About Us

The Office of the Student Ombuds is a confidential service that strives to ensure that university processes related to students operate as fairly as possible. We offer information, advice, and support to students, faculty, and staff as they deal with academic, discipline, interpersonal, and financial issues related to student programs. 

We are...

  • an impartial third party - Our goal is to find the best possible resolution within the rules of the University of Alberta.
  • confidential - Your discussion with the Ombudsperson is confidential. However, it is important to note that there may be limits to confidentiality when: 
    1. there is a likely risk of harm to self or others, or 
    2. reporting or action is required or authorized by law.

We are not...

  • advocates - we will not pursue an argument or case that benefits only one side in a dispute.
  • spokespeople - except in extraordinary circumstances, we do not speak for the client. We are here to help you, not replace you.

We do...

  • provide information on University policy
  • refer to appropriate departments or services
  • advise on what options and courses of action are open
  • assist in preparing documents and arguments for appeals and hearings
  • help to mediate disputes and resolve conflicts
  • promote professional development to student advisors
  • participate in the development of University regulations and reports of systemic unfairness in regulations and practices on campus
  • teach peer mediation and conflict resolution practices

We do not...

  • deal with disputes that faculty or staff have with the University of Alberta
  • deal with processes external to the University