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Another Year of Growth for the University of Lethbridge

Aug 29, 2016 | 11:12 AM

LETHBRIDGE –  For the third straight year the University of Lethbridge is seeing significant growth in their undergraduate student numbers.

Director of Enrolment Services, Natasha Buis-Deering, noted that the university is becoming a destination for students, as more than 70-per cent of their new students this year come from at least two hours away.

She also pointed out that 52-per cent are coming in directly from high school, a trend that she attributes to the current economic climate.

“We’re seeing students that say, I’m not going to make $55,000 a year with my high school diploma, so I’m going to take some time and go to university instead of racing out into the workforce,” explained Buis-Deering.

Other areas of growth were in the sciences and health, with more students also going for combined degrees and their PhDs.

“One area of exciting growth is in applications and registrants of our First Nations, Metis and Inuit learners who have self-identified,” Buis-Deering continued. “We’re at a record high number across the board in terms of applications and registrants this year.”

Sticking with the theme, Buis-Deering noted that registration for new student orientation is record breaking – moving well past last year’s high – and that students wanting a seat should sign up right away as they’re filling up quickly.