Open doors to new career opportunities with a diploma-to-degree pathway Posted on October 13, 2026 at 1:11 pm. 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 speak with one of our faculty members at DC’s Fall Open House on November 7. Support to help students succeed at Durham College Posted on October 8, 2026 at 10:43 am. 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. Durham College, City of Oshawa partnership puts student ideas into action Posted on October 1, 2026 at 9:59 am. What could a future transit corridor look like in downtown Oshawa? How could mixed reality help firefighters prepare for leadership roles? And what stories can public art tell along one of the city’s bike trails? These are some of the questions Durham College (DC) students have explored through the college’s partnership with the City of Oshawa’s TeachingCity initiative. Across a range of programs, DC students and faculty are working with City staff to bring new ideas, skills and perspectives to projects that benefit the community. For students in DC’s Architectural Technology program, the challenge was to reimagine several properties along Oshawa’s designated future transit corridor. Working with the City’s Planning Services branch, students researched development policies and regulations, considered market demand and costs, and developed proposals focused on affordable housing, sustainability, pedestrian experience, and transit. They presented their work to City staff at an open house at City Hall, gaining insight into the many considerations involved in planning and developing land. “The TeachingCity partnership exemplifies DC’s commitment to high-impact experiential learning,” says Anna De Grauwe, Director, Experiential Learning, Research, Innovation and Training Services (RITS). “By working alongside City of Oshawa staff on projects that have a direct impact on the community, our students gain professional experience while contributing creativity, innovation, and fresh perspectives to challenges facing Oshawa. These projects show how collaboration between education and community partners can create meaningful benefits for everyone involved.” The partnership is also bringing emerging technology to a challenge faced by Oshawa Fire Services. Through DC’s Mixed Reality Capture Studio, three Game – Art graduates will be hired to help develop a mixed reality training and assessment application. The application will simulate the assessment of a building during a fire call. Candidates preparing for firefighter leadership roles will practise identifying hazards and determining appropriate response strategies in a controlled environment. In Oshawa’s public spaces, Fine Arts – Advanced students have contributed artwork to wayfinding signage along the Joseph Kolodzie Bike Trail. Six student works were selected and installed, with themes exploring active transportation, environmental sustainability, wildlife, and the relationship between urban and natural spaces. DC students have also helped visitors experience the new Ed Broadbent Waterfront Park. Their curriculum-based project contributed to the park’s digital wayfinding experience, which includes information about the park’s history, ecology, amenities, and gardens, along with 360-degree viewing and an auditory tour guide. For some 9-1-1 Emergency and Call Centre Communications students, the partnership provides a pathway into the field. DC students participating in Oshawa Fire Services’ Fire 911 Communications placements gain exposure to emergency telecommunications and the work of communications professionals. Nikki Bradshaw was among the first DC students to participate and later successfully applied for a position with the department. She is now training as part of Oshawa’s Fire Communications team. Together, these projects show how the TeachingCity partnership connects DC with the community to address local challenges, advance experiential learning and help shape Oshawa’s future. Durham College partners on Memory Forest project at Whitby Campus Posted on September 22, 2026 at 3:34 pm. Durham College (DC), Trees for Life, and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario are working together on a Memory Forest project at DC’s Whitby campus, with support from the Barrett Family Foundation. A ceremony was held at the site on September 16 to mark the start of project with the planting of a single tree. Over the coming months, a section of the Whitby campus grounds will be developed as an accessible green space for people living with dementia, their caregivers, and other community members. Plans for the space include native tree planting, accessible pathways, high-contrast wayfinding, tactile features, sensory plantings, and gathering areas. Trees for Life is contributing knowledge of native tree planting and urban greening as the site is developed, while the Alzheimer Society of Ontario is providing expertise related to dementia inclusion. The Memory Forest will also involve DC learners in the care and development of the site. DC will lead the design of nature-based programming, while learners can contribute to stewardship activities and gain hands-on experience. “The Memory Forest is a great example of how partnerships can create opportunities for DC and the broader community,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “We’re pleased to be working with Trees for Life and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario on this project