the 1960s
Murray Ross names the 1960s a "volatile decade”, certainly a difficult time to establish a new and thriving post-secondary institution. Yet York University, founded in 1959, managed to grow considerably during the sixties, establishing its Faculty of Graduate Studies early in the decade. In February of 1963, discussions began in regard to creating graduate programs at York in order to encourage higher learning and attract a greater number of students. By Fall 1963, the establishment of FGS was approved and York worked quickly to build its new Faculty, adding more than fifteen programs in the first ten years of its existence.
Opened in the 1960s, the Keele campus began to grow with the addition of several buildings still notable today.
1965
Farquharson Life Sciences Building
1966
Vanier College
1966
Behavioural Science Building
1967
Winters College
1968
Mclaughlin College
Growth continued within York's graduate programs in the 1970s, with more programs being offered and continued increases in enrolment. The attitude of rebellion that had characterized the campus in the earlier decade was replaced by a generation of students concerned with self-discovery and establishing a successful future for themselves. Early on, York's FGS adopted an interdisciplinary approach to graduate learning that continues to inform research and learning today. This emphasis on interdisciplinarity has made York a unique and sought-after institution for graduate studies.
the 1970s
the 1980s
The 1980s were characterized by change amid the growing influence of feminism on campus and the reshaping of gender roles as the decade wore on. Unhappy with the lack of women instructors on campus, there was a widespread movement to work towards equality, and many important developments were made in the early part of the decade, including movements supporting a degree-based Women’s Studies program, which would launch early in the following decade. Another milestone of gender equality at York was the publication in 1988 of Canadian Women: A History, an influential work that included contributions from five women professors from York, including FGS Dean Sandra Pyke.
The 1990s brought immense growth to the physical environment on York's Keele Campus, including the building of many iconic structures characterizing today's campus such as Vari Hall and the Student Center. Alongside the campus, York's Faculty of Graduate Studies continued to innovate and expand in many areas. Graduate programs became more prestigious as resources for research and financial aid improved and became more accessible to a greater number of graduate students.
the 1990s
the 2000s
The first part of the new millennium, at York and across the province, has been characterized by significant growth in graduate program offerings, including the introduction of new degree types such as MHRM and MPIA. Today, with over 100 degree and diploma programs, York is a centre of excellence for graduate studies, home to interesting and important research projects, dedicated faculty and ambitious graduate students.
During the last decade, we have developed an array of graduate programs that are as impressive in their range as they are in their depth. Our mission is to enhance the academic and professional experiences of the largest group of active researchers and scholars across campuses at York University. The Faculty of Graduate Studies is dedicated to promoting and enhancing the quality of graduate education by fostering excellence in teaching and research. The future begins now!
Last Decade
FGS 60th Anniversary Award
This newly-established award will be given to 6 part-time BIPOC scholars who are making excellent academic progress and demonstrate financial need. This award represents FGS’ commitment to both DEDI and Access for All, in acknowledgement of the barriers facing many scholars who balance advanced study with other commitments and caregiving.