Laurier Fall Orientation:
Waterloo Graduate Schedule
Graduate orientation at Laurier offers a warm, meaningful welcome to your experience as a graduate student and member of the Golden Hawk community. It is designed to help you feel connected from the moment you arrive, setting the stage for a successful and rewarding journey ahead.
Through engaging programming, you'll have opportunities to build connections with fellow incoming Golden Hawks and be introduced to key tools, strategies, and resources to help you navigate your graduate studies.
Whether you are new to Laurier or continuing your education here, graduate orientation provides an opportunity to feel welcomed, informed, and ready to begin this exciting next chapter.
Graduate Student Orientation - Wednesday, Sept. 2
Join us for an engaging orientation designed to help you feel confident, connected, and prepared. Meet fellow students, hear from experienced peers, explore key resources, and gain practical tools to succeed in your first weeks. Start building your community and set a strong foundation for your graduate experience at Laurier.
GSO Details and Registration
This Orientation is intended for students in programs offered in person at the Waterloo campus, the Kitchener location, or the Balsillie School. Note: Registration is required.
Wednesday, Sept. 2
5 to 8:30 p.m.
Lazaridis Hall, Waterloo Campus
Deadline to register is Aug. 20, 2026, at Noon
Agenda
Check out the full agenda for your Graduate Student Orientation.
Get to know Laurier through a guided campus tour designed specifically for graduate students. You’ll explore essential study spaces and classrooms, food options, and the location of key academic resources while building confidence navigating campus. This optional experience is a great way to start feeling at home and learn the spaces that will support your success.
Where: Tours will depart from the Lazaridis Hall Atrium
When: 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.
Kick off your graduate orientation experience by checking in and collecting your orientation materials and swag items. This is a great opportunity to get organized, familiarize yourself with the event space, and prepare for the exciting activities ahead.
Where: Atrium | Lazaridis Hall
When: 5:00 to 5:30 p.m.
Connect with your new community in a welcoming and relaxed environment. Meet fellow Golden Hawks, faculty, and staff while enjoying refreshments and beverages. Explore our resource fair, discover key campus supports, and begin building meaningful connections that will help you thrive throughout your time at Laurier.
Where: Atrium | Lazaridis Hall
When: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Join Dr. Brent Wolfe, Dean, Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, for a formal welcome to Laurier’s graduate community. This welcome highlights the shared values that define graduate education at Laurier and reinforces your role as both a scholar and a professional.
Where: LH1001 | Lazaridis Hall
When: 6:30 to 6:45 p.m.
Hear directly from current graduate students as they share their honest experiences navigating coursework, research, and life at Laurier. This panel offers practical insights into academic expectations, time management, and other common challenges. Gain valuable peer advice, discover helpful resources, and learn strategies to set yourself up for success.
Where: LH1001 | Lazaridis Hall
When: 6:45 to 7:30 p.m.
Get excited for the journey ahead and set yourself up for success before classes even begin! This interactive session will walk you through the key tasks and milestones to check off before your first day, helping you feel organized, prepared, and ready to thrive in graduate school. Along the way, we’ll explore some of the common questions, emotions, and experiences that many new graduate students share, reminding you that you’re not alone in this transition.
You’ll also get a sneak peek at upcoming Orientation events, learn about ways to get involved, and discover opportunities to connect with the Laurier community.
Where: LH1001 | Lazaridis Hall
When: 7:30 to 8:10 p.m.
Put your Golden Hawk knowledge to the test in a fun, friendly, Laurier-themed trivia challenge. Compete for bragging rights, climb the leaderboard, and earn a spot on the podium. There will be great prizes up for grabs for the top finishers!
Where: Atrium | Lazaridis Hall
When: 8:10 to 8:30 p.m.
Additional Orientation Events - Sept. 8 to 12
Graduate orientation at Laurier goes beyond the central Graduate Student Orientation event on Tuesday, Sept. 2. Throughout the week of September 7–12, a variety of additional events and activities will be offered to help you connect, learn, and get settled into your graduate experience. These opportunities provide even more ways to build community, explore campus resources, and engage with peers and supports across the university.
Explore More Orientation Events
Wednesday, Sept. 9
International Student Welcome BreakfastIntended Audience: All new international and exchange students
Academic Resource Fair
Intended Audience: All Students
Waterloo Fest
Intended Audience: All Students
Thursday, Sept. 10
Let Us Walk You To Class
Intended Audience: All Students
Syllabus to Success: Map Your Semester
Intended Audience: All Students
Friday, Sept. 11
Get Involved Fair
Intended Audience: All Students
Syllabus to Success: Map Your Semester
Intended Audience: All Students
Saturday, Sept. 12
Laurier Football Game
Intended Audience: All Students
Event Details
Kick off your Laurier journey with good vibes and great food at our International Student Welcome Breakfast!