and to provide a space that is welcoming to people living with dementia and their caregivers.” Development of the Memory Forest is expected to continue into 2027 as DC and its community partners work to establish the new space at the Whitby campus. Start the school year strong! Posted on September 9, 2026 at 8:55 am. Are you a new student? Our Getting Started at DC content collection has everything you need to make your transition smooth and successful. Durham College students support PARA Marine Search and Rescue through experiential learning partnership Posted on June 24, 2026 at 3:42 pm. Durham College (DC) students are applying their skills through a new partnership with PARA Marine Search and Rescue, a local organization dedicated to saving lives on Lake Ontario. PARA Marine Search and Rescue is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization operating across Durham Region’s waterfront. Working alongside agencies including the Canadian Coast Guard and local police services, the organization provides critical search and rescue services throughout Lake Ontario and surrounding waterways. Through a series of work-integrated learning projects, students from the Photography, Video Production, and Event Planning programs are contributing their expertise to help strengthen PARA Marine’s community awareness and outreach efforts. Students are creating photography, video, and written content that highlights the organization’s mission, while others are supporting event planning and public relations initiatives designed to increase community engagement and support. Faculty members are already seeing the impact of the collaboration. “This partnership demonstrates the value of experiential learning by connecting students with community organizations that are making a difference,” said Brian Stephens, Program Coordinator, Photography. “Through these projects, students gain industry-relevant experience while helping PARA Marine strengthen its outreach and deepen community engagement efforts throughout the region.” Students have the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a professional environment while building portfolios, expanding industry-relevant skills and gaining experience working with a community organization. Several initiatives have already been completed ahead of the partnership’s official launch this fall. Students from DC’s Event Planning and Photography programs participated in and documented PARA Marine’s involvement in the Pickering Easter Parade, while others from the Video Production and Photography programs also captured the organization’s annual pool training exercise, which featured PARA Marine Search and Rescue, Toronto Search and Rescue Marine and the Durham Regional Police Marine Unit. The resulting photos and videos will help support PARA Marine’s communications efforts and strengthen its ability to connect with residents, partners and potential donors across the region. The collaboration reflects DC’s commitment to providing high-impact experiential learning opportunities while creating positive community impact. By connecting students with organizations addressing real community needs, the college helps learners develop career-ready skills while contributing their talents to meaningful local initiatives. Future phases of the partnership are already being explored, including the development of a boat-driving simulator that would provide PARA Marine volunteers with a safe and cost-effective training environment to strengthen their vessel handling skills. Learn more about DC’s Photography, Video Production and Event Planning programs. Announcing DC’s 2026 Alumni of Distinction Posted on May 13, 2026 at 1:23 pm. Every year, Durham College (DC) recognizes exceptional graduates through its Alumni of Distinction Awards, celebrating alumni who are making meaningful contributions in their professions and communities. The 2026 Alumni of Distinction recipients – Carrie-Anne Atkins, Matthew Canning, Dr. Danna Paulson, and Rachael Wraith – will be celebrated at Convocation in June and join more than 120 outstanding graduates who have been recognized by DC with this prestigious award. While each recipient has followed a unique career path, what they do share is a connection to DC and a commitment to serving their communities, advancing their industries, and mentoring future generations. “My education allowed me to pursue a career where helping people is my North Star,” said Canning, a 2009 graduate of DC’s Practical Nursing program. From leading impactful local initiatives to driving change on a global scale, DC alumni continue to make a difference while inspiring future generations of students. “One of the college’s highest honours, our Alumni of Distinction Awards give us the opportunity to highlight some of the many incredible individuals who are a part of our rapidly growing alumni network,” said Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations. “Carrie-Anne, Matthew, Danna and Rachael are inspiring examples for graduating students and I look forward to celebrating their accomplishments.” Carrie-Anne Atkins, Public Relations, Class of 1998 Carrie-Anne Atkins is a senior strategic communications and stakeholder relations professional at Ontario Power Generation, currently Senior Manager, Corporate Relations & Projects at the Wesleyville Site, where she builds trusted relationships and advances key initiatives. A recognized leader in Durham Region, she has served