incomplete committee, and making changes to an existing committee. Final approval of supervisory committee membership recommendations rests with the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

The membership of each master’s thesis supervisory committee, including the Chair, must be recommended by the appropriate Graduate Program Director for approval and appointment by the Dean of Graduate Studies no later than the second term of study (or equivalent for part-time students) or, for students in the Graduate Program in Environmental Studies, by the end of the third term of study.

A thesis supervisor (Chair of the supervisory committee) shall:

  • be reasonably accessible to the student, normally meeting once a month and never less than once each term; and,
  • ensure that a copy of the student’s thesis is sent to each member of the student’s thesis examining committee as far as possible in advance of the date of the student’s oral examination, but no later than 15 business days prior to the date set.

A thesis supervisory committee shall:

  • review a student’s research proposal and recommend its approval to the appropriate Graduate Program Director and the Dean not less than three months prior to the date set for the oral examination;
  • review the student’s progress from time to time, normally every six (6) months and never less than once each year. Reports to the Graduate Program Director of unsatisfactory progress may require a student to withdraw from a program of studies or withdraw from the graduate program in which the student is enrolled;
  • meet annually with the student, normally in the spring, to evaluate the Report on Progress submitted by the student and submit a completed copy of the Report on Progress to the Graduate Program Director after the meeting; and,
  • read the thesis in a timely fashion and make a recommendation to the Graduate Program Director regarding the oral defence.

Annual Progress Reports

It is clearly established that completion rates are enhanced and average completion/withdrawal times reduced if supervisory committees meet regularly (at least annually) with each student, usually in the spring, and carefully evaluate the student’s activities and progress, keeping in mind any delays attributable to disability related circumstances.

A thesis supervisory committee shall meet annually with the student, normally in the spring, to carefully evaluate the Report on Progress submitted by the student and submit a completed copy of the Report on Progress to the Graduate Program Director after the meeting. In accordance with program requirements and procedures, students in non-thesis program options may be required to submit a progress report to the Graduate Program Director. Reports to the Graduate Program Director of unsatisfactory progress may require a student to withdraw from a program of studies, or withdraw from the graduate program in which the student is enrolled.

Conflict Resolution

The intent of the policy is to provide guidance for graduate students to resolve potential conflicts and problems that may arise during their program. A clear set of expectations agreed between the supervisor and student at the outset of the supervisory relationship, that is reviewed regularly, is recommended to avoid many instances of conflict. However, at times, there are situations that require further action. The University recognizes that, while fairness for all parties involved is paramount, close attention must be paid to the needs of graduate students as a consequence of imbalances of power in a supervisory relationship.

This policy does not address misconduct. Should students experience violence, harassment or discrimination, they should be directed to make an appointment with The Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education; or the Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion, where appropriate. When making an appointment, a student does not need to know yet whether they wish to make a formal complaint. These offices have mandates that ensure due process to protect the rights of parties involved in a complaint.

Conflicts should be resolved as close to the source as possible. Students and Supervisors are encouraged to address any issues promptly and informally. The supervisor should document the discussions and keep a record of any agreements made, sharing that record with the student. Before broaching a conversation, or at any point, a student may wish to seek confidential guidance from a Faculty of Graduate Studies Wellness Counsellor or an advocate from the York University Graduate Students’ Association. In the event of a conflict that resists immediate resolution, the student and/or the supervisor may approach the Graduate Program Director (GPD) for advice. While not obligated, the GPD may consider recommending a course of action aimed at setting the supervisory relationship back on good footing.

At any point, students may seek support, including meeting attendance, from the York University Graduate Students’ Association (YUGSA). In cases where the supervisor and the GPD are the same person, a student can seek support from the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS)’ Associate Dean Students.

If conflicts continue to persist exceeding program resolution, any party may seek the advice of FGS’ Associate Dean Students. When FGS becomes aware of a supervisory breakdown, the Associate Dean Students will facilitate mediation between relevant parties. Wherever possible, mediation will be undertaken by someone trained in conflict resolution and mediation. Mediation may or may not involve both parties at one time, depending on the nature of the conflict. The Associate Dean Students may informally involve other parties, including the Associate Dean Graduate in the anchor Faculty, the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and/or relevant York University offices, in a good faith effort toward reconciliation of the parties. The Associate Dean Students may draft a written report, shared with the parties and the GPD, recommending a course of action aimed at setting the relationship back on good footing.

I am a student or supervisor. There is a breakdown in my relationship with my supervisor/supervisee, and resolutions have not materialized.

Who do I contact? 

