Faculty and students launch UOIT's innovative and research-intensive graduate studies programs

OSHAWA, Ont. - Faculty, administration and students at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) officially launched the university's innovative and research-intensive Graduate Studies programs at an event and trade show on campus today, showcasing the exceptional programs currently available and plans to position UOIT as a leader in graduate education delivery.

Students currently enrolled in UOIT graduate studies, along with faculty, were on hand for the event, which also featured student research work. Dr. Brian Campbell, dean of Graduate Studies at UOIT, laid out details of UOIT's plans for future growth and how the university will play a significant role in dealing with the graduate enrolment space crunch expected in the years ahead.

"All indications are that in the years ahead, there will be greater demand than ever before from students for opportunities to pursue graduate programs in areas that are critical to helping Canada take its place as a global leader," said Dr. Campbell. "UOIT will play a significant role in meeting the impending enrolment demands through its ongoing development of quality graduate programs. We've arrived, and will continue to grow our reputation in the years ahead and establish ourselves as leaders in graduate programming."

Campbell announced that UOIT has set a seven-year goal of achieving an overall enrolment that is made up of 15 per cent of students in graduate studies, as well as ensuring all of UOIT's faculties and programs are focused on providing students with pathways to graduate studies.

Presently, there are almost 100 students enrolled in graduate studies at UOIT, which offers master's degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Modelling and Computational Science, Applied Bioscience, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering and Information Technology Security, the latter of which is the first program of its kind in Canada. A seventh master's degree, in Automotive Engineering, is set to begin in January and two more programs are in the final approval stages, with additional opportunities continually being developed to meet the needs of graduate students and today's knowledge-based economy.

"Today's event is an important step forward, not only for UOIT, but for prospective graduate students here on our Oshawa campus already and indeed across the country," said Dr. Ronald Bordessa, president of UOIT. "Our burgeoning programs send an important message that UOIT is committed to making graduate studies a critical part of the very fabric that defines us as an institution and will make UOIT a destination of choice for students who are looking for innovative programs that are unique in Ontario and Canada, putting them one step ahead upon graduation."

UOIT has established a national reputation for its high-tech learning environment - including receiving an 'A plus' in the Globe and Mail's annual university report card for the quality of its technology - and has extended that record of high-tech excellence with its graduate programs. UOIT and Trent University in Peterborough are collaborating on the Master of Science in Materials Science program by using AccessGrid's groundbreaking technology to bring students physically located at two different campuses into the same virtual classroom for highly specialized graduate courses delivered by professors at either site.

UOIT was recently approved as a member of the Canadian Association of Graduate Studies (CAGS), whose mandate is to promote graduate education and research within Canada. CAGS also provides information to research-granting agencies, civil servants and members of Parliament on the purpose and needs of graduate education.

About UOIT
As an innovative university, UOIT delivers a leading-edge learning environment that uniquely combines academic knowledge, research opportunities, hands-on skills and a vibrant student life. UOIT's 5,000 students are taught by professors who are experts in their fields from around the world. As Ontario's first laptop-based university, the university offers a diverse array of challenging undergraduate and graduate degree programs through its faculties of Business and Information Technology; Criminology, Justice and Policy Studies; Education; Engineering and Applied Science; Health Sciences; and Science, and its School of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science. UOIT's commitment to research excellence has resulted in millions of dollars in grants and awards, including five Canada Research Chairs. To find out more, visit www.uoit.ca or call 905.721.8668.

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
Michelle Good
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.8668 ext. 2197
michelle.good@uoit.ca