(Sault Ste. Marie, ON) November 14, 2019 – Today, Sault College and Laurentian University joined together to sign another academic agreement in support of enhanced student learning. Through this expanded partnership, eligible graduates of Sault College’s two year Social Service Worker – Indigenous Specialization (SSW-IS) program can move on to complete a Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work at Laurentian University in an additional two years.
As an added benefit to learners, the Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work at Laurentian University offers flexible options, including the opportunity to complete the courses full-time on campus or part-time online. To be eligible to transfer into year three of Laurentian University’s Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work program, Sault College SSW-IS graduates must have achieved a minimum grade point average of 3.0.
This new pathway agreement further strengthens each institution’s commitment to providing an enriched, quality education as well as working together to implement the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
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“Laurentian University is honoured to expand its existing partnership with Sault College and offer this tremendous opportunity to learners. Through this pathway, students will have expanded options for furthering their education as well as the flexibility to complete the Bachelor’s degree either online or full-time on campus. This partnership combines the strengths of both institutions to give learners a holistic educational experience that sets them up for future success. Laurentian University is continuing its work on providing a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education and this is one more way we can provide our Indigenous learners with a range of learning options while moving our institution forward in the spirit of truth and reconciliation.” Shelly Moore-Frappier, Interim Associate Vice-President Academic and Indigenous Programs, Laurentian University.
“Laurentian University is very excited to continue and expand its existing partnership with Sault College. This is one small way where we can promote the importance of Indigenous cultures, and help communities develop highly skilled employees. This initiative falls squarely within our mandate to provide Indigenous learners with as wide a range of opportunities as possible. I look forward to seeing this agreement flourish over the next few years.” Serge Demers, Interim Vice-President Academic and Provost at Laurentian University.
“Our college continues to look for ways to enhance the educational experience and provide our students with innovative ways to learn and grow. This expanded partnership complements this by giving students more options in their academic pursuits and the opportunity to build on their existing skills and knowledge to pursue a meaningful career in Indigenous Social Work. We are proud to partner with Laurentian University and look forward to our continued collaboration.” Colin Kirkwood, Vice President Academic and Research at Sault College.
About Sault College
The vision of Sault College is to provide a transformative life experience through empowering those who study with us to think and learn in progressive, innovative ways, including those we have not yet imagined. Sault College grants Ontario College certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, graduate certificates, and degrees to its graduates. The College is the largest deliverer of apprenticeship training in all of Northern Ontario. Sault College has a significant economic impact on the community, with spin-offs in excess of $158 million. Over $1.8 million dollars in scholarships, bursaries and awards are distributed annually to students at the College. Located on the border to the United States and situated in the middle of three of the largest Great Lakes on the planet, Sault College is one of 24 publicly-funded colleges in the province of Ontario.