The Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) is circulating a survey as part of an international research project examining the use of external consultants by the post-secondary sector. The project is being conducted by a research team across 11 institutions from Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom and is funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).

What is this survey?

The survey is seeking input from post-secondary stakeholders, including academic staff, support staff and students, about the use of external consultants at their institutions. The questions focus on issues of transparency, accountability, and the impact of consultants on the post-secondary sector.

How will the survey results be used?

The survey is part of a larger research project that will produce public profiles of major consulting firms advising universities and colleges, documenting their methods, personnel and governance. Findings will be made available through a public website.

The research team will also develop online workshops and a field guide offering practical tools for stakeholders to understand, access and engage with consulting processes at their institutions.

Who can participate?

The survey is open to academic staff, support staff and students at universities and colleges in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.

Please circulate this survey to your members. Their participation will contribute to a better understanding of the impacts of consultants across the post-secondary sector and the implications for university decision-making, transparency and accountability.

The deadline for completion is November 30, 2026.

If you have any questions about the survey, please contact Professor Chris Hurl at [email protected].