Join us for a great morning with a free breakfast, friendly faces, and fun connections. You’ll get the chance to meet your fellow international students, connect with our awesome team, and finally say hi in person to your International Student Leader!
It’s the perfect way to start your day - and your semester.
Where: TBD
When: 9 - 10:30 a.m.
Host: International Student Support
At Laurier, our campus community is here to help you succeed. Drop in to learn about all the academic support resources across campus, including Student Success, Accessible Learning, Service Laurier, and so many more. It’s a great chance to ask questions and start your Laurier journey feeling informed and supported.
Where: TBD
When: TBD
Host: The ASPIRE Incoming Student Support Team
Welcome to Waterloo! The City and the Uptown BIA are excited to welcome you as you begin this new chapter. Join us for an evening of fun, food, and community as we celebrate you becoming part of our vibrant city. Discover your new favourite study spots, explore Uptown businesses offering student deals, and learn about the services and supports that will help you feel at home here in Waterloo.
Where: Uptown Waterloo - Waterloo Public Square - 75 King St. South
When: 4 to 7 p.m.
Host: The City of Waterloo (@citywaterloo), Uptown BIA (@uptownwaterloo)
Not quite sure where your classes are yet?
We’re here to help! Connect with our friendly volunteers for directions or even a guided walk to your classroom.
Whether you need help finding a building or just want a little extra support getting there, this service is designed to help you feel confident navigating campus as you settle into your schedule.
Where: TBD
When: TBD
Host: Student Success
Start your term with a clear plan and the confidence to succeed. This drop-in session connects you with Learning Consultants who are here to help you break down your course syllabi, map out key deadlines, and build a schedule that works for your life.
Come with questions or just a willingness to get started, and leave with a plan to thrive this semester.
Where: TBD
When: TBD
Host: Student Success
Start your term with a clear plan and the confidence to succeed. This drop-in session connects you with Learning Consultants who are here to help you break down your course syllabi, map out key deadlines, and build a schedule that works for your life.
Come with questions or just a willingness to get started, and leave with a plan to thrive this semester.
Where: TBD
When: TBD
Host: Student Success
Between your classes come check out the Get Involved Fair (GIF) and all it has to offer! The GIF is made up of student clubs and committees, Laurier departments, and community partners. Learn how you can get involved at Laurier and collect all the FREE swag!
Where: The Quad and Surrounding Area
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Host: Your Students' Union
Get ready to rally behind our Golden Hawks as they take on the Ottawa Gee-Gees in an exciting matchup you won’t want to miss! This is your chance to show your school spirit, wear your Laurier colours with pride, and be part of the electric game-day atmosphere.
Join fellow students and community members as we pack the stands, cheer loudly, and celebrate what it means to be a Golden Hawk. Whether you're a lifelong football fan or just looking for a fun way to connect with others, a Laurier Football game is the perfect opportunity to embrace campus traditions, build new friendships, and create unforgettable memories.
Bring your energy, your friends and family, and your Golden Hawk pride!
Where: University Stadium
When: 1 p.m. Kickoff
Host: Athletics and Recreation
Program and Faculty Welcomes
In addition to the central Graduate Student Orientation on Sept. 2, many programs and faculties host their own welcome sessions tailored to your specific academic experience. These sessions offer a closer look at your program expectations, introduce key faculty and staff, and help you connect with peers within your discipline. Attending your program or faculty welcome is an important step in building your academic community and gaining insights directly relevant to your field of study.
Program and Faculty Welcomes
Monday, Aug. 31
PhD in Religious Studies - Faculty Meet & Greet
When: 9 a.m. to Noon
Where: DAWB 4-105 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
Wednesday, Sept. 2
Master of Arts, Global Justice, Religion and Culture
When: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: P328 | Peters Building | Waterloo Campus
PhD in Religious Studies
When: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: P328 | Peters Building | Waterloo Campus
All Luther Graduate Programs
When: 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Martin Luther University College | Waterloo Campus
Tuesday, Sept. 8
MSc Health Sciences (Coursework)
When: 10 a.m. to Noon
Where: BA201 | Bricker Academic | Waterloo Campus
Master of Business Economics, Full- Time and Co-Op (2-Day Event)
When: Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: LH3094 | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
Master of Business Administration, Full- Time and Co-Op (2-Day Event)
When: Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: LH3095 | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
Master of Finance, Full- Time and Co-Op (2-Day Event)
When: Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: LH3096 | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
Master of Science and PhD, Management (2-Day Event)
When: Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: LH3097 | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
Master of Arts, Cultural Analysis and Social Theory
When: Sept. 8 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: DAWB 4-105 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
Master of Science, Chemistry
When: Sept. 8 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Where: BA404 | Bricker Academic Building | Waterloo Campus
Wednesday, Sept. 9
Master of Applied Politics, Political Science
When: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. (GTA and IA Training); 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (Welcome Meeting); 4 to 6 p.m. (Social)
Where: DAWB 3-106 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus (GTA and IA Training, Welcome Meeting); DAWB 4-105 (Social)
Master of Arts and PhD, History
When: 10 a.m. to noon.
