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 THE   UNIVERSITY    OF   BRITISH    COLUMBIA
Vancouver Senate Secretariat
Senate and Curriculum Services
Enrolment Services
2016-1874 East Mall
Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1
www.senate.ubc.ca
VANCOUVER SENATE
MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 1999
Attendance
Present: President M. C. Piper, Dr. P. Adebar, Mr. R. Appoo, Dean pro tem D. R. Atkins, Mr. M.
Beese, Dr. I. Benbasat, Dr. J. D. Berger, Dean J. Blom, Dr. G. W. Bluman, Mr. P. T. Brady, Dr. P.
C. Burns, Mr. P. T. Burns, Dean J. A. Cairns, Ms. A. Cheema, Mr. A. Chui, Ms. L. Chui, Mr. M.
Edwards, Dr. V. Froese, Dr. J. H.V. Gilbert, Dean F. Granot, Mr. H. D. Gray, Rev. J. Hanrahan,
Dr. P. G. Harrison, Dean M. Isaacson, Dr. M. R. ItoDean M. Klawe, Dr. S. B. Knight, Mr. J.
Kondopulos, Mr. O. C.W. Lau, Mr. D. K. Leung, Mr. T. P. T. Lo, Dr. D. M. Lyster, Dr. D. J.
MacDougall, Dr. P. L. Marshall, Dr. W. R. McMaster, Mr. W. McMichael, Mr. W. B. McNulty,
Mr. A. Mitchell, Mr. R. Morin, Dean S. Neuman, Dr. J. M. Orr, Mr. V. Pacradouni, Mr. R. L. de
Pfyffer, Dean M. Quayle, Dr. D. P. Rolfsen, Dr. H. J. Rosengarten, Dr. R. W. Schutz, Dean N.
Sheehan, Dr. C. E. Slonecker, Ms. K. Sonik, Mr. A. H. Soroka, Dr. S. Thorne, Dr. J. Vanderstoep,
Mr. D. R. Verma, Dr. P. A. Vertinsky, Dr. D. Ll. Williams, Dr. W. C. Wright, Jr., Dr. R. A.
Yaworsky, Mr. A. Zuniga.
Regrets: Chancellor W. L. Sauder, Vice-President B. C. McBride, Dean F. S. Abbott, Mr. W.
Cheung, Dr. V. Gomel, Mr. C. L. Gorman, Dr. A. G. Hannam, Dr. F. G. Herring, Dr. V. J.
Kirkness, Mr. J. Ko, Prof. P. T. K. Lin, Mr. B. Liu, Mr. R. W. Lowe, Dr. M. MacEntee, Dr. K.
May, Acting Dean John McLean, Dr. T. F. Pedersen, Dr. W. J. Phillips, Mr. G. Podersky-Cannon,
Ms. C. Quinlan, Prof. J. A. Rice, Ms. L. M. Sparrow, Dr. J. R. Thompson, Dr. M. Thompson, Dr.
W. Uegama, Dean E. H. K. Yen.
Senate Membership
Dr. Slonecker, as chair of the Agenda Committee, announced that the Committee had
been asked to consider a request from Ms. Lica Chui, student representative of the
Faculty of Medicine, regarding a retroactive leave of absence from Senate. Ms Chui had
been absent
12037
 Vancouver Senate 12038
Minutes of February 24,1999
Minutes of the Previous Meeting
from the November 1998, December 1998 and January 1999 meetings of Senate due to
conflicting academic responsibilities.
Dr. Slonecker l        That Ms. Lica Chui, a student representative of
Dr. Rosengarten J        the Faculty of Medicine, be granted retroactive
leave from the November 1998 and December
1998 meetings of Senate and that she be
permitted to complete her term on Senate to
March 31, 1999.
Carried.
Minutes of the Previous Meeting
Mr. Brady l        That the minutes of the fifth regular meeting of
Dr. Burns i        Senate for the 1998/99 session, having been
circulated, be taken and adopted as read.
Carried.
Business Arising from the Minutes
STUDENT DISCIPLINE (P. 12030)
President Piper gave a brief report on interpretation of the University Act with respect to
student discipline. Following discussion at the January 20, 1999 meeting of Senate
regarding additions to the Calendar entry on student discipline, President Piper had
sought advice from the Associate Vice-President, Academic and Legal Affairs, and the
President summarized his advice.
Section 61 of the University Act states quite clearly that the President is solely responsible
for student discipline and student sanctions; the senate is not referenced as having any
involvement in student discipline except with regard to appeals. Also pursuant to the
University Act, the senate has responsibility to provide for preparation and publication of
the university calendar. Senate therefore has authority over the general content of the
Calendar, but only has specific responsibility for the exact publication of the sections in
which it has power. Because Senate
 Vancouver Senate 12039
Minutes of February 24,1999
Business Arising from the Minutes
does not have jurisdiction in the area of student discipline, President Piper concurred with
the recommendation that additions to the Calendar section on student discipline be
brought to Senate for information rather than approval.
Mr. Soroka pointed out that the proposed addition to the list of offences had been taken
from a section of the Criminal Code of Canada which deals with sentencing principles,
and that the items referenced in the proposal are normally taken into account as matters
of aggravation rather than as offences unto themselves. Mr. Soroka expressed the opinion
that offences are quite well-covered in the existing Calendar entry and that the addition of
a multiplicity of offences was unnecessary. President Piper thanked Mr. Soroka for his
advice.
GOLDEN KEY NATIONAL HONOUR SOCIETY (PP. 12020-1)
In response to questions posed by Mr. Edwards at the January 20, 1999 meeting of Senate
regarding UBC's relationship with the Golden Key National Honour Society, President
Piper invited Dr. Rosengarten to give a report.
Dr. Rosengarten recalled Mr. Edwards' questions about whether UBC had examined the
background of the Society before asking the President to endorse it, and what benefits
UBC students might derive from membership. He also made reference to a recent article in
the Ubyssey student newspaper which had raised similar questions. The following is a
summary of Dr. Rosengarten's report.
The Golden Key National Honour Society was founded at Georgia State University in
1977. The honour society is a long tradition in the United States, beginning in the
eighteenth century. The aims of Golden Key are to encourage learning, recognize
leadership and promote tolerance and understanding. Golden Key is the first American
undergraduate society to offer membership to
 Vancouver Senate 12040
Minutes of February 24,1999
Business Arising from the Minutes
Canadian students. Other international chapters are located in Australia and Malaysia.
There are currently over 270 chapters world-wide, with approximately 800, 000 lifetime
members. Chapters currently exist at many American universities. The Golden Key Board
of Directors includes the respective presidents of Tufts University, Golden State University
and McGill University.
To be eligible for membership in the Golden Key National Honour Society, a student
must obtain a grade-point average in the top fifteen percent of his/her class from the
second year onward in a baccalaureate program; both part-time and full-time students
qualify. The fee for life membership is $80, plus the optional $15 purchase of a Society
pin.
Golden Key first contacted UBC in June 1996, and representatives met with the Vice-
President, Academic and Provost, the Vice-President Student and Academic Services, and
the Registrar. These officers of the University agreed to further investigate the advantages
of UBC affiliation with Golden Key, and in August 1996, Ms. Carol Gibson, the Director
of Awards and Financial Aid, was asked to conduct this investigation. The Committee of
Deans gave its support in-principle for this affiliation. Mr. Blair Grabinsky, then the
Manager of Career Services, and an undergraduate student from the Faculty of Arts
attended a conference in Atlanta in August 1997. They gathered information about the
relationships between Golden Key, its corporate affiliates, and university career services
offices, as well as on the relationships between the Golden Key administration, chapter
advisors and students. They were also asked to investigate the Society's commitment to
diversity and equality of opportunity, its commitment to academic excellence, and its
interest in promoting cultural understanding. Both Mr. Grabinsky and the student were
very favourably impressed, and reported that, as far as they could tell, the claims made by
the Society were supported in practice. At the request of the Campus Advisory Board on
Student Development (CABSD), Ms. Gibson gathered further information regarding the
Society's financial
 Vancouver Senate 12041
Minutes of February 24,1999
Business Arising from the Minutes
standing by examining its financial statements and an audit report written by a Georgia
accounting firm. CABSD learned that the AMS had voted against supporting the
establishment of a chapter of what it considered to be an "elitist American" organization
on the UBC campus. Despite this information, CABSD voted 15-1, with 5 abstentions, to
recommend going forward. Dr. Maria Klawe, who was then the Vice-President, Student
and Academic Services, agreed to monitor the Society and to review its relationship with
UBC after two years of operation. The UBC chapter of the Golden Key National Honour
Society was inaugurated on November 16, 1998, over two years after the Society had first
contacted UBC.
