The dean of graduate studies is responsible for the overall administration of graduate programs through the graduate general regulations, for maintenance of student records, and for the administration of all merit-based awards. Processing of graduate admissions is delegated to the dean by the senate graduate studies committee.

Most graduate programs are administered locally through graduate program committees in the departments, schools and faculties in which they are located. The dean of graduate studies administers individual special arrangements programs and graduate certificate programs.

Individual Special Arrangements

Individual students may apply by December 1 of any given year to the dean of graduate studies for admission to an individual special arrangements program. Applicants should request an application package from the graduate studies office at least three months prior to this deadline.

In addition to regularly scheduled courses in established graduate programs, SAR courses are also open to special arrangements students.

Cohort Special Arrangements

See 1.3.5.a Cohort Special Arrangements within graduate regulations.

These programs are designed to meet the needs of specific groups of students pursuing a master’s degree in a field that is not covered in existing programs. Programs are advertised when they become available.

Certificate Programs

See 1.3.13 Certificate Programs within graduate regulations.

Graduate certificate programs are combinations of courses completed while a student is pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree program.

Visiting Research Students

Simon Fraser University accepts visiting research students under the terms of the Canadian Graduate Student Research Mobility Agreement. For details, see the Graduate Studies website at www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies. Students attending Simon Fraser University under this agreement must enrol every term for the course GRAD 800.