  • Contact the relevant Graduate Program Director (GPD)

I am a GPD. I have a case of a breakdown in the supervisor-supervisee relationship.

What should I do?

  • You may recommend a course of action aimed at settling the supervisory relationship back on good footing, or
  • Seek the advice of Associate Dean (Students), Faculty of Graduate Studies

The Associate Dean Students will facilitate mediation between relevant parties when a supervisory breakdown has occurred. Mediation may or may not involve both parties at one time, depending on the nature of the conflict.

An illustration explains the graduate student assistance resources in detail

An illustration explaining graduate student support at York University, highlighting service units that assist in situations involving conflict and/or misconduct

If mediation at several levels is unsuccessful or inappropriate, and the Associate Dean Students determines that the supervisor-student relationship is beyond repair, both parties and the GPD will be informed of this determination, which is not punitive but a practical necessity to preserve the well-being of one or both of the parties. The GPD will attempt in good faith to work with the student to find alternative supervision within the unit and will keep FGS apprised of these efforts.  The original supervisor may be enlisted in the effort, though responsibility for finding alternative supervision rests with the program – with the support of FGS – to make diligent efforts in securing alternate supervision. In cases where the GPD is the student’s supervisor, another member of the program executive will assume this responsibility.

If the student refuses to accept the supervision provided, or if no supervision can be secured after diligent efforts are made, then the student is not fulfilling the academic requirement of having a supervisor and, on academic grounds, may be withdrawn.

Patterns of unsatisfactory supervision (e.g., repeated supervisory breakdowns, alternative supervision arrangements, and/or increased student withdrawals) may result in a review of a supervisor’s appointment to the graduate program as per the graduate program’s appointment criteria.

Conflicts related to graduate supervision may connect to, or be informed by, many university policies and procedures. Depending on the nature of the concern, other university and provincial regulations may apply. In all instances, parties can contact FGS’ Associate Dean Students for assistance navigating relevant policies and supports.

Discussion Topics to Inform Productive Supervisory Relationships

Students and supervisors are strongly encouraged to review and discuss the guidelines as a way of clarifying mutual expectations and setting the foundation for a productive supervisory relationship. Please note that Discussion Topics are optional and customizable at the program and supervisory committee levels.

Doctoral Supervision

Graduate supervision serves an important role in training promising scholars. Positive, respectful, professional, and productive working relationships are paramount to the success of graduate students and their advisors/supervisors. These guidelines are designed to support an environment in which such a professional working relationship can flourish.

Students and supervisors are strongly encouraged to review and discuss the “Discussion Topics to Inform Productive Supervisory Relationships Guidelines for Advisors/Supervisors and Graduate Students” document, as a way of clarifying mutual expectations and setting the foundation for a productive supervisory relationship.

The supervisor’s principal task consists of helping students realize their scholarly potential. This can only be accomplished in a relationship that offers insights born of experience, and furnishes the requisite challenges, stimulation, guidance and genuine support. The student has a right to expect expertise, accessibility and support from the supervisor. The supervisor must offer substantive and procedural assistance with the design, planning and conduct of feasible research projects, introduction to the network of scholars in the area of specialization, and support for the presentation and publication of research results. At the same time, the supervisor must ensure that the scholarly standards of the university and the discipline are met in the student’s work.

It is the responsibility of the supervisor to:

  1. Be reasonably accessible to the student for consultation and discussion of the student’s academic progress and research problems. The frequency of such meetings will vary according to the discipline involved and the stage and nature of the student’s work, but should normally occur at once a month, and never less than once each term.
  2. Give timely response to submitted written work, with constructive and concrete suggestions for improvements. This normally means within 3 weeks or as agreed upon between supervisor and student.
  3. Make satisfactory arrangements in advance with the approval of the Graduate Program Director for the supervision of the student when on leave or sabbatical, or on extended absence from the university.
  4. Convene an annual meeting of the supervisory committee, normally in the spring, to evaluate the student’s Report on Progress, and submit a copy of the completed Report to the Graduate Program Director after the meeting. Apart from highlighting the student’s academic progress thus far, the Progress Report should also clearly identify the challenges, if any, facing the student, including considerations for students with disabilities.
  5. In conjunction with the Graduate Program Office, ensure the student is aware of University, Faculty and program requirements and standards to which the dissertation is expected to conform.
  6. Assist the student with attempts to acquire external funding, including meeting appropriate deadlines, and to engage in scholarly development (e.g., conference presentations and publications).
  7. Offer supervision and advice appropriate to the stage of the student’s work, helping the student to establish and modify a suitable timetable for completion of the various stages of the dissertation project:
    • at the proposal stage, assist the student with selection of a suitable and manageable topic and approach;
    • at the research stage, assist the student with initial research design and subsequent modification, with alleviating current and anticipated problems, with interpretation and analysis of findings, and with bringing the project to completion;
    • at the writing stage, assist the student with appropriate and timely feedback on individual draft chapters, and with revision to the draft dissertation as an integrated whole;
    • at the oral defence stage, advise the student on preparation for the examination and assist the student to interpret and comply with any changes recommended by the examining committee.
  8. When the final draft of the thesis or dissertation is complete, ensure that all members of the committee have read the document and are agreed that it is ready to proceed to an oral defence. Suggest possible members of the examining committee to the Graduate Program Director (i.e., outside examiner, external examiner). Ensure that a master’s thesis is sent to the examining committee at least 15 business days prior to the date of the examination, and a doctoral dissertation at least 20 business days prior to the date of the examination.
  9. Appropriately acknowledge in published material the contributions of the student, including consideration of joint authorship of publications. Where the student’s research comprises a component of the supervisor’s research program, and joint publication is envisaged, it must be recognized that the responsibility for utilization of data and for publications is held jointly by the supervisor and student. Endeavour to clarify at the outset of the supervisory relationship expectations regarding the responsibility and publication credit for work initiated, designed and researched by the student, but supported financially or otherwise by the supervisor.
  10. Conform to basic principles of academic integrity and professionalism in the development of a mature and objective relationship with the student. It must be recognized that there is a power imbalance in the supervisory relationship and that any form of harassment or exploitation of students is unacceptable.
  11. Conform to the graduate program and Faculty processes in the event of a supervisory relationship which is unsatisfactory for any reason or in situations where there is a change of supervisors for any reason.
  12. Even though “each student has final responsibility for her or his academic honesty” (Senate Policy on Academic Honesty), it is incumbent on the supervisor to ensure, to the extent that it is practicable in the circumstances, the academic integrity of primary research data, and the consistency with academic integrity and practice of interpretations relating to such data.

By entering into a graduate program, the student has made a commitment to devoting the time and energy necessary to engage in research and writing a dissertation which constitutes a substantial and original contribution to knowledge in a field. The supervisor has a right to expect from the student ability, initiative and receptivity to feedback.

It is the responsibility of the student to:

  1. Become informed about and conform to University, Faculty and graduate program requirements and procedures for completion of the graduate degree, with regard to such matters as degree milestones, research ethics, registration and graduation requirements, dissertation style and quality standards, year-end evaluations, etc.
  2. Advise their supervisor if they are a student with disability and discuss recommended academic accommodations and possible impact, if any, on the program.
  3. Develop, in conjunction with the supervisor and supervisory committee, an intended timetable for completion of all stages of the dissertation, and work to realize that timetable, meeting appropriate deadlines.
  4. Meet regularly with the supervisor to review progress. The frequency of such meetings will vary according to the discipline involved and the stage and nature of the student’s work, but should normally occur once a month, and not less than once each term. Interact with other members of the supervisory committee as appropriate.
  5. Keep the supervisor and graduate program office informed of where the student may be contacted, and respond appropriately to all communications received.
  6. Prepare a Report on Progress for an annual meeting with the supervisory committee.
  7. Give serious consideration to and respond to the advice and feedback received from the supervisor and the supervisory committee.
  8. Recognize that the supervisor and other members of the supervisory committee may have other teaching, research and service obligations which may preclude immediate responses.
  9. Recognize that where the student’s research comprises a component of the supervisor’s research program, and joint publication is envisaged, the responsibility for utilization of data and for publications is held jointly by the supervisor and student. In such cases, the dissertation, or draft papers, together with a copy of the raw data, shall be made available to the supervisor prior to submission for publication.
  10. Conform to the graduate program and Faculty processes in the event of a supervisory relationship which is unsatisfactory for any reason or in situations where there is a change of supervisors for any reason.
  11. Conform to basic principles of academic integrity and professionalism in the development of a mature and objective relationship with the supervisor, the supervisory committee, and other scholars. The entire graduate program, including research and writing of the dissertation, shall be conducted under the strictest rules of ethics and academic honesty. As stated in the Senate Policy on Academic Honesty, “A lack of familiarity with the Senate Policy and Guidelines on Academic Honesty on the part of a student does not constitute a defence against their application.” With that in mind, it is incumbent on each student to ensure the academic integrity of his or her primary research, and of the interpretations relating to such research.