Dr. Rosengarten expressed the opinion that the University had acted cautiously, and not
precipitously, had examined the Society's claims, had reviewed its financial statements,
and had considered that the Society is represented at major institutions in the United
States, Canada and Australia.
Dr. Rosengarten addressed some of the statements in the Ubyssey article. In response to
the statement that only five percent of the Society's budget is used for scholarships, Dr.
Rosengarten stated that Golden Key is not solely a scholarship-granting organization. In
addition to scholarships, the Society also funds chapter activities, publications, an annual
convention, conferences and a career service. He further noted that the salary of the
Golden Key executive director was reported as $247 000, a figure which includes benefits
and pension contributions; the base salary is actually $150 000. Golden Key did not send
copies of its financial statements to the Atlanta Better Business Bureau, but it was not
required to do so as a non-profit organization. Copies of the financial statements are sent
annually to every chapter of the Society.
With regard to membership benefits, Golden Key offers scholarships, career contacts with
major companies, academic recognition, interaction with prospective mentors and with
other students
 Vancouver Senate 12042
Minutes of February 24,1999
Business Arising from the Minutes
from a wide variety of backgrounds. The decision to join such a society as well as a
judgement about whether members receive adequate value for money must be made by
individual students.
Mr. Edwards drew attention to Dr. Rosengarten's statement that Golden Key is not a
solely scholarship-granting organization, noting that the Society's literature lists
scholarships second on a list of membership benefits. Mr. Edwards also questioned how
reasonable it was to expect students to pay a membership fee to receive career assistance,
which falls within the mandate of UBC Career Services. He stated that he remained
unconvinced that there were benefits in asking each student to pay $80 to join this
organization. Dr. Rosengarten reiterated each prospective member needs to make the
decision about whether Golden Key would be of personal benefit.
Mr. Edwards stated that claims made in the Golden Key literature were not supported by
its IRS statements. In response to a query, Ms. Gibson stated that UBC had not examined
Golden Key's IRS submissions in making the decision to affiliate, but had reviewed fully-
audited financial statements prepared by an accounting firm.
Mr. Edwards stated that only $12 of each $80 membership fee was returned to the UBC
chapter. Dr. Rosengarten replied that, although he did not have information about what
other comparable organizations did in this area, Golden Key claims that 75% of
memberships fees go back to the chapters, but not necessarily to the chapter from which
the money is collected.
Mr. Zuniga asked what cost was incurred by UBC in affiliating with Golden Key. Dr.
Rosengarten confirmed that UBC was not required to pay a fee, as the full cost of
membership is borne by the individual members. Over 900 students joined Golden Key at
its inauguration.
 Vancouver Senate 12043
Minutes of February 24,1999
Chair's Remarks and Related Questions
In response to a question from Mr. Gray, Dean Klawe stated that the fact the AMS had
voted against supporting Golden Key had been seriously considered by CABSD. Members
of CABSD also considered that, whatever their own personal views might be about this
organization, that they also needed to respect the right of students to make their own
decisions about becoming members.
In response to a question from Dr. Schutz, Dr. Rosengarten confirmed that the Vice-
President, Student and Academic Services would be asked to prepare a report to Senate on
UBC's relationship with Golden Key in the fall of 2000.
In response to the use of the term "elitist American" organization, Dean Cairns pointed
out that American applicants to UBC could consider UBC an "elitist Canadian"
organization due to the level of scholarship required to gain admission.
Chair's Remarks and Related Questions
TRIPS IN SUPPORT OF TREK 2000
President Piper described recent trips to Nanaimo and Prince George undertaken in order
to deliver the final Trek 2000 document to these communities and to seek their ongoing
input and support in operationalizing the vision. Dr. Michael Goldberg, chair of the
Academic Plan Advisory Committee, was particularly well-received in addressing both
communities on the state of the British Columbian economy. The group also met with
representatives of post-secondary institutions, secondary-school students, chambers of
commerce, alumni and members of the media.
 Vancouver Senate 12044
Minutes of February 24,1999
Report on the Academic Plan
FEDERAL BUDGET
President Piper commented that the recently-announced federal budget focuses not only
on health issues, but also on knowledge and research. Initiatives that will have
tremendous impact on UBC over the next decade include the announcement of an
increase of at least $240 million in funding in the area of health research. All three
granting councils will also receive increased base funding in the amount of $50 million
over three years. Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE's) will receive an additional
$30 million. As several UBC proposals for new NCE's have been highly-rated but have
not succeeded in making the cut-off for obtaining funding, this increase in funding is good
news for UBC. An additional $200 million will be added to the existing $800 million
budget of the Canadian Foundation for Innovation. The challenge for UBC, as for others,
will be to take advantage of and build upon these advances, and to continue to make the
case that research is the foundation for innovation and social and cultural development.
Report on the Academic Plan
In the absence of Vice-President McBride, President Piper announced that copies of the
draft Academic Plan would be mailed to members of Senate in the near future, and that a
substantial amount of time would be set aside at the March 24, 1999 meeting of Senate
for discussion of the draft Academic Plan.
 Vancouver Senate 12045
Minutes of February 24,1999
Admissions Committee
Admissions Committee
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE AND ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES
See 'Appendix A: Proposal to Accept International Baccalaureate and Advanced
Placement Courses for Admission'.
As chair of the Admissions Committee, Dr. Harrison introduced a proposal to accept
Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses for admission. He
noted that the MATH 100 Challenge Examination had been renamed as the "UBC-SFU-
UVIC-UNBC Calculus Examination Certificate," and that the proposed policy would take
effect in September 2000.
Dr. Harrison i        That the proposal to accept International
Dr. Berger J        Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement
courses for admission be approved.
In response to a query from Dr. Williams, Dr. Harrison confirmed that any IB or AP
course, given that the exam was completed, could be presented as an elective, but could
not replace any course required for admission to a particular program. The proposed
policy would increase the variety of courses that a student might present for admission.
Mr. Mitchell pointed out that there exist two different levels of IB courses, and asked
which courses would be acceptable for admission. Dr. Harrison responded that both
levels would be acknowledged.
The motion was
put and carried.
 Vancouver Senate 12046
Minutes of February 24,1999
Admissions Committee
FACULTY OF DENTISTRY: ADVANCED STANDING ADMISSIONS
See Appendix B: Faculty of Dentistry Advanced Standing Admissions.
Dr. Harrison presented a proposal to revise the Calendar entry regarding admission of
students to advanced standing, which appears in the 1998/99 Calendar on page 154,
column 1.
Dr. Harrison i        That the revision to the Calendar entry
Dr. Gilbert J       regarding Admission of Students to Advanced
Standing in the Faculty of Dentistry be
approved.
Carried.
FACULTY OF DENTISTRY: INTERNATIONAL DENTAL DEGREE COMPLETION
PROGRAM ADMISSIONS
See Appendix C: Faculty of Dentistry International Dental Degree Completion Program
Admissions.
Dr. Harrison presented proposed changes to the Faculty of Dentistry Calendar statement
on admission to the International Dental Degree Completion Program, which appears in
the 1998/99 Calendar on page 154, column 2. Dr. Harrison noted that the admissions
process would be reduced from three phases to two, and that the fee structure would be
altered, and that applicants would be evaluated on the skills necessary to succeed in the
newly-designed Dentistry curriculum.
Dr. Harrison i        That the proposed changes to admissions to
Dr. Gilbert J        the International Dental Degree Completion
Program in the Faculty of Dentistry be
approved.
Dr. Benbasat drew attention to the fact that the proposal listed fees in both Canadian and
American currencies, and asked whether this was customary. After discussion, it was
decided that the references to American currency would be deleted throughout the
proposal.
 Vancouver Senate
Minutes of February 24,1999
12047
Continuing Studies Committee
Mr. Appoo cited the example of a student in the Faculty of Dentistry who was struggling
in the program due to inadequate English language skills. He asked whether the Faculty
of Dentistry had plans to adjust the English requirement. Dr. Harrison responded that the
Faculty had not proposed to change the English language admission requirement.
The motion,
amended to
include the
deletion of
references to
American
currency, was put
and carried.
