Student Handbook

General Inquiries

 (google form) ASK IMAGE ARTS GOOGLE FORM (external link) : curated to answer FAQs, provide you with links, and direct you to the correct person to answer your question. Try it out!

Facilities

Technology Resource Centre IMA B18 556855  imatechcentre@torontomu.ca

Open Space IMA 117 544441   joseph.lammirato@torontomu.ca

Workshop IMA 305 553073     joseph.lammirato@torontomu.ca

Motion Picture Lab IMA 327 556869 mwloeser@torontomu.ca

Digital Printing Facility IMA 230 552253 dpf@torontomu.ca

Student Print and Scanning IMA 233 552253 print@torontomu.ca (print) 

pic@torontomu.ca (scan)

Chairs and Program Directors

Ted Hiebert IMA 201 556855  ted.hiebert@torontomu.ca
Chair 

Katy McCormick IMA 203 556847  kmccormi@torontomu.ca
Associate Chair

John Tarver IMA 361 552236 john.tarver@torontomu.ca
Program Director, Film (Fall)

Karen Harnisch IMA 337 556877 kharnsich@torontomu.ca
Program Director, Film (Winter)

Dave Kemp IMA 320 556873 dkemp@torontomu.ca
Program Director, Photography Media Arts

Thierry Gervais KHS 155 552779 gervais@torontomu.ca
Program Director, FPPCM

Asmaa Malik RCC169 552787 asmaa.malik@torontomu.ca
Program Director, Docmedia

Faculty and Instructors 
For Faculty and Contract Lecturer biographies/info, see here.

Operations and Administrative Staff

Aseel Kafil IMA 202 556849 aseel.kafil@torontomu.ca
Manager of Operations, Finance and Administration

Bev Petrovic IMA 203 556847  bpetrovi@torontomu.ca
Academic Coordinator 

Hongen Nar IMA 207 556850  hnar@torontomu.ca
Finance and Administrative Coordinator

Rhiannon Howell-Matwichuk IMA 225 556912 rhowellmatwichuk@torontomu.ca
Events and Communications Coordinator

Darren Cerkownyk IMA 205 556844 dcerkownyk@torontomu.ca
Acting Technology and Facilities Lead

XXXX XXXX IMA B18 556892 XXXXX@torontomu.ca
Facilities Assistant

Jonathan Duder IMA B17 557107 jduder@torontomu.ca

Equipment Distribution Technician

Dina Sinan IMA B18 554838 dina.sinan@torontomu.ca
Booking Assistant

Brian Corcoran IMA B18 556846 bcorcora@torontomu.ca
Technology Resource Specialist

Michelle Fletcher IMA 224 556861 mfletche@torontomu.ca
Digital Imaging Technologist

Jane O’Donnell IMA 230 552253 jodonnell@torontomu.ca
Digital Imaging Assistant

Mark Loeser IMA 327-A 556869 mwloeser@torontomu.ca
Film Production and Preservation Technician

Joseph Lammirato IMA 117/305   544441/553073 joseph.lammirato@torontomu.ca
Project Space Technician

Student Groups

Image Arts Course Union IMA 306 556517  WEBSITE (external link)   imageartsunion@gmail.com

Function Magazine IMA 335 544441 WEBSITE  (external link) function@torontomu.ca

Maximum Exposure IMA 335 556441 WEBSITE  (external link) maxex@torontomu.ca

TorontoMet Film Fest IMA 335 556444 WEBSITE (external link)   torontometff@torontomu.ca

School Addresses

Mailing Address:
The School of Image Arts
Toronto Metropolitan University
350 Victoria St, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 2K3

Physical Address:
122 Bond Street
Toronto Metropolitan University
Toronto, Ontario M5B 1E9

Facilities: Need-To-Know

Technology Resource Centre

Located in B-18

• At the start of each year of your studies all students must sign a Technical Operations Agreement form to gain access to the Technology Resource Centre. Incoming 1st year students are also required to complete WHMIS training (available through D2L) and provide a copy of the certificate. The Agreement and WHMIS certificate must be submitted to the Technology Resource Centre via the online Technical Operations Agreement Form.
• Your One Card is required to access labs and equipment relevant to your production courses. Access will not be granted without this card. All purchases and fines must be paid with your OneCard.
• Equipment can be reserved using the online Patron Portal. Login with your TMU credentials.
• Reservations can be made at least one day in advance, and up to a maximum of fifteen days in advance. Drop-in requests are permitted during regular Centre hours but reservations will take priority.  Reservations are requests only. Once the booking has been confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email from the Technology Resource Centre.
• The standard loan period is three days. Requests for longer loans will be accommodated when possible, and depending on equipment availability and demand.

Digital Printing Facility (DPF)

• Files can be submitted with our online submission form or dropped off on a USB stick to the facility. Work submissions will be connected to the DPF email address, which is dpf@torontomu.ca.
• Communication about your submission and pick up will be via your TMU email address.

Student Print & Scanning (PIC)

• Hours for the student printing and scanning facilities will be posted on the Image Arts website and on the facility door.
• Visit our website to access the PIC Lab rules and guidelines.
• To book a printer, email print@torontomu.ca

To book a scanner, email pic@torontomu.ca

Motion Picture Lab

Located on the 3rd Floor of Image Arts (IMA-327)

• Film lab requires use of an  (google form) online order form (external link) , which details its provided services. A QR code to this form is posted by the lab door. Basic procedures include:
  • Each film box must be CLEARLY identified on the back with the name & email used on your online form and your prof’s name when applicable.
  • Orders should be dropped off through the red dropbox beside the lab door.
  • Orders are run twice a week as per cutoff times on the form. Results are available by 6PM the day after each cutoff. 
  • Online forms & films must BOTH be received on time or the order will be bumped.
  • The lab technician can help with camera and film related inquiries.

Open Space & Workshop

Open Space is located on the 1st Floor of Image Arts (IMA-117)

Workshop is located on the 3rd Floor of Image Arts (IMA-305)

• Open Space is open for fabrication and assembly work, aided by the workshop space on the 3rd floor.
• The technician who runs Open Space and the Workshop is Joseph Lammirato, stop by and say hello and discuss any projects.

Resources

TMU Calendar

Toronto Metropolitan University has a number of policies and procedures in place that you need to familiarize yourself with as soon as possible. You should start with the official TMU Calendar for full-time studies, which you can find on the TMU website at https://www.torontomu.ca/calendar/2024-2025/. It is your official source for curriculum and course information at TMU.

In particular you should familiarize yourself with these sections:

• Registration Procedures
• Student Conduct Code  
• Fees/Financial Information
• Academic Standing
• Examinations
• Graduation and Convocation

Pay attention to the Significant Dates section, which lists things like course drop deadlines and holidays. You can even add them directly to your google calendar. It may not seem important now, but as the term speeds along and deadlines come and go, you’ll be glad you did.

Navigate TMU

Whether you are in your first year or looking for a refresher on available TMU resources and supports, find what you are looking for at: www.torontomu.ca/navigate-tmu.

MyServiceHub

MyServiceHub: www.torontomu.ca/myservicehub-support

• Log-in with your matrix ID and a password at my.torontomu.ca
• Access your timetable, grades report (Academic Standing & Cumulative Grade Point Average), degree progress report, and fees statement. 
• Check course availability, register for courses, add/drop/swap courses (if spaces are available), enrollment and class sections.
• This website also has other useful administrative links and help menus.

Registration and Course Selection

1.  Timetable 

View your timetable at my.torontomu.ca. Please review it for any problems with your core courses. For any issues, please contact Bev Petrovic (Academic Coordinator, bpetrovi@torontomu.ca, IMA-204) for assistance.

2. Liberal Studies Electives

For First Year, you need two lower level liberal electives, most students choose to take one liberal course per semester. Check your schedule to ensure that you are registered in the courses you need for the Fall term first, then the Winter term. Remember, you can deal with the Winter term course enrollment later in the Fall term.

For Third and Fourth Year, you need two upper level liberal electives per year, most students choose to take one liberal course per semester. Check your schedule to ensure that you are registered in the courses you need for the Fall term first, then the Winter term. Remember, you can deal with the Winter term course enrollment later in the Fall term.

If you did not get all your choices for the Fall term, keep checking MyServiceHub throughout the enrollment period, as full courses may become available as other students adjust their schedules.

3.  OneCard - Student Identification Card 

Please get your physical and digital OneCard before the start of classes.

