Humber: The New Way for Postsecondary Education in Ontario

Largest college enrolment in Canada shows demand for hybrid, polytechnic approach 

TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2013 /CNW/ - With Ontario's Differentiation Policy Framework for postsecondary education in the final stages of development, Humber College president Chris Whitaker says the time is now to recognize new models beyond traditional colleges and universities, and says his institution is ready to lead the way.

"The 'Humber Way' represents a distinctive third option for postsecondary students. Our hybrid model, combining the best elements of the college and university systems, provides students with both a sound theoretical foundation and workplace experience that prepares them for their career. Ultimately, our polytechnic approach ensures students have a well-rounded education and are job-ready when they graduate," says Whitaker.

And there is great demand for Humber's students-first education. First-year enrolment has increased by four per cent to a record 12,000 incoming students, bringing Humber's total full-time population, the largest in Canada, to more than 27,000 students. For fall 2013, Humber received more than 76,350 applications, more than any other Ontario college, for its 170 full-time programs, including a system-leading 21 bachelor's degrees.

"We continue to highlight our position about differentiation to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Our new Strategic Plan confirms our commitment to ongoing leadership in delivering a polytechnic model of education. Further, we welcome the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario report confirming Humber's preeminent status in college degree granting in Ontario," says Whitaker.

Humber's newly launched 2013-18 Strategic Plan emphasizes a blend of theoretical, practical and breadth learning as well as teaching and learning excellence and industry partnerships.  The college's leadership in polytechnic education is characterized by its range of credentials from bachelor's degrees and Ontario graduate certificates to diplomas, certificates and apprenticeships. Humber is also known for its pathways between programs and credentials that allow students to build on their education, as well as industry partnerships, and research, innovation and entrepreneurial opportunities.

This year also marks the 10^th anniversary of Humber receiving its Institution of Technology & Advanced Learning (ITAL) designation and the introduction of its four-year bachelor's degrees.

About Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Established in 1967, Humber is one of Canada's leading postsecondary institutions. Committed to student success through excellence in teaching and learning, Humber serves 27,000 full-time students and 56,000 continuing education registrants. With an internationally recognized reputation for quality learning, Humber offers a wide-range of career-focused opportunities for students to personalize their educational path, including 170 full-time programs across more than 40 fields of study, 200 part-time and 400 online programs or courses. More than four out of five of Humber graduates are employed within six months of completing their studies. Visit humber.ca.

SOURCE: Humber Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning

Andrew Leopold
Marketing and Communications
Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
[email protected]
416.675.6622 ext. 4296