Role of the Graduate Program Office in Graduate Supervision

The role of the Graduate Program Office (GPO) in supporting graduate student supervision is a very important one. The GPO is responsible for setting program expectations, ensuring that graduate students have a clear sense of understanding of how to successfully fulfill their degree requirements in a timely manner, and assist in resolving difficulties.

Programs differ greatly across Faculties and disciplines and therefore operate in different ways. The GPO role in supervision may include:

  • assisting students in confirming a supervisor;
  • reviewing the student’s progress from time to time and reminding students of important deadlines;
  • reviewing and approving supervisory committee composition;
  • reviewing and filing annual progress reports, with input from both supervisors and students;
  • reviewing, approving and scheduling oral defences;
  • assisting and supporting students with personal difficulties impacting their progress; and
  • participating in the resolution of any supervisor-student conflicts.

Doctoral Dissertation Supervisory Committees

A dissertation supervisory committee will consist of a minimum of three members from the Faculty of Graduate Studies, at least two of whom must be members of the graduate program in which the student is enrolled. The principal supervisor must be a Full Member of the graduate program in which the student is enrolled. An Associate Member of the graduate program may serve as a co-supervisor on the condition that the other co-supervisor is a Full Member of the graduate program.

In exceptional circumstances and with prior approval of the Dean, the third, or an additional member, may be appointed who is not a member of the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Such recommendations are to be accompanied by a brief rationale and a up-to-date curriculum vitae, which should be attached to the Supervisor & Supervisory Committee Approval Form.

Recommendation for membership of a doctoral dissertation supervisory committee is formally initiated by the graduate program director via submission of a Supervisor & Supervisory Committee Approval Form. The Supervisor & Supervisory Committee Approval is to be used when recommending the establishment of a supervisory committee, to add members to an incomplete committee, and to make changes to an existing committee. Final approval of supervisory committee membership recommendations rests with the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

For doctoral students to remain in good academic standing, they must have a supervisor and supervisory committee in place in accordance with program requirements. The minimum Faculty of Graduate Studies requirements are as follows: A supervisor must be recommended by the appropriate graduate program director for approval by the Dean of Graduate Studies no later than the end of the fifth term of study (end of second term of PhD II). Students will not be able to register in the seventh term of study (the onset of PhD III) unless a supervisor has been approved. A supervisory committee must be recommended by the appropriate Graduate Program Director for approval by the Dean of Graduate Studies no later than the end of the eighth term of study (end of second term of PhD III). Students will not be able to register in the tenth term of study (the onset of PhD IV) unless a supervisory committee has been approved.

A dissertation supervisor (Chair of the supervisory committee) shall:

  • be reasonably accessible to the student, normally meeting once a month and never less than once each term.
  • ensure that a copy of the student’s dissertation is sent to each member of the student’s dissertation examining committee as far as possible in advance of the date of the student’s oral examination, but no later than 20 business days prior to the date set.

A dissertation supervisory committee shall:

  • review the student’s research proposal and recommend its approval to the appropriate Graduate Program Director and the Dean not less than six months prior to the date set for the oral examination;
  • review the student’s progress normally each month and never less than once each term. Reports to the Graduate Program Director of unsatisfactory progress may require a student to withdraw from a program of studies or withdraw from the graduate program in which the student is enrolled;
  • meet annually with the student, normally in the spring, to evaluate the Report on Progress submitted by the student and submit a completed copy of the Report on Progress to the Graduate Program Director after the meeting; and,
  • read the dissertation in a timely fashion and make a recommendation to the Graduate Program Director regarding the oral defence.

Annual Progress Reports

It is clearly established that completion rates are enhanced and average completion/withdrawal times reduced if supervisory committees meet regularly (at least annually) with each student, usually in the spring, and carefully evaluate the student’s activities and progress, keeping in mind any delays attributable to disability related circumstances.

In accordance with program requirements and procedures, students in doctoral programs must submit a Report on Progress to the Graduate Program Director on an annual basis, normally in the spring. Once established, a dissertation supervisory committee shall meet annually with the student, normally in the spring, to carefully evaluate the Report on Progress submitted by the student and submit a completed copy of the Report on Progress to the Graduate Program Director after the meeting. Reports to the Graduate Program Director of unsatisfactory progress may require a student to withdraw from a program of studies, or withdraw from the graduate program in which the student is enrolled.

