Algoma U experiences another population boom
Thursday, November 01, 2012 by: SooToday.com Staff
NEWS RELEASE
ALGOMA UNIVERSITY
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Fall enrolment shatters records at Algoma University
SAULT STE. MARIE - For the second year in a row, the enrolment at Algoma University has hit a new high.
Data submitted to the provincial government for the official November 1st count shows 1427 students enrolled for 2012/2013 year.
This represents a 20.3 percent increase over last year's enrolment.
The growth is being attributed to new programming and strong recruiting efforts.
"The Department of Business and Economics still tops enrolment with 28 percent of the students. Computer Science is strong as well," commented Algoma University Registrar David Marasco, "However the three new Honours programs in Social Work, Geography, and Biology are all making positive strides forward."
AU announced receipt of ministerial consent to offer an Honours Bachelor of Social Work starting in 2011 and enrolment for that program is already up 14 percent.
The Honours Biology program that began in 2010 has also seen a 60 percent jump in enrolment.
The Honours Bachelor of Arts in Geography began this fall and the University has also launched a Certificate in Geomatics, and a Minor in Geomatics within the Geography Program.
"The number of new students this year is perhaps the most notable jump, up 39 percent over 2011," remarked Algoma University President, Dr. Richard Myers. "This was our largest first year class ever, and easily the most diverse, as was evident at our induction ceremony. This bodes well for all of our students as they prepare to live and work in a global community. It's also very positive for the Sault's economic and social development with so many newcomers to the area."
Approximately one in six students are international this year at Algoma University, having come from countries such as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Japan, China, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Jamaica, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates.
There has also been a 50 percent increase in the number of students taking an ESL program at Algoma University, including a large group from Brazil.
There are also 19 students from abroad on international student exchanges.
Another 50 or so students from Saudi Arabia are also expected to arrive this January.
"The increase in enrolment is a testament to the motivation of the recruitment teams both domestically and internationally, and to the to the support staff and student services for sustaining our growth," Marasco said. "We take pride in the strength of our current and new programming thanks to excellent faculty, and we're validated in our efforts as international and local students choose Algoma University for the big education they can get at our small university."
About Algoma University
Algoma University offers a wide variety of liberal arts and sciences degree options including programs in Psychology, Computer Science, Business Administration, Fine Arts, Community Economic and Social Development, and Biology in Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton, Timmins and St. Thomas.
As a partner with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, Algoma U is committed to respecting Anishinaabe knowledge and culture.
Algoma University has launched its Essential Elements Campaign to expand its campus and offer more scholarships and awards to students.
To learn more, visit www.algomau.ca.
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