Support to help students succeed at Durham College

Starting college is a big step, and students can expect to take on new academic challenges along the way. At Durham College (DC), students have access to resources that can help them build their skills, manage their studies, and feel confident in their academic journey.

From learning strategies and tutoring to accessibility services and accommodated testing, the Student Academic Learning Services (SALS) and Access and Support Centre (ASC) offer resources to help students throughout their time at DC.

Build effective study habits
College brings new expectations for managing time, staying organized and preparing for tests and assignments.

SALS offers learning strategies support to help students with areas such as time management, organization, study strategies, test preparation and overcoming procrastination. Students can also access workshops, online resources and tools to help them plan their studies.

SALS ONLINE is also available through DC Connect, which includes resources on topics such as test preparation, time management, staying organized, overcoming test anxiety and effective studying.

“SALS is a welcoming space where students can access supports for their courses, strengthen their academic skills, or simply find a quiet place to study,” says Catherine Hayes, Manager, SALS. “We encourage students to connect with us early and often, taking advantage of the resources available before they feel overwhelmed.”

“Meeting with the Learning Specialist one-on-one was very helpful during my academic studies. I would prepare all my questions and topics of interest before my appointment and go through everything at a pace that worked for me,” says Nicole Gaul, Chemical Engineering Technology graduate. “It’s a fantastic resource whether you learn better one-on-one or in a small group setting where you can bounce ideas around.”

Get help with course material
Students don’t have to navigate challenging course material on their own. SALS offers support in areas including math, physics, biology, science, accounting, business, academic writing and language. Students can also access peer tutoring and other academic support to help them better understand course content and prepare for tests.

Access supports that meet individual needs
For students registered with the ASC, the centre works with them to recommend and coordinate supports and accommodations based on their individual learning needs and supporting documentation. Supports can include accommodated testing, peer notetaking, peer coaching and assistive technology.

Students who require accommodated testing can write tests in class or at one of DC’s Oshawa or Whitby Test Centres. The Test Centre provides a secure testing environment for students whose needs cannot be fully met in the classroom.

Support throughout the student experience
College is about more than attending classes. It is also about developing the skills, confidence and independence needed to succeed in a program and prepare for a career.

Whether students need help building effective study habits, understanding course material, preparing for a test or accessing accommodations, SALS and ASC are among the services available to support them at DC.

Knowing that these resources are available can be an important part of choosing a college. At DC, students have access to people and services that can help them navigate academic challenges and make the most of their college experience.