Undergraduate Student Guide 2022/2023

Toronto Metropolitan University Email Account

Visit Student Accounts to activate your online identity and troubleshooting activation issues. Your online identity is necessary to access a number of Toronto Metropolitan University resources.

As per Policy 157, students are responsible to manage all communications through their official Toronto Metropolitan University Email Accounts.

 (google doc) Sending Emails to Faculty and Administrators (external link) 

Procedures for Addressing Course-Related Issues

Students are responsible for notifying and consulting with their instructor regarding grades or course management issues. If a student has concerns about a grade they have received, they must contact their instructor within 10 (working) days of receiving feedback, particularly if they wish to request an assignment be reassessed.  If students are reluctant to deal directly with the instructor, depending on the situation, they can consult with the Associate Chair.

It is the instructor and/or Associate Chair’s responsibility to respond in a timely manner in order to informally resolve the issue where possible.

If academic concerns are not resolved informally with the instructor and/or Associate Chair, students may follow the procedure for submitting an Academic Appeal. Grade appeals are filed after the course is completed however, Course Management appeals may be filed at any time during the semester.

Refer to Policy 168 for further details.

Appointment with the Chair

Students should email the Communication Coordinator to request an appointment with the Chair.

Undergraduate Calendar

The Undergraduate Calendar and Student Guide outline Program Curricula, Courses, Significant Dates and Deadlines for students.

Submitting Coursework

All assignment/project submissions are to be submitted directly to and/or coordinated with your instructors.

You are not allowed to drop-off any submissions at the School of Fashion Main Office.

School Council

The School Council is composed of both faculty and student representatives. As a student rep, you will have opportunities to engage with curriculum decisions for Fashion programs. At the first meeting in the Fall semester, student reps will be elected for each year and program. 

Student Rep Responsibilities include:

• Attending a School Council meeting at least once per semester
• Reporting back to students in your year/section the results of the meetings

If you are interested in joining the School Council, you can sign up  (google doc) here (external link) . You will be contacted when our first meeting is scheduled. If you are unable to attend, another student representative will be contacted instead.

Switching Programs

If you are interested in applying to switch programs between Fashion Design (FA001), Fashion Communication (FA002), and Fashion (FA003) contact the Academic Coordinator.

For all other Toronto Metropolitan University programs contact Undergraduate Admissions.

• If you want to switch to another TMU program contact the program department you would like to apply to and the TMU Admissions Department to discuss your options and the application process. 
• Read the Internal TMU Course Transfers page to understand how it works with your credits.
• The courses you will find that are common between Fashion and other TMU programs are:

1. Liberal Studies
2. Open Elective Table

For non-Toronto Metropolitan University programs contact the School/Institutions directly. 

Program Withdrawals

Short-Term Withdrawals

Visit the Short-term Withdrawal page to learn about the policy and process.

• If you do not enrol in any courses for more than three (3) semesters, you will be deemed inactive and ineligible to enrol in courses.
• If you do not enrol and complete any courses for more than six (6) semesters, you will be discontinued from your program.
• An academic year has 3 semesters:
  1. Fall
  2. Winter
  3. Spring/Summer

To return to the program from a short-term withdrawal contact the Academic Coordinator by email.  

Deadlines to apply:

• March 1, to return in Fall
• September 1, to return in Winter

Permanent Withdrawals

Visit the Permanent Withdrawals page to learn about the policy and process.

Fashion and Toronto Metropolitan University Logo Use

In an effort to maintain consistency, official communication to the community such as posters, invitations, etc. whether for class projects or school sponsored activities must be shown to the Communications Coordinator for approval.

Academic Misconduct

Toronto Metropolitan University’s Policy 60 applies to all students at the University. Any behaviour that undermines the university’s ability to fairly evaluate students’ academic achievements, or any behaviour that a student knew, or reasonably ought to have known, could gain them or others unearned academic advantage or benefit, counts as academic misconduct. The most common forms of academic misconduct include but are not limited to plagiarism, cheating or contract cheating, supplying false information to the University, and other acts. Suspicions of academic misconduct are reported to the Academic Integrity Office (AIO).

It is expected that all examinations and work submitted for evaluation will be the product of each student’s individual effort (or an authorized group)

Submitting the same work for credit to more than one course, without instructor approval, can also be considered a form of plagiarism

• Students who commit academic misconduct will have a Disciplinary Notation (DN) placed on their academic record (not transcript) and will be assigned one or more of the following penalties by the AIO:
• A grade reduction or a zero for the work
• For course components worth 10% or less, a grade reduction greater than a zero for the work may be assigned. Any additional penalty cannot exceed 10% of the final course grade. .
• Receive a failing grade (F) in the course 
• More serious repercussions including expulsion from Toronto Metropolitan University

Unauthorized Use of Intellectual Property

The unauthorized use of the Intellectual Property by students for distribution, sale, or profit is a form of academic misconduct that is expressly prohibited, in accordance with Policy 60 (Sections 2.8 and 2.10). Intellectual property includes, but is not limited to:

• Slides
• Lecture notes
• Presentation materials used in and outside of class
• Lab manuals
• Course packs
• Exams

For more detailed information on these issues, please refer to Policy 60 on the Academic Integrity Office website.

Preventing Visual Plagiarism

Students are expected to be the authors of their own work, including visual materials. The AIO has developed guides for preventing plagiarism for students to review.

Non-Academic Conduct

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the educational objectives of the University, in accordance with generally accepted standards of behaviour, and in accordance with Policy 61, the Student Code of Non-Academic Conduct.

Advisement Report

The Advisement Report is a tool that shows all the courses that you have taken or are enrolled in as well as those courses needed in order for you to graduate. Use the Advisement Report to:

• Assist during Course Intention and enrollment to determine outstanding requirements
• Ensure that your course selections fulfil your requirements
• Check the accuracy of your academic record

If you need assistance with understanding the Advisement Report contact the Academic Coordinator.

Prerequisites

Students MUST check the prerequisite for all courses you want to select in the course description. Students must ensure that the prerequisites have been or are in progress of being successfully completed before selecting a course.  

Transfer Credits

Visit the Transfer Credit page for information about the process of applying and eligibility requirements for receiving approval for credits. 

• Questions? Email the Transfer Credit department at tcredits@torontomu.ca. 

If you have taken related University or College courses at another institution you may be eligible for Transfer Credits.  Apply early to avoid taking unnecessary courses. 

Advanced Standing: Recognizes the completion of similar courses or programs by granting admission into a level higher than first semester. If you are eligible for Advanced Standing you will be informed on your Offer of Admission. Also see Degree Completion and Direct Entry.

Fashion does not have an advanced standing option. This means that all applicants apply as first year students.  Once you are offered a seat in the program you can apply for Transfer Credits which are assessed on a credit by credit basis.  What credits you are granted will depend on what courses you took at your previous university.  

Receiving transfer credits may not reduce the length of your program but may reduce the number of courses taken during a particular semester. 

Students can confirm if the credit applies to the degree on the Advisement Report.

• Questions? Email the Academic Coordinator

Concentrations (Fashion students admitted after Fall 2020 and after)

A Concentration provides students the opportunity to develop in-depth knowledge representing a sub-specialization or emphasis within the core of a degree program or major. Courses for a Concentration are selected from the core elective courses offered to students within their degree program or major. Concentrations are optional.

