Canada's newest university on track for strong enrolment growth

OSHAWA, Ont. - High school students continue to show strong interest in Canada's newest university. The total number of secondary-school applications to the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) for next fall has jumped more than 28 per cent over last year, to 3,796, according to the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) in Guelph. The number of students listing UOIT as their first choice has increased even more, rising almost 58 per cent.

"The legislation that created the university in June 2002 commits us to the success of each individual student - and we take that trust very seriously," said Dr. Gary Polonsky, president and vice-chancellor of the university. "The word is catching on."
UOIT's impressive 98.5-per-cent student retention rate going into just its second semester points to its commitment to student success.

The university's growth remains strong, even though most members of last year's double-cohort, high-school graduating class have entered the system, noted Dr. Polonsky.

He credits UOIT's highly accomplished faculty, its innovative, career-focused programs in high-demand fields of employment, and the construction of new facilities on a student-centred campus. All first-year students are guaranteed a residence space.
OUAC is still reviewing applications, so the current figures remain preliminary. Final application numbers are expected in February.

The University of Ontario Institute of Technology currently offers undergraduate degree programs in the fields of business and information technology, sciences, engineering, nursing, justice studies, and education. As Ontario's only laptop-based university, all 933 students currently enrolled use leading-edge laptops to create presentations, conduct research, communicate with faculty, and access course materials.

About the University of Ontario Institute of Technology

As Canada 's newest university, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology provides a unique combination of academic knowledge, vibrant student life, leading-edge research and hands-on skills. The university offers career-focused degree undergraduate programs and is developing leading-edge research and graduate programs. Sharing selected services with Durham College, the university welcomed its first students last September. To find out more, visit www.uoit.ca, or call 1.866.844.8648.

About Ontario Tech University
A modern, forwarding-thinking university, Ontario Tech advances the discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and equip our students and our graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world. For us, it’s not only about developing the next tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and ethical implications of technology differentiates us as university. Learn more at ontariotechu.ca.

Media contact
John Schofield
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.3111, ext. 2162
john.schofield@uoit.ca