Academic Support
Academic Support
The Western Libraries system has seven locations throughout campus that provide access to physical collections, individual and group study spaces, printing and copying facilities, online library resources and wireless access. Online you will find short videos and guides that answer questions about library research, citations, writing, accessing resources, library services and more. In addition, helpful staff members are available to provide assistance.
Located on the Fourth floor of Western Student Services, Learning Skills Services counsellors provide information and support to help Western students achieve academic success. They provide services to undergraduate and graduate students, students experiencing academic setbacks, as well as students wanting to maintain exceptional academic standing.
The Office of the Ombudsperson assists students with academic and non-academic university-related concerns and problems, and in reviewing their rights to appeal or petition substantive matters (for example: grades, scholastic offenses, progression requirements, fees, fines, etc.).
Writing Support Centre’s goal is to help you develop your skills and realize your potential as a writer. They offer free comprehensive writing support to students, faculty, staff and all other members of the Western University community.
Academic Resources for Graduate Students
To better understand your rights and responsibilities as a graduate student at Western, please refer to Graduate Supervision Handbook online. This document defines Western’s expectations for supervisors as well as for students. It also provides guidelines on a variety of topics, including how to appropriately resolve conflicts with your supervisor.
The School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (SGPS)
If you have concerns that cannot be addressed by your program chair or coordinator, you can contact SGPS. Visit their website for more information about financial support, the Graduate Education Council, GradPath (an online portal for professional development opportunities) and The Wire (which includes a list of campus events, programs and important deadlines).
Centre For Teaching and Learning
The Centre for Teaching and Learning supports faculty members, graduate students and staff who are teaching and learning at Western University. They offer training for international graduate students and new teaching assistants, such as “Communicating in the Canadian Classroom,” and “Language of Research Presentations” workshops, and the Graduate Teaching Assistant Conference (ITA Day).
Academic Resources for Undergraduate Students
Academic Counselling Academic counsellors are available in each faculty to help students with any academic questions or concerns they may have such as: course selection, accommodation for missed assignments or exams, special permission, progression requirements, appeal procedures and interpretation of policies. Contact your faculty Dean’s office to make an appointment.
SmartStart Western is a series of web-based, zero-credit courses offered throughout the summer to support the academic transition of new undergraduate students to Western.
Offered as a collaboration between the Faculty of Education and Western Student Experience, SmartStart will provide incoming students with a foundation for their academic journey.
Visit the Smart Start website to learn more about the SmartStart: Learning program, followed by SmartStart: Academics in August. All new international students are encouraged to participate.
Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) Centre
Before paying for a tutor, get free assistance in PAL Centre. You can discuss general or subject-specific learning concerns with a Learning Peer (senior student volunteer) in a supportive environment and develop learning strategies to achieve your academic goals. Help is available five days a week during the fall and winter terms.
Subject-specific support is available for various courses including:
- Social Sciences (MOS, Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Geography, Political Science)
- Business (Business Administration 1220)
Please visit the Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) Centre for information on other subject-specific support)
Leadership and Mentorship Program
Through the Student Success Centre's Leadership and Mentorship Program (LAMP) students can request an upper year Peer Mentor from their Faculty or Program. LAMP Mentors provide academic and social support to offer a successful transition to university life.
See also: Academic and Career Wellness