Fashion offers 5 Concentration options:

1. Fashion Communication

2. Fashion Design

3. Fashion Studies

4. Design Leadership

5. Textile & Material Practice

Learn more about the Fashion Concentration options and courses.

 If you are interested in completing a concentration:

1. Read the Concentration Policy Elements

2. Learn more about the Fashion Concentration options and courses.

3. Read the course description for prerequisite requirements.

• For Concentration Advising contact the Associate Chair.

4. Add a Concentration to your MyServiceHub account. 

5. Run an Advisement Report. Your Advisement Report will assist you in planning your Concentration course by identifying the curriculum requirements that you have satisfied and the requirements that remain outstanding.

Liberal Studies Courses 

Students must complete six (6) liberal studies as part of the requirements for graduation in all Toronto Metropolitan University programs.

These studies are offered at two levels:

1. the three (3) Lower (LL), which are normally taken during the first two years of a four-year program, and
2. the three (3) Upper (UL), which are normally taken during the last two years.

Liberal Studies electives listed in the Toronto Metropolitan University Undergraduate Calendar are not all offered every semester or year. Refer to Liberal Studies Section of the Undergraduate Calendar for Liberal Studies Course Information & Restrictions. 

For a list of course offerings visit the Liberal Studies website. 

• Questions? Email the Liberal Studies Department

Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures Courses

If you wish to study a language offered by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures Courses you must complete the placement test. If you have questions, difficulties with the placement test or registering in language course, contact the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures

Questions? Email the Undergraduate Program Administrator, Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures

Fashion students (admitted after Fall 2020 and after) must complete four (4) open elective courses between 2nd to 4th year. 

1. Read the Open Electives Policy
2. Course intend or register for a course and run an Advisement Report. 
   • Your Advisement Report will assist you in planning your Open Elective course by identifying the curriculum requirements that you have satisfied and the requirements that remain outstanding.
3. Liberal Studies courses cannot be used for Open Electives.

• Questions? Email contact Tali Ajimal, Liberal Studies Coordinator, at talwinder.ajimal@torontomu.ca.

1. To use Fashion electives from Core Table I, II, or III as open electives all course requirements from that table must be completed first. 
   • For example, after completing five (5) core Table I electives, if you take a sixth (6th) course from Core Table I it will go to your open elective requirements. Same applies for Core Table II (9 courses) and Table III (3 courses). 

Questions? Email the Academic Coordinator

Minors

Review the Toronto Metropolitan University Minor Policy and outline for the minor you are interested in in the Undergraduate Calendar. 

Questions? Contact that subject’s teaching department with questions about a subject minor and course enrollment issues. 

Course Intend and register for minor courses during the designated course intention and enrollment periods. 

How to Select a Minor for Graduation information is available at MyServiceHub Support.

Course Substitutions and Directives

Course Substitutions and Directives are considered when it is not possible to meet the degree requirements from the courses offered. 

Refer to Course Exceptions (Substitutions and Directives) to download official forms.

Submit your request and form by email to the Academic Coordinator and Associate Chair for review. 

What is Course Intention?

It is the process where you indicate the courses you wish to take in the upcoming academic year via MyServiceHub. It is an important part of the enrollment and scheduling process.

When is the Course Intention Period?

Refer to the Significant Dates for Fall and Winter course intention dates.

Why participate in the Course Intention process?

Your participation is crucial!  

Based on the courses YOU choose, the school will determine how many sections of a particular subject will be offered and how many seats will be allocated for those classes. Courses with low intention numbers may not run. 

Participating in Course Intentions means

• You will have access to priority enrollment in August to amend your schedule
• If you are an OSAP student you will receive your Confirmation of Enrollment in a timely manner ensuring earlier receipt of your funds
• You will receive confirmation of eligibility for the university’s Career Boost program earlier
• You will meet a condition for your renewable entrance scholarship (if you received one)
• You can request a Proof of Enrollment letter and access your RESP funds earlier

Students who do not participate in course intentions

• will not be enrolled in their courses
• are not guaranteed enrollment in their preferred courses and may need to make other selections.
• do not have access to build their schedules during priority enrollment dates
• only have access to build their schedules during the open enrollment period.
  • Options for enrollment during the Open Enrollment Period are based on space availability.
  • Fashion cannot register students prior to the Open Enrollment period.

Course Intention for Required Courses, Core, Liberal Studies and Open Electives

• It is important to course intend for all courses you plan to take, however even with course intention, enrollment is not guaranteed.
• Scheduling conflicts, prerequisites, and high demand are some reasons why you may not get into a desired course. If this occurs, wait until the priority enrollment period to try and register for the same course or pick a different one.

How do I do my Course Intentions?

You must course intend for all the required and elective courses you plan to take in Fall and Winter. You are responsible for making appropriate course choices to satisfy your degree requirements; required courses will not be added for you. Please refer to the Undergraduate Calendar for requirements and course descriptions of all the courses you plan to take.

There are five steps to successfully submit course intentions via MyServiceHub:

Step 1: Login to MyServiceHub and select Student Centre

Step 2: Run an Advisement Report, which will assist you in planning your course intentions by identifying the curriculum requirements that you have completed/satisfied and those that remain outstanding. 

Step 3: Select My Classes Offered link from the Shopping Cart link in the Student Centre to display and select fall and winter courses that are offered to your program. 

Step 4: After selecting the courses and adding them to your Shopping Cart, click the Finish Enrolling button. 

Step 5: Re-run your Advisement Report. This will apply your Course Intentions to your curricular requirements. 

Why can't I course intend?

If you are unable to course intend/register into a course during the designated periods, you are prompted with an “ERROR” message on MyServiceHub giving you the reason why.  For example, Prerequisite Requirements, Outstanding Fees or Library fines will prevent enrollment, even if you have course intended.  

You will not be permitted to register for courses outside the year/program you are currently in until the Open Enrollment period. Priority enrollment is given to the students in the year/program the course is offered first.   

Enrollment

Refer to the Enrollment section of the Curriculum Advising page for more information on Adding, Dropping and Swapping Classes; Course Intentions; Online Enrollment Appointment; Open Enrollment; Auditing a Course; Letter of Permission; and more.

It is the student’s responsibility to choose the appropriate Program and Elective courses. Consult the Undergraduate Calendar and refer to your Advisement Report for guidance.

Fashion Design (FA001) and Fashion Communication (FA002)

(Fashion students admitted after Fall 2019 and prior)

Students must successfully complete two courses from PROFESSIONAL AND PROFESSIONALLY-RELATED Table I, Table II & Table III before graduation.

Fashion (FA003) (Fashion students admitted after Fall 2020 and after)

Fashion Core Elective Table I 

Students must complete five (5) courses total

Fashion Core Elective Table II and Table III

Students must complete a total of 12 of the courses from Table II and Table III including a minimum of three (3) courses from Table III.

Search by My Classes Offered to view a list of Core electives offered in each semester.

If a course is not offered in the Fall semester you should check if it is offered in the Winter semester. If you get NO result for a course in either semester it is not offered.

Enrollment in elective courses is not guaranteed. Scheduling conflicts, prerequisites, and high demand are some reasons why you may not get into a desired course. If this occurs, wait until the designated enrollment dates to try and register for the same course or pick an alternate.

Course intention improves your chances of getting into your preferred electives but does not guarantee a spot. 