The TMU OneCard is your official student ID card. It displays your name, picture and student number, and functions as: Library Card, building/equipment access card, Athletic Centre access card, etc. 

https://www.torontomu.ca/onecard/get-your-onecard/students/

4.  TMU Calendar

The TMU Calendar is available here: www.torontomu.ca/calendar

5.  TMU Student Guide

The TMU Student Guide is available here: www.torontomu.ca/studentguide

6.  Equipment Access 

At the start of each year of your studies all students must sign a Technical Operations Agreement form to gain access to the Technology Resource Centre. Incoming 1st year students are also required to complete WHMIS training (available through D2L) and provide a copy of the certificate. The Agreement and WHMIS certificate must be submitted to the Technology Resource Centre via the online Technical Operations Agreement Form.

7.  Library Access

Bring your OneCard to the Library’s circulation desk, along with the items you want to sign out of the library, and you are ready to go. Take the escalator across from the Information Desk in Jorgenson Hall two floors up to reach the library entrance. www.library.torontomu.ca/services.

8.  TMU Bold Athletics & Recreation Facilities Access

The TMU Athletics & Recreation (external link)  has two locations:

1. The RAC Recreation & Athletic Centre (50 Gould Street) lies beneath the open field that is known as the ‘Quad’ in the middle of the campus.
2. The MAC Mattamy Athletic Centre (50 Carlton Street) is located in the Maple Leaf Gardens building. 

The fees for both facilities are included in your tuition fees.

9.  Toronto Metropolitan Students’ Union (TMSU) - Health & Dental Plan

TMSU Member Services Office is located in the lobby of the Toronto Metropolitan Students’ Centre (55 Gould Street). All full-time students are charged a fee as part of their tuition for the TMSU Members’ Health and Dental Plan. To opt out, please visit the TMSU website for info and important deadlines: www.yourtmsu.ca/health-and-dental (external link) .

About The Creative School

The Creative School is a dynamic faculty that is making a difference in new, unexplored ways. Made up of Canada’s top professional schools and transdisciplinary hubs in media, communication, design and cultural industries, The Creative School offers students an unparalleled global experience in the heart of downtown Toronto. To learn more about The Creative School go to www.torontomu.ca/the-creative-school.

Correspondence

Email Accounts

It is required that you activate your TMU online identity and TMU Gmail account. Instructors and Administration will use this address as a main form of communication.

Instructions on how to activate your account:

www.torontomu.ca/ccs/services/accounts

According to Policy 157, students are expected to monitor and retrieve messages and information issued to them by the University via TMU online systems on a frequent and consistent basis. Students have a responsibility to recognize that certain communications may be time-critical. Students have the right to forward their TMU E-mail account to another electronic mail service provider address, but remain responsible for ensuring that all University electronic message communication sent to their official TMU E-mail account is received and read.

Administrative Services

Address Changes

It is important that you keep the university up-to-date with respect to any address changes. If you move and you neglect to inform anyone, you could miss important mail regarding your grades, fees, student loan, etc. If you relocate, visit my.torontomu.ca (MyServiceHub) and make the change. 

Legal Name or Chosen/Preferred Name Change

Your legal name is the official name on your student record and is used on all legal records and official university documents as outlined in Senate Policy 172: Student Names.

Your chosen/preferred first name is the name you would like to be referred to in the university community. If you applied to TMU through OUAC (the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre), you were given the option to enter your preferred/chosen name.

To update your Student ID and personal information, visit: www.torontomu.ca/current-students/personal-information

Administrative Offices (2nd Floor - Image Arts Building)

 If you find yourself feeling a little lost and looking for assistance, feel free to drop by the School’s Administrative offices in the Image Arts building on the 2nd floor. Our staff will be glad to point you in the right direction. 

Some of the resources you can expect to find at the main office include: campus info, class schedules (available online), awards and scholarship information, exam schedules (available online), appointments with the Chair, student health & wellness resources.

Room Bookings

Select rooms in the Image Arts Building may be booked for course-related activities such as holding auditions, rehearsals, production, screenings, large group meetings, etc. 

To apply for a room reservation, please complete this  (google form) Image Arts Space Reservation Request Form (external link) . We require a minimum of 5 business days notice as rooms are heavily booked. You will receive an email with further details once the request has been considered. With the submission and approval of your request, you are agreeing to comply with the guidelines for safe and proper use. 

Posters/Notifications

Posters are NOT to be taped or pinned to painted surfaces or to windows. All posters must be placed on appropriate pinboards designated for posters and notifications. Any non-Image Arts or TMU related materials needs to be approved first or they will be removed.

Appointments with the Chair or Program Directors

Students who wish to make a formal appointment to speak to the Chair about a problem or concern may do so. An appointment can be made through the Academic Coordinator, Bev Petrovic,  and/or the Program Directors (Photo: Dave Kemp, Fall Film: John Tarver, Winter Film: Karen Harnisch). You will be asked for your name, contact information, and the reason for the appointment to make the booking.

Course Management Policy

The central purpose of this course management policy is to provide a framework of common understanding for students, faculty and staff concerning group work, academic integrity, course variation, attendance, participation, accommodation of students with disabilities, structures, processes, objectives, and requirements that pertain to TMU courses.

Please refer to the Course Management Policy (166) at 

www.torontomu.ca/senate/course-outline-policies/course-management-policy-166

Time Management

Classes

In order to create timetables that allocate an equitable number of classes each day of the week, changes to the University-wide schedule are sometimes necessary.  If this is required at any point in time, a communication campaign directed at students will be planned to make sure that everyone is aware of the change. 

Course Outline

When you go to your first classes, you should receive a course outline (available online via D2L Brightspace in your course shell) with the following information:

• Instructor’s name, office location, and office hours for student consultation
• Course description
• List of course assignments and tests with approximate deadlines
• Marking and evaluation scheme
• Statement of the teaching mode (eg. lecture or lab)
• Provision that planned alterations in the list of course assignments, tests, approximate deadlines and the marking/evaluation scheme shall be discussed in class prior to being implemented
• Statement indicating that the faculty course survey will take place online
• Required and suggested reading lists, references and other information

Image Arts Course Management Policy

The Image Arts Course Management Policy is in accordance with Toronto Metropolitan University Course Management Policy #166: www.torontomu.ca/senate/policies/course-management-policy-166. Students are required to adhere to all relevant university policies found in their online course shell in D2L and/or on the following URL: www.torontomu.ca/senate/course-outline-policies.

Procedure for Addressing Course-related Issues

It is the student’s responsibility to notify and consult with the Instructor regarding grading or course management issues as soon as circumstances allow. Alternatively, the student can notify and consult with the School Administration (Program Director/Chair) if they are reluctant to deal directly with the Instructor because of the nature of the situation. It is the Instructor and/or School Administration’s responsibility to respond in a timely fashion in order to informally resolve the issue where possible. 

If academic concerns are not resolved informally with the Instructor or the School Administration, students may speak with the Academic Coordinator to file an appeal with Image Arts. Grade appeals are filed after the course is completed; however, Course Management appeals may be filed at any time during the semester. Failure to communicate about issues appropriately and in a timely way may negatively affect the outcome of an appeal. 

Further details about addressing course-related issues can be found in TMU Policy #167 Academic Consideration and TMU Policy #168 Grade and Standing Appeals.

Modifications to Course Outlines

Course outlines may be supplemented by more detailed topical or project information periodically during the course.  Changes to an announced evaluation scheme will be discussed in class prior to implementation and a written statement of revision will be provided to students on D2L.

Faculty Course Survey (FCS)

The Faculty Course Survery (FCS) will be delivered online in Fall and Winter terms. Dates to be announced.

Values and Expectations

Community Values

The School of Image Arts is committed to standards of excellence grounded in principles of inclusion, equity, diversity, integrity, and mutual respect. Student work is evaluated under the guidance of TMU Discrimination and Harassment Prevention policy: www.torontomu.ca/policies/policy-list/dhp-policy.

Attendance and Participation

Students are Responsible for Their Own Learning.

Attendance and class participation are essential for the development and understanding of course content. 

●  Regular attendance in their registered section is expected of all students. All scheduled classes begin promptly at 10 minutes past the hour. Students arriving late will be accommodated at an appropriate time in the class. If a student is found to have attendance irregularities, such as more than one absence without proper documentation, lateness to class, and/or departing before a class officially ends, and if this irregularity continues for more than three (3) classes within a given semester, the student may be required to meet with the Instructor for the purpose of correcting the situation. Frequent absences without proper documentation may result in failing the course.  

●  Student participation includes some or all of the following: arriving on time and listening in class, being prepared, sharing ideas, concepts and creative exploration, sharing conceptual development in progress, cooperating in group projects, analyzing and offering constructive criticism during class discussion, and being an active participant in critique. In studio courses, students must be seen by the Instructor working on their projects in class to ensure authenticity of the work. 

