BCIT Reference Guide - BCIT Student Association

BCIT
Reference Guide
A pocket guide to on-campus services and resources
Courtesy of:
Student
Association
enhancing student life
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WHAT IS THE BCIT REFERENCE GUIDE?
3
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
4
ACADEMICS
6
KNOWING YOUR PROGRAM
6
PROGRAM ADVISING
6
EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT
6
STUDENT SERVICES
8
PROBLEM SOLVING
12
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONISBILITIES
14
ACADEMIC ISSUES
15
NON-ACADEMIC ISSUES
16
STUDENT GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP
18
LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
19
SUPPORTING DIVERSITY
20
TRANSPORTATION
21
FINANCIAL AID
22
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
23
SA FUNDING AND AWARDS
23
SHOPPING ON CAMPUS
24
SATELLITE CAMPUSES
25
CONTACTS
26
What is the BCIT reference guide?
The BCIT Reference Guide is a resource created by the
BCIT Student Association that aims to provide easy-toread information about the various aspects of life at BCIT.
Student
Association
enhancing student life
What is the BCIT Student Association?
The BCIT Student Association (SA) is an independent, notfor-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 studentcentered, 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.
3700 WILLINGDON AVE
SE2 — 3RD FLOOR
BURNABY, BC
V6H 3G4
604. 432. 8600
www.bcitsa.ca
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 Student Association
Centre [SA Centre], is located just off of the Great Hall on
the second floor. You can reach the SA by phone at
604.432.8600 or online at www.bcitsa.ca.
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Frequently Asked Questions
► How do I know if I’m covered under the Student
Health and Dental Plan?
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 Student Health Plan Administrator in the
Career and Student Resource Centre at 604.456.8056 or healthplan@bcitsa.ca for more information.
Students 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.
► As an international student, am I eligible for
coverage under the Student Health and Dental Plan?
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.
► Who can I talk to about financial aid?
The Student Financial Aid and Awards department, located in SW1 Room 2303, provides students with
information on the various types of financial assistance available. See page 22 for more information.
► I don’t agree with a grade I received.
Is there anything I can do?
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 Advocat by phone at 604.456.1161 or
email advocate@bcitsa.ca.
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► I’ve heard talk about a program called "Peak
Leadership" but don’t know any specifics.
Where can I find out more information?
Peak Leadership is an extracurricular program that runs from October through April and is designed to
give BCIT students the opportunity to gain leadership and professional development skills. Peak
Leadership is a free program available to all students, featuring workshops, speakers and self-reflection
activities. For more information, drop by the SA Centre in SE2, or visit the website.
► Where can I find out about job and volunteer
opportunities?
Come by the SA Centre in SE2, or check out the job postings and volunteer
opportunities posted online in Career Track.
Interested in volunteering with the SA? Email Trina@bcitsa.ca for more information
► Where can I find the most up-to-date
information about upcoming SA events?
Visit the SA website, Career Services Website or the Entrepreneurial Services Website for related events.
Our Facebook page for up-to-date listings of great events happening on campus.
► I’m thinking about running for an elected
position in student government. Where can I find
information about how the elections process works?
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 on the third floor. Alternately, contact the VP Student Affairs at
vpstudentaffairs@bcitsa.ca to learn more about how student elections work at BCIT.
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Academics
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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 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 /
avserves@bcit.ca / SE12 Room 104 and at the Downtown Campus, contact avscs@bcit.ca / 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
SA home page.
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Printing Services — Campus Print & Copy
Campus Print & Copy is a print shop operated by the SA at the Burnaby campus. Located on the second floor
of SE2, Campus Print & Copy 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 can be found online here. Bring in a USB drive or email your files directly to print@bcitsa.ca.
Disability Resource Centre (DRC)
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 / drc@bcit.ca / 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 here.
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 a
charge of $1.00.
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Student Services
Student Handbook
SE2 - 2nd Floor | csrc@bcitsa.ca | 604.451.7087
The SA produces an annual student handbook, available to BCIT students free of charge. The Student
Handbook includes: a day planner, calendar, and other useful information to help students stay
organized. Pick up your handbook throughout the year at the SA Centre in SE2.
LINK magazine
Send submissions or ideas to: editor@linkbcit.ca | Office: 604.451.7191
LINK is a free monthly publication of modern student ideas and culture. It is created and produced entirley by
BCIT students and distributed on newsstands around all 5 campuses, and online at www.linkbcit.ca. Editorial
staff welcomes submissions in the following categories: outstanding student profiles, current events, opinions,
advice, humour, music, film and book reviews, short fiction, photography, art, design, fashion, food, sports
and everything else you might find at BCIT and Beyond!