Enrollment Dates 

Enrollment Appointment dates are issued by the Office of the Registrar by program year.

The Open Enrollment Period is open to everyone in all programs and years.

Refer to the Significant Dates for Fall, Winter and Spring enrollment dates.

Note: In case you have to repeat courses or take courses offered in other years of your program you must wait until the Open enrollment period to register.

enrollment Requests 

Course section or elective course preferences can only be accommodated for documented health reasons. Schedule conflicts with commutes, internship opportunities, or employment commitments cannot be accommodated. 

If a course/section is full, continue to check MyServiceHub regularly for a spot to possibly open.

Contact the Academic Coordinator if you are unable to get into a required Fashion course. 

Provide the following information in your email:

• First & Last Name
• Toronto Metropolitan University Student Number
• Program Name
• Current Program Year
• Semester (Fall/Winter)
• Course Code, Course Name and Section Number

Note: Enrollment requests must be received by the Academic Coordinator before the deadline to add a course that semester.

Schedules

Your class schedule is released before the start of the term (early August for the fall term and late November for the winter term). You may view your schedule on MyServiceHub by selecting Manage Classes, and then View My Classes or My Weekly Schedule.

As undergraduate course schedules are built for you, you may not be satisfied with the class sections and times into which you have been enrolled. You can adjust your course schedules during your course enrollment period.

While every effort is taken to enrol you into all your completed course intention selections, there may be times when selections cannot be accommodated. To see a list of possible schedule issues and errors, please visit the Course Intentions page.

If your course intentions are not scheduled, you will have an opportunity to make changes to your schedule during the course enrollment period. 

Enrollment help and resources are available here.

Holds

What does a "HOLD" on my record mean?

If you have a HOLD on your record you may not be permitted to course intend. Visit your MyServiceHub Student Centre to view any HOLDS on your record for details and contact information. You will need to clear the HOLD in order to course intend.  

If you receive a HOLD on your account after you course intend, your course intentions may be dropped and will not be added back automatically when the HOLD is cleared. A HOLD may also prevent a course schedule from being created for you. 

Refer to the Significant Dates for course intention and enrollment dates, to confirm your  next opportunity to course intend or enrol for courses. 

Please note, the Fashion department cannot add courses for you, clear a HOLD, or assist until the HOLD is cleared. 

Are you a Fashion Design or Fashion Communication student?

Students in Fashion Design or Fashion Communication that are out-of-phase with their curriculum plan, must run an Advisement Report to review outstanding requirements and should consult the Calendar Archive to refer to the course calendar for the year you started your program.  Please note that some course names have changed since you started the program — your advisement report reflects current course names and codes. 

Questions? Email the Academic Coordinator

Course Outlines 

Course outlines will be posted by the course instructor(s) on D2L Brightspace prior to the first scheduled class. 

The School of Fashion Course Management Policies are included in all course outlines on D2L. 

Contact the instructor with course outline questions or issues. If the outline is not available contact the course instructor to inquire.

If you have questions about course management policies, discuss it with your instructor or Program Director. 

Download and Save your Course Outlines from D2L Brightspace

Course content will not be accessible on D2L Brightspace after the course end date.

1. Click the Online Courses & Organizations tab at MyServiceHub to access D2L Brightspace
2. Select a Course
3. Click Content from the navbar
4. On the left, you’ll see the course Table of Contents
5. Download and Save the Course Outline for all the courses you are registered in

Regular Attendance

For in-person and synchronous virtual classes, regular attendance in their registered section is expected of all students. For virtual or hybrid classes that facilitate some or all asynchronous learning activities, it is the student’s responsibility to keep up with and regularly access course content.  

All scheduled classes begin 10 minutes past the hour; students arriving late will be accommodated at an appropriate time in the class. If a student is found to have attendance irregularities that continue for more than three classes, the instructor may request a meeting to correct the situation. Attendance irregularities include:

• More than one absence without proper documentation
• Lateness to class
• Departing before the end of class
• No evidence of accessing learning resources provided on D2L.

Note: Frequent absences without proper documentation may result in failing the course.

Examinations

Please consult Policy 135 to review the University’s examination policy and procedures. Please be mindful of the following:

• Exams are only to be scheduled during the examination period
• Students who miss an exam or are more than 30 minutes late for a scheduled exam, without documentation, will receive a zero grade
• Final exams will not be returned to students
• Exams are available for review in case of an appeal and are kept on file for a period of one year

Make-up Tests or Exams

Refer to section 5.4 of Policy 166 for more information on making up tests/exams at Toronto Metropolitan University. If a student provides appropriate documentation:

• A make-up will be scheduled as soon as possible in the semester, and where possible, before the last date to drop the course.
• Make-ups will cover the same material as the original assessment but may be in a different format.

To schedule a make-up test or exam you may be required to book an appointment online through the Test Centre.

Late Assignments

All assignments are due as specified on the project brief, in the weekly breakdown and/or course outline. Incomplete assignments will be accepted at the time date specified for the assignment, and evaluated based on the completed elements. 

Late assignments with proper documentation for health or compassionate reasons may be accepted without penalty. Faculty must be consulted prior to requesting extensions; please refer to the Academic Consideration section of this guide for further details. 

Late submissions without documentation will be accepted with a 15% penalty up to seven days past the due date and time. Submissions after seven days will not receive a grade, but may receive feedback. 

Approval is required if an assignment is to be submitted past the final week of class; extra time may not exceed the date and time agreed upon between the instructor and student.

There are no extensions for group work or presentations without documentation for health or compassionate reasons.  

Incomplete (INC) Grades

Under certain circumstances, and only with the approval of the course instructor, a student may be eligible for an INC grade. 

To be eligible for an INC grade students must submit an Academic Consideration request for the outstanding course work, and notify the course instructor in advance of final grades being submitted. 

If an Incomplete (INC) grade is to be issued:

1. The student submits a request for an Incomplete (INC) grade to the instructor. 
2. The instructor and the student must meet before final grades are submitted on MyServiceHub to complete the Incomplete (INC) Grade Update Form. 

Note: If an in-person meeting between the instructor and the student is not possible, an email communication that covers the same details on the Incomplete (INC) Grade Update Form, via your Toronto Metropolitan University email accounts is an acceptable alternative. 

If approved, the instructor will complete the Incomplete (INC) Grade Update form, and submit a copy (with the attached emails, if applicable) to the Academic Coordinator and Associate Chair at least two (2) days before the grade submission deadline.

The Incomplete (INC) Grade From and process is available  (PDF file) here. 

For complete details regarding INC grades, see  (PDF file) Policy 46

Office Hours

Faculty members are typically available for consultation one hour per week for every three hours they teach. Office hours and location will be:

• Included on the Course Outline
• Posted on D2L

Before Going On Exchange

1. Visit The Creative School Outbound Exchange website (click here)
2. Learn about How It Works
3. Learn about Applying and Preparing for Exchange

Questions? Email the International Programs Coordinator at exchange@torontomu.ca

Exchange Course Intention

Course Intention Dates

Course intending for the exchange semester

Course intend and stay registered in Toronto Metropolitan University courses until you leave to go on exchange. This is to hold a spot in courses you may need in case you do not go for any reason. After confirming your exchange plans with the exchange host school you can drop your Toronto Metropolitan University courses, before the deadline to drop a course in the exchange semester.