Electronic Devices

The use of electronic devices in class will only be permitted at the discretion of the Instructor.

Communicating with Your Instructor or Graduate/Teaching Assistants

Electronic communication from Toronto Metropolitan University, Image Arts Administration, and Faculty/Instructors will be through TMU email. Therefore, all students must activate and regularly check their TMU email account.

When email communication is necessary, students are required to communicate with their Instructors and Graduate/Teaching Assistants using their Toronto Metropolitan University email accounts.

Students are responsible for monitoring their TMU email accounts to ensure that they are active and are not “over quota”.

In all communications, students should identify themselves by full name (as written on the course roster and the name you go by in class if it is different), student number, course number, and section number. Communications not following this format may not receive a response.

Instructors will make every effort to respond to student email messages within 3 days (72 hours) of receipt of the message. Students should keep this timeframe for response in mind when sending emails asking for information or clarification relating to assignments or tests. It may not be possible for the Instructor to respond to messages sent less than 3 days prior to the test or assignment prior to the due date. 

Messages requesting the following may not receive a response: information found in the course outline, grade information, or explanations of material or announcements given in class or posted on D2L. Students are responsible for consulting D2L regularly for course outline information and updates, assignment details and deadlines, pertinent announcements, and when seeking answers to previously given information.

Media and Image Consent

Image Consent Form

During your time at Image Arts, you may attend, participate, or organize an event where you may be photographed, filmed, or recorded on location. In order to grant the university the right to reproduce, use, display, broadcast and distribute these images for the marketing, promotion, administrative, educational or research purposes, you may be asked to fill out the  (google form) Image Consent Form - General Use (external link) .

Display of Student Work

Your Instructor may select student work for display on TMU campus or university related events. In addition, student work may be displayed electronically on the Image Arts website. If you do not wish your work to be displayed, please notify your Instructor in writing as soon as possible. 

Evaluation

Missed Classes and/or Evaluations

When possible, students are required to inform their Instructor of any situation which arises during the semester which may have an adverse effect upon their academic performance, and must request any consideration and accommodation according to the relevant policies as far in advance as possible. Failure to do so may jeopardize any academic appeals. The following are examples of proper documentation:

●  Health Certificates – If a student misses the deadline for submitting an assignment, or the date of an exam or other evaluation component for health reasons, they should notify their Instructor as soon as possible, and submit a TMU Student Health Certificate via the Online Academic Consideration (ACR) portal within 3 working days of the missed date.  Health certificate is available on the Senate website. 

● Religious, Aboriginal and Spiritual Observance – If a student needs accommodation because of religious, Aboriginal or spiritual observance, they must submit a Request for Accommodation of Student Religious, Aboriginal and Spiritual Observance via the Online Academic Consideration (ACR) portal within the first 2 weeks of the class or, for a final examination, within 2 weeks of the posting of the examination schedule.  If the requested absence occurs within the first 2 weeks of classes, or the dates are not known well in advance as they are linked to other conditions, the form should be submitted with as much lead time as possible in advance of the absence.  Request form is available on the Senate website. 

●  Academic Accommodation Support (AAS) – Students with disabilities will be accommodated as per TMU Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities Policy #159. Students should register with AAS as soon as their schedule is finalized.  Before the first graded work is due, students registered with the Academic Accommodation Support office (AAS) should work with their assigned AAS Facilitator to provide their Instructor with an Academic Accommodation letter that describes their academic accommodation plan. For more information on support services please visit Academic Accommodation Support, located at the Student Learning Centre - 4th floor (341 Yonge Street). Reach them at (416) 979-5290, aasadmin@torontomu.ca.

Group Work

It is essential that all work submitted is completed by the individual student or the students in a particular team. Group projects may involve both group and individual assessments; evaluation criteria will be identified on project briefs and rubrics. Students who encounter difficulty with their working group are responsible to notify and consult with their Instructor for fair, appropriate, and timely resolution of the situation.

Late Assignments

Image Arts values the timely submission of work in order to be fair to all students. All assignments are due as specified on the project brief, in the weekly breakdown and/or course outline. Incomplete assignments will be accepted at the time date specified for the assignment, and evaluated based on the completed elements. 

Late assignments with proper documentation for health or compassionate reasons will be accepted without penalty; acceptance requires timely action by the student; please refer to the section on “Missed Classes and/or Evaluations” above in Academic Matters. 

Late submissions without documentation will be accepted but assessed a deduction of 3% per day for every day past the assignment deadline.   

To ensure the timely submission of final grades, approval is required if an assignment is to be submitted past the final week of class; extra time may not exceed the date and time agreed upon between the Instructor and student. 

Assignments may be subject to “hard deadlines”, meaning late submissions will not be accepted without proper documentation. Hard deadlines for assignments will be stated in the Course Outline and/or project brief. 

There are no extensions for group work or presentations without documentation for health or compassionate reasons. 

Examinations

Examinations will be written during the examination period. Students are advised to consult the TMU Calendar to review policies, procedures, and examination dates before finalizing holiday and employment plans. Please consult TMU Final Examinations Policy #135 to review the University’s examination policy and procedures. Students who miss an exam or are more than 30 minutes late for a scheduled exam, without documentation, will receive a zero grade. Final exams will not be returned to students. They are available for review in case of an appeal and are kept on file for a period of one year.

Make-Up Assessments

Should a student miss a test, exam or other form of assessment, with appropriate documentation, normally a make-up will be scheduled as soon as possible in the same semester, and where possible, before the last date to drop the course. Make-ups will cover the same material as the original assessment but may be in a different format. Please refer to section 5.4 of Toronto Metropolitan University Course Management Policy #166.

Incomplete (INC) Grades

The INC grade is for incomplete coursework or a missed final examination due to documented health or compassionate grounds. Within 3 working days or as soon as reasonably possible of a missed final examination or final assignment deadline, students must petition their Instructor to receive an INC grade. Supporting documentation (e.g. TMU Health Certificate) must be provided. The request form is available on the Registrar Office’s website.

An INC can be awarded only when the completion of the outstanding work or an alternate final examination may result in a passing grade. 

The outstanding work or alternate examination must be completed by the date agreed upon between the Instructor and the student. The INC will be replaced by an official course grade when the work is completed. If the work is not completed by the deadline the INC will become a grade of “F”. An INC grade must be cleared if the course is a prerequisite for another.

Full details are available in Toronto Metropolitan University Course Grading, Academic Program Standing, and Eligibility to Graduate Policy #170(a).

Academic Integrity

TMU’s Academic Integrity Policy #60 applies to all students at the University. Forms of academic misconduct include plagiarism, cheating, supplying false information to the University, and other acts. The most common form of academic misconduct is plagiarism – a serious academic offense, with potentially severe penalties and other consequences. It is expected, therefore, that all examinations and work submitted for evaluation and course credit will be the product of each student’s individual effort (or an authorized group of students).  Submitting the same work for credit to more than one course, without the Instructor's approval, can also be considered a form of plagiarism.  

Suspicions of academic misconduct may be referred to the Academic Integrity Office (AIO).  Students who are found to have committed academic misconduct will have a Disciplinary Notation (DN) placed on their academic record (not on their transcript) and will normally be assigned one or more of the following penalties:

• A grade reduction for the work, including a grade of zero for the work.
• A grade reduction in the course greater than a zero on the work.  (Note that this penalty can only be applied to course components worth 10% or less, that any additional penalty cannot exceed 10% of the final course grade, and that information explaining that such a penalty may be assigned must be included on the course outline).
• A grade of “F” in the course.
• More serious penalties up to and including expulsion from the University.

The unauthorized use of intellectual property of others, including your Instructor, for distribution, sale, or profit is expressly prohibited, in accordance with Policy #60 (Sections 2.8 and 2.10). Intellectual property includes, but is not limited to:

• Slides
• Lecture notes
• Presentation materials used in and outside of class
• Lab manuals
• Course packs
• Exams

For more detailed information on the process to deal with academic integrity issues, please refer to Policy #60 Academic Integrity Procedures. The Academic Integrity Office website provides a wide variety of educational resources, including interactive tutorials.

Plagiarism Detection - Turnitin.com

Turnitin.com (external link)  is a plagiarism prevention and detection service to which TMU subscribes. It is a tool to assist Instructors in determining the similarity between students’ work and the work of other students who have submitted papers to the site (at any university), internet sources, and a wide range of books, journals and other publications. While it does not contain all possible sources, it gives Instructors some assurance that students’ work is their own. No decisions are made by the service; it generates an “originality report”, which Instructors must evaluate to judge if something is plagiarized.