FACULTY OF MEDICINE: DOCTOR OF MEDICINE ADMISSIONS
See Appendix D: Faculty of Medicine Doctor of Medicine Admissions.
Dr. Harrison presented a proposal to revise the admission statement for the Doctor of
Medicine program, and noted that some changes were editorial while others reflected the
shift to the new undergraduate curriculum in the Faculty of Medicine.
Dr. Harrison
Dean Cairns
That the proposed changes to admission to the
Doctor of Medicine program in the Faculty of
Medicine be approved.
Carried.
Continuing Studies Committee
FACULTY OF ARTS: DIPLOMA IN COLLABORATIVE PIANO STUDIES
Dr. Vanderstoep, as chair of the Committee, presented the following report for
information:
At the January 20, 1999 meeting of Senate, the Diploma in Collaborative Piano
Studies received approval, subject to subsequent review by the Continuing Studies
Committee (Senate Minutes, p.12026).
 Vancouver Senate 12048
Minutes of February 24,1999
Elections Committee
The Continuing Studies Committee has reviewed the proposal and concurs with the
approval granted by Senate.
Elections Committee
ELECTION OF STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Mr. Lau, as chair of the Committee, presented the following report for information:
Section 43(1) of the University Act states that "[t]he senate must make and publish all rules
necessary and consistent with this Act in respect of nominations, elections and voting." As
part of its rules, Senate has included in the terms of reference of the Senate Elections
Committee the power to "hear and dispose of appeals on election irregularities" and to
" invalidate an election and call a new election."
On February 4, 1999, the Senate Elections Committee met to consider an allegation of
irregularity arising from the 1999 election of two students to the Board of Governors.
The Allegation:
An allegation of irregularity was made against Mr. Ben Liu, a candidate for the Board of
Governors, regarding the treatment he received from the AMS Elections Committee.
According to the Electoral Code of Procedure for the AMS, each candidate is entitled to either
an interview or a 200-word statement in a campus publication. However, if the candidate
declines to be interviewed and chooses not to provide a statement, the candidate's name and
the position he/she is running for will nevertheless be printed. In order to fulfill the
requirements of their Code, the AMS has a contract with the Ubyssey Publications Society for
the printing of an elections supplement in The Ubyssey.
Since Mr. Ben Liu was neither interviewed nor submitted a statement to the Ubyssey
Publications Society, his name alone was supposed to have appeared in the section of The
Ubyssey's election supplement dedicated to Board of Governors candidates. However, his
name was accidentally omitted, breaching the contract between the AMS and the Ubyssey
Publications Society. Consequently, all parties came to the following arrangement, in
reparation for the omission:
• Labels with Mr. Liu's name would be affixed to the 2000 copies of The Ubyssey's election
supplement which would be available at polling stations.
• A free advertisement would be run in an edition of The Ubyssey published during polling
week. The advertisement would be restricted to information from one of Mr. Liu's
campaign posters which had been approved by the AMS Elections Committee.
At issue in the allegation are the advertisements published during polling week. Since the AMS
Code prohibits any campaigning once polling has commenced, the complainants alleged that
these advertisements provided Mr. Liu with an unfair advantage.
The Hearing:
In hearing the allegation, the Committee heard from Mr. Ben Liu and two of the
complainants. We also heard from Mr. Trevor Franklin, the AMS Ombudsperson, who
conducted an investigation into the matter for the AMS Student Council, and from Ms. Vivian
Hoffman, the AMS President.
 Vancouver Senate 12049
Minutes of February 24,1999
Elections Committee
In his report, Mr. Franklin recommended that the election results be overturned since the
reparations made to Mr. Liu were inappropriate and created an unfair advantage.
However, both Mr. Liu and the two complainants did not want another election given the
time and effort that is needed to run in an election. This position was reinforced by the AMS
Student Council, which defeated a motion asking the Committee to overturn the results.
The Decision:
Given the spread of votes among the candidates, the Committee felt that there was a
reasonable apprehension that the outcome for second place could have been materially
affected by the advertisements given to Mr. Liu. Therefore the Committee decided to allow the
election of the first-place candidate to stand, and to overturn the results of the other
candidates and order a new election. The election results, in order of the number of votes
received, are as follows:
Jesse Guscott
746 (elected)
Ben Liu
626 (overturned)
Mark Beese
614 (overturned)
Joel Peterson
608 (overturned)
Antonie Zuniga
469 (overturned)
The AMS will determine the format of this new election, and the Committee has asked that
the AMS consider a compressed format which takes into consideration that the candidates
have already campaigned. The only restriction is that only candidates that participated in the
previous election will be allowed to run in the new election, if they choose to do so."
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES TO SENATE: ELECTION RESULTS
Mr. Lau presented the following report for information:
"The following students have been elected to serve on Senate for one year from April 1, 1999
to March 31, 2000.
At Large Representatives:
Karen Sonik
Jeffrey Lsui
Applied Science:
Ed Fidler
Arts:
Jennifer DeLucry
Commerce and Business Administration:
James Kondopulos
Graduate Studies:
Vighen Pacradouni
Law:
Lis Hewalo
Medicine:
Joelle Dennie
No nominations were received for the Faculties of Agricultural Sciences, Dentistry, Education,
Forestry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Science. In accordance with Senate regulations, the
incumbent student senators for these faculties shall remain in office until they resign or cease
to be duly registered students.
Additionally, only two nominations were received for the five at-large positions. The
remaining three positions will be filled by the incumbent at-large representatives who choose
to remain in office, beginning with the incumbent who received the most votes in the last
election.
 Vancouver Senate 12050
Minutes of February 24,1999
Nominating Committee
Nominating Committee
Dr. Williams, as chair, announced that the Nominating Committee had received a request
from the Continuing Studies Committee to reduced the quorum for that Committee.
Dr. Williams l        That the quorum of the Continuing Studies
Mr. Brady J        Committee be reduced from eight voting
members to six.
In response to a question from Mr. Pacradouni, Dr. Williams confirmed that the
Continuing Studies Committee consists of twelve regular members.
The motion was
put and carried.
Reports from the Vice-President, Academic and Provost
FACULTY OF SCIENCE: CENTRE FOR MICROBIAL DISEASES AND HOST DEFENCE
RESEARCH (CMDR)
In the absence of Vice-President McBride, President Piper invited Dean Klawe to speak to
the proposal for a new Centre. The proposal stated that CMDR would be an
interdisciplinary research centre bringing together researchers from several Faculties to
pursue joint research.
Dean Klawe l        That Senate approve and recommend approval
Mr. Gray J        by the Board of Governors the proposal to
establish in the Faculty of Science the UBC
Centre for Microbial Diseases and Host
Defence Research (CMDR).
Mr. Brady asked how much space this new Centre would require. Dean Klawe responded
that two existing offices would be allocated to a director and a secretary.
Mr. Gray stated that he was pleased to support the motion because of the relationship to
health research, but clarified that he did not support research in the area of biological or
"germ war-
 Vancouver Senate 12051
Minutes of February 24,1999
Reports from the Vice-President, Academic and Provost
fare." Dean Klawe initially responded that she was "speechless", but clarified soon after
that it was not the intention of the Centre to support "germ warfare."
Dr. Benbasat asked whether a stronger statement on undergraduate research could be
added to the proposal in order to align it with Trek 2000.Dean Klawe responded that she
had discussed this issue with the incoming Director of the Centre and that the Centre
could offer an opportunity to engage undergraduate students with an interest in this area.
Dr. Williams, referring to Mr. Gray's comments above, noted that the proposal for the
new Centre could include a statement that the Centre would not accept contracts related
to biological warfare.
Prof. Burns asked whether there already existed sufficient secure laboratory space, or
whether new space would be required. Dean Klawe responded that there was no intention
to acquire additional laboratory space. Dean Cairns confirmed that many "virtual"
centres already exist on campus. Although there was nothing in the proposal that
precludes growth or additional funding, additional space would not be a necessary
ingredient for its success. Prof. Burns requested that the minutes reflect that both Dean
Klawe and Dean Cairns had confirmed that this new Centre would not require the
allocation of space additional to the requirements referenced in the proposal.
The motion was
put and carried.
