Finding it hard to figure out all the acronyms and terms used at York? We’ve all been there. To start your term successfully, we’re here to give you the lowdown on some of the terms you will frequently come across at York.
Understanding course information
First and foremost, understanding course information is crucial for enrolling in the correct courses. Misreading this part of the course website can lead to many headaches later, so let’s work through this information together.
Course codes
In this example, “FA/ARTH 4640A 3.00 Art, History and the Archive,” FA stands for the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design. The course is offered by the Department of Art History (ARTH) and the course number is 4640A. The course is worth three credits and is called “Art, History and the Archive.”
Pro tip: The Faculty and Department codes page may come in handy when selecting electives outside your major courses!
Course format, schedule and location
ARTH 4604, Section M is a three-hour seminar (SEMR) on Mondays (M) from 11:30 a.m. that will take place at CFA (Joan & Martin Goldfarb Centre for Fine Arts building) in room 330 on the third floor at Keele Campus.
Pro tip: Check out all the building codes at York to find your classes.
York is also offering a new course format called ONCA, or Online Campus, where your classes will be online, but your assessments (including exams) will be in person.
Various services at York
Apart from your courses, York has several resources and student support services to help you through your time at university. These resources are often referred to by their acronyms:
- LSS – Learning Skills Services
- SCLD – Student Community & Leadership Development
- SCHW – Student Counselling, Health & Well-being
- CISS – Centre for Indigenous Student Services
- OSCR – Office of Student Community Relations
- The Centre – The Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education
- YI – York International
- A&R – Athletics & Recreation
You will also come across terms like GPA, LECT, and more. Follow the @studentlifeyu Instagram handle to check out more unique terms!