How York University approaches research, teaching, learning, student thriving and its relationships both at the University and with the broader community is at the centre of the University’s new academic plan.
The newly launched 2026-30 University Academic Plan (UAP) offers a set of shared principles to guide academic planning, decision-making and institutional priorities across the University for the duration of the plan.
Interim Provost and Vice-President Academic Laina Bay-Cheng sees the UAP’s principles as a foundation for shaping the University's future development.
"The University Academic Plan reflects where we want to go as a university and what principles will guide us in getting there," says Bay-Cheng. “It reflects values that have been part of York since its founding: an openness to ideas and possibilities and an investment in using those ideas and possibilities to contribute to the communities and world around us."
The UAP was developed through extensive consultation with students, faculty, instructors and staff. It builds on the significant achievements of the 2020-25 University Academic Plan and looks forward to future progress, including the launch of York’s School of Medicine, expanded experiential learning opportunities, stronger support for research and innovation, enhanced career readiness for students, responsible engagement with emerging technologies and continued leadership advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The UAP is organized around six guiding principles designed to provide both direction and flexibility.
Forward-looking Teaching and Learning focuses on preparing students for a changing world by combining disciplinary knowledge with adaptability, critical thinking and the responsible use of emerging technologies.
Creating for Today and Tomorrow emphasizes York's role as a leader in research, scholarship, creative activity and innovation that generates positive impact for society and the public good.
Pathways to Thriving and Success reinforces the University’s commitment to helping students find not only academic and professional success, but also a sense of purpose, belonging and well-being.
Working as Partners highlights the importance of meaningful collaboration within the University and with communities, governments, organizations and industry partners to address complex challenges and create shared opportunities.
Expanding Global Connections reflects York's commitment to deepening international engagement, global learning and intercultural understanding.
Living Well Together recognizes the University's diversity as one of its core strengths and promotes a culture of inclusion, respect and mutual support across its campuses and communities.
Translating the plan into actions and results will require a collective effort from across the University, says Interim President and Vice-Chancellor Lisa Philipps.
"The UAP belongs to the entire York community," says Philipps. "Its success depends on how we bring these principles to life through our teaching, learning, research, service, partnerships and everyday interactions. Every member of the community has a role to play."
For faculty, staff, students and instructors, that begins with sharing their experiences and perspectives. Upcoming drop-in engagement sessions will give community members an opportunity to connect with each other about the purpose and potential of the UAP. The UAP is meant to be broad and inclusive enough that all York community members can see a role for it in their work and a role for themselves in supporting York’s progress.
All York community members are invited to attend the drop-in engagement sessions at the Keele, Glendon and Markham campuses over the coming weeks. Learn more about the sessions and what participants can expect.
For more information about the plan, visit the UAP website.