By Shirley Lin
Ryerson students could see the Sears parking lot converted into space for health science programs at Ryerson.
A building could be constructed at the empty lot on 222 Jarvis St., said Maurice Yeates, dean of the graduate school of studies.
Ryerson listed the building as a priority when the Ontario government asked universities to list their infrastructure development priorities last year, said Yeates.
It’s part of the university’s five-year plan to create new faculties and modify existing ones. The Provost’s Academic Structures Commission (PASC) was formed earlier this year to deal with this, holding public town hall meetings throughout the year.
“We have had informal discussions with Ryerson,” said Julia Sakas, a representative of the site’s current owners, the Ontario Realty Corporation.
Darrick Heyd, department chair of chemistry and biology, said the commission has been a longtime coming.
“The feeling among science departments is that we should be growing and expanding. And that’s going to require a new building,” he said.
At the meeting on Oct. 2, faculty also said Ryerson’s curriculum is too structured and restrictive. It doesn’t allow students flexibility in transferring credits when switching programs. The lack of variety in elective classes was also mentioned.
“Say you’re in [a program] and you decide this isn’t for me, where do you take your credits? Do you just walk away from that degree and start over?” said Colin Mooers, graduate director of communication and culture.
The last town hall will be in December. A final report will be sent to the provost next January.
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