Students agree by taking this course that their written work will be subject to submission for textual similarity review to Turnitin.com. All submitted papers will be included as source documents in the Turnitin.com reference database solely for the purpose of comparing the similarity of such papers. Use of the Turnitin.com service is subject to the terms-of-use agreement posted on the Turnitin.com website. Students who do not want their work submitted to this plagiarism detection service must, by the end of the second week of class, consult with their Instructor to make alternate arrangements.

Even when an Instructor has not indicated that a plagiarism detection service will be used, or when a student has opted out of the plagiarism detection service, if the Instructor has reason to suspect that an individual piece of work has been plagiarized, the Instructor is permitted to submit that work in a non-identifying way to any plagiarism detection service.

Class Attendance and Participation

Is attendance mandatory? TMU does not have a mandatory attendance rule. However, regular attendance at classes, seminars, labs, and workshops is expected of all students, and often attendance factors into your overall grade/evaluation depending on the course.  Check the course outline for details.  It is always a good idea to maintain regular attendance to ensure your best academic performance.

Full details: www.torontomu.ca/senate/policies

If you have missed classes/assignments/exams and require academic consideration, please notify your professors within 3 working days of the absence.  Academic Accommodation Consideration Requests (ACR) must be submitted online: www.torontomu.ca/senate/resources/.

You may need a health certificate to verify your absence, so please contact your physician or the TMU Health Centre at the start of the illness.  Complete the form here:

 (PDF file) www.torontomu.ca/content/dam/senate/forms/Health.pdf.

For details on Academic Consideration see Policy 167:

www.torontomu.ca/senate/policies/academic-consideration-policy-167

A statement of the Policy on the Accommodation of Student Religious Observance or a reference to the policy and the relevant request form can be found at: 

www.torontomu.ca/senate/policies/accommodation-of-student-religious-aboriginal-and-spiritual-observance-policy-150/.

Student Code of Non-Academic Conduct

Please refer to the complete Toronto Metropolitan University Code of Conduct at:

www.torontomu.ca/senate/policies/academic-integrity-policy-60

and/or 

www.torontomu.ca/senate/policies/student-code-of-non-academic-conduct-policy-61

Academic Appeals

If you still find yourself in complete disagreement, and you are convinced you haven’t been treated equally or fairly, you may then want to consider the university’s appeal process. This allows for both the student and faculty member to explain their position in writing to the Chair, who is asked to rule in favour or against a final grade change. All appeals are confidential and you will not face any penalties as a result of filing one.

Complete information on appeals, including who is available to help you in the event of filing one, can be found in the Appeals section of the Senate website. For the official University Policy on Appeals (168), please visit: 

www.torontomu.ca/senate/policies/grade-and-standing-appeals-policy-168 or 

www.torontomu.ca/ombudsperson/faq/appeals/.

Academic Consideration Request

Missed class work, a test, or an assignment? If due to a physical or mental health condition, you must submit an academic consideration request online in advance of the missed work, or as soon as reasonably possible. If the request is based on health grounds, you will need to submit a Health Certificate (or letter from a healthcare professional) that states that you were unable to perform academic work for the dates indicated on the form. After submission, Image Arts Administration will verify your request. If successfully verified, a notification will be sent to your instructors informing them. However, it is still your responsibility to contact your instructors, who ultimately will decide whether to grant you academic consideration.

For more information and access to forms: 

www.torontomu.ca/senate/resources

For the official University Policy on Undergraduate Academic Consideration (Policy 167), visit: www.torontomu.ca/senate/policies/academic-consideration-policy-167.

For the official University Policy on Grade and Standing Appeals (Policy 168), visit: www.torontomu.ca/senate/policies/grade-and-standing-appeals-policy-168/.

Short-term or Permanent Withdrawals

• Short-Term Withdrawals are temporary, and are meant for students who wish to withdraw from the current or future academic terms due to financial, health, personal, academic or other reasons. Withdrawal requests can be made online via your TMU Portal. The last day to submit a short-term withdrawal request for a term is the same date as the last day to Drop and/or Withdraw from a program (no refund).  Please see the Significant Dates section of the Undergraduate Calendar. For more information about Short-Term Withdrawals: www.torontomu.ca/current-students/course-enrolment/withdrawals/short-term/.

• Permanent Withdrawals are for students who wish to permanently withdraw from their program due to financial, health, personal, academic or other reasons.  Permanent requests require that you complete an Application to Withdraw Form, obtain necessary departmental signatures and permissions, then submit to The Office of the Registrar Client Services in the Service Hub (POD 150, 350 Victoria Street). For more information about Permanent Withdrawals: www.torontomu.ca/current-students/course-enrolment/withdrawals/permanent/

If you are considering either a Short-Term or Permanent Withdrawal, it is advised that you make an appointment to speak to the Image Arts Academic Coordinator, Bev Petrovic (bpetrovi@torontomu.ca). There are many factors to consider before withdrawing temporarily or permanently from your program, and Bev can help guide you through the process.

Academic Coordinator

The Image Arts’ Academic Coordinator, Bev Petrovic (bpetrovi@torontomu.ca), is available first and foremost to help you meet all your academic requirements each year, and to ensure any changes to your timetable, such as adding or dropping courses, is done by the book and to your best advantage. Though she will try to go above and beyond to advise or counsel students, you should remember there is only one of her and almost 700 of you. 

Generally, you can contact Bev via email, phone, Google Meeting, or in-person from Monday to Friday (8AM - 4PM). It is recommended that you book an appointment in advance.

Health and Wellness

Stressed? Confused? You’re not alone. There are valuable resources and supports at TMU that can help you navigate any personal, professional, or academic challenges. We encourage you to access these supports and start a dialogue if you find yourself struggling to cope.  Please visit: www.torontomu.ca/student-wellbeing/.

Centre for Student Development and Counseling

Every year, thousands of students take advantage of the services offered here. They can be just the thing you need in times of difficulty in order to help you cope with stress, personal problems, or academic-related issues from career indecision to test anxiety. All services are free, confidential, and delivered by qualified and friendly staff. These services are available at the CSDC,  located on the Lower Ground floor of Jorgenson Hall in JOR-07C. Please visit: www.torontomu.ca/student-wellbeing/counselling/

24/7 Resources 

• Good2Talk (Post-Secondary Student Helpline): 1-866-925-5454, www.good2talk.ca (external link) 
• Gerstein Centre (24-Hour Community Based Mental Health Crisis Service): 416-925-5200, www.gersteincentre.org (external link) 
• Distress Centre of Toronto (Crisis & Emotional Distress Services): 416-408-4357,  (external link) www.dcogt.com (external link) 

For emergencies, please call 911 or visit the emergency room of your local hospital.

Medical Centre

The Medical Centre offers health services to current TMU students, staff and faculty, such as physicals, mental health assessments, assessments for common medical problems, immunizations, and medical certificates. Appointments are in person and a mask is required. The Medical Centre’s phone number is 416-979-5070 and their email is medicalct@torontomu.ca. Please visit their website:  https://www.torontomu.ca/student-wellbeing/medicalcentre/

Other Resources

There are several groups on campus that advocate on behalf of students and act as a liaison between administration, government and the student body. You can access these groups in times of need or become an active participant. Below is a short list of some of these services and groups. 

• Image Arts School Council (contact Image Arts Administration for more info)
• Image Arts Course Union (external link)  (IMACU)
• Toronto Met Students’ Union (external link)  (TMSU)
• Canadian Federation of Students (external link)  (CFS)
• Ontario Federation of Students (external link)  (OFS)
• TMU Student Affairs
• TMU International Student Support
• Human Rights Services
• The Student and Learning Centre
• Consent Comes First

For Department/School By-Laws and the mechanism for student representation, as well as information on representation on, and election to, Academic Council and other relevant bodies or committees, please visit: www.torontomu.ca/senate/

Supplies and Purchases

On-Campus Purchases

There are times when you will need to purchase supplies and/or services on campus where cash transactions are not available. The TMU One Card is essentially a debit type card, which is also your student ID card. All payment for supplies and lab orders must be made with a TMU One Card. Funds can be reloaded using the machine located next to the Technology Resource Centre (IMA B-18) using your physical card, or online on the OneCard eAccounts website. Cash will not be accepted for supplies. In addition, the Technology Resource Centre is the pick-up/payment centre for all processed 16mm film. Visit the University Business Services website to learn more about the products and services available to purchase by OneCard.