Where: DAWB 4-105 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
Master of Science and PhD, Kinesiology
When: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: 45 Lodge Street | Waterloo Campus
Thursday, Sept. 10
Master of Social Work (on-campus, full-time)
When: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Lyle S. Hallman Faculty of Social Work | 120 Duke Street West, Kitchener
Master of Social Work (Indigenous Field of Study)
When: 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Zoom | Email being sent from department
Master of Arts, Communication Studies
When: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: DAWB 4-105 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
Friday, Sept. 11
Master of International Public Policy, PhD in Global Governance, School of International Policy and Governance (SIPG)
When: 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Balsillie School of International Affairs (BSIA) | 67 Erb Street W., Waterloo
Master of Science, Integrative Biology and PhD, Biological and Chemical Sciences
When: 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Where: Science Atrium | Science Building | Waterloo Campus
Tuesday, Sept. 15
Graduate Diploma, Accounting
When: 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Maureen Forrester Recital Hall | Savvas Chamberlain Music Building | Waterloo Campus
Master of Business Administration, Part-Time
When: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: LH4114- Pollock Family Boardroom | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
Event Details
Event details for Program and Faculty Welcomes will be posted as they are made available.
Join faculty members from Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Waterloo for an informal meet-and-greet welcoming incoming students to the PhD in Religious Studies program.
Where: DAWB 4-105 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Monday, Aug. 31 | 9 a.m. to Noon
This orientation is for incoming students to the Master of Arts, Global Justice, Religion and Culture (MA-GJRC) and PhD in Religious Studies programs. The session provides an introduction to program requirements, resources, and expectations, while offering opportunities to connect with faculty, staff, and fellow students. The orientation also includes a Teaching Assistant (TA) workshop designed to help students prepare for their instructional responsibilities and begin their graduate studies with confidence.
Where: P328 | Peters Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Wednesday, Sept. 2 | 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m
This orientation is for incoming students to the Master of Arts, Global Justice, Religion and Culture (MA-GJRC) and PhD in Religious Studies programs. The session provides an introduction to program requirements, resources, and expectations, while offering opportunities to connect with faculty, staff, and fellow students. The orientation also includes a Teaching Assistant (TA) workshop designed to help students prepare for their instructional responsibilities and begin their graduate studies with confidence.
Where: P328 | Peters Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Wednesday, Sept. 2 | 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m
All incoming Luther students are invited to join us to welcome you into our community, connect with new peers, and learn about the student success resources available to you. Luther's Orientation Day will include presentations with faculty, a community fair, and program specific information sessions. Free lunch provided. Please RSVP.
Where: Martin Luther University College | Waterloo Campus
When: Wednesday, Sept. 2 | 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m
The morning will begin with a 1-hour overview of the coursework program presented by our Graduate Coordinator, Dr. Todd Coleman. The final hour will provide an opportunity for incoming coursework students to meet the faculty members who will be teaching their courses.
This orientation is a great opportunity to learn more about the Department of Health Sciences, connect with faculty, and gain insight into what the next 10 months of your academic journey will look like. Light refreshments will be served. Doors open at 9:30 a.m.
Where: BA201 | Bricker Academic | Waterloo Campus
When: Tuesday, Sept. 8 | 10 a.m. to Noon
Across two days, you will meet your Lazaridis Graduate Office team and classmates, learn about the program resources and expectations that will support your success, hear from alumni, and explore career development opportunities while building connections that will last throughout your time at Lazaridis and beyond.
Where: LH3094 | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
When: Tuesday, Sept. 8 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Across two days, you will meet your Lazaridis Graduate Office team and classmates, learn about the program resources and expectations that will support your success, hear from alumni, and explore career development opportunities while building connections that will last throughout your time at Lazaridis and beyond.
Where: LH3095 | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
When: Tuesday, Sept. 8 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Across two days, you will meet your Lazaridis Graduate Office team and classmates, learn about the program resources and expectations that will support your success, hear from alumni, and explore career development opportunities while building connections that will last throughout your time at Lazaridis and beyond.
Where: LH3096 | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
When: Tuesday, Sept. 8 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Across two days, you will meet your Lazaridis Graduate Office team and classmates, learn about the program resources and expectations that will support your success, hear from alumni, and explore career development opportunities while building connections that will last throughout your time at Lazaridis and beyond.
