Info for
Quick links
Download our Mobile app
Icon for Apple. App Store Icon for Android. Google Play

Social Impact Hub receives CCSIF grant to advance community innovation

Durham College’s (DC) Social Impact Hub is partnering with the Community Development Council Durham (CDCD) to launch a new applied research project designed to help community organizations across Durham Region address complex social challenges such as housing affordability, food insecurity, social isolation, and hate.

The three-year project, funded by a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) College and Community Social Innovation Fund (CCSIF) grant, aims to build a more inclusive and sustainable approach to social innovation in Durham Region and beyond. Its goal is to support more coordinated, connected responses that make services and resources more accessible to the people who need them.

The project, titled The Future of Belonging – Reassembling Social Infrastructure for Inclusive Innovation in Durham Region, uses a model known as Future of Belonging (FoB), which was developed by Georgian College who will serve as a strategic advisor. The research will help the community organizations understand how relationships, institutions, resources, and lived experiences shape belonging and access to support.

DC will contribute applied research capacity and student learning opportunities.

“DC students will play an active role as paid research assistants and placement students reflecting DC’s commitment to experiential learning and applied research that prepares students to contribute meaningfully to their communities and future careers,” said Colleen McKay, Manager, Grants and Special Projects at the Social Impact Hub. “They will gain hands-on experience in community-based research, participatory design, systems mapping and equity-informed practice while contributing to research that addresses real-world community challenges.”

CDCD will help ground the work in local social planning priorities, community relationships and service-provider needs.

“Social Innovation is an exciting and growing space in colleges and supports more inclusive innovation for everyone,” said Nicole Norris, Director, Social Innovation at Georgian College. “We are really excited to be a strategic advisor and work alongside Durham College, continuing to adapt our Future of Belonging framework through this collaboration.”

Together, the partnership will examine how community decisions are made, whose knowledge informs those decisions and how organizations can align their efforts around shared priorities. Through Community Innovation Labs, residents and students will define shared challenges, co-design ideas and test approaches together.

“Belonging isn’t built by any one organization,” added McKay. “By bringing community members, students, and partners together to map where power and resources sit, we can help Durham Region build the kind of connected social infrastructure that makes it easier for people to find the support they need.”

Make a lasting impact through Early Childhood Education

As Canada works to expand access to childcare and address a growing need for qualified early childhood educators (ECEs), Durham College (DC) is helping to meet the demand by preparing the next generation of professionals for this rewarding career.

In August, the federal government announced an investment to support the recruitment and retention of early childhood educators across Canada, reinforcing the importance of building a strong workforce to support a high-quality Canada-wide early learning and child care system.

With demand for qualified educators growing, DC’s Early Childhood Education program offers a direct pathway into the field for those interested in helping young children learn, develop and reach their full potential.

“It’s extremely rewarding when you have a love for seeing the growth and the learning in young children, and you can see it in front of your eyes,” said DC faculty member Lyndal McDonnell. “They’re building and growing, and really, you’re building and growing right alongside them.”

Each year, DC offers three intakes to the popular program, which combines classroom learning with multiple field placements that expose students to a range of different settings and age groups.

Upon graduation, they’re ready to combine theory with the practical skills they’ve learned while building relationships with children and educators in the community. In fact, many graduates secure their first job even before crossing the stage at Convocation, according to McDonnell.

“Many of our graduates get jobs coming right out of the program,” she said, noting that some find work in childcare and early learning centres, while others pursue jobs in kindergarten classrooms and community-based services.

It’s a job that requires a particular set of skills, as well as a certain temperament.

“You definitely need to have patience, and you need to have an open mind. If you’re doing an activity, a child might come along and want to do it some other way, and you’ve got to be open to allowing them to do that because we all have different learning styles,” explained McDonnell.

Luckily, the program’s emphasis on hands-on learning ensures that graduates will have lots of experience working with real children, including a seven-week field placement in the final semester.

DC students also benefit from the expertise of experienced faculty like McDonnell, who worked with children for 25 years before arriving at DC. For her, one of the keys to becoming a successful ECE is putting yourself on the children’s level.

“I always tell students not to think of themselves as a teacher, but as play partners. That gets them down on the ground, building with those blocks, sitting there and painting with the children, and helping extend their learning and their knowledge,” she said.

Are you ready for a career that can make a difference in the lives of children for years to come? Apply now!

Don’t miss out on the winter semester at Durham College: Apply now!

January is the perfect time to make Durham College (DC) your Best. Decision. Ever.

DC’s winter semester begins on Monday, January 11, 2027, and you can start your new year on a path to career success in one of our market-driven programs.