 Vancouver Senate 12052
Minutes of February 24,1999
Other Business
Other Business
EXAMINATION HARDSHIPS
Mr. Zuniga had circulated a report from the student members of the Academic Policy
Committee and the AMS President regarding examination hardships and the
recommendations to alleviate hardships as approved by Senate at its December 16, 1999
meeting. The report stated that:
While we sincerely applaud the Registrar's initiative to adopt an examination system with the
purpose of solving examination hardships, we are concerned that according to the wording of
Recommendation 1, there is a possibility that this pre-scheduling system may not be operative
by 2000/01. We are as well concerned that between now and 2000/01 or whenever the new
examination system is actually implemented, there will be a period of 21 months (at least three
examination periods) in which students may still be without an effective examination hardship
policy. In order to shield students from potential examination hardship in this period...we
hereby request that an examination hardship motion, strongly supported by the AMS
University commission and approved...by student senator's (sic) caucus [at] its November 17,
1998 meeting and by the Alma Mater Society Student Council [at] its November 18, 1998
meeting, be considered by the UBC Senate.
Mr. Zuniga l        That a student facing an examination
Mr. Mitchell i        hardship, defined as three or more
examinations scheduled within a 24-hour
period, be given an alternate examination date
for the second examination causing hardship
by the respective instructor or department until
a new pre-scheduled examination system is
implemented.
Dean Isaacson commented that members of Senate did not receive the motion in advance,
that the motion may be unworkable as stated above, and that such a policy may require
additional resources to implement.
Dean Isaacson i        That the above proposal for an interim
£)r_ \i0 J        solution for examination hardships be referred
to the Academic Policy Committee.
Mr. Brady spoke against referral, stating that he did not consider the proposed policy
unworkable or requiring a tremendous workload for Faculties and instructors in finding
an alternate examination date. Dr. Rosengarten agreed that the original motion should be
put to a vote, but added that, in addition to scheduling a second examination date,
instructors would also often be
 Vancouver Senate 12053
Minutes of February 24,1999
Other Business
required to prepare a second examination. In response to a question from Mr. Lau, the
Registrar confirmed that there was no data available regarding the number of
examination hardships that occur. Dr. Schutz spoke against the motion to refer, since the
Academic Policy Committee had already recommended that Faculties take responsibility
for resolving hardships, and that it would not be possible for the Committee to propose
an alternate solution prior to the end of the 1998/99 academic year.
The motion to
refer was put and
defeated.
Dr. Williams stated that it was very clear that some students are experiencing hardship.
He also noted that the examination schedule is now published earlier than in the past,
which has introduced an element of flexibility. The proposed policy would formalize what
has been the current practice, and Dr. Williams would therefore support the motion.
Dr. Vanderstoep pointed out that it might sometimes be easier to reschedule the first or
third examination rather than the second examination. Dr. Rolfsen noted that the
proposed policy should be enacted only as a last resort.
Dr. Rolfsen i        That the motion be amended to begin: "If no
Prof. Burns i        other solution can be found, ..."
The motion to
amend was put
and defeated.
Dean Klawe also stated her support for the motion, but asked that the student be required
to notify the instructor of the second examination well in advance of the examination
date.
 Vancouver Senate
Minutes of February 24,1999
12054
Honorary Degrees
In amendment.
Dean Klawe
Dean Quayle
That the motion be amended to end: "The
student must notify the instructor of the
second examination no later than one month
prior to the examination date."
The motion to
amend was put
and carried.
The motion, as
amended, was
put and carried.
Honorary Degrees
President Piper announced the names of those who had agreed to accept honorary degrees
from UBC. Honorary degrees will be conferred upon Shirley Chan, Peter Newman, Erich
Vogt, Kalman Roller, and William Barton at the spring 1999 congregation, and upon
Richard Lipsey and the Right Honourable Antonio Lamer at the fall 1999 congregation.
Adjournment
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
Next meeting
The next regular meeting of Senate will be held on March 24, 1999.
 Vancouver Senate
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix A
12055
Appendix A
PROPOSAL TO ACCEPT INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE AND ADVANCED
PLACEMENT COURSES FOR ADMISSION
Rationale: UBC currently permits applicants to use only "approved examinable Grade 12 courses" for
admission; only Ministry of Education exams are approved. The challenging International Baccalaureate
and Advanced Placement courses have external exams and can be relied upon to provide a uniform
evaluation of applicants. In addition, (1) records show that students entering UBC with IB or AP courses
perform on average better than students without such courses; (2) UBC already gives credit for first-year
courses to students with high standing in AP and Higher Level IB courses, and (3) the Ministry of
Education has established equivalencies between many of the IB and AP courses and the Ministry's own
courses so that students no longer need to complete both a Ministry course and a similar IB orAP course
in order to graduate from high school. Indeed, it is possible to gain more 'graduation credits' for some
subsidiary level IB courses than for the equivalent Ministry courses. Thus, this proposal is to offer well-
qualified applicants a choice of courses to be used for admissions consideration and to provide an
incentive for students to pursue the more challenging option.
Calendar p.34 "Applicants from a Secondary School in BC/Yukon"
Column 1: Change the policy to include IB and AP courses as "approved examinable Grade 12 courses".
Lhe minimum academic qualification for admission is secondary school graduation, including the following
Grade 12 and 11 courses:
Required Courses
Grade
Required Courses
Grade 12     English 121
Three additional approved examinable Grade 12 courses1
Grade 11      English 11
Principles of Mathematics 11
Social Studies 11
At least one approved Science ll3
An approved Language ll4
New footnote 1. or approved International Baccalaureate or Advanced Placement course
Change existing footnotes 1,2,3 to 2, 3, 4
Lhe admission average will be calculated on English 12 (or equivalent) and the three additional approved
Grade 12 courses.
A minimum average of 67% ... programs.
Applicants who, because ... concerned.
All courses must be completed by June. Final examinations offered by the BC Ministry of Education or the
external examinations for International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement courses must be written.
Summer school courses or grades obtained in supplemental examinations will not be considered.
table 1: Approved Examinable Grade 12 Courses
Biology 12
History 12
Chemistry 12
Japanese 12
English 12
Mandarin 12
English Literature 12
Physics 12
Francais Langue 12 or
French 12
Principles of Mathematics 12
Geography 12
Punjabi 12
Geology 12
Spanish 12
German 12
 Vancouver Senate 12056
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix A
1 Approved courses offered in French will also be accepted. (Frangais 12 is not accepted in place of English
12.)
New Footnote:2 Alternate International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement courses are listed on page
XX.
P. 34, Column 2: Replace the current section with:
International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement
The University of British Columbia recognizes these advanced secondary school programs for admission and
for transfer credit.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Students
For students who complete the IB Diploma, admission to the university will require a minimum of 24 points
including bonus points. Due to limited enrolment a higher score will be required for admission to some
programs.
International Baccalaureate Certificate Students
For students who present results for one or more International Baccalaureate certificate courses, admission
will be based on the higher of either the IB score or the BC 12 course grade where there is an equivalent
course. In those cases where the IB score is not available at the time of admission selection, the BC 12
course grade will be used.
The grade conversion scale that will be used to determine admission is as follows:
IB Grade
% Equivalent
7
96
6
90
5
86
4
76
3
70
Credit for equivalent first-year UBC courses will be awarded to students who achieve a grade of at least 5 in
Higher Level IB Arts courses and 6 in Higher Level IB Science courses. Details are provided in the
Undergraduate Information Guide.
Advanced Placement Students
For students who present results of one or more Advanced Placement courses, admission will be based on
the higher of either the AP score or the BC 12 course grade where there is an equivalent course. In those
cases where the AP grade is not available at the time of admission selection, the BC 12 course grade will be
used.
The grade conversion scale that will be used to determine admission is as follows:
| AP Grade
% Equivalent 1
5
96
4
86
3
80
2
70
Credit for equivalent first-year UBC courses will be awarded to students who achieve a grade of 4 or better
on the appropriate AP course. Details are provided in the Undergraduate Information Guide.
 Vancouver Senate
Minutes of February 24,1999
12057
Appendix A
Approved Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate coursesl, 2
BC Ministry course
Approved Alternate Course
Advanced Placement
International Baccalaureate
Biology 12
AP Biology
General Biology
Chemistry 12
AP General Chemistry
Chemistry
English 12
AP English Language and Composition
English Language A
English Literature 12
AP English Language and Composition
English Literature
French 12 or Frangais Langue 12
AP French (Language or Literature)
French Language B
Geography 12
Geography
Geology 12
German 12
AP German Language
German
History 12
AP History (European or US)
History (Asian or European)
Japanese 12
Japanese
Mandarin 12
Mandarin
Physics 12
AP Physics (B or C)
Physics
Principles of Math 122
Further Math
Punjabi 12
Spanish 12
AP Spanish (Language or Literature)
Spanish (A or B)
1 Other AP or IB courses may be used as elective courses but may not replace any course required for
admission to a particular program.