Where: LH3097 | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
When: Tuesday, Sept. 8 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Welcome CAST students of 2026-2027! CAST students are cordially invited to a meet-and-greet on Tuesday, 8 September, from 1 - 3:30 PM in DAWB 4-105. This is a relaxed opportunity to get to know each other and meet with the program coordinator, CAST faculty, the CAST administrative assistant, as well as with the President of the Graduate Student Association. We will talk about the overall program structure, general expectations regarding TA responsibilities, your research interests, and colloquium activities. An off-campus social will follow!
Where: DAWB 4-105 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Tuesday, Sept. 8 | 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m
Details coming soon!
Where: BA404 | Bricker Academic Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Tuesday, Sept. 8 | 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Kick off your graduate experience in the Master of Applied Politics program with a full day of learning, connection, and community building. The day begins with GTA and IA Training, followed by a Welcome Meeting where you'll meet faculty, staff, and fellow students while learning more about the program and available resources. End the day with a social gathering to connect with your new cohort in a relaxed setting and start building relationships that will support you throughout your graduate studies.
Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) and Instructional Assistant (IA) Training
Where: DAWB 3-106 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Welcome Meeting
Where: DAWB 3-106 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Social
Where: DAWB 4-105 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
History Grad/TA Orientation
Where: DAWB 4-105 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 10 a.m. to noon.
We are pleased to welcome incoming KIN master's and doctoral students to the Department of Kinesiology's Fall 2026 Orientation. The session will introduce key program requirements, resources, and expectations, and provide an opportunity to meet faculty, staff, and fellow graduate students.
Where: 45 Lodge Street | Waterloo Campus
When: Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The purpose of orientation day is to offer incoming students to the full-time MSW program an opportunity to meet with their cohort, faculty, and the administrative staff. This day allows students to familiarize themselves with the building and surrounding area to ease the transition into full-time studies at our downtown WLU Kitchener location.
The day is also an opportunity to begin fostering community and relationship building among the students, field advisors, and faculty. In addition, students will learn helpful information about the MSW Program, including programming, policies, and how to get involved.
Where: Lyle S. Hallman Faculty of Social Work | 120 Duke Street West, Kitchener
When: Thursday, Sept. 10 | 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Join the Master of Social Work Indigenous Field of Study's (MSW IFS) virtual Orientation Circle. You will have an opportunity to meet your faculty & staff, hear more about Culture Camp and the program, and learn about the various resources available to you. It is highly recommended that you join the Orientation Circle, especially in preparation for your Culture Camp course.
Where: Zoom | Email to be sent by department
When: Thursday, Sept. 10 | 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Orientation on supports and expectations of the master of Arts in Communications Studies followed by a session on the duties and responsibilities of the GTAship course assignments.
Where: DAWB 4-105 | Dr. Alvin Woods Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Thursday, Sept. 10 | 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The School of International Policy and Governance (SIPG) welcomes the incoming 2026 class of MIPP and PhD students in Global Governance on Friday, Sept 11 for a specific SIPG Orientation at the BSIA building.
We will start with coffee at 8:30 am, followed by opening remarks from the Director of the BSIA, Dr. Ann Fitz-Gerald, and our BSIA Founder, Mr. Jim Balsillie. The students will then break out to attend program-specific information sessions followed by their professional photo shoots. Students will tour the BSIA building and receive information about parking and building access.
Highlights of the day cover the Graduate Fellowship Projects for the MIPPs, the Global Climate Action Committee, and the various student opportunities at the school. Expect a nice midday break for a lovely lunch.
Where: Balsillie School of International Affairs (BSIA) | 67 Erb Street W.
When: Friday, Sept. 11 | 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Biology Graduate Program Orientation welcomes incoming students in the MSc Integrative Biology and PhD Biological and Chemical Sciences programs to the Faculty of Science community. This session introduces key program expectations and support resources. Students will meet faculty, staff, and peers, learn about departmental services, and receive guidance to help them transition smoothly into graduate studies. Light refreshments will be provided.
Where: Science Atrium | Science Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Friday, Sept. 11 | 10:30 a.m. to noon.
The Graduate Diploma in Accounting program orientation provides incoming students with important information about program structure, registration with CPA Ontario, and the future steps needed to become a CPA.
Where: Maureen Forrester Recital Hall | Savvas Chamberlain Music Building | Waterloo Campus
When: Tuesday, Sept. 15 | 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
You will meet the MBA program administrative team, Academic Director and classmates, as well as learn about the program resources and expectations that will support your success over the next two years in the part-time MBA program.
Where: LH4114- Pollock Family Boardroom | Lazaridis Hall | Waterloo Campus
When: Tuesday, Sept. 15 | 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.