With so many students launching their post-secondary journeys in September each year – including a record-setting number this fall – the winter semester can have a slower pace according to Rachel Beerman, Student Recruitment Marketing Specialist.

“What’s great about the winter intake is that you’re coming on campus at a quieter time. It’s a great way to ease into school a little more,” she explained.

Students who begin their studies in the winter semester can also complete their program in less time, if the semesters are offered consecutively. Students in a two-year program, for example, would study through the winter, spring and fall semesters of 2027 and finish their studies in winter 2028, just in time to graduate in June.

Upcoming opportunities to connect with us

If you’re planning your future at DC, there are some upcoming events you won’t want to miss. DC’s Fall Open House on Saturday, November 7 is a terrific opportunity for anyone interested in beginning their studies in January. Representatives of all of our academic faculties will be on hand to discuss the programs that interest you. Guests can also enjoy campus tours and learn about the full range of supportive student services DC provides.

January-start students are also welcome to attend our Mature Student Event on Tuesday, December 1. With many of the same features as Open House, this smaller event is designed specifically for those who are considering returning to school, upgrading their education, or pursuing a new career.

If you can’t make it to campus, don’t worry. On Tuesday, December 8, DC’s student recruitment team will host the ‘Apply for January’ webinar. With two sessions available (11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 5 to 6 p.m.), you’ll be able to log in and get the information you need to apply with confidence.

There’s still time to be a part of the winter semester at DC, but programs are filling up fast. Come visit us on campus or apply online today!

MRC Studio becomes DC’s second Technology Access Centre with new grant

The Mixed Reality Capture (MRC) Studio at Durham College (DC) has been recognized as a national leader in extended reality (XR) innovation, receiving a $1.75-million Technology Access Centre (TAC) grant from the federal College and Community Innovation (CCI) program.

The funding will provide $350,000 annually over the next five years supporting their work with industry partners to develop immersive XR solutions that are transforming training, simulation, and workforce development across multiple sectors.

While XR technologies have traditionally been associated with gaming and entertainment, their applications are expanding into fields such as advanced manufacturing, energy, defence and hazardous workplace simulation. Through the MRC Studio, DC researchers are helping organizations leverage these technologies to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences that improve training outcomes and operational readiness.

“This recognition amplifies our reputation as a centre of excellence and shows potential clients that our teams are at the leading edge of the very advanced technologies that they’re working with,” said Debbie McKee Demczyk, Associate Vice President, Innovation and Research.

Jason Hunter, Senior Manager of the MRC Studio, noted they have already been working with industry partners to transform traditional learning materials into immersive, hands-on XR experiences that improve engagement and practical training outcomes.

“We are seeing broader adoption of the technology, and have adapted our services and expanded our efforts to help organizations leverage its potential,” he said. “We’re getting really good traction from our partners who are finding new ways for XR to engage their clients in training.”

The new grant is a perfect complement to the $1.886 million funding the MRC Studio received earlier this year from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) – College Fund and the Ontario Research Fund (ORF) for the building of a state-of-the-art immersive research stage.

“That grant equips us well from an infrastructure point of view. We have the equipment and the expertise, and now through Tech Access Canada we can maintain that expertise and start to deliver long-term projects with partners,” explained Hunter.

With this funding, the talented professionals at the MRC Studio will continue to develop their skills as they contribute to the business community, while offering terrific experiential learning opportunities for DC students to work with emerging technologies and contribute to research projects.

This is DC’s second TAC designation — The AI Hub also received TAC funding in 2023.

Learn more about the MRC Studio and Durham College’s applied research initiatives.

WattNext Nuclear Career Expo connects future workers with opportunities in Ontario’s energy sector

More than 1,500 students, families, job seekers, and education professionals visited Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) WattNext Nuclear Career Expo at Durham College’s (DC) Oshawa Campus to explore career opportunities in Ontario’s growing energy sector.

With Ontario’s electricity demand projected to increase by 65 per cent by 2050, according to the Independent Electricity System Operator, the event offered an opportunity to learn more about careers in skilled trades, engineering, technology, and operations, along with the education and training pathways into these fields.

“Ontario’s energy future depends on a highly skilled, adaptable workforce, and post-secondary education has a vital role to play in making that future possible,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “Durham College is committed to anticipating industry needs and delivering future-focused education that prepares people for the opportunities ahead.”

Jointly hosted by DC, OPG, and Ontario Tech University, the expo featured interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and conversations with industry experts, giving guests a closer look at nuclear energy and the range of careers that support the sector.

