THUNDER BAY – Lakehead University and Confederation College are joining forces.
The Thunder Bay-based post-secondary institutions on Thursday announced they have signed a joint admission's agreement for 33 diploma and degree programs, allowing for a more seamless transfer of students who earn a college diploma into undergraduate studies at the university.
The move reduces red tape, costs and barriers, according to a release issued by Lakehead University, while encouraging college graduates to continue their post-secondary education at the university level.
The timing couldn’t be better, said LU’s provost and vice-president (academic), David Barnett.
“If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it is that access to post-secondary education and the ability for individuals and families to plan long-term cannot be taken for granted,” Barnett said.
His college counterpart, Richard Gemmill, said the agreement will give students more options and confidence that they can take the skills they learn in college and make use of them in a degree program.
"It is important for eligible students to know in advance they have a place in both a diploma and a degree program, which allows for long-term planning and greater stability,” Gemmill said.
The deal will provide more options to students wishing to stay in the region, said Lakehead president Moira McPherson.
“As the only comprehensive university in Northern Ontario, this agreement will expand post-secondary options to those throughout Northwestern Ontario,” McPherson said.
“In particular, it will provide students who begin their studies at any of Confederation College’s eight campuses the ability to seamlessly complete some, if not all, of certain degree requirements in their home communities.”
College president Kathleen Lynch said the deal extends a long tradition of collaboration between the two schools.
“Confederation College and Lakehead University have long worked together and been committed to facilitating access to post-secondary education throughout Northwestern Ontario,” said Kathleen Lynch, President, Confederation College.
“This agreement builds on our individual institutional strengths, broadens our collective commitment to the communities we serve, and paves the way for new and innovative opportunities,” Lynch said.
