Collaborative program at Durham College and UOIT receives first step towards national accreditation
November 26, 2004
There are two stages to the process: candidacy and full accreditation. In order achieve candidacy, every detail of the program must undergo a rigorous review process. Full accreditation cannot be achieved until the first class has graduated, and all Ontario nursing schools must be accredited in order for students to write Registered Nursing exams.
"We've passed candidacy, which is a big milestone for a brand new school," said Carolyn Byrne, dean of Health Sciences at UOIT.
The review team noted this program is truly collaborative, providing a unique college and university partnership that could serve as a model for other programs. They indicated that students appreciate the personalized attention and that the program has a governance structure that encourages both student and faculty involvement.
"I feel very fortunate to work with faculty who are committed to student success, innovation in teaching and learning and to cultivating strong partnerships with providers of health care in the Durham Region," said Judy Robinson, dean of the School of Health and Human Studies at Durham College. "The strength of the curriculum is reflected in the ability of the nursing students to balance the biological sciences with the humanistic paradigm of caring to address the needs of clients in a more comprehensive way."
Faculty was commended for their focus on developing a research capacity in such a new school and for their strong community partnerships.
"The reviewers commented on the outstanding connection to, and support from, the health care industries," said Byrne. "The support from our community members has allowed for a unique collaboration between the college and university - a strength that makes it one of a kind in Ontario."
The faculty was also applauded for its strong interdisciplinary focus combining biomedical course work with courses from the caring curriculum.
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About the University of Ontario Institute of Technology
As the province'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 undergraduate degree programs in the fields of business and information technology, sciences, engineering, nursing, social science, and education. It is also developing leading-edge research and graduate programs, and is Ontario's first laptop-based university. Sharing facilities and selected services with Durham College, UOIT has over 1,800 students following 12 months of operation. 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
Tania Henvey
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.3111 ext. 2513
tania.henvey@dc-uoit.ca
