University Senate

Senate oversees all academic matters on behalf of Council. It advises Council and ensures that academic governance is robust and effective.

Its work includes:

• supervision and discipline of students
• governance of teaching and learning, the student experience, research and knowledge exchange activities
• advising on the academic implications of the University strategy
• championing the academic activities of the University.

Senate advises and assures Council that academic quality and standards leading to the York degree stand up to external scrutiny. Senate in turn takes assurance that students can access, participate, progress and succeed in their studies with us. Senate also oversees policy for research, partnerships and engagement activity.

It is chaired by the Vice-Chancellor and meets at least three times per year.

Senate is made up of academic colleagues of different levels and roles from across the University, and student representatives. 

Senate members:

• 10% student representatives
• 30% elected academic staff
• 30% nominated heads of departments or schools
• 30% ex officio members

Terms of reference

Find out more about the purpose of Senate, which bodies it advises and how it delegates authority. 

Terms of reference

Delegation of powers

Senate can establish committees to conduct work on its behalf and can delegate its powers and function to those committees. 

See the Senate scheme of delegation