We take student concerns seriously
If something doesn’t feel right, you have the right to speak up. At VCC, we want every student to have a positive, respectful experience in class, online, or using student services. If something’s not working or feels unfair, there’s a process to help you raise that concern.
Complaints included in this process
You can file a complaint about issues related to:
- Instruction or the learning environment
- College services or support
- Interactions with VCC employees
- College policy, procedures, or practices
We encourage students to start by addressing concerns informally when possible. But when you’re not sure where to start (or informal steps don’t work) this process can help.
Complaints not included in this process
Some concerns follow a different process. If your situation relates to any of the following, please use the links below for the appropriate steps:
- Final grade appeals (Policy 322) [link]
- Academic integrity concerns (Policy 325) [link]
- Student conduct and behaviour (Policy 324) [link]
- Harassment, bullying, or discrimination (Policy 201) [link]
- Sexual violence and misconduct (Policy 210) [link]
Need help navigating a complaint?
Who to contact, based on your concern
If your complaint is about a course, program, or instructor
Start by speaking with your instructor or their Department Head – this is usually the best first step to resolve things informally.
If your concern isn’t resolved, or you’d prefer to make a formal complaint, contact the Dean of the appropriate school:
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Health Sciences
- School of Hospitality, Food Studies, and Applied Business
- School of Trades, Technology, and Design
- Centre for Continuing Studies
- School of Instructor Education
If your complaint is about a service or department
For non-instructional complaints, start by contacting the Department Leader (informal complaint).
If the issue isn’t resolved or you prefer a formal process, contact the Associate Vice President, Dean, Registrar, Director, Associate Director, or Manager responsible for that area.
| Department or Service | What can you contact them about |
|---|---|
| Commercial Services | Cafeterias, restaurants, markets, bookstores, or laundry services |
| Facilities Department | Buildings, heating or cooling, furnishings, cleanliness, or other indoor/outdoor space issues |
| Finance Department | Tuition, refunds, or financial aid concerns |
| Indigenous Education & Community Engagement | Questions or concerns about departmental services or practices |
| Information Technology (IT) | Email accounts, computers, or other technology issues |
| International Education | Questions or concerns about departmental services or practices |
| Learning Centre & Library Services | Learning Centre access, library services, or materials |
| Registrar’s Office | Registration, admissions, timetabling, or financial aid |
| Safety, Security & Risk Management | Safety hazards, theft, vandalism, threats, violence, parking, or emergencies |
| Student Services | Academic advising, assessment, counselling, disability services, interpreting, or the Student Services Centre |