2 One of AP Calculus (AB or BC), IB Calculus, or the UBC-SFU-UVIC-UNBC Calculus Examination
Certificate may be used as an elective course (in addition to Principles of Math 12).
 Vancouver Senate 12058
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix B
Appendix B
FACULTY OF DENTISTRY ADVANCED STANDING ADMISSIONS
The current Calendar entry, page 154, Column 1, under the heading:
Admission of Students to Advanced Standing indicates that:
"The committee will consider applicants who are seeking admission to second year Dentistry
and who are currently enrolled in a North American dental program accredited by either the
Canadian Commission on Dental Accreditation or the American Dental Association's
Commission. Applicants will be considered for transfer in exceptional circumstances only and
if space is available. In these cases, the student
1. must fulfill the pre-dental admission requirements;
2. must have successfully completed courses equivalent to those offered in this Faculty for
the years below which transfer is being sought;
3. may be required to pass special examinations set by this Faculty;
4. may be required to repeat the year most recently completed at the former institution;
5. must submit a CAD$200 application fee to cover the costs of evaluating educational
documents;
6. must submit references (forms for this purpose are included in the application
materials);
7. may be required to attend a personal interview at his or her own expense.
8. must make application by December 1 for the following September.
Students who have been required to withdraw from another dental school for academic or
other reasons are not eligible for admission."
Using the same heading as above, the new proposed Calendar entry is as follows:
"The committee will consider applicants who are seeking admission to third year Dentistry
and who are currently enrolled in 2nd year of a North American dental program accredited by
either the Canadian Commission on Dental Accreditation or the American Dental
Association's Commission. Applicants will be considered for transfer only when a vacancy
exists.
Applicants
1. must have an overall academic average of 70% or higher
2. must successfully complete the 2nd year dental program at an accredited institution
3. must submit a CAD$200 non-refundable application fee to cover the costs of
evaluating educational documents
4. must submit references (forms for this purpose are included in the application
materials). One letter of reference must be a letter of good standing from the Dean or
their designate of the applicant's current dental school.
5. will be required to attend for a personal interview at UBC
6. must make application by June 30th for the following August.
Students who have been required to withdraw from another dental school for academic or
other reasons are not eligible for admission. A separate 3 day orientation prior to the start of
the third year will be required to introduce the student to the UBC clinical system and the
UBC curriculum. A clinical orientation fee of $2, 100 will be assessed.
 Vancouver Senate 12059
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix B
Further information and application forms are available from the Admissions Coordinator,
Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, 350-2194 Health Sciences Mall,
Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3, telephone (604) 822-3416, fax (604) 822-4532, or by
viewing the Faculty website at "http//www.dentistry.ubc.ca""
Rationale
The Admissions Committee considers applications on a space available basis. Following the
increase in length of the 2nd year curriculum, we find out when a space is available after the 2nd
year's Promotion Committee has met, usually in late June each year. Advancing the application
from December to the end of June will allow us to consider applications only when there is a
space available.
The new curriculum has continuous courses over years 1 and 2. As UBC is one of few dental
schools with a Problem Based Learning Curriculum, fitting transfer students into the system in
year 2 has been difficult, due to the necessity to have successfully completed courses for the years
below which transfer is being sought. A special 3-day clinical orientation with some curriculum
orientation will be required, and a clinical orientation fee of $2,100.00 will be assessed.
Effective Date: May 1, 1999
 Vancouver Senate 12060
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix C
Appendix C
FACULTY OF DENTISTRY INTERNATIONAL DENTAL DEGREE COMPLETION
PROGRAM ADMISSIONS
The Faculty of Dentistry recently submitted a proposed Calendar entry change for consideration
by Senate Admissions Committee, following a special meeting of the Faculty of Dentistry on
Friday December 18, 1998. Following our discussions earlier today, the following contains the
changes recommended to the proposal by the Senate Admissions Committee.
The current Calendar entry, page 154, Column 2, under the heading:
International Dental Degree Completion Program indicates that:
"The Faculty will consider applications to the D.M.D. degree completion program from
graduates of international dental programs that are not accredited by the Commission on
Dental Accreditation of Canada. This program will lead to the Doctor of Dental Medicine.
The admission process will be in two phases, plus an orientation and preparation phase.
Phase 1: Academic Credentials Evaluation
Applicants must
1. submit original records (transcripts) of their entire education to include all post-
secondary and university studies;
2. demonstrate evidence of graduation from a recognized dental school;
3. demonstrate an acceptable working knowledge of English (see English Language
Admission Standard);
4. submit a CAD$400 (USD$286) non-refundable application fee;
5. make application by February 15 for admission the following August
6. submit three letters of reference, one of which must be from the licensing authority, or
its equivalent, of the region in which the applicant last practiced; and
7. undertake the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry Eligibility Examination
or the UBC equivalent.
Applicants must have completed the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry Eligibility
Examination. Information and application forms are available from the Admissions
Coordinator, Faculty of Dentistry, or the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry, 401-
359 Kent Street, Ottawa, ON, K2P 0R7. The applicant must request that the scores of the
examination be sent to the Admissions Coordinator, Faculty of Dentistry.
Applicants applying for Phase 1 will be evaluated on their educational credentials, letters of
reference, results of the Eligibility Examination and their proficiency in English. As spaces are
limited, applicants will be competing for inclusion in Phase 2.
Phase 2: Pre-Clinical Assessment and Interview
Applicants must
1.   participate in a two-week pre-clinical practice;
 Vancouver Senate 12061
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix C
2. undertake a personal interview at UBC; and
3. undertake an interview and demonstrate competence in verbal communication skills in English
by reaching level 5 or better on the Placement Interview Test Rating Scale of the English
Language Institute at UBC, or its equivalent.
English is the medium of instruction in Dentistry and communication skills are necessary to
function effectively in the clinical setting. This requirement in English communication skills is in
addition to the TOEFL.
The cost of this evaluation phase is CAD$2, 000. More detailed information on the evaluation
phase, the entrance examination and the structure of the interview will be provided to applicants
selected for this phase.
Final candidate selection for admission to the orientation phase and third year of the D.M.D.
program will be based on successful completion of the eligibility and entrance examinations, as
well as the interview and performance in a pre-clinical setting. As spaces are limited, successful
completion alone will not guarantee admission. Candidates will be competing with other
applicants from which the final selection will be made.
Phase 3: Orientation and Preparation
This phase, held prior to the commencement of the third year of the D.M.D. program, will consist
of a detailed orientation to the UBC dental curriculum, and the policies, practices and procedures
of the main clinic.
Tuition fees of CAD$30, 000 per annum will apply, in addition to the regular instrument, course
material and student fees. Further information, application forms and brochures on the various
examinations are available from the Admissions Coordinator, Faculty of Dentistry, The University
of British Columbia, 350-2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3,
telephone (604)822-3416, fax (604) 822-4532, email:fodadms@unixg.ubc.ca.
The Faculty of Dentistry receives many more applications than it can accept, therefore compliance
with the above requirements will not guarantee a place in this dental school. An applicant with
advanced placement can be admitted only if a place is available. Vacancies caused by student
withdrawal in any class will not be filled, except in extraordinary circumstances, beyond the first
four weeks of first term in any academic year."
The proposed new Calendar entry is as follows:
"International Dental Degree Completion Program
The Faculty will consider applications to the D.M.D. degree completion program from graduates
of international dental programs that are not accredited by the Commission on Dental
Accreditation of Canada. This program will commence in term 3 of 2nd year (lasts four weeks and
occurs in June each year) and will lead to the degree of Doctor of Dental Medicine. Tuition fees of
CAD$30, 000 per annum will apply, in addition to the regular instrument, course material and
student fees. Further information, application forms and brochures on the various examinations
are available from the Admissions Coordinator, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British
Columbia, 350-2194 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3, telephone (604)
822-3416, fax (604) 822-4532, email: fodadms@unixg.ubc.ca.