Off-Campus Purchases

The School of Image Arts is conveniently located within easy reach of Toronto’s finest shops and services for photography, film, digital imaging, and fine arts related needs. Businesses listed in the  (google doc) Photographic/Technical Services Guide (external link)  have proven to be popular with professionals and students alike. If you need to buy equipment for school, try to take advantage of the many ‘back-to-school’ and student discounts specials stores offer.

Student Employment

Part-time, On-Campus Student Employment (Career Boost)

If you are interested in working while studying at TMU, you should visit the TMU Career & Co-Op Centre in Podium Building (POD 60) as soon as possible. There you’ll find bulletin boards with listings of available jobs both on and off campus.

Several part-time and work study positions are available throughout Image Arts for the academic year, assisting administrative and technical staff in offices, labs, and the Technology Resource Centre, as well as teaching and research assistants for faculty members. Most positions are hired through the Career Boost program. Visit the Career Boost Website to view positions and instructions about the application process. These positions fill quickly and are advertised starting in July.

Off-Campus Work Permits for International Students

The off-campus work permit program provides a great opportunity for international students to gain Canadian work experience and is a source of financial support during their studies in Canada. International Student Support (ISS) is working closely with CIC and the Ontario Government to ensure that information concerning eligibility and application procedures will be made available to international students at TMU. International students are encouraged to visit ISS in POD50A or contact them at 416-979-5000, ext. 6655 or by email at issask@torontomu.ca for more info and advising.

Awards and Scholarships

Every year, Image Arts presents students with awards, thanks to the generosity of various companies, associations and individuals. Awards are presented in the fall, based on a student’s academic and/or production work performance during the previous year. The submission/application information will be emailed to students or can be found via AwardSpring: www.torontomu.ca/current-students/scholarships-awards/. 

Students are encouraged to create a profile on AwardSpring in order to be eligible for university-wide and Image Arts-based awards. Recipients will be notified before the awards ceremony. Application Dates are announced on a yearly basis.

After creating your profile, you can view a full list of awards offered by Image Arts and the university on the AwardSpring page (external link) .

Information on Equipment and Facilities is available in full detail by visiting the Image Arts Website. Please also see the Image Arts Interactive Building Map (external link) .

The School’s Technical Operations team of staff are here to support you in accessing and using equipment and facilities safely and properly. They are responsible for ensuring that the day to day operations run smoothly for students and faculty, so that you can meet your production needs and complete assignments. 

For any questions, please start with the  (google form) ASK IMAGE ARTS GOOGLE FORM (external link) : curated to answer FAQs, provide you with links, and direct you to the correct person to answer your question. The Manager of Operations, Finance & Administration, Aseel Kafil (aseel.kafil@torontomu.ca, IMA-202), can also answer your questions and point you in the right direction to the staff who can best assist you.

The majority of equipment and facilities are found within the Image Arts building for the exclusive use of enrolled Image Arts students. However, there are also some editing facilities located in the Rogers Communications Centre (RCC). Your instructor will confirm how to access these facilities if necessary. Also note that the Computing lab in IMA 234, The Creative School Open Space, and the Recording Facility in IMA-302 are shared facilities with other students and courses from The Creative School.

Here are some examples of the facilities and equipment Image Arts has to offer:

• Fully equipped Photography studio
• Sound stage
• Digital printing Facilities
• Student scanning and printing facilities
• 16mm Film lab
• 16mm film editing stations and rooms
• Non-linear editing suites
• Audio recording, mixing and foley facilities
• Analogue darkroom, including hand processing, colour printing, and B&W film and print processing machines.
• Specialized historical & alternative processes  labs
• 4” x 5” & 8” x 10” large format cameras/lenses
• Medium format cameras and accessories
• 16mm motion picture cameras & accessories
• Digital still cameras and lenses
• Video cameras and lens kits
• Extensive film/video location and studio lighting and grip equipment
• Studio lighting equipment, flash units, studio accessories
• Laptops and iPads
• Sound recorders and microphones
• Tripods and other studio accessories
• Presentation equipment, projectors
• Video digitization capabilities
• Music and sound effects CD library
• Film and video library

Image Arts Technology Resource Centre

Students gain access to equipment and facilities through the Technology Resource Centre, located in the basement of the Image Arts Building, IMA B-18.

Equipment includes a wide variety of digital and analogue cameras and accessories, still and video equipment, electronic flash and lighting accessories, projection equipment, sound recording systems, ipads, film stock and editing supplies. Production facility keys are also signed out here. 

The Technology Resource Centre is open when classes are in session and during Fall and Winter Study Weeks. The Technology Resource Centre is closed during exam periods, on statutory holidays and during the December break. Hours of operation are posted at the Technology Resource Centre and on the Image Arts website.

At the start of each year of your studies you must register into the Technology Resource Centre Access System and complete a  (google form) Technical Operations Agreement Form (external link) , which indicates that you have read and will follow the policies outlined in this handbook.

The Technology Resource Centre also requires a copy of your TMU WHMIS Certificate training (available through D2L) for you to be granted access to equipment and facilities (first year only).

Labs and Studios

Analogue Photography Darkrooms

The analogue photography darkrooms are reserved for specific classes. When there is no class scheduled, the darkroom is available to students with access privileges on a first-come, first-served basis. Students must sign out at the Technology Resource Centre before using.

The Darkroom is equipped with:

• 14 enlarger stations and one shared sink
• B&W Paper Processor (for RC paper)
• B&W 4x5 Film Processor

Access: Students who have attended a Student Safety Orientation.

Print Finishing Room

This facility offers a clean space for print finishing. Including mat cutting, print mounting, paper cutting, and framing. It includes large format heat presses, a mat cutter, a cutting table, guillotine cutters, and large format rotary trimmers. 

Access: All Image Arts students. (Mat cutter accessories available for sign-out from the Technology Resource Centre.)

Photography Studio IMA 210

This is a large 4,500sq.ft. studio space with 13 independent shooting bays. The studio is supplied with a variety of professional lighting systems, product tables, fabric backdrops, rolling studio stands, grip and support systems, as well as softboxes and a variety of light modifiers. The studio is also home to a custom built-in white seamless “cyc” wall for trained students to use.

Scheduled classes have priority. Spare bays are released thirty minutes after a scheduled class commences if the instructor gives permission. When there are no classes scheduled, the bays are free to students with access on a first-come, first-served basis. Bays must be signed out from the Technology Resource Centre before using.

Access: all Photo and MFA students who have undergone the Studio Safety Orientation.

Student Printing and Scanning (PIC) - IMA 233

The PIC facility houses photographic quality inkjet printers that can produce up to 13x19 prints. Students bring their digital files to this facility and print themselves. There is a charge for all prints made and the price list is posted at the facility. 

Also available are high end film scanners, allowing students to scan film, both positive (slides) and negative, in all formats from 35mm to 8x10. Students wanting to use this facility must take a scheduled workshop before they are given access.

Access to Student Printers is booked by emailing print@torontomu.ca to request the time you would like to print. Your requests will be answered by return email. 

Access to Scanners is booked by emailing pic@torontomu.ca to request the time you would like to scan. Your requests will be answered by return email. 

Hours of Operation: A schedule will be posted at the beginning of each term.

Access: All Image Arts Undergraduate and Graduate Students

Digital Printing Facility (DPF) - IMA 230

This facility provides photographic quality inkjet prints on a variety of papers, in cut sheet sizes and roll format. The facility contains a number of large format printers capable of producing prints up to mural size on a number of different paper surfaces. Please note that students do not print the files themselves. There is a charge for all prints made and a price list is posted at the facility. Payment for prints is done with your OneCard at the IMA 230 door at the time of pick-up. You are welcome to come by during our open hours and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have about papers, file specifications and price.

Files can be submitted through the online  (google form) Digital Printing Facility Order Form (external link)  or dropped off on a USB stick to the facility. Work submissions will be connected to the DPF email address, which is dpf@torontomu.ca. 

Hours of Operation: A schedule will be posted at the beginning of each term.

Access: All students in the Creative School.

Operating Staff:

Michelle Fletcher, Digital Imaging Technologist, IMA 224, ext. 556861.
Contact her at mfletche@torontomu.ca.

Jane O’Donnel, Digital Printing Technician, IMA 230, ext. 552253. 
Contact her at jodonnel@torontomu.ca.

The Creative School Graphics Lab - IMA 234

35 iMac stations with five flatbed scanners and external monitors for use with laptops.

Access: All students in the Creative School. OneCard is required to access this facility.

