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Procedures for following the complaints process

This comprehensive guide outlines the procedures students should follow when encountering academic concerns, discrimination, harassment, including sexual harassment, and issues related their studies or academic career at the School of Social Work.

Complaints about academic matters:

Students wishing to express a complaint about academic issues should initially discuss their concerns with the professor giving the course, whether the latter is regular or part-time. If the problem at hand persists, students have the right to consult the professor supervising their program of study, whether at the undergraduate or graduate level. Such problems may relate specifically to course content or to other aspects of the students’ academic experience and learning environment. The Director of the School may become involved if the need presents itself.

In cases pertaining to a master’s research paper or a doctoral thesis:

Students must confer with the professor who is the supervisor of graduate studies in keeping with procedures applicable to dispute in the pairing of students with research paper supervisors.

In the context of discrimination:

If students believe they are victims of discrimination, or witness an incident whereby words, behaviours or attitudes of discriminatory nature are evident, the procedure to follow is laid out in the Statement of Principles in Support of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Once again, initial contact should be made with the professor supervising their program of study. Moreover, it is always possible to contact the University’s Human Rights Office.

In the context of harassment:

Policy 67a - Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination of the University of Ottawa applies. Complaints are filed with the Human Rights Office.

In the context of sexual harassment:

Policy 67b - Prevention of Sexual Violence of the University of Ottawa applies. Complaints are filed with the Human Rights Office.

In cases pertaining to a teaching or research assistant:

Students holding such positions can consult their Collective Agreement and contact their union.

There is also the option of seeking support from either the Undergraduate or Graduate Student Association, as the case may be. Members of these Associations can refer students to various services available on campus, including those offered by the University of Ottawa Students’ Union (UOSU).