bcit reference guide - 2013
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BCIT Reference Guide - 2013TRANSCRIPT
BCIT REFERENCE GUIDE your pocket guide to resources and services
Brought to you by the BCIT Student Association.
Feedback? [email protected]
Contents
What is the BCIT Reference Guide? ............................................. 2
Frequently Asked Questions ......................................................... 2
Academics ............................................................................................ 4
Knowing Your Program ............................................................................. 4
Program Advising ...................................................................................... 5
Educational Support ................................................................................. 5
Student Services ................................................................................ 7
Student Association Services .................................................................... 7
BCIT Student Services................................................................................ 8
Transportation ........................................................................................ 10
Problem Solving ............................................................................... 11
Student Rights and Responsibilities ......................................... 13
Academic Issues ...................................................................................... 14
Non-Academic Issues .............................................................................. 15
Student Governance and Leadership ....................................... 17
Governance ............................................................................................. 17
Leadership Opportunities ....................................................................... 18
Supporting Diversity ...................................................................... 20
Financial Aid ..................................................................................... 21
BCIT and Your Finances ........................................................................... 21
Funding Opportunities ............................................................................ 22
SA Funding and Awards .......................................................................... 22
Shopping on Campus ...................................................................... 23
Satellite Campuses .......................................................................... 24
Contacts .............................................................................................. 26
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What is the BCIT Reference Guide? The BCIT Reference Guide is a resource created by the BCIT Student
Association that aims to provide easy-to-read information about the
various aspects of life at BCIT.
What is the BCIT Student Association?
The BCIT Student Association (SA) is an independent, not-for-profit
organization that is directed by a team of elected student executives.
The SA’s mission is to be an advocate for students and provide services
that are student-centred, responsive, and pro-active in supporting and
enhancing the quality of student life. The SA also runs several retail
outlets on campus and is responsible for clubs, events, the student
health and dental plan, and a multitude of other programs, services, and
campaigns.
Where is the Student Association located?
The SA offices are in building SE2 of BCIT’s Burnaby campus. The SA
administrative and executive offices are located on the third floor, and
the Uconnect Resource Centre, is located just off of the Great Hall on
the second floor. Expansion plans began in October 2012 to add
additional student-centred spaces on both the second and third floors.
You can reach the SA by phone at 604.432.8600 or online at
www.bcitsa.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions Q: How do I know if I’m covered under the Student Health and Dental
Plan?
A: All students in designated full time programs of 16 weeks or longer
are automatically enrolled in the Student Health and Dental Plan.
Students can check their registration fees through their myBCIT
account to confirm when coverage begins and ends, or contact the
Health Plan Coordinator in the Uconnect Resource Centre at
604.456.8056 / [email protected] for more information. Students
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are responsible for obtaining basic medical coverage such as a BC
Care Card (MSP) or comparable basic coverage from their country or
province of origin.
Q: As an international student, am I eligible for coverage under the
Student Health and Dental Plan?
A: Yes, as an international student you are covered under the plan as
long as you meet the eligibility criteria listed above. If you don’t have
basic medical coverage, you can purchase Student Guard through
the International Student Centre and/or sign up for MSP within three
months of moving to BC.
Q: Who can I talk to about financial aid?
A: The Student Financial Aid and Awards department, located in SW1
Room 2303, provides students with information on the various types
of financial assistance available.
Q: I don’t agree with a grade I received – is there anything I can do?
A: The SA Advocate is available to provide information about the
academic appeals process, and discuss the options available to you.
Typically, however, the first step to take would be to contact your
instructor and request a meeting to review the grade in question.
Contact the Advocate at 604.456.1161 / [email protected].
Q: Where can I find out about volunteer opportunities?
A: Come by the Uconnect Resource Centre in SE2 Room 286 – there are
ongoing volunteer opportunities available to students on campus
throughout the year. The Uconnect also maintains a volunteer board
with volunteer opportunities available in the greater community and
an online volunteer registration form accessible via www.bcitsa.ca.
Q: Where can I find the most up to date information about upcoming
events that the SA is putting on?
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A: Visit the SA webpage at www.bcitsa.ca or Facebook at
www.facebook.com/bcitsa for all the info you could ever want or
hope to know about the goings on at the SA.
Q: I’m thinking about running for an elected position in student
government – where can I find information about how the elections
process works?
