A new dual admission program will allow students enrolled at Medicine Hat College to make a seamless transition to a University of Lethbridge degree program and gain the benefits of being a continuing student.
In the first year, the dual admission program will apply to students in Fine Arts (University Studies) and Visual Communications (Bachelor of Applied Arts) at Medicine Hat College (MHC) who have completed up to 20 transferable courses. Up to 10 students per year will be able to continue their studies at the U of L in a Bachelor of Fine Arts (New Media) or a pre-Bachelor of Fine Arts (New Media)/Bachelor of Education. The agreement may be expanded to include other programs at both institutions in future years.
This dual admission program is a milestone in clearly defining pathways for students to further their post-secondary educational opportunities at a comprehensive academic research institution,” says Dr. Mike Mahon, U of L president and vice-chancellor. “We are pleased to offer this option to students at Medicine Hat College who want to continue their education and obtain a degree.”
Medicine Hat College officials are also excited to offer a new opportunity to students. “Improving access to education is a priority for us, and partnerships with other institutions are an excellent way to create new pathways for students as they work towards their goals,” says Denise Henning, president and CEO of Medicine Hat College.
“We look forward to welcoming students from MHC,” says Dr. Ed Jurkowski, dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts. “Through this agreement, we will be able to accept up to 10 new students into our faculty and the transition will be seamless for them. We are pleased to have an excellent partnership with MHC that benefits students and programs at both institutions. I am particularly excited about the many opportunities U of L and MHC students will be able to share through this partnership. I also see this institutional relationship bringing greater awareness to the fantastic creative art activities found throughout southern Alberta.”
“Our faculty are eager to share this new option with students,” says Terry Chapman, arts, education and business dean. “This partnership is a great example of institutions working together and truly focusing on the needs of learners.”
Students accepted into the program will be admitted at both MHC and the U of L right from the start, allowing them to register for courses early as a continuing U of L student, receive academic advising at both institutions, access early application processing for Campus Housing, be eligible for scholarships at both institutions, and participate in co-op work terms the semester after they complete their studies at MHC.
A formal announcement will be made at 5 p.m. Friday, March 4, at MHC during a reception for One on One Gallery’s current exhibition that features works from both MHC and U of L students. A celebration of the partnership will take place at the U of L on April 1.
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Contact:
Colleen Graham
Manager, Marketing and Communications
Medicine Hat College
403-529-3861
Caroline Zentner
Public Affairs Advisor
University of Lethbridge
403-394-3975
