Student Life and Academic Operations

Frequently Asked Questions

The following provides general information for members of our campus community in the event of a labour disruption.

Campus Operations 

Despite best efforts, negotiations between Queen’s University and the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) and its Local 901, did not result in a tentative agreement to renew the PSAC Unit 1 Collective Agreement, and the union elected to strike.

PSAC represents approximately 2,000 graduate students who are employed part-time as Graduate Teaching Assistants, Teaching Fellows, Graduate Research Assistants, and JD/MD-enrolled students employed as Teaching Assistants (PSAC Unit 1).

Yes. The university is open, and courses are continuing. All students can continue their studies, including attending classes and other academic activities.

All student services and spaces are open, including Student Wellness Services and the Athletics and Recreation Centre. 

Other services on campus, including food, maintenance, custodial services and library services, continue to operate.

 Student Life and Academics 

No. Courses are continuing and the university’s priority is to ensure students complete the Winter 2025 term as planned. Students will receive a grade or credit for all courses, and convocation will proceed as scheduled.

Any modifications to course delivery will be communicated to students via email, as well as posted on the appropriate teaching and learning platforms, such as onQ. If students have questions related to specific courses, they should reach out to their department, faculty, or school.

Winter term exams will continue. If there are any changes or modifications to the exam schedule or delivery format of an exam, students will be notified, typically by the instructor.

Overall Key Winter 2025 term dates remain unchanged.

Date

Action / Deadline

April 4, 2025

Winter 2025 classes end

April 7, 2025

Winter 2025 final exam period begins

April 23, 2025

Winter 2025 final exam period ends

April 30, 2025

Winter 2025 term ends

The university remains open, and courses are continuing. All students can continue their studies, including attending classes. 

Students will be informed of course changes via email and/or the appropriate Learning Management System (for example: OnQ).

Course changes are expected to be communicated to students within two days of a decision being made or approved.

If a change to a course assessment is implemented due to the strike, it will remain in place even if the strike ends before the term concludes.

Picketing

Please remember that those participating in a legal strike are exercising a right. Picket lines are legally permitted for purposes of persuasion and information – but not obstruction. Please exercise caution and prioritize safety when navigating picket lines. Plan for extra time travelling to Kingston campus locations. The open nature of campus also provides the means to choose alternate routes to access campus.

If you believe your physical safety is jeopardized, you should immediately contact the Picket Hotline at 613-533-6464 to report the circumstances and receive assistance.

The university remains open, and courses continue. All students can continue their studies, including attending classes and other academic activities. 

It is normal for there to be heightened emotions during a strike. While striking employees are entitled to picket, and an employer is entitled to continue its operations, no one is entitled to intimidate or coerce others. If you are experiencing intimidation or coercion, please review the university’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response Policy, or any applicable legislation.