Film Editing Room - IMA 122

16mm editing benches are each equipped with a splicer, Moviescop film viewer, rewind cranks, and a lightbox.

Access: All Film and trained students, plus F+PPCM Film stream students.

Non-Linear Digital Editing Suites - IMA 331, 338 – 346, 349

Suites include a 27” iMac computer, with production software, auxiliary display, external speakers, audio processor, and network connectivity. 

Students must supply their own portable hard drive. Students are expected to provide their own headphones for these facilities if needed.

Access: All Film and trained Image Arts students.

Motion Picture Lab - IMA 327

This facility houses an Arri 1000 II 16mm/35mm black & white motion film processor, a Peterson 16mm contact printer, a ScanStation Personal film scanner capable of R8/Super-8/16mm/35mm, plus a film loading room. 

Lab orders require completion of an  (google form) online order form (external link) , regularly updated with procedures, pricing, etc. The form can also be found via a QR link posted by the lab door. Orders are paid for and picked up at the Technology Resource Centre.

Operating Staff:

Mark Loeser, Film Production & Preservation Technician, IMA 327, ext. 556869.
Contact him at mwloeser@torontomu.ca or during hours posted on the lab door.

Oxberry Animation Studio  - IMA 332

This 2D analog animation studio holds an Oxberry animation stand, interchangeable cameras for 16mm or digital capture, a rotating animation light table, a cell punch, and a Mac running Dragonframe for digital capture. Training is a prerequisite for use of this facility. 

Access: All Film and trained Image Arts students.

Sound Stage – IMA 301

The Image Arts Soundstage features almost 3,000 sq.ft. of open, sound-insulated workspace with a Planar virtual studio wall, custom seamless “cyc” walls, green screen, a dedicated silent ventilation system, Joy 50A and Twist-Lock 20A circuits, fixed and movable elevated lighting grids, a Colourtran programmable lighting board, DMX controlled lighting, 9 floor-to-ceiling sound-baffling travelers, an Arri articulated camera dolly, a film air jib, 10 x 15’’ projection screen with a Christie projector, moveable scaffold, and a full complement of props, 10’ x 4’ flats and set pieces. There is a complete supply of lights, stands and ancillaries, and a fully equipped set construction workshop adjacent to the sound stage.

The Soundstage is a bookable facility available to Film students who have completed Cinematography courses and the Sound Stage Safety Orientation Seminar. Students must complete a  (google form) Sound Stage Application (external link)  prior to booking this space for periods greater than 1 day. Scheduled day and evening classes retain priority for Soundstage use.

Additional training is required for use of the Scaffolding, Planar wall, Camera Dolly, Lighting Grids, and Colourtrans. Electrical Safety rules, proper rigging practices, appropriate set construction and general sound stage discipline must be observed at all times. The Skyjack aerial work platform can only be operated by individuals trained and certified at a ministry level.

All other policies and procedures for the Sound Stage can be found online: www.torontomu.ca/image-arts/current-students/facilities.

Access: All Film and trained Image Arts students.

Recording and Mixing Facilities – IMA 302 , IMA302A

These multi-track digital recording and mixing facilities include a "whisper room" soundproof booth, 2 Avid triple deck control boards, sound panner, 7.1 audio system, aprox. 20' projection display, and a Foley Pit. Space is booked through the TRC.

Access: The Creative School students who have been trained in this facility.

UHD Editing & Colour Correction Facility - IMA 302B

This facility is designed for 4k video editing and colour grading. It has a 4 display setup including a Flanders Scientific monitor, 2-channel studio monitors, upgraded Mac Pro, and an Eclipse video editing controller. Space is booked through the TRC.

Access: The Creative School students who have been trained in this facility.

Production Studio - IMA 322

Facility for film and photography production. Half of the room can be signed out for 4 hours at a time per student/production group through the Technology Resource Centre when available. The room can be divided with a curtain to separate different productions as the entire room cannot be booked for a single production. For this reason, this space is not ideal for recording sound if both sides of the room are booked at the same time. 

Access: All Image Arts students.

The Creative School Open Space - Image Arts First Floor

This project space is dedicated to students across The Creative School as a facility to build, fabricate and finish your projects, with access to a production expert for consultation and support in the planning and realization of your projects. The area includes a light construction and fabrication area with hand tools available, a spray booth, and clean work surfaces for finishing and viewing work, as well as limited space to store work-in-progress. 

Open Space will be open for fabrication and assembly work by arranging in advance with the Project Space Technician. Larger projects and cutting can be handled in the Image arts Workshop.

Hours of Operation: Weekdays, when technician is on-site.

Access: The Creative School students who have been trained in this facility.

Operating Staff:

Joseph Lammirato, Project Space Technician, IMA 117, ext. 544441.
Contact him at joseph.lammirato@torontomu.ca.

Workshop – IMA 305

This facility contains woodworking equipment and tools that can be used for the construction of set pieces, installations, etc. Power equipment and tools must be used as directed by the Image Arts Workshop Technician. All tools and equipment are solely the property of the Workshop, therefore they may not be removed from the facility. 

Hours of Operation: When technician is on-site and in conjunction with Open Space.

Access: All Creative School students who have completed a mandatory Workshop Orientation to the tools and safety procedures through Open Space.

Student Audition/Rehearsal Space - IMA 329

This is a small audition and rehearsal space for "greenlit" student film productions. It may be signed out by students via the Technology Resource Centre.

Access: All Image Arts students.

Student Lounge and Study Spaces

"The Pit" - IMA B20C (Across from the Technology Resource Centre) 

“The Pit” is a study, social, and exhibition space. The space includes a custom print hanging system, dimmable track lighting, and Forbo walls for pinning prints or group brainstorming sessions. Includes seating for 19 at tables and 4 couches.

Access: Image Arts students only.

1st floor Student Study Space - IMA 100-108

This is a shared student space with comfortable seating along the east windowed hallway on the 1st floor. This bright and open space with large tables, chairs, and couches is conducive to group projects.

Access: All Toronto Metropolitan University students (OneCard is required).

2nd floor Student Study Space - IMA 235 (North-East Corner)

The second floor student space is bright with 2 standard height tables and 10 chairs ideal for studying and quiet work. This space is equipped with a large television (Image Arts promo material) which can be booked to display special digitized student projects.

Access: Image Arts students only.

2nd floor Students Study Space - IMA 250 (North-West Corner)

An alternate second floor study space in the north-west corner contains tall seating and tables better suited for group work for a maximum of 12 people. The space has a daylight calibrated print viewing board for calibrating photography prints and is also equipped with a large television (Image Arts promo material) which can be booked to display special digitized student projects.

Access: Image Arts students only.

3rd floor Student Study Space - IMA 365 (North-East Corner)

The third floor study space is bright with 6 low comfortable lounge chairs,  2 coffee tables, and a couch. It is ideal for reading, computer work, and quiet study. This space is equipped with a large television (Image Arts promo material) which can be booked to display special digitized student projects.

Access: Image Arts students only.

Image Arts Exhibition Spaces

Gallery 310 - IMA 310

The Gallery in IMA-310 is the primary student gallery within Image Arts with over 400 sq feet of room, plenty of wall space, and dimmable/programmable track lighting, this space lends itself more towards a traditional gallery setting yet flexible enough to accommodate alternative and creative installations and projects. Exhibitions in this gallery generally last for about a week or two.

This space is bookable by students and faculty for exhibitions. Contact Faculty Dave Kemp (dkemp@torontomu.ca) to book this space. Exhibitors are responsible for the security of their work and for monitoring the space during the exhibition period and implementing their own hours of operation (within Image Arts building access hours).

The Image Factory - IMA 323

This 330 sq foot exhibition/installation space is available for students to install, test, and display new works. The space contains dimmable and programmable LED track lighting, a 6,000 lumen full HD projector connected to a raspberry-pi processor and hidden bi-channel ceiling monitors. This space is ideal for a variety of media, display, and installation purposes.

This space is bookable by students and faculty for exhibitions, critiques and special events. Contact Faculty Dave Kemp (dkemp@torontomu.ca) to book this space. Exhibitors are responsible for the security of their work and for monitoring the space during the exhibition period and implementing their own hours of operation (within Image Arts building access hours).

The Creative School’s Assembly Gallery - IMA 118

The Assembly Gallery in IMA-118 (Image Arts Commons, attached to Open Space) is an interdisciplinary exhibition space that showcases work by students, faculty and alumni. It is part of The Creative School’s commitment to create exhibition spaces, providing opportunities to highlight work-in-progress, prototypes or completed projects, including critiques, poster presentations, demonstrations, plans, designs or process documentation, in an exhibition environment that is open to the public.