Course intending the semester prior to returning

Outbound Exchange Students (currently on exchange) must participate in the course intention process for their returning semesters, it is your responsibility to course intend for required and elective courses.

Questions? Email the Academic Coordinator

After Returning from Exchange

Exchange Transcripts

Exchange transcripts are sent by the host exchange school to the International Programs Coordinator at TMU, the semester following exchange.

• Fall semester exchange - transfer credits processed during Winter semester
• Winter semester exchange - transfer credits process during Fall semester

Questions? Email the International Programs Coordinator at exchange@torontomu.ca

Exchange Credits

Credits earned on exchange will appear as CRT on your official transcript and will not contribute to your Grade Point Average (GPA). 

Students who successfully complete a full course load on exchange will receive credit for: 

• One (1) Required course
  • FSN 503 (5th Semester)
  • FSN 707 (6th Semester)
• Two (2) FSN GEN (Fashion General Credits) applied to Core Table II electives
  • The credit is not for a specific Table II Course
• One (1) Open Elective 
  • The credit is not for a specific Open Elective Course

Questions? Email the Academic Coordinator

Liberal Studies Credit

For Liberal studies credit follow the  (google doc) Guidelines for Receiving Liberal Studies Credits While on Exchange (external link) 

Questions? Email the International Programs Coordinator at exchange@torontomu.ca

Academic Accommodation vs. Academic Consideration

Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities:  Policy 159

• Ongoing personalized learning supports are put in place for students that require registration and assessment with the Academic Accommodation Support (AAS) Office.  
• Students are required to communicate their accommodation needs with each of their instructors via the online Accommodation Support system as early as possible in the semester.
• Academic Accommodation does not guarantee academic consideration. 
• Students with academic accommodations who have extenuating circumstances (short term) not related to their academic accommodation are required to submit requests for consideration to their instructor through the ACR system to request alternate arrangements for missed course work.

Academic Consideration (ACR): NEW: Policy 167

• Any request for consideration of a missed assignment or course assessment due to extenuating circumstances e.g. medical, religious or compassionate grounds. 
• Extenuating Circumstances that are of a short-term duration (normally no more than 3 days; see Section 5.3), that have a significant and adverse effect on a Student’s ability to fulfil an academic requirement.
• These requests are submitted via the Senate page (online ACR system).
• Students must also consult with course instructors to notify them that they have submitted an ACR and that they are requesting accommodation.
• Procedures section 3.8: Approval of academic consideration requests is at the discretion of the course instructor, even if ACR documentation is verified. Submission of supporting documentation does not guarantee that academic consideration will be granted. 

Students living with disabilities or ongoing health concerns that may impact their academic functioning can register for Academic Accommodation Support. Individualized academic accommodation plans are developed to assist students to fully participate in their studies. This is a confidential process that values student privacy. 

Refer to Policy 159 for more information regarding Academic Accommodation.

To receive consideration for missed work without penalty, students must submit a request for Academic Consideration (ACR) with the appropriate supporting documentation (usually for health or compassionate reasons).  In addition to submitting an ACR, students must also contact their instructors by email in advance of missing assignments, tests or exams, or as soon as reasonably possible when circumstances do not permit advance notice. 

Students must submit appropriate documentation, within three (3) business days. In extraordinary circumstances, exceptions to the 3-day requirement can be requested if the issues prevent a student from consulting a health professional or obtaining documentation in a timely manner. In such cases, students can request an extension when they submit their online request.

The decision whether to accommodate or deny a request is at the discretion of each instructor based on supporting documentation as well as course learning outcomes, even when an ACR is submitted online and ‘verified’. 

Instructors will notify the student of their final decision.

Refer to Policy 167 for more information on Academic Consideration Requests

How to Submit an Academic Consideration Request

Academic Consideration Requests are submitted online using the form for Online Academic Consideration Requests (ACR).  

NOTE: Do not submit supporting documentation directly to your instructor or by email. Supporting documentation will be verified by the Academic Coordinator and made available for the course instructor to review upon request.

Extenuating Circumstances for Academic Consideration

Health Related Extenuating Circumstances

Supporting documentation may include:

•  (PDF file) Student Health Certificate or letter from an appropriate regulated health professional to be submitted to verify and understand the impact(s) on the student’s   academic performance.  

Non-Health Related Extenuating Circumstances

Students may be required to submit official documentation confirming all applicable date(s) and reason(s) for the missed course time/work. Events, conferences, special occasions, and prior travel arrangements do not qualify for compassionate absence and will not be accommodated. 

Supporting documentation may include:

• Original letter from a counsellor, therapist, religious leader, or community leader
• Travel documents (if applicable)
• Other verifiable documents relevant to the situation

Religious, Aboriginal or Spiritual Observance 

Students must submit their request via the online Academic Consideration Request (ACR) system within the first two weeks of the class or, for a final examination, within two weeks of the posting of the examination schedule. If the dates are not known in advance, submit the request with as much lead time as possible.

Required documentation can be found on the ACR portal.

Athletic Participation/Competition 

Requests based on Athletic Participation/Competition are submitted two weeks prior to missing a class or with as much lead time as possible. For an exam, submit your request within two weeks of the exam schedule release. If the dates are not known in advance, submit the request with as much lead time as possible.

Required documentation includes:

• Letter from the Director of Athletics confirming the request for schedule accommodations or Academic Consideration. 

Appeals can be filed for grade/standing, misconduct or non-academic conduct.

UPDATE: Policy 168: Grade and Standing Appeals

• “Extenuating Circumstances” is introduced as a ground for appeal; we are no longer differentiating between health, and or compassionate
• Emphasis is on informal resolution (where possible) before a student files a formal appeal. The onus is on the student to communicate with the instructor about their concerns and seek a solution (informal resolutions must adhere to Senate policies and procedures)
• Students appealing their academic standing can only remain in courses for 1 term while awaiting the outcome of the appeal process (unless the delay in the process is due to the University).

For appeal deadlines go to Toronto Metropolitan University Significant Dates.

For information about Appeals:

• Toronto Metropolitan University Senate - Appeals
• Toronto Metropolitan University Student Union - Academic Advocacy (external link) 

For Appeals Support contact the Student Rights Coordinator, Toronto Metropolitan Association of Part-time Students (TMAPS, formerly CESAR) (external link) 

Grade Appeals

If a student believes there is a reason for a grade appeal, they should first discuss the issue with the instructor, to seek an informal resolution (where possible) before a student files a formal appeal. The onus is on the student to communicate with the instructor about their concerns and seek a solution (informal resolutions must adhere to Senate policies and procedures). 

If the issue is not resolved or the student is  reluctant to speak with their instructor, then they should email the Associate Chair.

If academic concerns are not resolved informally with the instructor and/or Program Director, students may submit a Grade Appeal.

Students have ten (10) business days from the date of receiving their official final grade/standing to submit their grade appeal. 

Failure to communicate about issues in a timely manner may negatively affect the outcome of an appeal.  

Academic Standing Appeal

An Academic Standing Appeal may be submitted when students have been assigned a Probationary, RTW or PPW status. 

