UNBC Enrolment For Fall Semester
October 12, 2005 for immediate release
The University of Northern British Columbia is experiencing a decline
in the number of students in degree programs this semester, compared to
the same time last year.
Statistics for registration in degree programs show a 3% decline in enrolment compared to last fall. There are currently about 3500 students registered, down about 100 from last year. The drop, however, was not unexpected. “A combination of factors such the robust northern economy, regional declines in the 18-24 year old population, and rapid expansion of post-secondary seats at other BC universities all contribute to our challenge,” says Howard Brunt, Vice-President Academic and Provost. “In response, we’ve been implementing strategies to increase our enrolments.” These include increasing the coordination among student recruitment personnel, meeting more prospective students within the province and internationally, partnering with the City to establish a Vancouver office, and doing more to help students find housing and access financial aid and awards. In addition, the development of the Northern Sport Centre is expected to be a major draw for new students, while improving the quality of campus life for current students.
“Growth is essential for the University and increasing enrolments remains our top priority,” says UNBC President Charles Jago. “A year-and-a-half ago, I spoke to the Chamber of Commerce about the importance of working together to maintain our position in the face of increased competition among the province’s universities. Post-secondary education is now a vital part of the northern economy.”
Last year, in addition to the students registered in degree programs, there were about 2500 students registered in non-credit courses offered through Continuing Studies - a 300% increase over the previous year. These courses have been providing new opportunities in northern BC for professional development, executive education, and specialized certification. Together with the students in degree programs, more people took UNBC courses last year than ever before.
Statistics for registration in degree programs show a 3% decline in enrolment compared to last fall. There are currently about 3500 students registered, down about 100 from last year. The drop, however, was not unexpected. “A combination of factors such the robust northern economy, regional declines in the 18-24 year old population, and rapid expansion of post-secondary seats at other BC universities all contribute to our challenge,” says Howard Brunt, Vice-President Academic and Provost. “In response, we’ve been implementing strategies to increase our enrolments.” These include increasing the coordination among student recruitment personnel, meeting more prospective students within the province and internationally, partnering with the City to establish a Vancouver office, and doing more to help students find housing and access financial aid and awards. In addition, the development of the Northern Sport Centre is expected to be a major draw for new students, while improving the quality of campus life for current students.
“Growth is essential for the University and increasing enrolments remains our top priority,” says UNBC President Charles Jago. “A year-and-a-half ago, I spoke to the Chamber of Commerce about the importance of working together to maintain our position in the face of increased competition among the province’s universities. Post-secondary education is now a vital part of the northern economy.”
Last year, in addition to the students registered in degree programs, there were about 2500 students registered in non-credit courses offered through Continuing Studies - a 300% increase over the previous year. These courses have been providing new opportunities in northern BC for professional development, executive education, and specialized certification. Together with the students in degree programs, more people took UNBC courses last year than ever before.
Contact:
Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC - 250.960.5622