Bookings are not handled by Image Arts, however, please inquire with Image Arts Admin and we can direct you to the appropriate contact person. Exhibitors are responsible for the security of their work and for monitoring the space during the exhibition period.

Miscellaneous Exhibition Spaces

Hanging on Walls: Walls throughout the building have hanging systems in place to display work. If you are interested in displaying your work outside of the gallery spaces please inquire with the Image Arts Administration team.

Image Arts Televisions: Large televisions can be found on the 1st floor in the Image Arts Commons, the 2nd floor beside the Photo Studio (IMA 210) entrance and in the student spaces (North-East and North-West Corners), the 3rd floor student space (North-East Corner), and in front of the Technology Resource Centre (IMA B18). These televisions will regularly display Image Arts promotional materials and information, but may be booked to display special digitized student projects. To book a television, or to submit Image Arts related promotional materials, please inquire with the Image Arts Administration team.

Health, Safety, and Security

Equipment Hazards

It is mandatory that you attend all in-class workshops offering training on equipment that you will need to complete your coursework, both for safety reasons and in order to have clearance to sign out that equipment. If you damage Image Arts equipment, you are responsible for the cost of repairs or replacement and you will lose your access privileges until payment is received.

Your instructor is responsible for providing specific training on the hazardous materials and/or processes that you are required to use in a course. Training is crucial, you or someone else could be seriously injured if used improperly. This includes procedures for the safe use, storage, handling and disposal of these hazardous materials and the procedures to follow in case of an emergency involving these materials.

WHIMIS Training for Image Arts

All Image Arts Students are required to have Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training and provide a copy of their Toronto Metropolitan University WHMIS Quiz Certificate to the Technology Resource Centre in order to gain access to the Image Art’s facilities and equipment. The following will be covered:

• WHMIS legislation
• Hazard Classifications and Symbols
• Supplier and workplace labels
• Safety Data Sheets

To take the training and quiz, you must have login through D2L. Go to

https://www.torontomu.ca/facilities-management-development/environmental-health-safety/mandatory-safety-training/d2l-elearning-instructions/ and follow instructions.

Your certificate will be valid during your standard academic tenure.

Chemicals

Many of Image Arts programs are studio based and you may be working with various substances, such as photographic chemistry, that may be hazardous if not used properly. It is your responsibility to keep your work environment safe for you and your fellow students. Keep your work area clean and organized to reduce accidental spills or splashes. Nitrile gloves are available free of charge at the Technology Resource Centre when needed. Various other PPE is available in applicable facilities or upon request.  Darkrooms are equipped with eye wash stations and instructions for what to do if either you or someone else is splashed.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

All chemicals brought into the school must be approved prior to use on campus and must include a valid SDS form provided to the Health and Safety Officer for inclusion into the SDS directory. Speak to Darren Cerkownyk at dcerkownyk@torontomu.ca for any questions about chemistry or SDS’s.

If chemicals or bottles are not labeled correctly or do not have a valid SDS in the database, a substantial fine will be imposed and access suspended. All chemicals that you use or mix MUST be stored in appropriate chemical compliant containers and MUST be properly labeled with the following:

1. Material name
2. Ingredient amounts or %
3. Student's or instructor's name
4. Date made or in use
5. Safe handling procedures - e.g. If you need to wear gloves or use a mask when working with the chemical.
6. Ingredients - (If the solution or mixture has more than one Safety Data Sheet (SDS), see below) list the ingredients and the percentage of each ingredient in the solution or mixture.

If chemicals or bottles are not labeled correctly or do not have a valid SDS in the database, a substantial fine will be imposed and access suspended. All chemicals that you use or mix MUST be stored in appropriate containers and MUST be properly labeled.

First Aid

Basic First Aid kits are accessible throughout the school with larger, more extensive kits kept with staff in primary locations should additional First Aid supplies be required. Please note, you should always contact 911 in the case of an emergency. 

General Precautions
Emergency

• For potentially life threatening or serious emergencies, dial “911”
• If you call ‘911’ give them your exact location in Image Arts if possible. They will contact TMU Security to direct emergency vehicles to the scene.
• For non-911 situations, call TMU Security: 416.979.5040 on cell phones or external lines. They will come immediately. The Security office is on the main floor of the Victoria building, on the west side of Image Arts.
• St. Michaels Hospital Emergency is 2 blocks south to Shuter and then one block west, corner of Shuter & Victoria St.

Fire Safety

If you see, smell, or detect a fire:

• Pull the closest fire alarm.
• Dial 911 from a safe location, on a personal device, or any campus telephone.
• Close all doors.
• Ensure doors and exits are clear, do not block doors.
• Exit by stairwells; do not use elevators.
• Leave the building immediately by the nearest safe exit.
• Assist people with disabilities or children, as required.
• Wait outside the building as directed by Security or the Fire Wardens.

Personal Safety

A downtown campus such as TMU does tend to attract the occasional wanderer to its buildings in spite of regular checks by Campus Security. Keep these tips in mind when working in the building during irregular hours:

• Whenever possible, do not work alone. Inform technical staff if you are alone or in an isolated area. TMU Security offers “working in isolation” support with regular checks - Please contact Security if required.
• Notify any Image Arts staff or call Campus Security if you see someone suspicious in the building.
• Know where the blue Emergency Pull Stations are (see interactive map (external link) ). These are a direct link to Campus Security.
• Use common sense. If someone who doesn’t appear to belong in the building asks for your help, refer the person to any staff, reception, or security.

Walk Safe Program

This service provides TMU’s community with a protected escort by security officers or supervisors 24 hours a day to any location on the TMU campus, to the Dundas subway or to a number of parking lots off campus. To request an escort, call security at 416-979-5040 or 555040 for internal phones, or email walksafe@torontomu.ca.

www.torontomu.ca/community-safety-security/personal-safety/walksafe-program/

Theft

Theft of personal or borrowed school property has unfortunately been known to happen. DO NOT leave your belongings unattended at any time anywhere in the building. Avoid storing valuable equipment in your locker overnight or over weekends. If you see someone suspicious, or anyone who seems to be paying a little too much attention to you and/or the contents of your locker, call Campus Security or alert Image Arts staff.

Lockers

Lockers are situated in the basement and the 3rd floor of the Image Arts building. They are free and available to all undergraduate Image Arts students. Lockers can be registered by scanning the QR codes that are posted around the locker areas, and completing the linked form. Note that items and locks must be removed from your locker at the end of the winter academic term.

• Any locks left after April 30 will be cut off and the contents discarded.

Bike Theft / Vandalism

Bikes left overnight or even until a late hour in front of the School are at high risk for theft or vandalism. If you see a theft in progress or if it happens to you, report it immediately to Campus Security. To reduce theft risk, lock your bike in areas of campus that are more populated at night and if you tend to follow a routine try alternating spots.

Parking

There are three lots nearby - Church St and Gould St, Bond St and Dundas St, and the TMU Parking Garage on Victoria St. right behind the Image Arts building. For info on rates, hours, parking passes, accessibility and EV charging at any of the TMU parking lots, please visit: www.torontomu.ca/university-business-services/parking/.

Studio and Production Facility Rules

Photo studio (IMA 210), Sound Stage, & Studio 322 rules:

• No food or drink in any studio areas except in designated areas
• Access for current Image Arts students only
• Never attempt to use any equipment you have not been instructed on 
• DO NOT hang anything off the ceiling pipes in the Photo Studio
• Wear PPE where necessary and appropriate clothing and footwear.
• Do not work alone
• Put sandbags on any stands where the top is 5' or above (lights, booms, ect.)
• No power cords across main walkways 
• Move any flats with 2 or more people
• Use two people to carefully wind up fabric backdrops (photo studio)
• Be very careful when lowering light stands. It is recommended that you use proper hand protection when raising and lowering lights.
• Always loosen boom pivot lever when finished and stored (arm stands vertically) - Do not over tighten boom levers (Photo studio)
• ​​Do not allow seamless paper to crumple or crease 
• Always inspect equipment before use and report any damaged equipment immediately to a technician. Do not attempt to repair equipment yourself.
• Use 'repair tags' in lockup and place equipment needing servicing in the 'repair area' 
• No painting, spray painting, or sanding in the studios. We have a spray booth on the 1st floor  if required.
• No strong scents
• No use of powders, fog, or smoke machines 
• No rolling wheels, blocks, flats, carts, shoes, bags, equipment, or any damaging or dirty surfaces on Cove at all.
• Never sit or place heavy objects on Studio product tables, do not place ‘hot’ lights underneath and do not change the angle of the rear panel. (Photo studio)
• Do not leave equipment unattended
• Tape MUST be removed if used. Some use pose safety risks if tape is not removed
• Nothing is to leave the studio... Chairs, booms, stands, lights, blocks, flats,...
• Do not place lights near any flammable materials, plastics, or fire sprinkler systems.
• Use available ladders when installing work. Do not stand on chairs, stools or tables.
• Children must be supervised and accompanied by an adult caregiver other than the photographer.
• No animals without approval  and completion of authorization  form
• Strict no weapons policy even as props
• Use extension cords and avoid tripping hazards. There should not be any tension on electrical cords or plugs.
• Return equipment according to photos in studio lockup
• Absolutely no open flames, smoke, toxic substances or dangerous materials.
• Dispose of prop foods at home ... Meats, fish, dairy, etc…
• Cleanup any and all mess. Sweep and tidy when finished.
• Put away flats, boxes, and equipment when finished.
• Do not build "rooms" with flats unless absolutely necessary
• ​​Do not place anything on the product tables that aren't being photographed.
• Do not rush or run in studios – do not work when you are overtired and hungry.
• If you don’t know – PLEASE ASK!

