Conestoga news

February 20, 2014 1:10 PM

Conestoga to provide additional programming in Brantford

Conestoga College will work in collaboration with Wilfrid Laurier University and the City of Brantford to expand college-level programming to address the community’s need for additional post-secondary education options.

The college first introduced a two-year business diploma program and a one-year graduate certificate in Human Resources Management in Fall 2012, with programs in Health Office Administration and Medical Office Practices added for 2013-2014.

Additional one and two-year programs in the areas of business, health, media and design are scheduled to begin in 2014-2015.

According to John Tibbits, president of Conestoga, the continued development and expansion of program offerings in Brantford will address identified community needs and provide students with additional pathways to academic qualification.

“We have received a very warm welcome in the Brantford community, and look forward to the continued development of programs and services to meet local needs,” said Tibbits. “Our strong partnership with Laurier presents unique opportunities for integrated programming that ensures the efficient delivery of post-secondary education while improving access for students.”

Conestoga and Laurier are currently engaged in a research study that will include consultation with a wide range of stakeholders across the Brantford community. The study, to be completed later this year, will explore options for joint and integrated college-university programming and help determine strategic directions for local program growth.

"Expanding our partnership with Conestoga College is a strategic opportunity for both institutions to continue to provide quality post-secondary education in downtown Brantford," said Max Blouw, president and vice-chancellor of Wilfrid Laurier University. "Working together to identify additional joint programming possibilities will increase pathways for students between college and university and highlight the transformational impact education is having on the community."

Since arriving in Brantford, Conestoga has supported the local community through participation in numerous civic initiatives, including the Brantford/Brant Chamber of Commerce, the Smart Cities Initiative, the Downtown Action Committee, the Workforce Planning Board and the Brant Human Resources Network.

Consistently ranked among the very best of Ontario’s colleges for graduate employment and satisfaction, Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning provides a comprehensive range of education and training programs to meet the needs of post-secondary and adult learners. The college provides local and regional access to approximately 11,000 full-time students each year through campuses and training centres in Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Stratford, Ingersoll and Brantford.

For more information about Conestoga programs available in Brantford, visit www.conestogac.on.ca

For media inquiries, contact Brenda Cassidy, 519-748-5220 ext 3336, bcassidy@conestogac.on.ca