Algoma U becomes a member of OUETS

NEWS RELEASE

ALGOMA UNIVERSITY

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Algoma University is pleased to announce that it is the newest member of the Ontario Universities' Electronic Transcript System (OUETS), which will provide students with ease of access in requesting transcripts and transfer credit resources.

Danny Reid, Algoma University's Director of Information Technology stated: "We're thrilled to launch our electronic transcript exchange with the Ontario Universities' Application Centre, and being the first university in Ontario to adopt the PESC XML international standards. This achievement will significantly reduce the processing of printed transcripts, resulting in increased efficiency in our registration and admissions office."

Algoma University followed guidelines established by the Post-Secondary Education Standards Council (PESC) when designing the new technology, which utilizes XML language and formatting.

The template and work created by Algoma U, in partnership with OUETS, sets high standards for other Ontario universities to move toward in the future.

This new technology employed by the University will also allow for the future transfer of data to colleges and universities across Canada.

"We are very pleased to be a part of the Ontario Universities' Electronic Transcript System," said Algoma University Registrar Dave Marasco. "Members of our IT Department worked diligently to establish this new platform to allow for the secure and effective transfer of academic records across post-secondary institutions. This new process provides for prompt, consistent, and transparent electronic transcript exchange to allow for a more effective and efficient assessment process."

OUETS includes representatives from the 21 Ontario universities and was established by the Registrar's Association more than 20 years ago to support the operation of the university electronic transcript housed at the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC).

Algoma U's Manager of Information Systems, Jim Adams, added: "It was an exciting endeavour collaborating with the team at the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC). Being the first to adopt a new technology presents a tremendous opportunity to learn and grow as a development team. Andrew Beaulieu, Senior Application Specialist at Algoma University and Doug Holmes, Programmer Analyst at OUAC, performed exceptionally well, integrating our systems with OUAC's to successfully transfer electronic transcripts using the PESC XML international standards."

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 & Social Development, and Biology in Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton and Timmins.

As a partner with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, Algoma U is committed to respecting Anishinaabe knowledge and culture. To learn more about Algoma University, visit www.algomau.ca.

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