What are Learning Communities?
Learning Communities are small groups of first-year students with common academic interests who take a block of classes together and meet weekly to connect, explore shared interests, and build skills for university success. They provide additional support and a sense of community as students adjust to university life.
What are the benefits of joining a Learning Community?
- Build a peer-network and make friends with people who have similar academic interests
- Learn academic skills and strategies from peer mentors and Learning Community staff
- Access popular courses for your degree pathway
- Learn about all the different campus resources to help your academic success
- Engage in learning opportunities outside of the classroom
- Explore future career goals and degree pathways
What to expect in a Learning Community hour?
Students will meet in person, on campus, weekly. The time and day of your Learning Community session is based on the Learning Community you join. Learning Communities have structured learning activities that cater to different interests. For example, students in the Computer Science (CompSci) Learning Community might be interested in coding-based skills, while students in the Biomedical Sciences (BMSC) Learning Community may be interested in learning about the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Students will have opportunities to take part in activities that build community and connection with peers, faculty, and student advocates.
Which Learning Community is right for you?
TMC-FLEX
TMC-FLEX and STEM-PREP - Trish Monture Academic Access Initiatives for nontraditional learning pathways
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration details vary by program. To learn how to sign up, click the "Learn More" tab for the specific Learning Community you're interested in.
No, there are no additional fees for participating in a Learning Community beyond your regular tuition and student fees.
The Learning Community hour is part of the program, and attendance expectations vary depending on the specific Learning Community.
Learning Community hours are tailored to each group (cohort) based on shared interests. Peer Mentors will help you build study skills, give tips and tricks on navigating your transition to university, and help foster connection between students.
Sizes vary from 10-40 students per Learning Community. You will meet with the same cohort of students each week, building a sense of community with shared interests and experiences over the term.
The first-year experience can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Being in a Learning Community gives you the advantage of navigating through this huge transition bit by bit, with the help of your Peer Mentors, and being around students who share your similar interests. Learning Communities are designed to help you build your confidence in your first year by giving you strategies, and tips and tricks, to aid in your academic success.
Yes, you are required to remain in your Learning Community once you are registered. Withdrawing from the program may result in being removed from all your courses.