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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!

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.

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. 

 

IT students put their skills to work at DC’s IT Student Expo and Hack-a-Thon

At Durham College (DC), technology students put their classroom knowledge into practice through experiences that align learning with industry demands. The DC IT Student Expo and DC Hack-a-Thon are annual events that connect students with professionals, community partners, and real-world challenges, helping them build career-ready skills for the future of technology.

Together, the events showcase the range of expertise developed across DC’s IT programs, from programming and artificial intelligence to cybersecurity, cloud technologies, data, and systems.

Bringing classroom projects to an industry audience

At the DC IT Student Expo, students present their work in a professional exposition environment, challenging them to explain their ideas, answer questions, work with teammates, and communicate with audiences beyond the classroom. Projects showcase a range of technologies, including cloud and infrastructure solutions, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, programming, automation, and monitoring.

The event also features industry speakers and interdisciplinary collaboration. In spring 2026, design thinker, entrepreneur, and innovation leader Colin Dhillon delivered the keynote, while Event Planning students supported the planning and execution of the Expo.

Student achievements are also recognized through Best-in-Class awards by program and Best-in-Show overall, adding a friendly competitive element.

Building solutions in 24 hours

The DC Hack-a-Thon offers a different kind of challenge: a 24-hour build sprint where students work in teams to develop solutions to real-world problems.

Working within a limited timeframe, participants draw on their knowledge of programming, artificial intelligence, data, cybersecurity, and other areas of technology to develop and present their ideas. Industry and community partners add a real-world perspective, helping students understand how technology can be used to address practical challenges, while strengthening their problem-solving, collaboration and communication skills.

While the events offer different experiences, both give students opportunities to move beyond theory, solve problems, and simulate settings that reflect today’s technology industries, so they can enter the workforce career-ready and confident.

Support to help students succeed at Durham College

Starting college is a big step, and students can expect to take on new academic challenges along the way. At Durham College (DC), students have access to resources that can help them build their skills, manage their studies, and feel confident in their academic journey.

From learning strategies and tutoring to accessibility services and accommodated testing, the Student Academic Learning Services (SALS) and Access and Support Centre (ASC) offer resources to help students throughout their time at DC.

Build effective study habits
College brings new expectations for managing time, staying organized and preparing for tests and assignments.

SALS offers learning strategies support to help students with areas such as time management, organization, study strategies, test preparation and overcoming procrastination. Students can also access workshops, online resources and tools to help them plan their studies.

SALS ONLINE is also available through DC Connect, which includes resources on topics such as test preparation, time management, staying organized, overcoming test anxiety and effective studying.

“SALS is a welcoming space where students can access supports for their courses, strengthen their academic skills, or simply find a quiet place to study,” says Catherine Hayes, Manager, SALS. “We encourage students to connect with us early and often, taking advantage of the resources available before they feel overwhelmed.”

“Meeting with the Learning Specialist one-on-one was very helpful during my academic studies. I would prepare all my questions and topics of interest before my appointment and go through everything at a pace that worked for me,” says Nicole Gaul, Chemical Engineering Technology graduate. “It’s a fantastic resource whether you learn better one-on-one or in a small group setting where you can bounce ideas around.”

Get help with course material
Students don’t have to navigate challenging course material on their own. SALS offers support in areas including math, physics, biology, science, accounting, business, academic writing and language. Students can also access peer tutoring and other academic support to help them better understand course content and prepare for tests.

Access supports that meet individual needs
For students registered with the ASC, the centre works with them to recommend and coordinate supports and accommodations based on their individual learning needs and supporting documentation. Supports can include accommodated testing, peer notetaking, peer coaching and assistive technology.

Students who require accommodated testing can write tests in class or at one of DC’s Oshawa or Whitby Test Centres. The Test Centre provides a secure testing environment for students whose needs cannot be fully met in the classroom.

Support throughout the student experience
College is about more than attending classes. It is also about developing the skills, confidence and independence needed to succeed in a program and prepare for a career.

Whether students need help building effective study habits, understanding course material, preparing for a test or accessing accommodations, SALS and ASC are among the services available to support them at DC.

Knowing that these resources are available can be an important part of choosing a college. At DC, students have access to people and services that can help them navigate academic challenges and make the most of their college experience.

Students grow, cook and host DC’s Harvest Dinner under the stars

As the seasons change and fall arrives, Durham College (DC) celebrates the harvest with a tradition that brings together food, learning, sustainability, and community.

On September 24, guests gathered under the stars at the Whitby campus for DC’s annual Harvest Dinner, an outdoor dining experience prepared and hosted by students and employees from across the college.

The evening showcased DC’s field-to-fork-to-field philosophy in action. Horticulture Technician and Food and Farming students helped grow and harvest ingredients from the fields at the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food, while students from Culinary Skills and Hospitality Skills programs worked with guidance from faculty to prepare and serve the meal.

From growing food in the fields to preparing it in the kitchen and welcoming guests at the table, students played a role in every stage of the evening. The event gave them an opportunity to apply their skills in a real-world setting, work alongside faculty and industry professionals, and experience what their future careers could look like.

“The Harvest Dinner brings our fields, kitchens and classrooms together in one memorable night,” said DC President Dr. Elaine Popp. “Our students grow the food, prepare the meal and welcome the guests, building skills that lead to rewarding careers in food, farming and hospitality. It’s a proud reminder of what happens when learning is connected to community and to the land.”

The Harvest Dinner also reflects DC’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The field-to-fork-to-field approach connects growing and preparing food with the return of nutrients to the soil, giving students an opportunity to explore sustainable practices and the importance of caring for the land.

The evening was made possible through the generous contributions of our event sponsors: Feast On, Gervais Party & Tent Rentals, Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery, Leaf, The Rustic Board and Selbie’s Select Produce Ltd. Their support helps create opportunities for students to put their learning into practice while connecting DC with industry and local partners.

For the students behind the Harvest Dinner, the night was about more than demonstrating their skills. They worked as a team, took on responsibility and saw their learning bear fruit around the dinner table.

Centre for Success students celebrate at annual Completion Ceremony

Every student’s path to success looks different. For more than 230 students at Durham College (DC), that path included finding support, building confidence, and discovering new possibilities through the Centre for Success program.

Last month, the students were recognized at a special completion ceremony at the Tribute Communities Centre, and were joined by family, friends, educators, and community partners to celebrate their achievements.

The Centre for Success program offers students an alternative pathway to success through smaller class sizes, individualized support, and learning within a college environment. They can also earn high school and post-secondary credits while exploring future education and career options.

“This program gave many of us something that we needed: a second chance, a fresh start, and people who believed in us before we could believe in ourselves,” said one student, Emily Krolicki. “The teachers and staff here did more than help us graduate; they reminded us that our mistakes do not decide our future. No matter how far behind you may feel, it is never too late to change your path.”

The program is a longstanding partnership between DC and local school boards, including the Durham District School Board, Durham Catholic District School Board, and Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board.

“The Centre for Success is built on the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. Our students come to us with unique experiences and challenges, and it is incredibly rewarding to see them discover their strengths, build confidence, and realize their potential,” said Meagan Quesnelle, Director, Dual Credits and Academic Upgrading at DC.

That sentiment was echoed by Victoria Kee, Manager, Dual Credits and Academic Upgrading, who proudly watched this year’s students receive their well-earned recognition.

“Success is not always a straight path,” she said. “With the right support, encouragement, and opportunities, students can achieve remarkable things.”