UOIT looks forward to another successful school year

OSHAWA, ON. - The University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) is preparing to welcome more than 5,500 students as it enters its sixth year with more of the growth and expansion that has marked its first five years.

This year kicks off with the launch of a number of innovative programs, including the university's first doctoral program, the establishment of a location in downtown Oshawa, Ontario and new apartment-style residences at its north Oshawa campus.

"We are extremely pleased with the enrolment numbers for the 2008-2009 academic year," said Dr. Ronald Bordessa, president of UOIT. "Our numbers continue to grow significantly year after year, reaffirming our reputation for offering innovative programs that place our students in great demand upon graduation."

To meet the needs of students and today's market-driven economy, UOIT has added a number of new programs this fall. The Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies are the newest degree programs being offered, while Life Sciences and Digital Media specializations are being introduced to the Bachelor of Science degree. To complement existing degree programs, students can now obtain either a Master of Applied Science or Master of Engineering in Nuclear Engineering and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering.

UOIT offers undergraduate and graduate programs through its faculties of Business and Information Technology; Criminology, Justice and Policy Studies; Education; Engineering and Applied Science; Health Sciences; and Science. These programs are taught by world-class professors who are well-respected academic and industry leaders. Collectively they speak more than 20 languages, hold degrees from more than 20 countries and help ensure students have opportunities to work on significant research projects so they can gain valuable hands-on experience.

"We are looking forward to another remarkable year at UOIT," added Dr. Bordessa. "This is an exciting time for the university as we continue to grow, expand and build on our national reputation as a higher-learning institution that is educating Canada's next-generation professionals."

The steady increase in enrolment has continued UOIT's substantial growth over the past six years. Due in part to this growth, the university is moving the Faculty of Education's Consecutive Education programs to the new downtown Oshawa location.

The new year will also welcome students to the recently built residence located on the west side of campus. The residence was designed to provide students in their upper years of study with apartment-style accommodations and provide them with the independence of living in an apartment, conveniently located on campus.

Since beginning classes in 2003, UOIT has built a national reputation for its commitment to research excellence and providing undergraduate and graduate students with extensive opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research work, turning innovative ideas into reality. That commitment has resulted in $18 million in research funding and grants for UOIT, including five prestigious Canada Research Chairs.

UOIT also offers many opportunities for students to enjoy an educational experience that balances life inside and outside the classroom. For example, students can choose from more than 60 student clubs or take advantage of a state-of-the-art Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre. The facility houses five gyms, including a 28,000-square-foot triple gymnasium, 10,000-sq.-ft. fitness centre and a health centre featuring a medical clinic and pharmacy, among its many user-friendly features.

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