October 12, 2005 for immediate release

The University of Northern British Columbia is experiencing a declinein the number of students in degree programs this semester, compared tothe same time last year.

Statistics for registration in degree programs show a 3% decline inenrolment compared to last fall. There are currently about 3500students registered, down about 100 from last year. The drop, however,was not unexpected. “A combination of factors such the robust northerneconomy, regional declines in the 18-24 year old population, and rapidexpansion of post-secondary seats at other BC universities allcontribute to our challenge,” says Howard Brunt, Vice-PresidentAcademic and Provost. “In response, we’ve been implementing strategiesto increase our enrolments.” These include increasing the coordinationamong student recruitment personnel, meeting more prospective studentswithin the province and internationally, partnering with the City toestablish a Vancouver office, and doing more to help students findhousing and access financial aid and awards. In addition, thedevelopment of the Northern Sport Centre is expected to be a major drawfor new students, while improving the quality of campus life forcurrent students.

“Growth is essential for the University and increasing enrolmentsremains our top priority,” says UNBC President Charles Jago. “Ayear-and-a-half ago, I spoke to the Chamber of Commerce about theimportance of working together to maintain our position in the face ofincreased competition among the province’s universities. Post-secondaryeducation is now a vital part of the northern economy.”

Last year, in addition to the students registered in degree programs,there were about 2500 students registered in non-credit courses offeredthrough Continuing Studies - a 300% increase over the previous year.These courses have been providing new opportunities in northern BC forprofessional development, executive education, and specializedcertification.  Together with the students in degree programs,more people took UNBC courses last year than ever before.

Contact:

Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC - 250.960.5622