Sound Stage (IMA 301) - In addition to above production space rules

• Proper use of the scaffold (outriggers, brakes and safety harness) must be understood and strictly adhered to and can only be used following approved training.
• Flats / set pieces must be securely attached and braced with jacks and sandbags. Only trained individuals are permitted to build sets.
• Knowledge of the safe and proper use of the grid is required. Never stand below the moveable grid as it is being raised or lowered. Safety chains must be used to secure lights hung from the grid.  Barn doors must also be attached to the grid or the light.
• A basic understanding of electrical power and the dangers of equipment misuse is required - breakers, lights, electrical distribution boxes, etc.
• Knowledge of grip equipment is required before use.
• The Skyjack lift may only be operated by individuals trained and certified on this equipment.
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear (ie. no open-toed shoes).
• If you don’t know – PLEASE ASK!

Post-Production Facility Rules

Darkrooms and other chemical use rooms

• Only trained and authorized Image Arts students are permitted
• No outside guests or friends are allowed
• Know your chemicals and how to use them safely.
• Wear personal protective equipment and appropriate clothing and footwear, ie. goggles, gloves, no open-toed shoes).
• Never leave water running unattended
• Know where the Eye Wash Station is and how to use it
• Coordinate the disposal of chemicals with technical staff
• No headphones – you need to be able to hear what is going on around you
• Clean up all spills immediately
• Notify staff or emergency personnel of any hazardous chemical contact.
• Report any broken equipment, glass, or chemical spills

Print Finishing Facility (across from IMA B18)

• Trained and authorized individuals only
• You must know how to use the matte cutters, heat presses, and trimmers prior to use
• You must know and follow all safe work practices with regards to use and disposal of blades and sharp objects - Do not throw in garbages - use designated containers
• Be very cautious working with heat presses. There is the potential for serious burns.

Insurance

As a student of Image Arts, whether you are studying Film or Photography, you will be borrowing and using professional, valuable equipment on a regular basis. While there are great benefits to accessing this equipment, you assume full responsibility in the event of loss, theft or damage.

Property Insurance

Every enrolled student is covered by the same insurance policy at TMU, which covers both property and liability. Equipment loss or damage falls under property, which currently has a deductible of $100,000. This means that each time you sign out equipment from the Technology Resource Centre, you are responsible for paying the first $100,000 for repairs or replacement if that equipment is lost, stolen or damaged. Any damage or loss to Image Arts equipment must be reported to the Technology Resource Centre immediately. On-campus equipment losses must be reported to both Campus Security and TMU’s Risk & Finance Officer, Philani Moyo, at 416-979-5000, ext. 553772 or insurance@torontomu.ca. Thefts should also be reported to Police.

You may want to talk to an insurance agent about what coverage options may be available. We suggest you speak to the company that has dealt with our students: Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance, Judi Heron at 905.305.5938.

Liability Insurance

The liability clause of TMU’s policy offers significantly better protection to students in the event of an accident or damage to public or private property while filming or photographing away from campus. For example, you can still be sued if someone trips on a cable that you have placed on a city street while filming but if it can be proven that you are a registered student of TMU and that the activity that caused the accident was directly related to course work, you may not be held financially accountable as TMU’s insurance policy should cover you.

Occasionally, you will be asked to produce a Certificate of Insurance from the university as proof that you are a full-time student with coverage in case of an accident. Whether or not you obtain this Certificate, your coverage is active.

To obtain a Certificate of Insurance, please complete the Insurance Certificate Request Form. It takes at least 5 working days to prepare so make sure to submit the form as soon as you know you need one. The policy covers equipment used outside of Ontario; however, the Insurance Office must be advised before leaving. For any questions about this process, please contact TMU’s Risk & Finance Officer, Philani Moyo, at 416-979-5000, ext. 553772 or insurance@torontomu.ca.

Negligence is inexcusable and costly in any situation, no matter which party ends up ultimately responsible for damages. Liability insurance is there for you in case of accident - it is not a license to be careless or to take avoidable risks. If a lawsuit arises from a situation you are involved in, though you may not be held financially accountable, take all precautions and act responsibly in every situation!

Note: If you are bringing in non-students to work on a photo or film production in Image Arts facilities, those individuals are required to complete a Liability Waiver for assumption of risks and responsibilities. This form is available for download here: Fillable Image Arts Liability Waiver (external link) , or can be obtained from the Operations Manager.

The Image Centre (IMC) is Canada’s leading institution dedicated to the exhibition, research and collecting of photography. Established in 2012 at Toronto Metropolitan University, in the heart of the city, the IMC welcomes visitors to explore the intersection of photography and culture. Through compelling exhibitions and engaging public programming, the IMC showcases work by emerging, renowned, and anonymous photographers, past and present. With a growing collection of nearly 400,000 photographic objects and an innovative scholarly research program, the IMC is also a vibrant hub for the preservation and study of photography. For more information, visit theimagecentre.ca (external link) .

Image Arts Course Union (IMACU)

The Image Arts Course Union is here to bridge the gap between the students and staff at Image Arts. The Union represents all undergraduate Image Arts students, including those enrolled in Film and Photography Media Arts. They enhance the social, professional, and academic experiences for Image Arts students by hosting various student-led events throughout the school year. Additionally, they advocate for our student body by raising concerns and facilitating communication between students and faculty/staff. If you are interested in collaborating with the Union, or would like to express any concerns, please visit their website www.linktr.ee/torontoimacu (external link) 

Maximum Exposure

Each spring, every student in every Image Arts program has an opportunity to show their work during an exhibition known as MaxEx. This popular event consists of photography, film and video screenings, digital illustration and animation, and mixed media installations. The show is completely student-run and open to the public with a special opening night to kick it off. This is a great opportunity to learn the ropes of exhibiting your work, and what it takes to curate a large scale exhibition. Whether you are in your first year or your last, it takes many volunteers to put this event together, so if you are interested, please visit their website www.maxex.ca (external link) 

TorontoMet Film Fest

Every year in late April/early May, the 4th year Film students organize their own public film festival, including a daytime programme for panels, screenings, and mixers, as well as a nighttime programme to showcase the 4th year thesis films. This popular event takes place at a theatre outside of campus, and is attended by staff, students, industry professionals, and the general public. Advance tickets, including day passes and multi-day passes for the event are available online and at the School beginning in April, right up to the day of the first screening. Volunteer positions are available to all Image Arts students with applications opening in September. For more information please visit their website www.torontometfilmfest.ca (external link) 

Function Magazine

Function is an annual publication showcasing the work of Image Arts students. The magazine also features editorials and interviews with internationally acclaimed artists and image-makers such as: Jamel Shabazz, Harmony Korine, David Rokeby, Floria Sigismondi, Andres Serrano, David Cronenberg, Lauren Greenfield, among many others. For more information please visit their website www.functionmagazine.ca (external link) 

Artspace at 401 Richmond Street West

Since 1990, the School of Image Arts has supported an off-campus gallery. Artspace’s new location is at 401 Richmond, a historic warehouse building turned arts and culture hub in downtown Toronto. The gallery offers an exhibition space for students, faculty and alumni. There is an Exhibition Committee that reviews exhibit proposals twice a year and hosts the annual Artspace Creative Market (ACM) fundraiser. The Gallery is located at 401 Richmond Street West, basement level (B106). For hours of operation and info about upcoming exhibitions, please refer to the website.

www.artspacetmu.com (external link)