This fall, more than 11,400 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students have chosen Durham College (DC) as the next step in their academic journey, helping them get job-ready through the best in innovative and transformative education. Included in that number are more than 5,500 first-year students, and 2,000 new and returning international students from 74 countries. Another 7,000 students are also gaining new skills and knowledge via part-time studies.

With the increase in vaccination rates across Ontario leading to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, approximately 65 per cent of DC students are also joining their peers on campus this fall, with 73 per cent of programs offering an in-person component this semester.

“We are thrilled to kick off this academic year by welcoming students to our on-campus and virtual learning spaces,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, executive vice president, Academic. “Whether studying face-to-face, remotely or a combination of both, Durham College is preparing students to be leaders in their chosen field by helping them develop an exceptional theoretical foundation of knowledge and providing access to unique and interactive experiential learning opportunities. We can’t wait to see what amazing things our students accomplish.”

This year’s cohort of students includes the inaugural class of DC’s Honours Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence degree program, Behavioural Science Technician diploma program and Pharmaceutical Science graduate certificate program.

The college is also significantly expanding its industrial trades training capacity, with students in select programs excited to begin their year learning in the brand new 60,000 sq. ft. Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology at the Whitby campus. The facility, which includes a double-height shop lab, new classrooms and student touchdown spaces, among other features, is home to DC’s post-secondary Electrical Engineering Technician, Electrical Techniques, Mechanical Technician – Elevating Devices and Mechanical Techniques – Plumbing programs, and the Electrician – Construction and Maintenance, Elevating Devices Mechanic and Plumber apprenticeship programs.

“The energy on campus is unmistakeable – students and employees alike are excited for the fall semester to be under way and we’re all looking forward to a rewarding year ahead,” said DC President Don Lovisa. “We are optimistic that the winter semester will see most of our students back on campus, and are continuing to lead the way as an institution where students can dive into a fully immersive educational experience that supports them on their path toward a meaningful career.”