in numerous volunteer positions across civic, philanthropic, business, environmental, and community organizations, including as President of the Durham College Alumni Association, Board Director of the Parkwood National Historic Site, President of Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and Chair of the Durham Community Foundation. She is a strong ambassador for DC, building partnerships between the nuclear industry and the college that have resulted in program development and enhanced learning opportunities for students. Nationally, Atkins contributes to leadership development and gender equity in the nuclear sector through Women in Nuclear Canada and collaborates with government, industry, and communities to shape public understanding of energy and infrastructure projects. Matthew Canning, Practical Nursing, Class of 2009 Matthew Canning is the Clinical Director of Ontario’s largest in-person PrEP clinic, where he leads a multidisciplinary team delivering comprehensive HIV prevention and treatment services. The clinic serves more than 5,000 patients annually and provides both HIV-focused and primary care to a largely uninsured population. He is deeply committed to equitable access to HIV prevention and treatment, and to advancing the role of Nurse Practitioners in achieving this goal. His work has contributed to system-level improvements, including collaboration with the FAST-HIV program to support rapid linkage to HIV prevention services from emergency departments, and to the evolution of Ontario’s VitaLink program aimed at reducing financial barriers to laboratory testing. In addition to clinical leadership, he has served on HIV research advisory boards focused on expanding care for women and gender-diverse populations, was a part of the scientific steering committee for Canada’s first injectable PrEP (CAB-LA) guidance, and is a contributing author to the Canadian Family Practice Guidelines (2nd edition). Dr. Danna Paulson, Dental Hygiene, Class of 2010 Dr. Danna Paulson is a tenure-track Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Beginning her career in Ontario and then internationally in the Cayman Islands, she gained extensive experience in general, pediatric, and orthodontic dentistry before relocating to Minnesota to explore opportunities in teaching and research. A nationally recognized mentor, she demonstrates a dedication to lifelong learning and contributions to education, research, and leadership within her profession. In her role as Chair of Dental Hygiene Admissions at the University of Minnesota, she has contributed to a holistic review process that considers applicants’ broader experiences, strengths, and potential for success alongside academic achievement. Her scholarly work focuses on oral health-related quality of life and patient-centred outcomes research across diverse populations. In addition to her academic accomplishments, she has directly helped improve oral health access by organizing, attending, and expanding student involvement in community fluoride varnish clinics serving underserved adults and children in partnership with churches and schools, participating in Give Kids a Smile events and school-based oral health education programs, and volunteering in National Health Week initiatives. Rachael Wraith, Public Relations, Class of 2007 Rachael Wraith is an accomplished leader with nearly 20 years of experience in strategic communications, public engagement, and reputation management. As Associate Vice President at Global Public Affairs, Canada’s leading government relations and strategic communications firm, she provides senior counsel to national and international clients across various economic sectors. Prior to Global, she spent a decade in the public service and acted as a Public Information Officer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier in her career, she worked for an environmental NGO on key files in conservation, sustainability, water quality, and climate change. These efforts earned her recognition as one of Canada’s Top 25 Environmentalists under 25. A champion for DC and real-world experience, she has remained connected to the college by sharing her knowledge and inspiring future communications professionals as a Program Advisory Committee Chair, guest speaker, and mentor. Convocation 2026 takes place from Monday, June 15 to Thursday, June 18 at the Tribute Communities Centre. Largest gift in Durham College’s history supports the future of sustainable urban agriculture Posted on May 7, 2026 at 8:35 am. Durham College (DC) has received multimillion-dollar, long-term funding from the Barrett Family Foundation, marking the largest philanthropic gift in the college’s 59-year history. This transformational donation will amplify the impact of the Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture (Barrett Centre), a community-based living lab where DC students and community members gain hands-on learning experiences through urban agriculture programming and operations. Learning opportunities will be enhanced through new programs, expanded scholarships and bursaries, and open educational resources. The purchase of new equipment and technologies will ensure graduates are career-ready, with the knowledge and skills to advance sustainable practices in the agriculture industry. “We are deeply grateful for the Barrett Family Foundation’s continued investment in Durham College,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President. “This support reflects the power of our partnership — creating future-focused learning environments for students while strengthening connections between education and the evolving needs of communities and industries. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the future of sustainable urban agriculture in Durham Region and beyond.” Since opening in 2023, the Barrett Centre has cultivated thriving partnerships rooted in a commitment to developing strong, locally sourced food supplies and educating future generations about nutrition and the importance of diverse food systems. To date, more than 37,000 community members have participated in workshops and activations, and over 9,000 pounds of food have been donated to local food banks and partners. The Barrett Centre aims to be a benchmark institution helping to shape the future of sustainable food systems. This includes driving systems change across Canada and globally, empowering communities to replicate and scale the successful farming operations already established at the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm and the college’s Whitby campus. “Durham College is a leader in urban agriculture education,” said the Barrett Family Foundation. “Our financial contribution reflects our shared belief that sustainable urban agriculture is a key factor to building more resilient, food secure communities while also creating rewarding career opportunities.” The Barrett Centre currently features approximately two acres of productive market gardens and orchards, an apiary, season extending hoop houses, the Food Literacy Innovation Zone, and an accessible indoor hydroponic farm – the first of its kind at a Canadian post-secondary institution. From June to October, the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm is open to the public during its Farm Gate Sales, when community members are invited to tour the farm and purchase fresh, low-cost produce grown on-site. Visit the Barrett Centre website to learn more. Spring Open House connects future students with opportunities at Durham College Posted on April 1, 2026 at 11:55 am. For thousands of prospective students and their families, Saturday’s Spring Open House at Durham College (DC) was more than a campus visit. It was a chance to talk with DC experts, clarify program details, and explore the many pathways open to them. Across both the Oshawa and Whitby campuses, visitors explored programs, asked thoughtful questions, and connected directly with the people who will guide them through their time at DC. Many prospective students took the next step right at the event, submitting applications in DC’s Apply Now room, while others left with a clearer sense of their options. From specialized labs to collaborative learning spaces, guided tours gave guests a close look at where learning happens. Program areas brought their spaces to life with demonstrations and conversations that highlighted how DC’s programs align with the needs of today’s workforce and lead to strong career outcomes. “Spring Open House is an important opportunity for future students to see themselves at Durham College,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “It allows them to explore their interests, meet our employees and experience firsthand the focused, welcoming environment that defines DC. We are proud to help students take the next steps toward a rewarding career.” Beyond the classroom, visitors also learned about the services that help students thrive, including financial aid, wellness resources and career development. With more than $5 million available in scholarships, bursaries and awards, many left with a better understanding of how DC can help make their education more accessible. The event drew future students at every stage of the process, some had already accepted their offers, others were still weighing their options, and some were simply planning ahead. “I know that I want to go to college after I graduate from high school and even though that is a year away, I came to find out all I can about the skilled trades programs that are available,” said Dylan Rouse, a Grade 11 student. “Everyone here has been really helpful and answered all of my questions. It was easy to get all of the information I needed.” Current students also played a key role throughout the day, sharing their experiences and offering practical insight into life at DC. Their perspectives added authenticity and gave visitors a grounded sense of what to expect. This year’s Open House also featured Discover DC Degrees, an information session highlighting the college’s portfolio of degree programs and pathways. Visitors learned how DC degrees prepare graduates for in-demand careers and opportunities for graduate studies, and connected one-on-one with program experts and Transfer and Pathways advisors for personalized guidance. Anyone who missed the event can register for DC’s upcoming Program Info Nights on May 12 and 13. These focused sessions allow future students to meet faculty and employees, explore specific programs in more detail, and get answers about admissions, pathways and next steps. For many, Saturday was just the beginning, and an exciting first step toward a future at DC. Start the school year strong! Posted on August 26, 2025 at 11:54 am. Are you a new student? Our Getting Started at DC content collection has everything you need to make your transition smooth and successful. 1 2 3 »
App Store
Google Play