A: Every year in March, all the relevant information about elections is
posted on the SA website, in addition to printed materials
(nomination forms, available positions, etc.) that are made available
at the SA main office located in SE2. Alternately, contact the VP
Student Affairs at [email protected] to learn more about
how student elections work at BCIT.
Q: I’ve heard talk about a program called Peak Leadership but don’t
know any specifics – where can I find out more information?
A: Peak is an extracurricular program that provides students the
opportunity to gain leadership and professional development skills.
Peak participants choose from a variety of sessions to attend,
commit to a minimum of 15 hours of volunteer work throughout the
school year, and complete a self-reflection activity. Applications are
due in September and the program runs through April. For more
information come to the Uconnect or visit the SA website at
www.bcitsa.ca.
Academics
Knowing Your Program
It is important for students to understand the administrative structure
of their academic programs in order to know whom best to contact with
questions and for support when necessary. In addition to the Instructors
who students typically interact with on the most regular basis, Program
Heads and Chief Instructors provide administration for their respective
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program areas. The Associate Deans oversee a group of program areas
within a particular school at BCIT, and the Deans are the senior
academic administrators for each of the six schools within BCIT –
Business, Computing and Academic Studies, Construction and the
Environment, Energy, Health Sciences and Transportation.
Program Advising
Program advising is available to students seeking direction about the
many programs offered at BCIT. Whether a student is coming directly
from secondary school, is looking to return to post-secondary to
enhance the professional experience they already have, or is new to
Canada and interested in learning about educational opportunities
available at BCIT, Program Advising staff can help guide students about
the various options available at BCIT. Program Advising is available in
person at the Burnaby and Downtown campuses and can be contacted
at 604.434.1610 / 1.866.434.1610 (toll free).
Educational Support
Audio/Visual
BCIT provides access to a variety of audio/visual equipment and related
services for instructional, academic, and administrative purposes. At the
Burnaby campus, contact audio/visual services at 604-432-8780 /
[email protected] / SE12 Room 104 and at the Downtown Campus,
contact [email protected] / 604.412.7620 / Room 252 for more
information. At the other satellite campuses, please contact
support/administrative staff for site-specific services available or visit
the BCIT audio/visual website at www.bcit.ca/avservices/.
Computer Labs
BCIT offers computer labs on a general use and restricted access basis.
General use labs can be booked through the timetabling department,
while restricted access labs are managed by IT services or departments.
Specific computer lab locations at each campus can be found online
under the Student Services tab of the BCIT home page.
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CTRL P – Printing Services
Ctrl P is a print shop operated by the SA at the Burnaby campus. Located
on the second floor of SE2, Ctrl P offers a wide range of services offered
at student friendly prices, including business card printing, colour
printing, copying, coil and cerlox binding, laminating, scanning, and wide
format printing. Hours of operation are as follows: Monday, Tuesday,
and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Wednesday and Friday from
7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Bring in a USB drive or email your files directly to
Disability Resource Centre
The Disability Resource Centre (DRC) is available to students with
temporary or permanent disabilities. Some examples of assistance
offered by the DRC are, exam accommodations, alternate format
textbooks, and adaptive technology. Please contact the DRC for more
information about accessing their services at 604.451.6963 /
[email protected] / SW1 Room 2360.
Library Services
BCIT’s main library is located in building SE14 on the Burnaby campus. In
addition, the Marine campus and Aerospace Technology campus both
have specialized libraries.
ehPod
Located on the lower level of the main library at Burnaby campus, the
ehPod provides students with 24-hour access to a computer lab and
study space. Your BCIT ID Student Card grants you access 24/7 via the
south side exterior door.
Learning Commons
The Learning Commons offers a wide array of services in support of your
academic career at BCIT – from peer tutoring, to seminars, conversation
groups, study space and a writing centre. The Learning Commons is
located on the third floor of the Burnaby campus library. More
information can be found online at www.bcit.ca/learningcommons.
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MediaWorks
MediaWorks is a self-service, no-charge production facility available to
students and staff. MediaWorks offers free consultation with anything
from video editing, to graphic facilitation, PowerPoint, Prezi, Photoshop,
recording, digital conversion, and much more. Contact MediaWorks at
604.454.2220 / SE14 Room 131 for more information or to book an
appointment.
Study Rooms
Study rooms are available for student use in the library and Gateway
building (SW 1). Bookings must be made in person at the library service
desk, and can be made up to one week in advance at charge of $1.00.
