What is a course substitution/directive?

This process determines whether a course or Transfer Credit, that is not part of the normal curriculum of your program can be counted towards your required or elective graduation requirements.

If you are substituting or directing a course because you have previously failed a course, you are eligible to have your GPA adjusted.

To do this, you must check the box on the Course Substitution/Directive form.

Also see Academic Matters: Grades and Grade Point Averages.

What courses may I use for course substitution?

You will need to get approval as described below, but some general rules apply:

The substitute course must be of equal value. For example: you may only substitute a multi-term course with another multi-term course (or two single-term courses).

The substitute course must be at the same level or higher. For example: you may not substitute an introductory course for an advanced course although you may be able to substitute an advanced course for an introductory one.

Non-credit/certificate credit only courses, are not acceptable as substitutions.

The substitute course can only be counted once towards graduation requirements.

The Chang School Course Series courses are not applicable towards certificate or degree requirements.

How do I arrange for a course substitution/directive?

You need to get approval before enrolling for a course that is not part of your program curriculum. If you do not get prior written approval, you risk taking a course that may not be counted towards your degree requirements.

Get a Course Substitution/Directive form at www.ryerson.ca/forms.

You will need to get approval first from both your program department/school and the department that teaches the course you want to use as a substitution/directive.

Take the form with the authorized signatures back to Curriculum Advising and obtain approval from Curriculum Advising

The substitution/directive is not approved until the form is signed by Curriculum Advising.

Approved results can be viewed on your Advisement Report, or on an unofficial transcript for part-time undergraduate degree students.

If the substitution/directive is denied, you will be notified via Ryerson e-mail.

A course substitution/directive assesses the suitability of the course only. You are responsible to ensure that if the course is for a Liberal Studies requirement, it meets all requirements and restrictions. Not sure? Ask Curriculum Advising.