Procedure for Submitting Appeals

• Refer to the Toronto Metropolitan University Senate website for the appeals submission process and application forms. 
• Contact the Academic Coordinator  and Associate Chair with questions about submitting  appeal applications to the Fashion department.
• You are responsible for ensuring your appeal application is complete, incomplete appeals will not be accepted.
• After your appeal is reviewed by the Appeals Committee, you will receive a written response within ten (10) business days of the appeal submission deadline

If a student has faced sudden and serious life events that directly prevented them from meeting the published deadlines to drop a course, they may submit a request for a Late Course Drop or Retroactive Withdrawal from a course or semester. 

Requests for that have been reviewed through grade and academic standing appeals are not eligible for this process.

Late Course Drop

A request to be dropped out of a course after the published deadline to drop courses in good standing and before the end of the exam period, or before the last day to submit a final assignment or course requirement has passed.

Retroactive Withdrawal

A request to be retroactively withdrawn from a course after the course has been completed (i.e. after the final exam or submission of the last course requirement). Fee refunds will not be considered

For security purposes, please ensure that all studio and classroom doors are kept closed.

In an emergency

If you have immediate safety or security concerns call 911

In a non-emergency

Contact Security and Emergency Services:

• Internal phones: 555040
• External phones: 416-979-5040
• Email: security@torontomu.ca
• Victoria Building (VIC), 285 Victoria Street, 1st floor

Learn more about safety protocols and procedures on the Community Safety and Security page of the Toronto Metropolitan University website.  

Blue Emergency Pull Stations

Most studios and labs have blue emergency pull stations. When these are pulled, Security is dispatched to the location immediately.  

Suspicious Activity

If you have any suspicions about activities on campus, report to Toronto Metropolitan University Security 416-979-5040

If You Discover a Fire

Please be mindful of the following:

• If you see, smell or hear a fire, pull the closest fire alarm as you leave the fire area
• Stop the class or other activity when the fire alarms bells sound
• Provide assistance to persons with disabilities
• Do not use elevators
• Wait outside the building as directed by Security or the Fire Wardens

Injuries

First year students receive a presentation about equipment safety given by the Fashion Design Technician;  however,  injuries do happen occasionally. Any injury must be reported immediately to the instructor. 

If a student is injured or distressed contact: 

• Internal phones: 555040
• External phones: 416-979-5040
• After security is contacted, notify
• Manager of Administration, ext 556596, 
• Instructor of the course/project, if applicable

Any injured student should not be working on the industrial equipment for the remainder of the day.  

Reporting a Student Death

This is a sensitive and difficult situation. It is important that the Chair is notified so that proper procedure is followed to notify appropriate people.

Walk Safe 

Toronto Metropolitan University offers a free service that pairs you with a uniformed security crew member to escort you to various locations on campus, including the subway and nearby parking lots.

This Walk Safe service is available to all Toronto Metropolitan University community members, including visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Centre for Student Development and Counseling (CSDC)

The CSDC offers free and confidential professional counseling for all full and part-time Toronto Metropolitan University students. When you book an appointment at the counseling center you will meet one-on-one with a counsellor who will listen to your concerns, provide immediate support and strategies, and work with you to plan next steps. The CSDC offers individual therapy, group therapy and crisis support. Please refer to the CSDC website for additional information on the services available to you and operating hours.

For additional mental health support, you can also connect to the following:

• You can speak with a trained counsellor by phone at any time, by calling the Good2Talk (external link)  line for post-secondary students at 1-866-925-5454
• If you are experiencing an emotional crisis, please contact the Gerstein Centre Distress Line (external link)  at 416-929-5000
• Keep.meSAFE (external link) : All students can access the keep.meSAFE program to seek support 24/7 from a certified clinical counsellor by downloading the My SSP app from the Apple Store or Google Play.  Keep.meSAFE is also accessible with a direct phone call to 1-844-451-9700.
• You may also text 741741 to reach the Ontario Online and Text Crisis Services
• If you need emergency support please contact 911 or if on campus, contact campus security at 416-979-5040

D2L Shell

The School of Fashion Resources shell is available to all students on D2L. This shell is dedicated to providing the materials students will need to access Fashion lab space on campus. Up-to-date lab hours and access information will be posted there.

Students  will find instructional videos for how to use the machines, basic sewing instructions, and basic pattern drafting instructions. Students will also find required materials and helpful documents such as the Photo Studio Booking Agreement, Judy Contract, Book of Standards, and Gerber Accumark Access Presentation.

School of Fashion software, labs, equipment, etc. are for educational and academic purposes only. Personal or commercial use is prohibited.

General Policies

Studios and labs are a privilege arranged for use by Fashion students and faculty. 

Access: Students are required to use their OnaCards to access buildings, classrooms, studios and labs. OneCards are activated at the beginning of each semester based on students’ enrollment. For any OneCard access questions contact: Fashion Communication Technician.  Do not enter any classroom, studio or lab when classes are in session (check schedule on the door).

Please be mindful of the following policies for all of these areas:

• Faculty and students are responsible for cleaning up after themselves
• Unclean studios and labs may result in limitations to access after hours
• No food and drinks allowed
• Glue or other adhesive substances to be used only in designated areas
• Turn off all equipment to prevent damage
• Turn off all lights and close studios after each work session
• All equipment borrowed during class time must be returned to the instructor
• Digital equipment is not available for loan outside of your scheduled class
• Immediately report damaged equipment to the Fashion Design Technician or the Fashion Communication Technician

Computer Labs (KHW 63CAD, KHW 65MAC, KHS 252MAC, KHW 260CAD/MAC)

Please be mindful of the following when using the computer labs:

• Dispose of all excess print papers in the recycling bins
• Do not unplug the computers to charge laptops or cell phones as it prevents the computers from updating

Design Studios (KHS159, KHS 161, KHS 150, KHS 245, KHS 247, KHW 253 sewing equipment studios)

• Please be mindful of the following when using the design studios:
• Pick/sweep up and dispose of all excess fabric scraps, paper, tape, thread, trim, packaging, newspapers, etc.
• Barrels for fabric scraps and recycling for paper are provided
• Fill irons with water when water levels are below 1 inch from the bottom * Never refill when iron is hot, let it cool down until the pressure gauge on the front of the boiler has dropped all the way to (0) zero before opening the water cap.  See QR code for demonstration
• Irons will take a minimum of one week to be replaced if filaments are burnt
• A list of available machines is available here (external link) 

Illustration Studio KHW 259

Please be mindful of the following when using the illustration studio:

• Do not cut directly on the tables, use cutting mats available in the studio
• No cameras or recording devices are allowed 
• If a student needs an accommodation, they are required to obtain permission from the instructor to use a recording device.

To respect the privacy of models:

• Do not enter KHW 259 when classes are in session
• Do not enter the model changing area
• DO NOT photograph or record models
• Do not use the podium projector and sound system, ceiling heaters or portable heaters outside of class
• Do not remove illustration dress forms from KHW 259

Photo Studio KHW 60

• The photo studio is to be used only by Fashion students, faculty, staff and the SRFI, and is only to be used for video and photography purposes.
• No food or drinks are allowed inside the photo studio
• All equipment is to be stored back in its place and the space cleaned at the end of booking
• The user is responsible for any damage caused by misuse of facilities and equipment
• Report any problems with equipment to the Fashion Communication Technician or your Instructor

Booking the Photo Studio 

Download the Photo Studio Booking Agreement (external link) 

Students can now book the Photo Studio in KHW 60 for use. 

Students can book a Photo Studio session for individual or group use. 