Childcare Centre
Burnaby campus (SE41) | childcaremgr@bcitsa.ca
BCITSA Childcare Centre strives to promote the child’s development emotionally, socially, physically
and intellectually. Our philosophy is that each child needs to develop at their own pace in a stimulating,
secure and responsive environment. Through a well-planned curriculum, our goal is to provide a variety of
learning experiences in all areas of development. We offer a “play base program” for our children complete
with science, language and math, music and art. We have a beautiful fully-fenced landscaped outdoor
area, and a covered area for those rainy days. We are located on the beautiful BCIT campus
alongside the picturesque Guichon creek. Find more information at www.bcitsa.ca/child-care/
Student Association Centre
SE2 - 2nd Floor | 604.451.7087
The CSRC serves as the hub for all SA related student services and programming. From Career Services to
the Student Health and Dental Plan, awards, student clubs, Peak Leadership, Entrepreneurial Services,
tutoring, mentorship, volunteer opportunities, wellness programs and a host of other FREE programs and
services, this is the place to go to get connected as a BCIT student.
The SA Centre is open the following hours (September - May): Monday-Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Fridays: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Entrepreneurial Services
SE2 - 2nd Floor | 604.451.7087
The SA is proud to offer Entrepreneurial Services to BCIT students and alumni. Our programming was
developed in response to student demand and our aim is to engage through a culture of entrepreneurial
thinking, learning and development. Through our programs and services, we hope to inspire potential
entrepreneurs, provide opportunities for exploration, and connect BCIT entrepreneurs to additional
resources on and off campus.
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Career Services
SE2 - 2nd Floor | 604.451.7087
Visit the SA Centre to access a full range of Career Services that focus on connecting you to employers, and
getting you ready for a successful job search and career. Create your own personal profile in Career Track in
order to access services, browse job postings, and apply for jobs. Services include one-on-one office hours,
Industry Days Careers Fairs, Industry Week, Employer Info Sessions, Industry Connections and Workshop
Series.
Aboriginal Services
SW1 - Room 1521 | aboriginalservices@bcit.ca | 604.432.8474
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.
Counselling and Student Development
SE16 - Room 128 | 604.432.8608
BCIT Counselling and Student Development offers students free counselling services, online resources for
personal and career development, and workshops throughout the year. Phone to make an appointment, or
visit them in person in SE16.
Housing / Residence
SW 11 Salish House | housing@bcit.ca | 604.432.8677
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.
Recreational Services
SE16 | 604.432.8612
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. 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 — 6:15 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Great Northern Way campus: Weekdays — 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Marine campus: Weekdays — 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
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Student Services
Student ID Card
SE16 - Room 128 | 604.432.8608
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/id-card-deals/. Students can get an ID online at
www.bcit.ca/card or in person at any BCIT campus.
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Transportation
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Student Health Services
SE16 - Room 128 | 604.432.8608
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 ­– Fridays: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (reduced summer hours in effect from June to August).
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Problem Solving
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Advocacy Office
SE2 - 2nd Floor | advocate@bcitsa.ca | 604.456.1161
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.
Campus Mediation / Harrasment & Discrimination
NW5 - Room 102 | 604.451.6721
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 them.
Student Judicial Affairs
SW1 - Room 3314 | 604.431.4972
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.
▼CLICK IMAGE TO VISIT BCITSA's ANONYMOUS ADVOCACY MESSAGE BOARD
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Safety, Security & Emergency Management
SW1 - Room 1000 | 604.451.6856
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. 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 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/
►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 Centre’s at the respective campuses.
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Student Rights & Responsibilities
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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.
Policies Every Student Should Know:
For a complete list of BCIT Policies and Procedures, click here.
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Policy Number
Policy Subject
3501
Acceptable use of Information Technology
4501
Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
5100 (PR1)
Student Reports and Student Performance Contracts
5101
Student Regulations
5101 (PR1)
Implementation of Student Regulations
5102
Student Code of Conduct (Non-Academic)
5102 (PR1)
Response to Violations of the Student Code of Conduct
5103
Student Evaluation
5103 (PR1)
Grading
5104
Academic Integrity & Appeals
5104 (PR1)
Academic Decisions Review Process
5104 (PR2)
Decision Review Boards
6700
Freedom of Information & Protection of Privacy
7504
Liquor Consumption on Campus
7507
Harassment and Discrimination
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Academic Issues
► Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct falls under BCIT Policy 5104 and constitutes a broad set of prohibited behavior’s 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, 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.
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Student Rights & Responsibilities
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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 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 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 and the Student Judicial
Affairs page of BCIT’s website both have detailed information about the Student Complaint Procedure.
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► 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 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. If you have questions
about these policies, contact the SA Advocate or Director of Student Judicial Affairs.
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Student Governance & Leadership
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► Student Elections
Elections are held every spring to choose the new SA Student Executives. Students who would like to run for
an SA elected position can view the different positions and their mandates here. 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 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.
