The University of Lethbridge will relocate its Edmonton campus to Concordia University College effective July 1, 2012.

The move keeps the U of L close to downtown Edmonton and its primary student population, while providing more of a campus experience.

"We've operated a campus in Edmonton for almost 20 years, and our students have told us, loud and clear, that while they value our programming and flexibility, they were missing out on a campus environment," says Dr. Andy Hakin, the U of L's Vice-President (Academic) and Provost.

"By listening to our students and closely following the direction provided by our strategic and academic plans, the move to Concordia's campus will greatly enhance the U of L student experience in Edmonton."

The agreement with Concordia will see the U of L's Edmonton team move from a downtown office to its own leased administrative space on the Concordia campus, while providing classrooms and other services for U of L students.

The arrangement is similar to that of the U of L Calgary campus, which has a lease partnership with Bow Valley College in downtown Calgary.

Approximately 500 students attend U of L classes in Edmonton each year, primarily in evenings and on weekends. The U of L's presence will subsequently not conflict with regular Concordia classes.

The U of L will have the use of several classrooms, videoconference facilities and student computer labs. As well, U of L students will have access to the Concordia library, recreation and fitness facilities, bookstore and cafeteria. The campus location also offers convenient parking and transit access, something that was lacking at the previous location.

"This move presents a great opportunity for both our institutions to work together to serve our students in new and innovative ways," says Hakin.