The Photo Studio will be open Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM.

Please email Olena directly to make a booking, indicating: 

• Date
• Time
• Session duration

Submitting a booking request does not guarantee access. You will receive a confirmation email from Olena Vivcharyuk. If your requested time is not available, you will be notified

Booking Photo Equipment

• Contact the  Fashion Communication Technician  with your request at least three business days prior to your intended use
• Photo equipment is for in-studio use only and must be returned after the shoot
• Students attending photography courses are given priority
• Closing up the Photo Studio
• After completing a work session, students and faculty are responsible for the following: 
• Photo lights must be switched off
• Unplugged and stowed
• Backdrops rolled up 
• Photo stations must be free of props
• Clean up work area
• Failure to comply with the policies could result in the loss of studio use privileges

The following equipment is available:

• Canon EOS7D and Nikon D7200 cameras (own memory card required); 
• Tripods
• Photo boxes
• Umbrellas & Reflectors
• Special lights
• Black and white backdrops

Pattern Printing (soft white paper) for students: 

Students need to email olena.vivcharyuk@torontomu.ca markers created in Accumark 62" wide with their patterns to print. $10/meter for the printed marker. Turnaround is two business days. Funds will be deducted from their OneCard for printing. Please ensure there are funds available on your OneCard.

Dress Forms/Judies

• Judy assignment, deposit payment, Judy inspection and deposit return procedures are organized through  Fashion Design Technician located in KHW 68 
• The “in-class” Judies will be allocated on a sign-in basis
• It is the student’s responsibility to maintain their Judy and ensure that their Judy remains in the apparel lab to which the students are assigned
• Judies are not allowed out of the School of Fashion area.
• Judies are not to be taken home.

Dress Form/Judy Deposits

• Only applicable to Draping and 4th year Students. Refer to the Judy Contract (external link) . please do not print. The Judy Contract can also be downloaded from the School of Fashion Resources shell on D2L.
• Deposit of $100 per person will be required for the academic year
• In some instances, more than one student may be using or signing up for the same Judy. If this is the case, each student has to pay a $100 deposit. 
• $25 of the $100 deposit will be retained to offset the cost of Judy repairs and replacement.
• The deposit/sign-out requirement aids in maintaining the condition and cleanliness of the form and its mechanisms
• If the Judy is in its original signed out condition (no ripping, marking, vandalism, clean wheels) when inspected by the  Fashion Design Technician, your $75 deposit will be refunded

Penalties 

• Students are financially responsible for any damages to or loss of their Judy. The cost for repairs or replacement of Judies will be calculated on a case-by-case basis
• Fines will be implemented for cases where new marks (pins, pen, pencil, etc.) have been added to the Judy
• Final charges will reflect actual replacement/repair costs
• If charges are not paid, penalties will be applied

Specialty Judies

A selection of specialty Judies are available to students for sign-out on specialized garments or collections. The Specialty Dress forms include:

• Men’s Wear - Torso and Full Body Forms, size 38 and 40
• Women’s Wear - Petite, Tall, Maternity,
• Oversized, Bra Forms, Contour Forms and Pant Forms
• Children’s Wear - Various Sizes

Sewing Machine Accessories

• Accessory pieces like needles, bobbin, bobbin case, presser foot, attachment screws, etc. are supplied in the Fashion Sewing Kit. Students are responsible to maintain their sewing machine accessories. Replacements will NOT be provided by the department. 
• Individual machine accessories are available for short-term sign-out (emergencies) from the Fashion Design Technician, Fashion Design Technician located in KHW 68

Industrial Sergers 

• Industrial Sergers are used for finishing raw edges of cut material
• Most apparel studios have at least one industrial serger
• Tweezers are provided to aid in threading the server. DO NOT remove the tweezers from the drawer.
• A QR code link to a demo on how to thread the sergers will be on the machines.
• A Baby Lock Serger is available for mini serged hem and is available to be signed out from the Fashion Design Technician for on-campus use during office hours

Specialty Apparel Equipment

A variety of specialised items and machine accessories are available for sign-out through the  Fashion Design Technician located in KHW 68. The items are:

• Specialty Sewing/Hemming Feet
• Needle Boards for pressing velvet
• Rolled hem attachments in various widths
• Please use this look to book an appointment to access these items https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/selfsched?sstoken=UUVXbHVITlhVUF9MfGRlZmF1bHR8NDAwYWQ1NzgwOWEyNjg3NGZjMWVkYTdkZDRlZGY4MTg (external link) 

Depending on the item sign-out time limit may vary from two hours, same day return, to 24 hours.

Industrial Irons

• All apparel studios have an industrial steam iron for general class use
• All irons will be refilled and turned on each weekday morning by the Fashion Design Technician
• Students are responsible to maintain water levels
• During heavy use periods irons may need to be refilled during the day so that they do not burn dry 
• The water level should not go below one inch on the water level indicator
• See refilling the boiler instructions below
• Test sample pieces of your fabric first for reaction to heat and steam
• If any materials melt on the iron, notify the Fashion Design Technician so that it can be cleaned and prevent damage to the next user’s fabric
• Students are responsible to turn off the iron as the last person leaves

Refilling the boiler

• The boiler should be refilled only when the iron has cooled off completely and the pressure gauge on the front of the boiler has dropped all the way to (0) zero. 
• Refill the boiler by removing the black knob screw located on the top of the water tank
• Use one of the nearby funnels and full water jugs to refill the tank
• Do not put any other materials in the tank
• Refill to one inch from the top of the glass water level indicator tube located on the front of the water tank (boiler) 
• Once refilled, close and turned on, the iron will take about 30-45 minutes to reach the required heat and pressure
• If you are unsure how to refill the boiler,  ask the Fashion Design Technician in KHW 68
• A QR code will be displayed next to the irons for your reference.

Supplies and Notions

• There is a limited supply of fabrics and notions available free of charge to students. To access the cages to “shop” you will need to make an appointment with the Fashion Design Technician . Here is the link for the appointments https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/selfsched?sstoken=UUVXbHVITlhVUF9MfGRlZmF1bHR8NDAwYWQ1NzgwOWEyNjg3NGZjMWVkYTdkZDRlZGY4MTg (external link) .  Please make sure to state what the appointment is for. The link to the appointment sheet will also be provided by your instructor and noted in your D2L course outline.

The Fashion department has lockers available to students in KHW and KHS. Lockers are available on a first come, first serve basis. Students may only use the lockers that are allocated to the Fashion department. In order to claim a locker, please refer to the  (google sheet) Locker Allocation document (external link)  to see which lockers are for Fashion student use and their location. 

You must bring your own lock, and secure it to an available locker. Only once you’ve secured your locker with your own lock will you be able to complete the  (google form) “Locker Sign Out (external link) ” form. You must complete this form or else your lock will be removed. Any locker with a lock that has not been signed out will be removed and given to another student.

Lockers are available in sewing labs KHS 245 and KHS 247 for upper level students (and students taking classes in those rooms) on a first come first serve basis to store projects. 

Current students can find all relevant and up-to-date information about internships and other opportunities in the “Internship and Opportunities Hub” course shell on D2L. If you have not been automatically enrolled in this shell, please contact Alysia Myette at amyette@torontomu.ca.  