Student Services
Student Association Services
Uconnect Resource Centre
The Uconnect serves as the hub for all SA related student services and
programming. From the student health and dental plan, to the advocacy
office, bursaries, student clubs, Peak Leadership, tutoring, volunteer
opportunities, a monthly produce delivery and a host of other FREE
programs and services, this is the place to go to get connected as a BCIT
student. The Uconnect is open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Questions about any of the programs or services run out of the
Uconnect can be directed to 604.451.7087 / [email protected] / SE2
Room 286 (next to the Great Hall).
Student Agenda
The SA produces a student agenda every year available to BCIT students
free of charge. The agenda includes a day planner, calendar, and other
useful information to help students stay organized. Pick up your agenda
throughout the year at the Uconnect Resource Centre in SE2. Agendas
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are also available for delivery at satellite campuses or by contacting
604.456.1168 / [email protected].
The Link newspaper
The Link is a biweekly newspaper that is written for and by students.
Articles focus on life and news at BCIT, student issues, entertainment,
humour, culture, and many other topics, as well as a regular column
written by your elected Student Executives. Newsstands can be found
throughout all BCIT campuses. Students are encouraged to contact The
Link if they would like to contribute an article or write a review for a
movie, concert, or album. Contact the SA publications manager at
[email protected] / 604.456.1167 for more information about how
to get involved with The Link.
Child Care Centre
The SA is moving forward with plans to open a Child Care Centre in
January 2013. The Child Care Centre will be located in SE41 and will
have a total of 25 spots available for children between the ages of 30
months and five years. If you are interested in reserving a spot, please
contact [email protected] or visit www.bcitsa.ca for more
information.
BCIT Student Services
Aboriginal Services
Aboriginal Services provides a wide variety of services to Aboriginal
students at BCIT. The Aboriginal Gathering Place on the Burnaby
campus is a place where students can access peer mentorship, tutoring,
study space, learn about scholarships and bursaries, and to connect
with others. Aboriginal Services also puts on regular workshops, speaker
series, and a monthly traditional sweat lodge ceremony, among a host
of other services. Contact Aboriginal Services in the Gathering Place at
604.432.8474 / [email protected] / SW1 Room 1521.
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Counselling and Student Development
BCIT Counselling and Student Development offers students free
counselling services, online resources for personal and career
development, and workshops throughout the year. To make an
appointment, contact Counselling and Student Development at
604.432.8608 / SE16 Room 128.
Disability Resource Centre
Refer to the Academics section of this guide under Educational Support.
Housing/Residence
On-campus housing is available at Burnaby campus to BCIT students
enrolled in both long-term, full time programs and shorter-term
(including apprenticeship) programs. Application information and
additional off-campus housing resources can be found online at
www.bcit.ca/housing, or by contacting the Housing office at
604.432.8677 / [email protected] / SW 11 Salish House.
Recreation Services
Burnaby’s main campus offers a full range of recreation facilities,
instructional courses, intramural sports, and drop-in programs
throughout the year. A wide variety of equipment rentals are also
available to students. Contact Recreation Services for more information
at 604.432.8612 / SE 16.
The Aerospace Technology, Marine, and Great Northern Way campuses
also have weight room facilities available to students. Hours of
operation are as follows:
Aerospace Technology campus: weekdays from 6:15 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Great Northern Way campus: weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Marine campus: weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
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Student Health Services
BCIT’s Student Health Services offers a range of medical services from
acute to emergency care, immunizations, travel medicine, and more.
Health Services offers convenient access to physicians and registered
nurses. Immunization clinics are also offered routinely at all satellite
campuses throughout the year. Clinic hours are Monday to Fridays,
from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (reduced summer hours in effect from June
to August). Contact Student Health Services at 604.432.8608 / SE 16
Room 128.
Student ID Card
The BCIT ID Student Card serves as identification for all current students
and provides access to a wide range of services at BCIT. The card allows
students to reserve study space and meeting rooms, borrow library
materials, utilize recreation and athletic equipment and services, and
much more. Students are also eligible for a variety of discounts with
their card – more information about participating companies that offer
discounts can be found on the SA website at www.bcitsa.ca. Students
can get an ID online at www.bcit.ca/card or in person at any BCIT
campus. For more information contact 604.451.6890 / [email protected].