The Faculty of Dentistry receives many more applications than it can accept; therefore compliance
with the admission requirements will not guarantee a place in this dental school. Vacancies caused
by student withdrawal in any class will not be filled, except in extraordinary circumstances,
beyond the first four weeks of
 Vancouver Senate 12062
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix C
first term in any academic year.
The admission process will be in two phases.
Phase 1: Academic Credentials Evaluation
Applicants must
1. submit original records (transcripts) of their entire post-secondary and university studies;
2. demonstrate evidence of graduation from a recognized dental school;
3. demonstrate a working knowledge of English (see English Language Admission Standard);
4. submit a CAD$400 non-refundable application fee;
5. make application by February 15 for admission the following June
6. submit three letters of reference, one of which must be from the licensing authority, or its
equivalent, of the region in which the applicant last practiced; and
7. undertake the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry Eligibility Examination or the
UBC equivalent. Information and application forms are available from the Admissions
Coordinator, Faculty of Dentistry, or the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry, 401-
359 Kent Street, Ottawa, ON, K2P 0R7. The applicant must request that the scores of the
examination be sent to the Admissions Coordinator, Faculty of Dentistry.
Applicants applying for Phase 1 will be evaluated on their educational credentials, letters of
reference, results of the Eligibility Examination and their proficiency in English. As spaces are
limited, applicants will be competing for inclusion in Phase 2.
Phase 2: Assessment and Interview
Applicants must
1. undertake an interview to demonstrate competence in verbal communication skills in English
by reaching level 5 or better on the Placement Interview Test Rating Scale of the English
Language Institute at UBC, or its equivalent. English is the medium of instruction in Dentistry
and communication skills are necessary to function effectively in the clinical setting. This
requirement in English communication skills is in addition to the English Language Admission
Standard requirement of Phase 1.
2. undertake a personal interview at UBC.
Phase 2 normally occurs in April and will last three to five days. During this time the
interview, the test of spoken English, a Faculty tour, an orientation to the clinic and an
introduction to the UBC problem based learning curriculum will occur.
The cost of phase 2 is CAD$1, 000. More detailed information on the orientation, the verbal
communication skills test and the structure of the interview will be provided to applicants
selected for phase 2.
As spaces are limited, successful completion of phase 2 alone will not guarantee admission.
Candidates will be competing with other applicants from which the final selection will be
made."
Rationale:
Changes in the curriculum necessitate these admissions changes in order that applicants are
not disadvantaged. Phase One assessment stays the same. Phase Two retains the English
assessment and the personal interview, but removes the preclinical assessment. We believe that
a preclinical assessment of applicants
 Vancouver Senate 12063
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix C
who have practiced as dentists elsewhere is unnecessary. However, the format of the new PBL
curriculum is quite unlike other more traditional clinical curricula; therefore we believe that
incoming students need a formal orientation to it. The fee, lower than the previous fee, reflects
the cost of providing this orientation.
Effective Date: These changes should be implemented immediately to avoid accepting
applicants who are not properly evaluated and so are poorly prepared for the program.
 Vancouver Senate 12064
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Appendix D
FACULTY OF MEDICINE DOCTOR OF MEDICINE ADMISSIONS
Current Calendar Entry (page 249. column 1, paragraph 1)
Selection of a Program of Premedical Studies
Students planning to apply for admission to the Faculty of Medicine should select their courses of
study, in addition to the specific prerequisite courses listed below, to conform with the requirements of
a bachelor's degree of their choice. It is considered desirable that students admitted to Medicine should
come from a variety of premedical academic backgrounds, and there is no particular degree that is
looked on as having unique merits as preparation for the subsequent study and practice of medicine.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 249. column 1, paragraph 1)
Selection of a Program of Premedical Studies
Students planning to apply for admission to the MD program should select courses which conform
with the requirements of a bachelor's degree of their choice. No particular degree program is
considered ideal as preparation for the study and practice of medicine. A variety of premedical
academic backgrounds is considered desirable.
Rationale
Changes are editorial.
Current Calendar Entry (page 249. column 1. paragraph 2)
In certain circumstances it may be in order for academically strong candidates who have completed
programs of study that have not included all of the medical school prerequisites to take an extra year
of studies in order to complete the entrance requirements.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 249. column 1)
Delete.
Rationale
The paragraph implies that not all students who have obtained an undergraduate degree have to
complete the prerequisite courses. This is incorrect.
Current Calendar Entry (page 249. column 1. paragraph 3)
Students who have completed programs that have included all of the prerequisites and who then enrol
in Unclassified non-degree programs for the sole purpose of improving their academic qualifications
for admission to the Faculty of Medicine are advised that only a small proportion of candidates in
these circumstances ultimately gain admission, and that a high level of academic performance in such
an Unclassified year will not necessarily result in acceptance into the Faculty of Medicine.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 249. column 1. paragraph 2)
Students who have completed programs that include all the prerequisites and who then enrol in
Unclassified non-degree programs for the sole purpose of improving their academic qualifications for
admission, are advised that only a small proportion of such candidates ultimately gains admission.
 Vancouver Senate 12065
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Rationale
Changes are editorial.
Current Calendar Entry (page 249. column 1. paragraph 4)
Prerequisites
Candidates for admission to the Faculty of Medicine must have completed, as a minimum, three full
years in the Faculty of Science or the Faculty of Arts or other faculty at the University of British
Columbia (90 academic credits), or the equivalent thereof. Applications from individuals already
holding a Doctor of Medicine or its equivalent will not normally be considered. All applicants must
have completed the following university-level prerequisite courses by May of the year for which they
are applying for admission to Medicine. Advance credit will not be granted for Grade 13 courses.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 249. column 1. paragraph 3)
Prerequisites
Candidates for admission must have completed a minimum of three full years of university level study
(90 academic credits). (OAC courses are not considered to be at the university level.) The following
university-level prerequisite courses (or their equivalent) must be completed by April 30th of the year
for which application is made.
Rationale
Section is re-written so as not to be so UBC oriented, and to clarify deadlines.
Delete highlighted sentence. Most individuals holding an MD degree and who are unable to enter
postgraduate training, obtained an MD degree in another country. As landed immigrants or Canadian
citizens, they should have access to the same opportunities as all Canadian citizens.
Current Calendar Entry (pages 249 and 250. column 1)
Six credits of English chosen from ENGL 110, 111, 112, 120 and 121. ENGL 112 is recommended.
BIOL 120 and 110 or 115, or 80% or better in Biology 12.
CHEM 111 and 112 or 121 and 122.
CHEM 203 and 204 or 231 and 232.
BIOC 300 or 303 or BIOL 201 AND BIOC 302.
The foregoing prerequisite courses are required of students taking premedical programs at the
University of British Columbia. Students completing the Science One Program at UBC will have
completed the first year Science prerequisites. Students taking premedical studies at other universities
must submit evidence of having successfully completed equivalent courses in these subjects. The
Faculty also recommends that students take courses in behavioural sciences, biometrics and statistics,
and physics.
Proposed Calendar Entry (pages 249 and 250. column 1)
The following prerequisite courses are required for entry into Medicine. UBC courses are listed; the
equivalents will be accepted from any recognized post-secondary institution.
 Vancouver Senate 12066
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
1. English, 6 credits (ENGL 112 recommended).
2. Biology, 6 credits, BIOL 110 and 120 or 115 and 120 (or BIOL 120 alone for UBC students
with at least 80% in BIOL 12 and exemption from BIOL 110 or 115).
3. Chemistry, 6 credits, CHEM 111 and 112 or 121 and 122
4. Organic Chemistry, 6 credits, CHEM 203 and 204 or 231 and 232.
5. Biochemistry, 6 credits, BIOC 300 or 303 or BIOL 201 AND BIOC 302.
Students completing Science One at UBC meet the first year Biology and Chemistry requirements.
Courses in behavioural sciences, biometrics and statistics, and physics are recommended for all
applicants.
There is no time limit for the completion of prerequisites.
Rationale
Section is re-written so that it is not quite as " UBC" oriented. Last sentence added because there has
been an "implicit" policy that prerequisites must be completed within 10 years. However, the MCAT
is an independent measure of how well the applicant knows the material covered in the prerequisites.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 1. paragraph 1)
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
All candidates are required to take the Medical College Admission Test and perform satisfactory in the
test. Applicants must have completed this examination before making application to enter the Faculty
of Medicine. The MCAT test result is normally valid for a period of five years.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 1. paragraph 1)
Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
All candidates are required to take the MCAT before filing an application for admission. In order to be
eligible, applicants must have no more than one "7", an overall minimum of "23", and a minimum of
" M" in the writing sample. Test results are normally valid for five years.