About Internships

Internships should involve educational experiences in the workplace that equip the student with technical and interpersonal skills required to work effectively in both the public and private sectors. After the completion of the internship, students will be able to reflect positively on their experience taking away key transferable skills required in the current Canadian and global labour market(s). 

Visit WSIB (external link)   and familiarise yourself with the legal right you have at work and safety regulations in Ontario. (external link) 

Please also read the Internship & Placement Well-Being Handbook  (external link) before beginning your internship position, to learn more about your rights at work, and how Toronto Metropolitan University supports diversity and inclusion in the workplace. 

Visit Toronto Metropolitan University's Student Code of Conduct,  Policy 61, to understand your responsibilities while representing Toronto Metropolitan University at an external position.

Internship Requirements

• 250 hours of internship/work experience

• Participation in 6 University-led professional development workshops
• Completion of FSN 709: Professional Aspects of Fashion in Fall of your final year

Students must complete a minimum of two (2) internships towards their 250 work placement hours

Students are welcome to find placements that are in the fields of fashion and/or design. The goal of the Internship program is to have students gain experience while in school to support their career objectives. If you aren't sure whether a position will count towards your hours, reach out to Alysia Myette at amyette@torontomu.ca.

Mentorship

Students can also gain internship hours by being P.R.A.D.A. or Tri-Mentoring mentors.

For Outgoing Curriculum, Fashion Design or Fashion Communication (2023/2024)

Students who entered the program Fall 2019 or before are required to enrol into FSN 402 Internship in their final year of study in the Winter semester. The academic requirements for internships are as follows:

• A minimum of 250 hours of internship/work experience is required.

• The remaining 150 hours can be made up of any combination of work experience and/or University-led workshops.

FITS

Prior to beginning an internship, students must ensure that their profile on the FITS portal is complete.

Students can then begin an application for their internship position by creating “new projects” in FITS. Students must complete your application within two weeks of starting at your position. The system will not allow students to input dates for applications over two weeks prior to the date they create their application.

Students must complete, sign, and submit the following forms via FITS within two weeks of starting their internship placement: 

• Student Liability Waiver and Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB) Forms 
• Student Declaration of Understanding 
• Letter to Placement Employers 

To be classified as a paid internship, students must be paid at least the provincial minimum wage. Internships that provide allowances, honorariums, reimbursements of expenses and/or stipends are all classified as unpaid internships.

How-To

For more detailed information on uploading your internship, and to consult a list of frequently asked questions, please see the How to Internship (external link) 

For information about uploading a Career Centre workshop onto the FITS portal, please see How to Workshop with Career Centre (external link) .

Forms

• Unpaid placement form (external link) 
• Paid placement form (external link) 

Finding an Opportunity

Toronto Metropolitan University facilitates students’ employment search by providing a number of opportunities that employers submit to the Internship and Outreach Coordinator at the School of Fashion: (Alysia Myette)

Visit the Career Centre for careers & job search guide, student employment sources, job matching technology, networking events and more.

Visit Tri-Mentoring for Career Mentoring, Community Outreach & Programming, Group Mentoring, Summer Internship Program and more.

If you have an opportunity to submit, please contact Alysia Myette at amyette@torontomu.ca.  

Introduction

The purpose of this document is to support student groups with the development and execution of their projects and programs. Student groups within the School of Fashion are responsible for following the policies, protocols and procedures outlined in this guide.

What is a Student Group?

Toronto Metropolitan University has a vibrant campus community made up of over 200 student clubs and organizations. Most of these groups allow for the opportunity to be involved however you would like, from being a general member who attends events when possible to running for an executive position. There are so many groups to choose from, and if you can’t find one that matches your interests, guess what? You can create one!

All student groups at TMU should register with the Toronto Metropolitan Student Union (TMSU). The TMSU has three different types of groups within our organization: 

Course Unions: Every program at TMU has a course union representing the students enrolled in that program. Your course union is the most direct connection to the larger TMSU. Course Unions run events to build community in the program, address student concerns, and advocate for their students to the university and the TMSU.

Student Groups: Student Groups range in purpose and mission but all generally aim to build a community around a shared interest, culture, activity, etc. There are Student Groups that are aimed at students who belong to a certain faith, culture, or ethnic background, but most groups are open to anyone to join.

Affiliate Groups: Affiliate Groups are groups that belong to a third-party organization, but operate specifically on the TMU campus. Often these are professional organizations or groups that focus on an issue across the country.

Student Groups at the School of Fashion

• Black Fashion Student Association (BFSA) (external link) 
  
• Asian Fashion Student Association (AFSA) (external link) 
• The Beading Circle (external link) 
• Style Circle (external link) 
• Sustainable Fashion Initiative (SFI) (external link) 

Operating and Administrative Policies

All official student groups within the School of Fashion must be supported and guided by a full or part time faculty member. While student groups are meant to be student-run, the faculty member should guide student group operations, programming, communications to ensure they are in compliance with School of Fashion and Toronto Metropolitan University policies. Usually, each student group assigns different responsibilities to different team members. One of the most important roles to be assigned is the Financial Coordinator. All student groups, and specifically Financial Coordinators, are responsible for:

• Preparing and managing the budget

• Soliciting donors and sponsors

• Pitching to Student Funding sources & submitting final reports

• Writing grant proposals

• Monitoring budgets (tracking income and expenses)

• Following Toronto Metropolitan University and the School of Fashion financial policies and process

Contacts

We believe that ongoing communication between the school (both faculty and staff) and student groups is very important. Here is how you can contact us:

For support with budget set up and financial advice, please contact:

Cira Nickel, Manager of Administration

KHS 243K

cira.nickel@torontomu.ca (416) 979-5000 ext. 556596

For support with room booking and to share upcoming events on the School of Fashion social media platforms, please contact:

Brittany Paty, Communication and Reception Coordinator

KHS 243K

brittany.paty@torontomu.ca

(416) 979-5000 ext. 555333

For support with internship hours and troubleshooting with the Fashion Internship Tracking System (FITS), please contact:

Alysia Myette, Internship Coordinator and

Administration Coordinator

KHS 243K

amyette@torontomu.ca

(416) 979-5000 ext. 556596

Funding your Student Group

Fashion student groups are responsible for securing their own funding from various sources available specifically for student initiatives.

Student groups cannot apply for funding from their departments.

All student groups are encouraged to register with the Toronto Metropolitan Student Union (TMSU) for access to student group funding. Please do so by visiting Your TMSU Groups (external link)  or contacting campus student groups by email at: campusgroups@yourtmsu.ca.

Below is a list of funding sources available to student groups. Please be advised that students are responsible for applying for funding, submitting relevant documentation, ensuring funding is received and submitting final reports and cheque requisitions to their funders. Students are responsible for following the policies of each funding source.

Student Initiatives Fund (SIF)

The Student Initiatives Fund (SIF) is a grant-funding, standing committee that reports to the Student Services Advisory Committee. SIF is administered by the Department of Student Life on behalf of the Vice Provost Students, Toronto Metropolitan University. An individual or student group can submit a SIF application for one initiative per semester. New initiatives are eligible to receive up to $5,000 and established initiatives are eligible to receive up to $2,500.

Funding decisions are made by the committee depending on the merit of the proposal and its benefit to the Toronto Metropolitan University community.

For more information, please visit the Student Life Learning Support website.

