Increased funding, announced today by the Government of Alberta, will enable the University of Lethbridge to increase its enrolment in targeted areas over the next four years.

New funding will allow the U of L to expand access to its high demand Bachelor of Education program and position the University to begin delivering new Bachelor of Health Sciences (Aboriginal Health) and Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation programs. The U of L is also receiving funding to increase transfer pathways for students.

The University will receive $1,548,248 in new funding for the 2014/15 budget year from Innovation and Advanced Education. The new investment will create 184 new seats for students in areas of recognized need within the province.

University of Lethbridge Provost and Vice-President (Academic), Dr. Andy Hakin, says the U of L welcomes and appreciates this investment, which will create more opportunities for students.

“This additional funding will allow the University of Lethbridge to expand existing programs and introduce new programs in areas of high demand,” says Hakin. “New graduates from these programs will play important roles in improving the quality of life for Albertans, Canadians and beyond.”

Over the next four years, the U of L’s Bachelor of Education program will accept two additional cohorts - each of 30 students. Once approved, the Bachelor of Health Sciences (Aboriginal Health) program is expected to provide 44 places, while the Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation will accept 40 students. Forty spaces are reserved for university transfer pathways.

More details can be found in the Government of Alberta’s news release, which can be found here.