The University of Lethbridge will add 192 seats to three programs thanks to new provincial funding, April 13, 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

U of L to receive nearly $4 million to expand enrolment capacity

Apr 13, 2023 | 12:18 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Government of Alberta has announced more than $111 million dollars in funding to ensure that more students can enrol in post-secondary schools.

As part of Budget 2023, Minister of Advanced Education Demetrios Nicholaides said another 3,000 seats will become available in post-secondary schools across the province. This is in addition to a $171 million enrolment expansion announced last year.

“This is the largest targeted expansion of seats in Alberta history and will ensure young Albertans can get into the programs they want, right here at home,” said Nicholaides.

The province said in a media release that specific programs were chosen for enrolment expansions based on workforce needs, learner demand, and institutional capacity, among other criteria.

The University of Lethbridge is set to receive a total of $3,996,422, which will add a combined 192 seats to three programs:

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

• Bachelor of Nursing (with Lethbridge College) – $1,887,304
  • Will add 57 seats
• Bachelor of Computer Science – $1,746,276
  • Will add 100 seats
• Graduate Certificate in Data Science – $362,842
  • Will add 35 seats

U of L President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mike Mahon said, “Investments such as this are essential in ensuring more students have access to post-secondary education and can study and train within their province and close to home,” said Mahon. “With a targeted investment in these high-demand programs, the University of Lethbridge will be able to expand its capacity to meet needs in these critical areas, thereby supporting the southern Alberta community and beyond.”

As well, Medicine Hat College will add 96 seats to its Practical Nurse program thanks to $2,105,084 in funding.

Health Minister Jason Copping said these are necessary investments to ensure Alberta can continue to grow.

“We are committed to growing our health care workforce and ensuring we have the spaces available for Alberta’s students to continue their education,” said Copping. “The increase in post-secondary health care training program spaces will help address staffing needs and build a stronger health care system for Albertans.”

The government states that this investment will help to ensure students can access the skills and training they need, close to home.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now