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► 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. Interested in
becoming a set rep? Click here for more information:
► Clubs
SE2 — 2nd Floor | clubs@bcitsa.ca | 778.331.1328
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. For a complete listing of active clubs and their events calendars, click here.
► 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 here or by dropping into the SA Centre in SE2.
► Peer Tutoring
csrc@bcitsa.ca | 604.451.7087
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 or paid one-on-one
tutoring sessions through the SA Centre.
► Volunteering
csrc@bcitsa.ca | 604.451.7087
There are lots of volunteer opportunities and ways to give back to the campus community as a student at
BCIT. Come to the SA Centre to learn about ongoing volunteer opportunities available to students on
campus throughout the year.
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Supporting Diversity
► 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 here.
► International Student Centre
SW1­­­ ­— Room 1186 | isc_info@bcit.ca | 604.432.8816
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.
► 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 technicallyqueer@gmail.com. The
SA also coordinates a series of campaigns such as International Day Against Homophobia Day in May. If
you or anyone you know has been the target of homophobic attitudes, behavior or actions, please contact
the SA Advocate at 604.456.1161 and advocate@bcitsa.ca or BCIT’s Campus Mediation Services Advisor at
604.451.6721.
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Transportation
►Back to Table of Contents
► Parking
E-permits: www.bcit.ca/parking | parking@bcit.ca
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 students to purchase weekly passes.
► Cycling
www.bcit.ca/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.
► Compass Card
Check eligibility: www.bcitca/upass | Campus distribution centres: click here
The Compass Card is a student transit program that provides discounted three-zone Translink
passes for $38 per month. BCIT students enrolled in full-time studies programs automatically
receive a U-Pass. Students can pick up their Compass Card 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 Compass Card at their respective campus. Each Campus has a distribution
centre.
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Financial Aid
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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.
► 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.
► Employment
SW1 - Room 1022 | employ@bcit.ca | 604.432.8666
BCIT offers employment services to students through its web-based eJobs program. Students can post
resumes, search job postings and received job alerts.
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Funding Opportunities
► Student Financial Aid and Awards
SW1 - Room 2132 | finaid@bcit.ca | 604.432.8555
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 nonrepayable and repayable, and how the various application processes work.
SA Funding and Awards
► Laurie Jack Award
Every year the SA selects two graduating students for the Laurie Jack award who have contributed to and
nhanced student life while at BCIT. Students must be nominated by a third party such as a staff member,
aculty or 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.
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Shopping on Campus
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► 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/.
► 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 in the Geared Up E-Store.
► Habitat Pub Kitchen Patio
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 here 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
for current hours and specials.
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 (SE14) •Gateway Deli (SW1)
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Satellite Campuses
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► Career Services
Career Services are available at satellite campuses. Office Hours are available at DTC & ATC on a
regular schedule, and at AIC and BMC by request. Visit the Career Services website for more
information, including workshops and Industry Days at BCIT's satellite campuses.
► Services
BCITSA has executives and support staff at all BCIT campuses, based on a weekly schedule. The SA
Satellite Program Coordinator brings unique programs and services to each campus, and is your first
point of contact for any Student Association inquiries. More information related to our Satellite
Campuses can be found here.
Contact the Satellite Program Coordinator: 604.787.1168 | asoukeroff@bcitsa.ca
Contact the Student Health Plan Administrator: 604.456.8056 | healthplan@bcitsa.ca.
► Events
The SA puts on a variety of events throughout the year for students at all four satellite campuses.
Some of these events include:
Wright Brothers Flying Extravaganza competition (Aerospace Technology campus)
Wing It: Chicken Wing Eating Competition (Annacis Island)
Game Days (Downtown campus)
Float Your Boat (Marine campus)
Be sure to check out the events calendar for upcoming events and follow us on facebook for the most
up-to-date info on our events.
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Contacts
►Back to Table of Contents
BCIT STUDENT ASSOCIATION
Advocate
604.451.1161
Career and Student Resource Centre
604.451.7087
Clubs Coordinator
778.331.1328
Link Magazine
604.451.7191
Main Office
604.432.8600
Marketing / Communications Manager
604.340.5630
Student Health Plan Administrator
604.456.8056
Student and Career Services Manager
604.456.1167
Satellite Program Coordinator
604-787-6152
ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION
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School of Health Sciences
604.451.1161
School of Energy
604.451.7087
School of Transportation
778.331.1328
School of Construction and the Environment
604.451.7191
School of Business
604.432.8600
School of Computing and Academic Studies
604.340.5630
www.bcitsa.ca
►Back to Table of Contents
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
SATELLITE CAMPUSES
Aerospace Technology campus
604.451.1161
Marine Campus
604.451.7087
Downtown Campus
778.331.1328
Annacis Island Campus
604.451.7191
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