Need Academic Support Right Now?
If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward with your coursework, support is available. Trent offers a range of academic supports to help you build skills, plan your studies, and succeed at university - no matter where you're starting from.
If you're not sure which service is right for you, reaching out to Academic Advising, your College office, or Academic Skills is a great first step.
Academic Support in the Department of Social Work
In the Department of Social Work, the Academic Coordinator (AC) is a key point of contact for students in the BSW program, especially during the Professional Years. The AC helps students understand program requirements, navigate academic processes, and stay on track to graduate.
The Social Work AC can help you with:
- Academic advising for Years 3 & 4, including course sequencing and degree progress
- Questions about policies, procedures, and appeals
- Professional Years admissions, enrolment, and orientation
- Support with transfer credits and prerequisite questions
- Timetabling and course availability questions
- Conencting with campus services and supports as needed
If you're pursuing a BSW and are unsure where to go or how to resolve an academic issue, the Academic Coordinator is a great place to start. Please reach out directly to socialwork@trentu.ca, 705-748-1011 ext. 6397.
Academic Support at Trent University
Trent University provides a wide network of academic supports designed to help students adjust to university learning, strengthen academic skills, and navigate degree requirements. These services are free to students and available across campuses, in person and online.
Colleges and Academic Advising
Trent's unique college system offers personalized academic and community support. Through your College, you can connect with:
- Academic Advisors for guidance on program requirements, course planning, and academic decision-making
- Academic Skills Instructors for help developing effective learning strategies
College staff may reach out to help connect you with resources and feel supported in your academic journey.
Academic Skills Support
Academic Skills helps students strengthen learning strategies and build confidence in university-level work. Services include:
- One-on-one appointments (in person, online, or email)
- Workshops and skill-building events
- Online resources covering time management, studying, reading, writing, and note-taking
Academic Skills instructors are available in every College, and at the Durham campus.
Peer Academic Support
Rebound is a peer support program for first- and second-year students focused on easing the transition to university. Rebound connects students to campus resources and offers:
- One-on-one peer meetings (Zoom)
- Drop-in support hours
- Guidance on getting started and staying on track
Library and Research Support
Trent University Library & Archives provides support to help students navigate academic research and information literacy, including:
- In-person and virtual research support
- One-on-one research consultations
- Access to study spaces, print materials, e-books, and e-journals
Library services are available on both the Peterborough and Durham campuses, as well as online.
Academic Skills Programs and Tools
Trent offers structured learning programs to help students build strong academic habits:
- Academic Skills Homeroom: A short-term program focused on time management, studying, reading strategies, and writing assignments
- Academic Skills Tool Kit: A collection of short videos and templates embedded in supported Blackboard courses
These tools are designed to help you learn how to learn at university.
Support for Specialized Student Groups
Additional academic support is available for students with specific needs:
- Accessibility Services: Academic accommodations, adaptive technology, and advising for students with disabilities
- First Peoples House of Learning: Academic assistance, tutoring, and culturally grounded learning supports for Indigenous students and those taking Indigenous Studies courses
- Trent International: Advising and support for international students navigating academic and cultural transitions
Need Help Finding the Right Academic Support?
If you're unsure where to start, don't wait! Connecting with one support can lead you to others. Academic success at Trent is supported through community, guidance, and skill-building.
You are not expected to navigate university on your own.
For general support questions, students may also contact:
- Peterborough Campus: studentaffairs@trentu.ca
- Durham Campus: durham@trentu.ca