Transportation
Cycling
All BCIT campuses have bike racks and/or lockers and shower/change
facilities available to students and staff. The BCIT Bicycling Committee is
an additional resource available to students and staff. Visit
www.bcit.ca/cycling for more detailed information about cycling at
BCIT.
Parking
Paid parking is available to students at all BCIT campuses. Vehicles must
display a valid BCIT parking permit or ticket purchased from a parking
ticket dispenser, be registered with E-permits or have purchased a
parking space through the pay-by-phone system. E-permits allow
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students to purchase weekly passes - visit www.bcit.ca/parking or
contact the parking control coordinator at [email protected] for more
information.
U-Pass BC
The U-Pass BC is a student transit program that provides discounted
three-zone Translink passes for $30 per month. BCIT students enrolled
in full-time studies programs automatically receive a U-Pass. Students
can pick up their U-Pass in person at the Burnaby campus main library.
Alternately, students studying at any of BCIT’s satellite campuses also
have the choice to pick up their U-Pass at their respective campus. For
specific information about eligibility, visit www.bcit.ca/u-pass.
Problem Solving
Advocacy Office
The SA provides advocacy services to students who are dealing with a
conflict while at BCIT. The SA Advocate offers confidential, unbiased
support to help students understand the many policies and procedures
that they are both protected by and responsible to at BCIT. Whether it is
an academic or non-academic issue, a complaint about an experience
with a fellow student, staff member, faculty, course, or policy, the
Advocate is available to help students navigate and problem solve.
Contact the advocacy office at 604.456.1161 / [email protected] / SE
2 Room 286 (Uconnect Resource Centre).
Campus Mediation / Harassment & Discrimination
BCIT has a responsibility to ensure a harassment free environment for
both students and staff. Resources and information are available
through the Campus Mediation Services/Harassment & Discrimination
Advisor. If you are dealing with a difficult situation related to
harassment or discrimination, don’t hesitate to contact the Advisor at
604.451.6721 / NW 5 Room 102.
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Student Judicial Affairs
The Office of Student Judicial Affairs exists to ensure that student rights
and responsibilities are balanced with the expectations characteristic of
the educational environment. Student Judicial Affairs can provide
information about appeals and review processes, connect with your
department to determine options for alternate resolution and refer you
to other campus-based resources for support and assistance. Contact
the Director of Student Judicial Affairs at 604.431.4972 / SW 1 Room
3314.
Safety, Security & Emergency Management
The BCIT Security operations office is staffed 24 hours per day and is
prepared to respond to campus emergencies and security-related
assistance needs. BCIT Security can be contacted at 604.451.6856 /
SW 1 Room 1000. See below for a list of specific services.
Safer Walk
BCIT provides the Safer Walk program to accompany students,
employees and visitors to their destination on campus, 24 hours a day.
Contact the phone numbers listed below for each campus:
Burnaby campus – 604.451.6856
Downtown campus – 604.412.7600
Aerospace Technology campus – 604.419.3704
Marine campus – 778.928.2330 (7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.), 778.928.2329
(7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.)
Emergency Telephones
BCIT provides a system for emergency communications for employees,
students and visitors. Emergency and in-house telephones are available
in parking lots, walkways, elevators, and other specific locations at the
Burnaby, Downtown, Marine and Aerospace Technology campuses.
Emergency telephones can be used to contact BCIT Security
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Communications Centres to request a Safer Walk, first aid, to report
suspicious activity, and to request assistance (i.e. for car problems,
directions, etc.). The location of campus emergency and in-house
telephones can be found online, at
www.bcit.ca/safetyandsecurity/security.
Lost and Found
BCIT manages a lost and found service at the Burnaby, Downtown,
Marine and Aerospace Technology campuses. Property turned in to lost
and found is held for 15 days, and can be claimed by contacting the BCIT
Security Communications Centres at the respective campuses.
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Why Should You Care?
Student rights and responsibilities are outlined as part of BCIT’s expectations around student conduct (non-academic - Policy 5102 and academic - Policy 5104). Disciplinary action resulting from violations of this policy may include suspension or expulsion. BCIT’s policies and procedures around student conduct also ensure all students have equal access to fair processes and unbiased decision making.
These policies and procedures set the standard for conduct for both students and BCIT. Different departments may also have their own internal guidelines that help clarify pieces left out of the larger policies and procedures. Student should consult their program administration for more information on these guidelines as they can be just as important as the ones described in this section.