Rationale
Minimum requirements for MCAT are explicitly stated. Other changes are editorial.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 1. paragraph 2)
Arrangements to take the Medical College Admission Test should be made with the counselling service
of the institution at which the student is taking premedical studies. University bookstores should stock
publications related to the MCAT. Information regarding the test may also be obtained from the
Association of American Medical Colleges, Membership and Publication Orders, 2450 N Street N.W.,
Washington, DC, 20037-1129, USA; telephone (202) 828-0416.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 1. paragraph 2)
Arrangements to take the MCAT may be made with post-secondary institution counselling
departments. University bookstores often sell publications related to the MCAT. Alternatively,
applicants may contact the Association of American Medical Colleges, Membership and Publication
Orders, 2450 N Street N.W., Washington, DC, 20037-1129, USA; telephone (202) 828-0416.
 Vancouver Senate 12067
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Rationale
Changes are editorial.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 1. paragraphs 3 and 4)
Required Academic Standards
The minimum acceptable academic standing for admission to the Faculty of Medicine is an overall
average of 70% (or the equivalent in other grading systems) based on grades received in all university-
level courses completed to the time of application. Achievement of this minimum academic
requirement, however, provides no assurance of admission. The number of applicants so qualified
exceeds by a wide margin the number of places in the entering class and the scholastic standards of
those admitted to the Faculty of Medicine in recent years have been considerably above this minimum
required grade.
Persons who have been required to withdraw from another medical school for academic reasons are
not eligible to apply.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 1. paragraphs 3 and 4)
Required Academic Standards
Applications for admission will be considered from candidates who have completed the prerequisite
courses, have achieved the minimum MCAT scores, and who have attained a minimum overall
academic average of 70% (G.P.A. 2.8) based on all university level courses attempted.
Applicants who have completed university level courses ten years or more before the date of
application, may apply to have these grades excluded from the calculation of the overall average. In
this case, applicants must have completed 90 credits within the ten years prior to the date of
application. If grades on coursework are waived, all coursework of that year and prior would be
excluded from consideration (e.g., prerequisite courses taken during the excluded period will not be
considered).
Persons who have been required to withdraw from another medical school for academic reasons are
not eligible to apply.
Rationale
"Courses completed" changed to "Courses attempted". Sometimes students fail courses because they
did not write the final exam or did not otherwise complete the requirements.
The policy to include all university courses has the unintentional effect of discriminating against
mature candidates. An excellent candidate for Medicine was excluded from the eligible pool of
candidates last year because of coursework completed in 1984 and 1985. In order to reach the 70%
minimum, this candidate would have had to complete another 250 credits at his current performance
level. "Old" academic work does not always represent the current abilities of candidates, and they
should not be unduly penalized.
The statement about the number of qualified applicants is moved to the next section. Other changes
are editorial.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 1. paragraph 5)
Selection of Candidates for Admission
The first year entering class is presently limited to 120 full-time students. As noted above, the number
of qualified applicants greatly exceeds this limit.
 Vancouver Senate 12068
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 1. paragraph 5)
Selection of Candidates for Admission
The entering class is presently limited to 120 full-time students. The number of qualified applicants
significantly exceeds the number of available positions. Not every qualified applicant will be offered
admission.
Rationale
The statement regarding the number of qualified applicants exceeding spaces available is moved from
the previous section. Other changes are editorial.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. columns 1 & 2)
In the selection of candidates to be granted admission the following guidelines are observed:
1. No discrimination is made with respect to age, gender, race, religion, marital status, or
economic status of the applicant.
2. At the present time, admission is limited to well-qualified Canadian citizens and permanent
residents of Canada. Preference is given to those residing in British Columbia.
3. Selection of candidates for admission is made by a consensus of the Admissions Committee
arrived at after independent rating of the applicants by individual members of the Committee.
The rating assigned an applicant is based on the following criteria:
a. The candidate's total academic record since secondary school graduation. Apart from
fulfilling the prerequisites referred to above it is the total performance in the student's
academic program rather than the specific field of study that is taken into account by
the Admissions Committee. Considerable weight is placed on the candidate's overall
average in all university courses completed to date, and on the average in specific
prerequisite courses listed above. Consideration is also given to performance in courses
at senior undergraduate and graduate level, and to trends in grades from year to year.
b. Scores on the Medical College Admission Test.
c. Evaluation by at least three referees selected by the candidate and submitted under
confidential cover.
d. Evaluation by individual members of the Admissions Committee of non-academic
autobiographical material supplied by the applicant in the application documents.
e. Evaluations based on interviews which may be held at the discretion of the Admissions
Committee.
4. Non-academic qualities to which special attention is paid include the following: motivation,
maturity, integrity, emotional stability, realistic self-appraisal, social concern and
responsibility, reliability, creativity, scientific and intellectual curiosity, attitude toward
continuing learning, problem solving and decision-making aptitude, ability to communicate
verbally and in writing, leadership potential, capacity to understand and cooperate with others,
concern for human welfare, and demonstrated high level of performance in any aspect of
human endeavour.
 Vancouver Senate 12069
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. columns 1 & 2)
Applicants are evaluated on the following criteria:
1. MCAT scores
2. Academic standing
a. overall academic record — based on the average of all university level courses
attempted. Consideration is given to performance in courses at senior undergraduate
and graduate levels, and to trends in grades from year to year.
b. prerequisite average - based on the average of the thirty credits of prerequisites.
3. Non-academic criteria
Criteria to be evaluated include motivation, maturity, integrity, emotional stability, realistic
self-appraisal, social concern and responsibility, reliability, creativity, scientific and intellectual
curiosity, attitude toward continuing learning, problem solving and decision-making aptitude,
ability to communicate verbally and in writing, leadership potential, capacity to understand
and cooperate with others, concern for human welfare, and demonstrated high level of
performance in any aspect of human endeavour.
Evaluation of these non-academic criteria is based on:
a. three confidential letters of reference;
b. a non-academic autobiographical essay submitted by the applicant;
c. a list of extra-curricular activities prepared by the applicant; and,
d. personal interviews with members of the selection committee.
The interview is a critical component of the admission process. Applicants selected for an interview
will be contacted by the admissions office prior to May 15th.
The selection of candidates is made by consensus of the Admissions committee.
At present, admission is limited to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada. Preference is
given to residents of British Columbia.
Students are reminded that the general policies of the University of British Columbia as to admission
and academic regulations will be followed.
Rationale
This section explicitly lists the selection criteria and how they are evaluated.
Last sentence added to remind students that Medicine Admissions is subject to University rules and
regulations.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 6)
Application Procedure
Application forms will be available from the Dean's Office from August 15 to December 1. Completed
applications should be returned to the Dean's Office as early as possible and in any case must be
received no later than December 1, the deadline for receipt of applications. Applications without
transcripts will meet the December 1 deadline but cannot be processed until all documents have been
received. Applications should therefore ensure that all official transcripts, MCAT scores and letters of
reference are submitted as early as possible to the Dean's Office.
 Vancouver Senate 12070
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraphs 6 &c 7)
Application Procedure
Application forms will be available from August 15 until December 1. All inquiries should be
addressed to Admissions, Faculty of Medicine Dean's Office.
Application forms and all supporting documentation must be submitted by 4:30 PST on December 1st
with the single exception of final post-secondary transcripts for students currently enrolled in a
program of studies. Final official transcripts must be received by May 31st.
Rationale
Deadlines for documentation and transcripts explicitly stated. We now select candidates for interviews
(in previous years, almost all qualified candidates were interviewed) and require documentation by the
December 1st deadline.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 7)
Personal interviews with members of the Admissions Committee may be required of any applicant.
Proposed Calendar Entry
Delete.
Rationale
Information now appears in previous section.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 8)
All applicants to the Doctor of Medicine program are required to pay an application fee of CAD $105
for residents of British Columbia, CAD $155 for out-of-Province residents. In addition, a further fee of
CAD $30 will be charged for evaluating and processing educational records issued by institutions
outside the Province of British Columbia. These fees must accompany the application for admission
form at the time of submission. These fees are non-refundable and are not applicable to tuition.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 8)
All residents of British Columbia are required to pay an application fee of CAD $105; out-of-province
applicants are required to pay CAD $155. An additional evaluation fee of CAD $30 is required if
transcripts are from an institution outside of BC. Applications received with incomplete documentation
or without the correct fee will be returned. Fees are non-refundable and are not applicable to tuition.
