U of T Scarborough recognizes its historical roots in settler colonialism that has led to the historical underrepresentation and exclusion of Black and Indigenous students in post-secondary education, as well as those with low socioeconomic status, disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ and rural communities.
The Community Partnerships & Engagement department aims to improve access to the campus and Post-Secondary Education for communities facing systemic barriers. We do this by building relationships with and supporting communities through the co-creation and mobilization of knowledge in the community, university, and beyond. Community Partnerships & Engagement work with partners to collectively see and understand priorities from varying perspectives.
Wherever possible, we incorporate the 7 principles of Nguzo Saba and align ourselves with groups that hold the same or similar values.
Read on below to learn about access initiatives at U of T Scarborough.
Transitional Year Program @ U of T Scarborough (TYP@UTSC)
Designed to empower and equip students who've faced barriers to education and who do not yet have the prerequisites for university admission, the Transitional Year Program at the University of Toronto Scarborough (TYP@UTSC) provides students with a fulfilling academic experience as they begin––and navigate through––their post-secondary journey.
TYP@UTSC engages students in university-level courses––spanning writing, math, English literature, and the social sciences––as well as tailored mentorship and support from the Academic Advising & Career Centre, AccessAbility, the Centre for Teaching and Learning, and the Health & Wellness Centre. There is no charge to TYP@UTSC students for tuition, fees, or books.
SEE U of T Scarborough
SEE U of T Scarborough (Support, Engage, Experience University of Toronto Scarborough) is a collaboration between the University of Toronto Scarborough (U of T Scarborough) and the Toronto District School Board (TDSB). It is an immersive, on-campus experience, spanning two semesters in Grade 11 and 12 that allows students to experience university studies, leadership development, and campus life.
The aim of the program is to encourage Black and Indigenous students who come from communities historically underrepresented at U of T and post-secondary institutions to view post-secondary education as a viable destination.
Learn more about SEE U of T Scarborough
Day in the Life (Campus Visits)
Day in the Life immerses students in interactive campus visits that highlight integral aspects of the undergrad experience while integrating experiential learning with community experts, students and staff. Activities include STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) circuits, tours, success story presentations, makerspace sessions, 3D printing, vermicomposting workshops, spoken word activities, and fitness challenges. Day in the Life sessions are hosted three times a year during the school semester in the fall, winter, and spring semesters.
100 Strong Academy
100 Strong Academy is a summer camp program led by 100 Strong Foundation, a not-for-profit based in Durham. The academy equips Black boys in grades 6 to 8 with the tools necessary to achieve their maximum potential in education and social engagement. The curriculum focuses on the holistic learner by marrying concepts of academic theory and experiential learning in conjunction with real-world experiences. The camp is co-hosted by all three campuses at the University of Toronto.
Learn more about 100 Strong Academy
Imani Black Academic Mentorship Program
The Imani Black Academic Mentorship Program creates access and inclusion pathways for Black Elementary and High School students in the Scarborough community. It prioritizes academic growth and promotes a healthy sense of self-esteem and belonging. Through student support, access points to post-secondary education and specialized tools and resources, students are encouraged to transcend barriers and embrace their excellence.
College & University Credit Transfers
Prospective post-secondary students have a number of access pathways to help ensure a smooth journey to U of T Scarborough and a gratifying experience during their studies. These pathways include the transfer of credits from accredited post-secondary institutions. Read more about how the transfer credit process works below.
Learn more about credit transfers