For DC Power Engineering Techniques – Fourth Class student Peter Sasso, the event offered a chance to see how concepts from his program apply across the nuclear industry and explore potential career paths.

“I wanted to see all the different employers and places I might work in the future. That’s the main reason I came out,” said Sasso. “It’s a lot of stuff I’ve learned about in the program. We’ve covered a lot of the technology in our program already.”

DC’s Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship was also on hand to showcase its programs and discuss the skills needed in the sector.

“Today’s skilled trades learners are preparing to work with increasingly sophisticated technologies and help meet the demands of essential industries,” said Tania Clérac, Executive Dean, Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship at DC. “Making early connections with employers allows students to recognize real-world career possibilities and see how their training can directly translate into meaningful work that contributes to the energy systems communities rely on.”

Through hands-on learning and partnerships with industry, DC helps prepare students for evolving workforce needs and emerging career opportunities, including those shaping Ontario’s energy future.

Sport Management student wins $5,000 Durham College tuition credit

Hunter Bennett was excited to learn he’d won a $5,000 tuition credit from Durham College (DC), but the first-year Sport Management student was already feeling good about his decision to attend the college.

Bennett entered the annual contest when he attended DC’s Fall Open House in 2025. After exploring several post-secondary options, he narrowed his choices to two programs at DC before deciding that Sport Management was the right fit.

“I looked at a few different schools, but ultimately, DC had two programs that interested me. I decided on Sport Management because I’m hoping to pursue a career in sports marketing after I graduate,” says Bennett.

Now in his first year, Bennett is enjoying college life and working toward a future in the sports industry. A Blue Jays fan, he hopes to turn his passion for sports into a career in sports marketing. The $5,000 tuition credit is an added bonus as he begins working toward that goal.

The annual contest is open to DC applicants who attend eligible events, including Open House and Program Info Nights, or sign up to receive email communications about DC’s programs and events.

“Open House gives prospective students a chance to start picturing their future at DC. Hunter explored his options and chose a program that supports his goal of building a career in sports marketing. We’re proud to have him at DC and look forward to seeing where his studies take him,” says Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College.

Interested in exploring your options at DC? Attend an upcoming event to learn more about programs, campus life and the supports available to help you succeed.

Record number of domestic students choose Durham College this fall

This fall, Durham College (DC) welcomed a record number of domestic students to our Oshawa and Whitby campuses to pursue full-time, career-driven programs.

Of the 10,321 domestic students, 5,696 were first year students, ready to transform their lives.

“Every one of these students had options for where to build their future, and they chose Durham College,” says Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “They want programs that lead to rewarding careers, faculty who bring industry knowledge into the classroom, and a campus community where they belong. Our employees deliver that every day, and our graduates carry it into workplaces across Durham Region and beyond.”

DC’s career-focused programs connect learners with employers and prepare graduates for in-demand jobs close to home.

“If you’re thinking about college, there’s a place for you here,” says Popp. “Visit our campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, talk with our faculty and students, and find out where a DC credential could take you. We’re proud to welcome so many new and returning learners this fall.”

Ready to take the next step? Explore all of DC’s programs, discover where a college credential could take you and make the – Best. Decision. Ever.

New credit transfer process helps students know their options sooner

Thinking about applying to Durham College and already completed courses at another college or university? Starting with the Winter 2027 intake, Durham College (DC) will give eligible applicants an earlier look at how their previous post-secondary education could apply to their DC program.

The new credit transfer pre-assessment process will identify potential transfer credits before students accept their offer of admission and pay their tuition deposit. This means students will have more information about their potential transfer credits when making decisions about their next steps.

“This change gives students more information at an important point in the decision-making process,” says Thom MacDonald, Associate Vice President, Enrolment and Registrar. “By understanding which of their previous courses may transfer before accepting their offer, students can make a more informed choice about their next step and have a clearer plan for starting their program.”

Transfer Services will review eligible post-secondary transcripts received through the Ontario Colleges Application Service (OCAS) and look for courses with an established DC transfer credit equivalency.

When an equivalency exists, eligible applicants may receive an unofficial pre-assessment outlining courses that could qualify for transfer credit. The pre-assessment may also identify courses students have already completed, helping them avoid taking equivalent courses again.

DC is also eliminating the Credit Transfer application fee for students beginning their programs in Winter 2027 and beyond. There will no longer be a fee, whether potential transfer credits are identified through the new pre-assessment or submitted for individual review through the standard process.

Courses without an established DC transfer credit equivalency will continue to require an individual review by Transfer Services and will also be exempt from the application fee.