If you need help interpreting any of BCIT’s policies and procedures,
contact your program administration, the SA Advocate, or the BCIT
Director of Student Judicial Affairs.
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Academic Issues
Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct falls under BCIT Policy 5104 and constitutes a
broad set of prohibited behaviours including cheating and plagiarism.
The definitions under this policy are written quite broadly, which
consequently leaves room for program administration to determine
appropriate levels of sanctions for violations. Faculty and program
administration do not have to be able to demonstrate 100% proof that
academic misconduct has occurred in order to lay discipline; based on
the information available to them as part of an investigation and what is
believed to have most likely to occurred, a decision and accompanying
sanctions can be taken.
Consequences for violations are typically determined by Associate
Deans, and can range from a reduction in marks or zero given for the
assignment or exam in question, up to suspension or removal from the
program. Students are responsible for their own work and can be held
accountable for not properly protecting their work, regardless of intent,
if such action results in an act of academic misconduct by another
student. Additionally, in situations of group work, students can be held
accountable if one member of a group is found to have violated the
policy on academic misconduct.
Appeals
In cases of decisions related to academic misconduct, students have the
right to appeal to a Decision Review Board. A Decision Review Board is
made up of five unbiased faculty members, staff, and at least one
student who review decisions related to grades and academic
misconduct. For the fees, timeline and process associated with this step
in the appeal process, please consult BCIT Policy 5104 and 5104 – PR 2.
For grade-related decisions, there is a series of steps by which to make
an appeal. Students should begin by requesting an informal review with
their instructor, to go over the marking of the assignment, project,
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exam, etc. If this step does not bring about a satisfactory resolution, the
student can request a formal marks reassessment in writing through the
office of the Associate Dean for their program area. For the fees and
timelines associated with this step, please consult BCIT Policy 5104 and
5104 – PR1.
If the formal marks reassessment yields an unsatisfactory resolution,
students can apply for a Decision Review Board (outlined above) to hear
their case. Students involved in a Decision Review Board are strongly
encouraged to seek support from the SA Advocate, as the process can at
times be complex and overwhelming.
Non-Academic Issues
Student Code of Conduct
BCIT has behavioural standards for all students based on the
expectation that community members will conduct themselves in a
manner that is mutually respectful of the rights of each other, and
grounded in civility.
Consequences of Violations
In cases of alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct policy,
BCIT will undertake an investigation that aims to follow a fair,
reasonable and consistent process. Formal steps will be taken after
informal attempts (when practical) to address misconduct have not
been successful. Students will have the opportunity to view any
evidence or charges against them as well as the opportunity to respond.
For any decisions including sanctions or discipline against a student,
options for appeal and further review will be outlined in the written
communication provided to the student.
BCIT’s WiFi Network
The WiFi network on campus belongs to BCIT, therefore students must
treat it with the same level of respect as other BCIT property. Students
must not use the WiFi network to download copyright protected
material such as movies, MP3s, or other unlicensed software. This is
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considered a violation of BCIT’s Code of Conduct policy, as well as
federal laws. BCIT monitors usage tied to IP addresses assigned to
students and will act appropriately when violations are detected.
In order to avoid any issues associated with inappropriate use of BCIT
WiFi, ensure that torrent software is disabled while using the WiFi at
BCIT. Streaming videos is allowed, as copies are not being made.
Student Complaints
Students are entitled to file a complaint in writing or verbally under the
Student Complaint Procedure. This process is available to students who
wish to initiate a complaint regarding instruction, services, BCIT policy,
practices, or procedures. Set reps, SA Chairs and the Advocate can help
students navigate the procedure and may speak on behalf of
complainants. The Advocacy page of the SA website (www.bcitsa ->
What we do -> Advocacy) and the Student Judicial Affairs page of BCIT’s
website (www.bcit.ca/judicial) both have detailed information about
the Student Complaint Procedure.
Electronic Devices in Class
There is currently no policy at BCIT that specifically refers to the use of
electronic devices in class. Instructors and program administration are
therefore given the authority to determine what is appropriate for the
learning environment. Instructors do have the authority to restrict the
use of laptops, cellphones, or recorders in the class, and to apply
consequences for violations. Even if the program does not have explicit
restrictions in place, use of such devices may be restricted if it proves to
be disruptive to the instructor or other students in the class. Students
should speak with their instructors about what the guidelines are if they
are unsure what is appropriate.
