Good news gets better for University of Ontario Institute of Technology

OSHAWA, Ont. - With application numbers growing, the good news keeps getting better for Canada's newest university.

High school applications to the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) have jumped 29.6 per cent over last year to 3,893, according to figures released today by the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) in Guelph. The number of applicants selecting UOIT as their first choice increased even more, rising by over 60 per cent. That tops preliminary numbers released last month, which indicated a 58 per cent increase.

Applications from outside Ontario's high school system have skyrocketed, increasing more than 175 per cent over last year to 490. First-choice, non-secondary applications rose an impressive 217 per cent. Students in the non-secondary category include mature students, those from high schools outside Ontario or other universities, and international students. The dramatic increase is all the more surprising considering that UOIT has not yet fully launched its recruiting campaign beyond Ontario.

"We're extremely gratified by the response of students to the university," said Richard Levin, the university's registrar and vice-president, strategic enrolment management. He attributes UOIT's exceptional growth to its high-quality, career-focused degree programs, the strength of its faculty in both teaching and research, and UOIT's distinction as Ontario's only laptop-based university. All 920 students currently enrolled at the university use leading-edge laptops to create presentations, conduct research, communicate with faculty, and access course materials. "Students are coming to UOIT," said Levin, "because they see how an excellent education will lead them to good jobs."

The university's location in an underserved area of the province has also boosted growth, he added - "although lots of our applications are coming from across the GTA." Word of mouth is also a powerful factor. "I think the news is spreading from current students to their friends about the great experience they're having here," said Levin. "People are watching an exceptional university evolving, and are beginning to see this as an excellent choice."

He encouraged prospective students who want to learn more about the university to contact faculty members and deans, and to visit the campus. People can sign up for tours on the university's Web site, www.uoit.ca. Individuals can also register to receive customized program information and updates through the future-students' portal, futureinmind@uoit, which is accessible via the UOIT Web site.

About the University of Ontario Institute of Technology

As Canada 's newest university, the Oshawa-based 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 in the fields of business and information technology, sciences, engineering, nursing, justice studies, and education. It is also developing leading-edge research and graduate programs. The university welcomed its first students in September 2003. 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
905.721.3111, ext. 2162