Certificate in University Teaching (CUT)

The Certificate in University Teaching is a free program designed primarily for UW doctoral students who are interested in pursuing an academic career.  The intended outcome of the CUT is for participants to be self-aware, critically-reflective teachers who have gained both theoretical knowledge and skills that contribute to success in an academic career.


The CUT program comprises three courses; each course must be completed within three consecutive terms:

  • In GS 901, participants begin building reflection skills, theoretical knowledge, and applications to try out in their teaching.
  • In GS 902, participants investigate higher education theory themselves, further develop applications to communicate to a general university audience, and articulate their self-awareness as a teacher.
  • In GS 903, participants practice and receive feedback on their individual teaching skills and become more self-aware and critically reflective.

Participation in the CUT program is assessed according to these criteria. To register for the CUT, email Svitlana Taraban-Gordon at staraban@admmail.uwaterloo.ca to schedule a meeting to discuss your CUT plans, the requirements, and workload associated with the program. Once you are accepted, you will be able to enrol through QUEST.

NOTE: We are no longer accepting participants for Fall 2009.

CUT adheres to UW's Academic Discipline Policy 71 regarding plagiarism and other academic offences.