FAQ

The Ombuds Office provides free independent, impartial, and confidential dispute-resolution advice and assistance on student-related issues to all members of the McMaster community. The Ombuds Office also act as a source of general information and referral on matters pertaining to University policies, procedures and resources affecting students. Additionally, the Ombuds Office promotes discussion of institution-wide concerns and makes recommendations for systemic changes as appropriate.

The Ombuds acts as a source of general information and referral, assists in the resolution of individual complaints, and may conduct investigations and make systemic recommendations as appropriate.

The Ombuds is available to assist in the resolution of student-related complaints and concerns, especially those that have not been addressed through the usual channels.

The Ombuds can:

• • • Explain University policies and procedures and how they affect you
    • Objectively review your situation
    • Help to develop options
    • Assist you in pursuing a resolution

The Ombuds is not a decision-maker, however, after determining the facts of a situation, they may make a recommendation to remedy the situation

Individuals can visit the Office regarding:

• • • Appeals or petitions
    • Examinations
    • Academic dishonesty or research misconduct
    • Withdrawals or reinstatements
    • Course rules or management
    • Supervisor/ thesis issues
    • and more…

Individuals can visit the Office regarding:

• • • On-campus employment
    • Residence life
    • Clubs and associations
    • Financial matters
    • Quality of McMaster University service
    • Behavioural and professional codes of conduct
    • and more…

We recommend visiting the Ombuds Office as early as possible. Whether you are experiencing an issue or conflict or are just unsure of where to start, the Ombuds Office can act as a confidential sounding board and provide guidance on potential next steps to address the matter.

Any member of the community can visit the Ombuds Office for information and referrals. The Ombuds can provide dispute-resolution assistance to:

• • • Students
    • Applicants
    • Former Students
    • Staff and Faculty regarding student-related matter

The mandate of the Ombuds Office is twofold in nature. First, the Office provides an independent, impartial and confidential process through which members of the University may pursue the just, fair, and equitable resolution of any student-related issue. Secondly, the Office makes recommendations, where appropriate, for changes in MSU and university student-related policies and procedures and promotes discussion on student-related matters of institution-wide concerns.