A burgeoning research reputation, a student-centred learning experience and a continuing commitment to First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) education has resonated with students, pushing University of Lethbridge enrolment to a record high for the Fall 2016 semester.

A record total of 8,628 students are currently registered at the U of L’s Lethbridge and Calgary campuses, representing an increase of 2.1 per cent over Fall 2015. With substantial increases in undergraduate enrolment, specifically in science disciplines where enrolment surged 6.4 per cent, the University is attracting new high school students at an ever-growing rate.

“I believe these numbers reflect an understanding that the University of Lethbridge will provide students an outstanding educational experience that is supported by world-class faculty members and staff dedicated to the needs of students,” says U of L President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Mike Mahon. “I think they also speak to the excitement around the Destination Project and the promise it holds for the University taking another step forward in its scientific research activities.”

Another major boost in enrolment comes from the FNMI student population, which is up 9.1 per cent from the previous year to a total of 480 students.

“Our commitment to FNMI education is sincere and longstanding,” says Mahon. “Our connection to this land upon which we are built and the FNMI community runs deep and we continue to ensure a welcoming, supportive and inclusive environment for our students.”

Other numbers of note include the steady climb of the University’s graduate student population, up 2.7 per cent to 575 students, a stable Calgary campus enrolment figure of 795 students and a continuing trend of more new high school students coming to campus, a total of 1,295, which represents a 20 per cent increase over the last two years combined.

“We recognized that with the changing landscape of post-secondary education in Alberta, that our transfer student numbers would decline and therefore devoted resources to attracting more new high school students,” says Mahon. “We’re very pleased to see this population continue to increase as it gives these students a full four-year undergraduate U of L experience.”