Students may be entitled to accommodations to use electronic devices
if it is due to a documented disability. Students requiring
accommodations or use of adaptive technology should contact the
Disability Resource Centre to learn about possible accommodations. For
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more information about the Disability Resource Centre, refer to the
Academics section of this guide under Educational Support.
Freedom of Speech
Students are entitled to free speech while studying at BCIT. This means
students are free to criticise BCIT, their program, and even their
instruction.
Students must, however, be careful to not threaten BCIT or members of
its community, or to disrupt its normal operations. Students may face
sanctions if their comments seriously undermine BCIT’s mission or
jeopardize its relationship with industry and/or the community.
Students are responsible for comments made online, on the weekends,
or any time they are off campus.
Lates and Absenteeism
Regular attendance in classes, labs, seminars, clinical placements, etc. is
viewed as integral to academic success at BCIT. While no singular policy
exists pertaining to lateness and absenteeism across BCIT, individual
programs or departments have the ability to set specific requirements
regarding attendance and participation. Any such expectations should
be communicated in a course outline at the beginning of a course.
All of BCIT’s policies and procedures can be found, in their entirety, on
the BCIT website at www.bcit.ca/about/administration/policies.shtml. If
you have questions about these policies, contact the SA Advocate or
Director of Student Judicial Affairs.
Student Governance and Leadership
Governance
Elections
Elections are held every spring to choose the new SA Student
Executives. Students who would like to run for an SA elected position
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can view the different positions and their mandates, and download the
nomination package from the SA website at www.bcitsa.ca every year in
March. Students can vote for all positions through their myBCIT
accounts in April.
Annual General Meeting
Because the SA is a registered not-for-profit organization, an Annual
General Meeting (AGM) is required every year. The SA holds its AGM in
the fall. The exact date can be found online on the SA’s website. All
students are welcome to attend, vote, and speak at the AGM.
Transparency and Accountability
In order to maintain transparency and accountability, all minutes from
Council, Set/Class rep, and club presidents meetings are made available
on the SA website. Additionally, the AGM minutes and Strategic Plan
can also be found on the website along with the Annual Report which
details the SA’s accomplishments during the last year, future plans, and
its financial statements.
Leadership Opportunities
Class and Set Reps
Class/set reps are students who are selected by their classmates to
represent their particular set or class to the SA and BCIT. Class/set reps
are an important part of the communication network at BCIT as they act
as a conduit for information between the students in their set, the SA,
and their program. Class/set reps attend regular monthly meetings with
the Chair of their School and are empowered through specific BCIT
policies to speak on behalf of classmates when issues arise. It is a
volunteer position but meals are provided at the monthly meetings,
awards are given annually to outstanding set reps from each School,
and letters of reference from the SA are available upon request at the
end of a student’s term as set rep.
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Clubs
Clubs are a great way for students to develop leadership skills, build up
their resume, network, and connect with peers at BCIT. There are over
30 clubs that hold social, networking, or professional events throughout
the school year. Contact the Clubs Coordinator at 778.331.1328 /
[email protected] / SE 2 Room 286 (Uconnect Resource
Centre) for more information.
Peak Leadership
Peak Leadership is an extracurricular program that runs from September
to April and is designed to give BCIT students the opportunity to learn
leadership and professional development skills. Peak Leadership is a
free program available to all students and features sessions,
volunteering, and self-reflection activities. More information can be
found on the SA website or by dropping into the Uconnect Resource
Centre in SE 2 Room 286.
Peer Tutoring
Peer tutors are students who maintain high academic standing in their
programs and enjoy helping their peers. Tutors provide free drop-in
sessions in the Library Learning Commons
(www.bcit.ca/learningcommons) or paid one-on-one tutoring sessions
through the Uconnect. Students interested in becoming peer tutors
should contact the at 604.451.7087 / [email protected] / SE 2 Room
286 (Uconnect Resource Centre) for more information.
Volunteering
There are lots of volunteer opportunities and ways to give back to the
campus community as a student at BCIT. Come to the Uconnect
Resource Centre to learn about ongoing volunteer opportunities
available to students on campus throughout the year. Contact staff in
the Uconnect Resource Centre at 604.451.7087 / [email protected] /
SE 2 Room 286 for more information.
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Supporting Diversity
Aboriginal Services
Refer to the Student Services section of this guide under Outside the
Classroom for information about Aboriginal Services at BCIT.
