Collecting Demographic Data

Why are we collecting demographic data?

The University of Toronto and the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) recognize that our scholarship, research, and educational activities occur within a highly diverse societal context. Within our commitment to academic and practice excellence, we seek to recruit a graduate student body that is inclusive and reflective of the diversity found within Canadian communities, including, but not limited to racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, LGBTQ persons, persons with differing abilities, mature students, and students from varying faith/spiritual communities.

How are we collecting the data?

In order to assess our progress toward our diversity, equity, and inclusion objectives, and better support our graduate students, SGS is collecting demographic data on a voluntary basis through the application process. The data will help us:

• check that our applications processes are fair to all groups of students;

• develop services that are relevant to our future students, including student from underrepresented groups; and

• plan our outreach to potential applicants.

What will we do with the data?

SGS will report the data in aggregate form to academic departments and administration at the University of Toronto.

How will we protect the data?

The data will be collected and stored as confidential data. Personal information will be protected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA).