Registrations for UNBC are up 11% compared to this time last year and a primary reason for the increase is the speed with which the Registrar’s Office is responding to applications from prospective students. The registration update was part of a report on enrolment that was presented to the Board of Governors today during its meeting in Fort St. John.

“This year, UNBC has been responding to applicants within three business days of their application and offers of admission have jumped 15% as a result,” Paul Madak told the Board during his presentation. Dr. Madak is UNBC’s Dean of Enrolment Management. “We hope the increase in registrations now will translate into a larger student population in September; early registrations at least enable the University to more accurately plan for popular courses and student services.” The overall increase in registrations includes a 5% increase among aboriginal students and an increase of 39% among students transferring from a community college or another university. Transfer students can also access a new $750 scholarship if they have an A- average at college.

In addition to the enrolment update, Board members also formally approved the University’s new Academic Vision. This academic strategic plan describes the focus of UNBC’s programs and how they’re delivered. Six areas of strength have been identified:

“Development of the Academic Vision included consultation with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and communities throughout northern BC,” says Howard Brunt, Vice-President Academic & Provost. “Consistently, we heard that we must remain focused on students and that our most important measure of success must be the extent to which our graduates are prepared for their future challenges. This includes developing leadership and communication skills, instilling an appreciation of diversity, and fostering citizens who are engaged in their community and the issues of the world.”

Board members also re-elected Don Rix as Board Chair and Noreen Rustad as Vice-Chair.