Accessible Washroom Project
The Accessible Washroom Project was created in response to concerns
raised within the BCIT community that there was a lack of washrooms
accessible to all members of the community. A committee of
stakeholders from across BCIT and the SA worked on replacing the
signage on existing single stalled washrooms on the Burnaby campus.
The new signs, depicting a toilet without a gender-specific image, subtly
remove the gender binary from the washroom signage to better
accommodate individuals who identify as transgender, gender-variant,
those with young children, with physical disabilities, or anyone with
particular religious or personal needs for whom a shared washroom
would not be appropriate. A map indicating the location of all the
gender-neutral washrooms can be found on the SA website at
www.bcitsa.ca under the What We Do tab or on the BCIT website at
www.bcit.ca/about/burnaby.shtml.
International Student Centre
BCIT offers a wide variety of support services for international students.
The International Student Centre can help orient you to BCIT by
providing information on a variety of topics, from academic issues, to
recreation and social events, awards, housing, employment and much
more. The International Student Centre can be contacted at
604.432.8816 / [email protected] / SW1 Room 1186.
Disability Resource Centre
Refer to the Academics section of this guide under Educational Support.
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LGBTQ on Campus
BCIT and the SA share a commitment to creating an inclusive, respectful
community free of homophobia. The SA sponsors the student club,
Technically Queer (TQ), which exists to provide support to LGBTQ
students at BCIT. LGBTQ students and their allies are invited to
participate; contact [email protected].
The SA also coordinates a series of campaigns that align with National
Coming Out Day in October and International Day Against Homophobia
Day in May, and offers a Queer Competency training each year for
students and staff. If you or anyone you know has been the target of
homophobic attitudes, behaviour or actions, please contact the SA
Advocate at 604.456.1161 / [email protected] or BCIT’s Campus
Mediation Services Advisor at 604.451.6721.
Financial Aid
BCIT and Your Finances
Tuition and Fees
Depending on the type of program students are enrolled in at BCIT (i.e.
full time, part time, degree, apprenticeship training, international),
different rates of tuition and fees apply. For specific information on the
current rates, broken down by program, visit
www.bcit.ca/admissions/fees or contact the Admissions and
Registration Office at 604.434.1610.
Student Association Fees
The student activity fee serves as a membership fee and is included in
the cost of tuition. The fees students pay to the SA are used to offset
the cost of providing services and programming and represent
approximately one third of the SA’s annual operating budget.
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Refunds
Generally speaking, students in fulltime programs must withdraw within
ten business days from the start of classes in order to be eligible for a
tuition refund, although there may be some slight variation depending
on the program. In exceptional situations, students may be eligible for a
partial refund after the withdrawal date had passed. As course or
program refunds vary by program, students should contact Student
Information and Enrolment at 604.434.1610 / SW 1 first floor for more
specific information.
Funding Opportunities
Student Financial Aid and Awards
Student Financial Aid and Awards (SFAA) exist to help students plan
financially for their academic career at BCIT. Staff can help students
understand what types of financial assistance are available to them,
both non-repayable and repayable, and how the various application
processes work. Contact SFAA at the Burnaby campus at 604.432.8555 /
[email protected] / SW1 Room 2132.
SA Funding and Awards
Student Initiative Fund
The Student Initiative Fund is a funding opportunity for professional
development that is available to students each academic year. Students
can apply every October, January and April and are eligible for up to
$500 towards a maximum of 75 per cent of the cost of the initiative for
which they are seeking funding. Applications can be found on the SA
website (www.bcitsa.ca) or in person at the Uconnect Resource Centre
in SE 2 Room 286.
Laurie Jack Award
Every year the SA selects two graduating students for this award who
have contributed to and enhanced student life while at BCIT. Students
must be nominated by a third party such as a staff member, faculty or
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fellow student. Each recipient is awarded $500 in honour of Laurie Jack,
former SA President.
Distinguished Rep Awards
Set/class reps from each School within BCIT are eligible for this award.
$500 awards are given to reps that have gone above and beyond the
duties of a set/class rep over the course of their term. Nominations can
be made on behalf of reps by a staff member, faculty, or fellow student.
Employment
BCIT offers employment services to students through its web-based
eJobs program. Students can post resumes, search job postings and
received job alerts. Contact Student Employment Services at
604.432.8666 / [email protected] / SW 1 Room 1022.