The pre-assessment is based on existing DC transfer credit equivalencies and does not guarantee that transfer credit will be awarded. A final review takes place after a student accepts their offer of admission and pays their non-refundable tuition deposit. Approved transfer credits are then added to the student’s academic record.

For more information about credit transfers, including eligibility and the assessment process, visit the DC Transfer Services webpage.

Strong showing for host Durham Lords at Softball National Championship

Over the Thanksgiving weekend, Durham College (DC) proudly played host to the 2026 Canadian Collegiate Softball Association (CCSA) National Championship.

The best collegiate women’s softball players in Canada travelled to our Oshawa campus, where they spent three days battling for national supremacy. Competition was fierce, with 14 of 19 games being decided by three runs or less.

Our Lords opened the tournament with a 2-0 shutout victory over Laurier and a 3-1 win over Calgary before dropping their final round-robin matchup 6-2 to Humber.

They bested Western 5-2 in the quarterfinal round, punching their ticket to the semifinals. There, they lost a tight 3-0 game to the eventual gold medalists, St. Clair, sending them to the bronze medal game where they fell 3-1 to Laurier, finishing in fourth place.

“Making it to the final day and competing for a medal was a good showing for our team,” said Scott Dennis, Athletic Director.

Chelsea Oke was named to the championship all-star team thanks to her standout efforts both on the mound and at the plate.

“She had a phenomenal pitching performance in the first game, and she had a big home run in the quarterfinals against Western. It was a great weekend for her,” said Dennis of the two-sport athlete who also competes on DC’s women’s volleyball team.

Now in her fourth season with the Lords, the veteran Oke was thrilled to take on the best teams in Canada right here at home.

“It was an incredible opportunity to compete at the highest level in front of my family and friends! Being able to celebrate both the wins and the losses with them made the experience that much more special,” she said. “The event exceeded all my expectations, and as a player, it was so much fun to be a part of.”

DC always excels as a host, and this event was no different, from the opening banquet at the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food to the game action at both Babcock Field and Vaso’s Field, which was temporarily reconfigured for softball.

“We got a ton of feedback that it was a phenomenal event,” said Dennis. “We try to go above and beyond, and we wanted to make sure it felt like a national championship. From the fan support to the community getting involved, it was a big success.”

The Lords also finished fourth at nationals in Calgary last year, after winning their first CCSA championship in 2024. They remain the most decorated team in Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) history with 22 provincial championships. They’ll have a chance to add to that tally later this month at this year’s tournament in Windsor.

Open doors to new career opportunities with a diploma-to-degree pathway

For students looking to earn both a college diploma and a bachelor’s degree, Durham College (DC) offers a number of pathways that can make it possible to earn two credentials in as little as four years.

These degree-completion pathways allow eligible diploma graduates to draw on the knowledge and experience they have already gained, while completing a degree in less time. Along the way, students can earn a second credential, develop specialized knowledge, save money, and expand their career options.

Graduates of an Ontario college Social Service Worker program can take their education further by pursuing the Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health degree at DC. The two-year pathway builds on their Social Service Worker diploma, preparing graduates to take on broader roles supporting people experiencing mental health and substance use challenges. Career opportunities span community-based services, crisis support, housing, addictions, youth services and mental health promotion, allowing graduates to work directly with individuals and communities or support programs designed to improve their well-being.

Students with a background in human resources can take a similar step forward through the Bachelor of Business Administration – Human Resources Management transfer pathway. Designed for graduates of a two-year Human Resources – Business diploma, the pathway provides transfer credit for 16 courses, allowing eligible students to begin in Semester 3 and complete the degree in three semesters plus a 14-week, 420-hour field placement. With the added business and strategic perspective of a degree, graduates can move into roles that influence how organizations attract, develop and retain their people, including roles in human resources, recruitment, employee relations, talent acquisition and people analytics.

Graduates of an Ontario college advanced diploma in Architectural Technology or Civil Engineering Technology can receive credit for the first four semesters of the Honours Bachelor of Construction Management and enter at Semester 5. For graduates who want to move from a technical role into the business and leadership side of construction, the degree provides a pathway toward managing people, budgets, schedules and projects. Career opportunities can include project management, construction management, estimating, contract administration, scheduling and site supervision, with graduates positioned to play a larger role in bringing complex projects from planning to completion.

While each pathway is different, they all recognize the value of the education students have already completed. A diploma can serve as a foundation for further study, helping students build on their existing skills and move toward new career possibilities without starting over.

If you’re considering what comes next after a college diploma, explore your degree pathway options at DC and attend one of our upcoming recruitment events.