Rationale
Changes are editorial.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 9)
Notification to successful applicants will generally be issued by early July or in some instances by an
earlier date.
Proposed Calendar Entry
Notification to successful applicants will generally be issued by early July.
 Vancouver Senate 12071
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Rationale
We are in the process of changing admission procedures to facilitate an earlier offer date. When that
process is complete (in a year or so), we will propose a further change.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 10)
An applicant who is successful must submit a deposit of CAD $300 within four weeks of notification
of the offer from this University. This deposit is non-refundable and shall be applied toward the tuition
charge for the first term of the session for which the candidate has been accepted.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 9)
Upon receipt of an official letter of admission, each successful applicant must send a deposit of CAD
$300 payable to the University of British Columbia by the date specified therein. The deposit is nonrefundable but will be applied to tuition fees if the student attends the MD program in the academic
session specified.
Rationale
Eliminate the four week period. The amount of time permitted between the offer and acceptance is
reduced as the beginning of term approaches. Other changes are editorial.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 11)
A successful applicant is required to submit a health record to the Student Health Service at the time of
acceptance. The approved form will be included in the registration package. Any false or inaccurate
statement concerning the applicant's health could jeopardize his or her status as a student.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 10)
Upon acceptance, each applicant must submit evidence of immunizations (Tetanus/Diphtheria-Toxoid,
Polio, MMR) and a negative TB skin test (if the skin test is positive, a chest x-ray is required) to
Student Health Services.
Rationale
"Health record" is now explicitly defined. The statement about providing "true" information is not
necessary here. Applicants sign such a statement on the application form. A statement can be added to
the immunization form if required.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 12)
An applicant with any condition requiring periodic medical attention or interfering with normal
activities must submit a medical certificate with the application. In this certificate the examining
physician should describe the extent of the disability and estimate its effect on the applicant's future
ability to practice medicine.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 2. paragraph 11)
Applicants with disabilities will be assessed on their ability to perform the " tasks" of a medical
student, and should submit a letter from a physician which describes the extent of the disability and its
anticipated effect on the applicant's ability to perform the tasks required. For further information,
please contact the Medicine Admissions Office.
 Vancouver Senate 12072
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Rationale
Paragraph is re-written so that it shows applicants will be measured against bona fide requirements for
medical students. Re-writing makes the information consistent with BC Human Rights Code.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 1)
An offer of admission will be conditional on the applicant being granted an Educational License from
the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia. The application process for this license
includes a character and criminal record check.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 1)
All offers of admission are conditional upon the applicant being granted an Educational License from
the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia. Persons convicted of a criminal offense,
including a conviction for an offense which resulted in a conditional or absolute discharge, and who
are considering a career in medicine, should write the Registrar of the College for clarification of their
ability to obtain an Educational License prior to applying to the program.
Rationale
Potential students are advised to contact the College before submitting an application.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 2)
Reapplications
Qualified candidates who are not admitted following initial application may reapply for admission in a
subsequent year without prejudice. Re-applications from candidates who have already applied
unsuccessfully for admission to the Faculty on three previous occasions may be allowed after a period
of five years. Applicants are allowed only two withdrawals in the application process, provided these
applications have been withdrawn in writing prior to completion of the application process.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 2)
Reapplications
Unsuccessful applicants may reapply in subsequent years without prejudice. Candidates who are
repeatedly unsuccessful are encouraged to explore other career options.
Rationale
Since we are no longer able to interview all applicants, and candidates no longer automatically
compete in all aspects of the selection process, the restriction with respect to number of applications
should be removed. If the restriction is removed, withdrawals are redundant.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraphs 3 & 4)
Admission of Students by Transfer
The acceptance of transfer students will depend upon the existence of vacancies in the class year for
which they are applying.
The student will only be considered if attending a medical school in Canada or in the United States
that is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools and the Liaison
Committee on
 Vancouver Senate 12073
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Medical Education.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraphs 3 & 4)
Admission of Students by Transfer
Transfer students will be accepted to third year Medicine only if vacancies exist in that class. Transfers
are not possible in any other year.
In order to be eligible, students requesting transfer must be in good standing in a Canadian or US
medical school accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools and the
Liaison Committee on Medical Education.
Rationale
The transfer policy has been reviewed as a result of the new curriculum.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraphs 5 & 6)
Factors taken into account in the transfer request include the reasons for transfer, the academic
standing of the student and a letter from the Dean (or designate) of the medical school from which the
applicant wishes to transfer. Interviews may be required.
Students applying for transfer must complete the "Application for Admission" form, and are subject to
the same application fees (see "Application Procedure" above). In addition, students accepted for
transfer will be responsible for any additional costs related to processing their transfer. Students
applying for transfer into second year must submit their application by April 30 of each year, and will
be informed of the decision regarding their application by mid-August. Applications for transfer into
third year will not normally be considered due to the structure of the program.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 5)
The application deadline for transfer students is January 31st. Applicants must submit an Application
for Admission, application fees (see above), a letter indicating their reasons for wishing to transfer, and
a letter from the Dean (or designate) of the Medical School which they currently attend. Interviews
may be required.
Rationale
Last two sentences deleted as they no longer apply. Other changes are editorial.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 7)
Applications for visiting students in fourth year must be submitted by January 31 of each year and
students will require the approval of their medical school in order to apply. Students will be informed
of the decision relating to their application by late April. Those individuals who successfully complete
the requirements of fourth year to the satisfaction of both the University of British Columbia and their
home university will have their degree conferred by the latter.
Proposed Calendar Entry
Delete.
 Vancouver Senate 12074
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Rationale
Information included below under separate heading "Visiting Students".
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 8)
A student must be in good standing in an accredited medical school to request a transfer.
Proposed Calendar Entry
Delete.
Rationale
Information included in paragraph 4 above.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 9)
Requests for partial year transfers will not be considered. Transfer/visiting students will be required to
complete the entire year of the UBC program as presented. Individualized programs cannot be
accommodated.
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 6)
Requests for partial year transfers will not be considered.
Rationale
Last two sentences are redundant.
Current Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraph 10)
Policy for transfer admission is under review during the implementation of the new curriculum. For
further information, contact the Dean's Office, Undergraduate medical Education, 3250 - 910 West
10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E3
Proposed Calendar Entry
Delete.
Rationale
This paragraph is now redundant.
Current Calendar Entry
None. (Some information included in previous section.)
Proposed Calendar Entry (page 250. column 3. paragraphs 7 & 8)
Visiting Students
Applications will be accepted from prospective visiting medical students to fourth year. Applicants
must have a letter of permission from the medical school they attend. The application deadline is
January 31st.
Visiting students must complete the entire year of the UBC program as presented. Students who
successfully complete the requirements will receive a degree from their home university.
 Vancouver Senate 12075
Minutes of February 24,1999
Appendix D
Rationale
Separate visiting students from transfer students for clarity.
Current Calendar Entry (pages 250. column 3 & 251. column 1)
Transfer of Students from Graduate Studies
Students enrolled in the Faculty of Graduate Studies are advised that only a small proportion of such
students ultimately gain admission to the Faculty of Medicine. For this reason, students are
discouraged from pursuing this course of action to gain admission to the Faculty of Medicine with
advanced standing. Acceptance of such students into the Faculty of Medicine will be made through the
existing selection procedures of the Faculty of Medicine as outlined above.
Proposed Calendar Entry
Applications from Current Graduate Students
Students enrolled in graduate programs are advised that the selection procedures outlined above apply
to all applicants.
Rationale
The title incorrectly implies that students can transfer into medical school from graduate programs.
Many applicants think that there is an advantage to enrolling in graduate studies before applying to
Medicine. We wish to make it explicitly clear that this is not a separate route for admission.
Current Calendar Entry (pages 251. column 1. paragraph 1)
Deferred Entry
Under some limited, special circumstances, admission may be deferred for one year at the discretion of
the Admissions Selection Committee. Requests for deferred entry must be stated on the application
form. Students who have not completed a first degree are not eligible for deferred entry.
Proposed Calendar Entry
Deferred Entry
Requests for deferred entry will be considered only from students who have completed a first degree,
and then only in very exceptional circumstances. Deferral requests must be made at the time of
application.
Rationale
Changes are editorial.