Conflict Resolution

The intent of the policy is to provide guidance for graduate students to resolve potential conflicts and problems that may arise during their program. A clear set of expectations agreed between the supervisor and student at the outset of the supervisory relationship, that is reviewed regularly, is recommended to avoid many instances of conflict. However, at times, there are situations that require further action. The University recognizes that, while fairness for all parties involved is paramount, close attention must be paid to the needs of graduate students as a consequence of imbalances of power in a supervisory relationship.

This policy does not address misconduct. Should students experience violence, harassment or discrimination, they should be directed to make an appointment with The Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education; or the Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion, where appropriate. When making an appointment, a student does not need to know yet whether they wish to make a formal complaint. These offices have mandates that ensure due process to protect the rights of parties involved in a complaint.

Conflicts should be resolved as close to the source as possible. Students and Supervisors are encouraged to address any issues promptly and informally. The supervisor should document the discussions and keep a record of any agreements made, sharing that record with the student. Before broaching a conversation, or at any point, a student may wish to seek confidential guidance from a Faculty of Graduate Studies Wellness Counsellor or an advocate from the York University Graduate Students’ Association. In the event of a conflict that resists immediate resolution, the student and/or the supervisor may approach the Graduate Program Director (GPD) for advice. While not obligated, the GPD may consider recommending a course of action aimed at setting the supervisory relationship back on good footing.

At any point, students may seek support, including meeting attendance, from the York University Graduate Students’ Association (YUGSA). In cases where the supervisor and the GPD are the same person, a student can seek support from the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS)’ Associate Dean Students.

If conflicts continue to persist exceeding program resolution, any party may seek the advice of FGS’ Associate Dean Students. When FGS becomes aware of a supervisory breakdown, the Associate Dean Students will facilitate mediation between relevant parties. Wherever possible, mediation will be undertaken by someone trained in conflict resolution and mediation. Mediation may or may not involve both parties at one time, depending on the nature of the conflict. The Associate Dean Students may informally involve other parties, including the Associate Dean Graduate in the anchor Faculty, the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and/or relevant York University offices, in a good faith effort toward reconciliation of the parties. The Associate Dean Students may draft a written report, shared with the parties and the GPD, recommending a course of action aimed at setting the relationship back on good footing.

I am a student or supervisor. There is a breakdown in my relationship with my supervisor/supervisee, and resolutions have not materialized.

Who do I contact? 

  • Contact the relevant Graduate Program Director (GPD)

I am a GPD. I have a case of a breakdown in the supervisor-supervisee relationship.

What should I do?

  • You may recommend a course of action aimed at settling the supervisory relationship back on good footing, or
  • Seek the advice of Associate Dean (Students), Faculty of Graduate Studies

The Associate Dean Students will facilitate mediation between relevant parties when a supervisory breakdown has occurred. Mediation may or may not involve both parties at one time, depending on the nature of the conflict.

An illustration explains the graduate student assistance resources in detail

An illustration explaining graduate student support at York University, highlighting service units that assist in situations involving conflict and/or misconduct

If mediation at several levels is unsuccessful or inappropriate, and the Associate Dean Students determines that the supervisor-student relationship is beyond repair, both parties and the GPD will be informed of this determination, which is not punitive but a practical necessity to preserve the well-being of one or both of the parties. The GPD will attempt in good faith to work with the student to find alternative supervision within the unit and will keep FGS apprised of these efforts.  The original supervisor may be enlisted in the effort, though responsibility for finding alternative supervision rests with the program – with the support of FGS – to make diligent efforts in securing alternate supervision. In cases where the GPD is the student’s supervisor, another member of the program executive will assume this responsibility.

If the student refuses to accept the supervision provided, or if no supervision can be secured after diligent efforts are made, then the student is not fulfilling the academic requirement of having a supervisor and, on academic grounds, may be withdrawn.

Patterns of unsatisfactory supervision (e.g., repeated supervisory breakdowns, alternative supervision arrangements, and/or increased student withdrawals) may result in a review of a supervisor’s appointment to the graduate program as per the graduate program’s appointment criteria.

Conflicts related to graduate supervision may connect to, or be informed by, many university policies and procedures. Depending on the nature of the concern, other university and provincial regulations may apply. In all instances, parties can contact FGS’ Associate Dean Students for assistance navigating relevant policies and supports.

Discussion Topics to Inform Productive Supervisory Relationships

Students and supervisors are strongly encouraged to review and discuss the guidelines as a way of clarifying mutual expectations and setting the foundation for a productive supervisory relationship. Please note that Discussion Topics are optional and customizable at the program and supervisory committee levels.

For additional helpful resources supporting graduate supervision for both students and supervisors, please visit Graduate Supervision Resources.