The Wonderful World of Higher Education

Welcome to The Wonderful World of Higher Education—a space dedicated to making the complex landscape of higher education feel more human, more understandable, and more accessible.

Higher education can open doors, spark passions, and transform lives. But too often, it comes wrapped in jargon, unspoken rules, and "assumed knowledge" that can make people feel like outsiders before they’ve even started. Whether you’re a first-generation student, returning to study later in life, or just trying to figure it all out, you’re not alone—and you shouldn’t have to decode it all by yourself.

This page is here to help. We'll define key terms, explain how different parts of the system work, and shine a light on the things no one tells you but everyone’s expected to know. Think of it as a friendly guidebook to a world that’s often wonderful but not always easy to navigate.

Let’s break down the barriers—together.

Terms & Definitions

Syllabus

A roadmap for your course.
This document outlines what the course is about, what you’ll be learning, when assignments are due, how grading works, and what’s expected of you. It’s your go-to reference for the course.

 

Office Hours

Time set aside just for you.
These are regular times when your professor or teaching assistant is available to meet. You can ask questions, get help, or just check in. You don’t need a reason—just show up!

 

Credit / Credit Hour

A way to measure how much time you’re spending in class.
A “credit” typically represents one hour of class per week over a term. Most courses are worth 3 credits. You need a certain number of credits to graduate.

 

Prerequisite

A course you need to take before you can take another one.
Some classes build on others. A prerequisite means you need to complete one course before you're allowed to register for another.

 

cGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average)

A number that summarizes your grades.
Your GPA is an average of your grades across courses, often on a 4.0 scale. It’s used for academic standing, scholarships, and sometimes job or grad school applications.

 

Academic/ Program Advisor

Your personal guide through your program.
Advisors help you choose courses, plan your degree, and understand requirements. They’re a great first stop when you’re unsure about something.

 

Elective

A course you choose based on your interests.
Unlike required courses, electives are optional (within certain guidelines). They can be fun, unrelated to your major, or a way to explore new subjects.

 

Major / Minor

Your main focus—and a side interest.
Your major is the subject you study in depth (like Biology or English). A minor is a smaller concentration in another subject.

 

 

Undergraduate vs. Graduate

Two different levels of study.
Undergraduate refers to a first degree, usually a bachelor's. Graduate programs come after that, like a master’s or PhD.

Organizational Structure (Departments)

Navigating a college or university can feel like entering a small city—and knowing which office to go to can save time, stress, and confusion. Here’s a student-friendly guide to the major departments and what they actually do.

Registrar's Office

The official record keepers of the institution
Handles all academic records and registration.

They manage:

  • Course registration and withdrawals

  • Academic transcripts

  • Enrolment verification letters

  • Graduation applications

  • Degree audits and diplomas

Visit them when: You need to register/drop a course, get your transcript, apply for leave, or apply to graduate.

Financial Services/ Bursar's Office

The money and support team
Provides information and access to financial support for students.

They manage:

  • Scholarships and bursaries

  • Government student loans

  • Emergency financial support

  • Work-study programs

  • Tuition & Fees

Visit them when: You have any money-related inquiries, need help affording school or want to apply for funding.

Academic/ Program Advising

Your academic planning partner
Guides you through program choices, course selection, and degree requirements.

They help with:

  • Choosing/changing your major or minor

  • Course planning each term

  • Academic policies and deadlines

Visit them when: You feel unsure about your courses or need to make a program change.

Student Services/ Student Affairs

Support for life outside the classroom
Covers a wide range of non-academic support services.

They include:

  • Mental health and counselling

  • Accessibility and academic accommodation services

  • Career development and job search help

  • Student clubs, leadership, and community building

  • International student support

Visit them when: You need personal support, career guidance, or ways to connect on campus.

Faculty or Department Office

The home base for your program or major
Every academic area (e.g., History, Chemistry, Nursing, etc.) has its own department office or zone (this can be virtual).

They handle:

  • Program-specific academic advising

  • Course overrides or approvals

  • Connecting you with professors

Visit them when: You need program-specific guidance or can’t reach your instructor.

Admissions Office

The front door to your institution
Manages student applications and admission decisions.

They manage:

  • Application processing

  • Transfer credits

  • Admission requirements

Visit them when: You’re applying, have questions about requirements, or want to transfer from another school.

Library & Learning Services

Your academic toolkit
Offers much more than books!

They offer:

  • Research assistance and citation help

  • Tutoring and writing support

  • Academic skills workshops

  • Study rooms and quiet space

Visit them when: For writing help, citation support, or a quiet place to study—or when Google just isn’t cutting it.

IT / Tech Support

The digital problem-solvers
Supports your access to campus technology.

They help with:

  • Wi-Fi and student accounts

  • Learning platforms (Canvas, Moodle, etc.)

  • Campus printing or software support

Visit them when: You’re locked out, need tech troubleshooting, or have an online learning issue.

This guide is a starting point—schools may have slightly different names or structures, but the roles are usually similar. Save this for later or share it with someone new to campus!

Common Questions

I've been part of the higher education world since 2016—as a student myself and through working with students in a range of roles across institutions in Canada. Along the way, I’ve noticed the same questions, concerns, and confusions come up time and again. 

What’s the difference between a college and a university?

Colleges typically offer diploma, certificate, and applied degree programs that are hands-on and career-focused—think trades, health sciences, business, or design. Some colleges in Canada do also grant 4-year undergraduate degrees (i.e., Sheridan College). 

Universities, on the other hand, offer academic and research-based undergraduate and graduate degrees (like a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).

Both are valuable, just with different goals and structures.

What’s the difference between a PhD and a professional doctorate?

A PhD focuses on original research and creating new knowledge—ideal for academic or research careers.

A professional doctorate applies existing research to real-world problems—perfect for advancing practice in fields like education, business, law, or medicine.

YU published a great article about this question:What is the difference between a professional doctorate and a PhD.? (2024)

What’s the difference between a lecture and a seminar?

Lectures are larger, more formal classes led by a professor. Seminars are smaller, discussion-based, and often involve more participation.

I got accepted! What now?

First, congratulations!! 

Connect with your admissions advisor (if applicable). They will usually be your first point of contact to provide further instruction. 

I do a deep dive about this topic here: I got accepted! What Now?

What’s a “waitlist” and what should I do if I’m on one?

If a class is full, you might be placed on a waitlist. If someone drops, you could get a spot—so check your email often and be ready to act quickly!

Can I change my major?

Yes! Many students change their major at least once. Your academic advisor can help you figure out the process and how it affects your progress.

I went to STU with the intention of honouring in Psychology. After one class, I realized that it was not for me. I instead graduated with an Honours in Philosophy, a Major in Criminology, and a double minor in Psychology and Math. My degree changed a lot compared to my program idea coming in - and that's okay! 

What does it mean to be “in good academic standing”?

It usually means your GPA is above a certain threshold. If it drops too low, you might be placed on academic probation and need to take action to stay enrolled.

Do I need to go to office hours?

You don’t have to—but they’re a great chance to ask questions, clarify assignments, or just connect with your instructor. They’re there to help! Challenge yourself to go at least once to make that connection with your professor.