Shopping on Campus
Professor Mugs Pub
Come to the only pub on the Burnaby campus for fresh, delicious food
and drinks served in a comfortable, friendly environment, complete
with an outdoor patio and a lunch-to-go option. Pool tables, pinball,
foosball and TVs showing all the hockey games, as well as the occasional
live band or student run party means you will always be entertained.
Check the SA website at www.bcitsa.ca for current menu, hours, and
schedule of events.
The Stand Convenience Stores
This is not your standard 7-Eleven; the Stand is your one-stop shop on
campus. If you are looking for your morning caffeine hit, a quick, easy
lunch, or a sugary pick-me-up in the afternoon, make sure you visit one
of the three Stand stores on the Burnaby campus, located in SE2, SE12
and NE1. Check the SA website at www.bcitsa.ca for current hours and
specials.
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A wide variety of other food and beverage options exist on the Burnaby
campus, including:
Tim Hortons (SE12)
The Rix (SE2)
Quiznos (SE2 - Great Hall)
Triple O’s (SE2 - Great Hall, SE12)
Coyote Jack’s (NE1)
Library Coffee Pod (SE 14)
Gateway Deli (SW 1)
Geared Up
The SA’s Geared Up store offers a wide variety of goods from BCIT
branded clothing and goods, to backpacks, office and school supplies.
Geared Up, located on the first floor of SE2 on the Burnaby campus, is
also an authorized Apple campus store providing discounts on Apple
merchandise. Come check out the store or do your shopping online at
the SA webpage at www.bcitsa.ca.
BCIT Bookstore
BCIT’s bookstore carries textbooks, general reference books, software,
and stationary. On the Burnaby campus the bookstore is located in SE2
and at the Downtown Campus visit the second floor. Used books can be
bought and sold through the Book Buy Back program – visit the
bookstore for more details. Items at the bookstore can be purchased in
person or online by following the links from www.bcit.ca/bookstore.
Satellite Campuses
Services
The SA Outreach Coordinator is your main point of contact for accessing
services available to students at any of BCIT’s satellite campuses. The
Health Plan Coordinator also visits each satellite campus at regular
intervals each month to process forms and provide students with
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information on the Student Health and Dental Plan. Contact the
Outreach Coordinator at 604.456.1168 / [email protected] and the
Health and Dental Plan Coordinator at 604.456.8056 /
Events
The SA puts on a variety of events throughout the year for students at
all four satellite campuses. Some of these events include:
Aerospace Technology Campus
Wright Bros. Flying Extravaganza competition
Slapshot hockey skills competition
Chopper Challenge helicopter obstacle course
Game days
Great Northern Way Campus
Great Northern Wing It chicken wing eating contest
Slapshot hockey skills competition
Downtown Campus
Halloween/Santa/Valentine/Easter Bunny challenges
Game days
Marine Campus
Float Your Boat race and competition
Barbecue socials
Check out the SA website at www.bcitsa.ca and Facebook page at
www.facebook.com/bcitsa for the most up-to-date events information.
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Contacts Academic Administration
School of Health Sciences 604.432.8682 School of Energy 604.432.8424 School of Transportation 604.432.8277 School of Construction and the Environment 604.432.8497 School of Business 604.432.8581 School of Computing and Academic Studies 604.412.7493
BCIT Services
Aboriginal Services 604.432.8474
Counselling / Student Development 604.432.8608
Disability Resource Centre 604.451.6953
Financial Aids & Awards 604.432.8555
Health Services 604.432.8608
Harassment & Discrimination 604.451.6721
Housing 604.432.8677
Information and Enrolment 604.434.1610
Student Judicial Affairs 604.431.4972
BCIT Student Association
Advocate 604.451.1161
Clubs Coordinator 778.331.1328
The Link newspaper 604.456.1167
Main Office 604.432.8600
Marketing/Communications Manager 604.340.5630
Student Health Plan Coordinator 604.456.8056
Student Services Manager 604.432.8549
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Outreach Coordinator 604.456.1168
Uconnect Resource Centre 604.451.7087
Satellite Campuses
Aerospace Technology Campus 604.419.3777
Great Northern Way Campus 604.456.8195
Marine Campus 604.453.4100
Downtown Campus 604.434.5734
BCIT REFERENCE GUIDE your pocket guide to resources and services
Brought to you by the BCIT Student Association.
Feedback? [email protected]