Quick Tip: When submitting a budget during the application process, successful Student Groups have requested SIF funding to cover larger expenses, such as website development, or venue/gallery/theater rentals (which tend to be a few thousand dollars). If you do this, it will make it easier for you when you submit your final report, because you’ll only have to submit a receipt for one large expense vs. multiple receipts for smaller expenses.

The Society at the Creative School

The Society at The Creative School (formerly the Ryerson Communication and Design Society) was born out of a need for students to have their voice heard on our campus and represents around 6000 creative students from varying disciplines and experiences.

Note: April 1st is the deadline for reimbursement requests, and SCS will not be able to extend this for year-end shows. SCS suggests allocating expenses that cannot be made in advance of this deadline to other funding sources, such as SIF or sponsorships.

The Society funding works via reimbursement. Collect all receipts and submit your claim on  (google form) The Society’s Google Form (external link) 

Quick Tip: When submitting a budget during the application process, successful Student Groups have requested The Society funding to cover larger expenses, such as website development,or venue/gallery/theater rental deposits (which tend to be a few thousand dollars).

If you do this, it will make it easier for you when you submit your final report, because you’ll only have to submit a receipt for one large expense vs. multiple receipts for smaller expenses. For more information, visit The Society at The Creative School website (external link)  or contact: funding@societyofthecreativeschool.ca

Donations and Sponsorships

Donations

Many student groups approach donors and sponsors to support their projects. The donation and sponsorship processes are different. Please read the below carefully:

A donation is a financial contribution or gift made to a Student Group. Donors receive a tax receipt (whereas sponsors do not receive one). A tax receipt gives an income tax advantage to individuals or businesses that donate, helping to reduce the income tax that they owe.

To make a donation, please direct the donors to Support the Creative School page.

Student groups could also request their own donation page. This can be discussed with the Manager, Operation, Finance and Administration, Cira Nickel.

If a donor wishes to donate something other than a monetary gift, such as equipment, computers or other personal property, this is called a gift-in-kind. It also may be eligible for a tax receipt, but may require a formal appraisal to determine the value.

Please bring any inquiries to the School’s Manager before accepting a gift-in-kind.

Food/beverage donations are not eligible for gift-in-kind tax receipts.

Sponsorships

A sponsorship is a financial contribution made to a Student Group in return for a benefit to the sponsor individual or organization (i.e. advertising). A sponsor can claim the contribution as a business entertainment expense.

Departments within Toronto Metropolitan University are considered sponsors (excluding SIF & SCS). For internal sponsorships, the funds will be transferred internally so it is very important to inform the Manager, Operations & Administration on all internal sponsor requests.

Fundraising Events

On-campus fundraising events, like equipment sale, can be organized on campus. Payments can be collected using OneCard. You can coordinate this with the department’s admin team.

Ticket Sales

We highly recommend using ePly, Toronto Metropolitan University’s approved process to facilitate registration and online payments. Please make sure to discuss this option with the Manager, Operations & Administration to provide the support you need.

Payments: Goods and Services

Reimbursements

For small purchases, students can pay for the items out of pocket and submit the receipts to the appropriate funder for reimbursement.

Payments

For larger purchases, up to $5,000, and when the vendor accepts credit card payments, students can contact the School of Fashion’s Manager of Administration to facilitate payment for goods and services via the Toronto Metropolitan University purchasing credit card.

Note: Students are responsible for obtaining a proper invoice from the vendor and forwarding the invoice to the School of Fashion Manager of Administration, Cira Nickel, for payment.

Finance department’s standard terms of payment for purchase requisitions is NET 30 DAYS. However, please inform the vendor that the cheque may take up to 6 - 8 weeks to arrive at their mailing address.

On- Campus Services

On-Campus Catering: TMU Eats

If purchasing catering from TMU Eats (external link)  (Toronto Metropolitan University’s in-house catering) for an on-campus event, TMU Eats Eats will charge the cost of the catering back to the Image Arts department as a “chargeback.” You will not need to present a credit card or cheque for payment.

Please contact the School of Fashion’s admin, Cira Nickel, for your Student Group’s cost centre, which TMU Eats will require. Once TMU Eats issues an invoice, please forward this to Cira Nickel, so that we can ensure that the department (and your Student Group) is being properly billed.

Contact Ryerson Eats: tmucatering@torontomu.ca

Catering Manager, Silvana Babikian: silvana.babikian@torontomu.ca , 416-979-5000 ext. 556956

*If you mention to Silvana that you are a Student Group depen-dent on fundraising, they usually give reduced rates.

On-Campus Printing: 

For high volume printing, larger paper sizes, colour copies, orspecial requests such as laminating or binding we encourage you to use the university’s Duplication & Printing Services (DPS) located at 105 Bond Street. PDFs for printing can also be submitted digitally.

For more information, please visit the University Business Services website.

DPS requires a cost-centre for all job submissions so please consult with Hongen Nar prior to submitting your files for printing.

If you choose to use a third-party printing service such as Sherwood Printin (external link) g, you will need to pay in advance and then submit the form for reimbursement. The process of logging your print job in the binder is both outdated and no longer available.

On-Campus Room Rentals:

For all room booking services within the School of Fashion (labs, classrooms or board room) please contact Brittany Paty at brittany.paty@torontomu.ca.

When contacting Brittany Paty to book your space, please include the following information:

•  Student Group Name
  
• Booking contact name (your name or the name of the individual creating the booking)
• Date
  
• Time/Duration of booking
• Accessibility needs
• Technology needs (ie. projector, media cart, etc.)
• Preferred location (room number)
• Type of event (ie. workshop, meeting, etc.)

School of Fashion Rooms available for booking: 

The Fashion Boardroom: KHS 148

Fashion Multipurpose Labs: KHW 259, KHS 252, KHS 50

Fashion Labs are only available outside of class hours. Priority will be given to course instruction and faculty initiatives. If you would like to use the equipment in a classroom (computer lab, sewing machines) for an event, reach out with a specific request, and we will try to accommodate.

Student groups registered with the Toronto Metropolitan Student Union (TMSU) are also able to book locations on campus for events at no cost by accessing the campus event spaces website. (external link) 

A: Students can purchase either a MAC or PC, depending on their preference and budget. We recommend that a 1TB (terabyte) external harddrive is purchased to back-up work.

A: Course material requirements are administered by course instructors and communicated via course outlines and D2L course shells. The best point of contact to inquire are your course instructors.

A: We support students throughout their journey at the School of Fashion by offering them opportunities to help accomplish educational and life goals. Visit Awards & Scholarship for more information.

A: Course Intention is the process where you indicate the courses you wish to take in the upcoming academic year via MyServiceHub. Course Intention is mandatory for all students. Please refer to Fashion Undergraduate Student Guide for detailed information.

A: Students should apply for transfer credits as early as possible to avoid taking unnecessary courses.

Find further information on TMU's Transfer Credits page to determine your eligibility and start the process. 

Please refer to Fashion Undergraduate Student Guide for detailed information.

A: We recognize the importance of encouraging students to expand their global perspective. Visit Exchange, Global Campus Studio, Short-Term Intensive Courses for more information.

A: Visit the following links to contact the appropriate people in Fashion.

For inquiries about your Academics, please contact Niki Makropoulos.

For Internship questions, please contact Brittany Paty

For information and questions related to your courses, please contact your course instructor.

For any further concerns, or emergency, please concact the Associate Chair, Kim Wahl.