Assiniboine projects enrolment increase, welcomes fall term students

Assiniboine Community College is preparing to welcome more than 4,100 students this academic year, with many commencing or resuming their studies on campus after the Labour Day long weekend. The college anticipates it may see an overall enrolment increase of as much as 12 per cent this academic year compared to the previous year.

Thousands more will be enrolled in various community-based programs and Continuing Studies courses throughout the academic year.

“This summer, we celebrated a record number of graduates for the 2022-23 academic year (1,570+). Now we look to continue the momentum and welcome a record number of students to begin and continue their studies this year,” said Dr. Deanna Rexe, Vice President, Academic at Assiniboine. “Both graduation and the start of many classes in the fall bring great excitement, amplified now by these outstanding numbers that indicate important growth.”

For the upcoming year, the college will see expansion in many programs, including Practical Nursing, Early Childhood Education, Culinary Arts, Automotive Technician and Construction Electrician, with even more on the horizon for 2024-25.

“The new and returning students who will walk the halls of Assiniboine in the coming weeks are both making great strides to contribute to their own futures as well as the economic future of the province. Assiniboine provides programming that aligns with Manitoba’s labour market needs and ensure students are set for success in these opportunities across the province,” said Mark Frison, President at Assiniboine.

“We continue to provide opportunities throughout Manitoba, with programs beginning at various times throughout the year across campuses and community sites. It’s important we continue to offer students flexibility in where and when they can embark on their post-secondary journey with us,” added Frison.

Community-based programs in partnership with organizations and communities—often First Nations—deliver education opportunities close to home for students. Upcoming programs include Mature Student High School in Sandy Bay, Gods Lake Narrows, O-Chi-Chak-ko-Sipi, Little Grand Rapids and Rolling River First Nations, Academic Preparation in Garden Hill and Nelson House First Nations, Education Assistant in Waywayseecappo First Nation, Early Childhood Education in Ebb and Flow First Nation and Micro-Trades Certificate training in Grand Rapids and Ebb and Flow First Nations.

While September sees a large influx of new and returning students at Assiniboine, a number of intakes for programs beginning in January and May 2024 are on the horizon and still have space, including Public Safety; Practical Nursing in Brandon, Winnipeg and Neepawa; Business Administration and Education Assistant.

The college is also poised to welcome learners from around the world this year, an important piece of the mission to support Manitoba’s economic and social development. International enrolment is expected to be up significantly from the previous year, with close to 700 students from as many as 30 countries.

“As we see a new flurry of activity across campuses in the coming weeks, we’re thrilled that many of these new students are joining us from around the globe. Manitoba and Assiniboine have a lot to offer international students, and we know that just as we hope to play a part in shaping their futures, they play a key role in shaping the future of Manitoba,” said Danielle Adriaansen, Vice President, Enrolment at Assiniboine.

“International students bring with them a wealth of perspectives and experiences that help to build global citizenship amongst all of our students, and add to the social and cultural fabric of our campuses.”

Student welcome events will get underway in the coming week across campuses, helping students as they move into college life. Hundreds will participate in activities, including campus tours, program orientations, and barbecues.