International applications lead to overall increase at MHC

By Jeremy Appel on September 25, 2018.

jappel@medicinehatnews.com @MHNJeremyAppel

Applications to Medicine Hat College have increased seven per cent since last year, the school says.

The jump is partially due to “higher international engagement locally and across Canada,” a news release said.

Hadija Drummond, MHC’s manager of international education and diversity, says international applications increased by 30 per cent since last fall.

“We have a wide range of quality programming here and a supportive environment, which can be attractive to students,” Drummond said in the release.

“Overall, Canada is seen as a desirable destination to study because of our high educational standards, and reputation as a safe and welcoming country.”

While international applications have increased, actual enrolment figures remain consistent, due to a limited number of seats available, she added.

Her office is focused on recruiting students from countries such as Vietnam, Brazil and Japan.

MHC registrar Sandy Henderson says enrolment was nearly 2,500 students, with some programs — nursing, paramedic, and a dual diploma in social work and addictions counselling — reaching maximum capacity.

“These career fields are popular, the job outlook is good and there are strong practicum and clinical programs in place,” he explained.

College-wide programs are looking at ways to attract and retain students by establishing flexible work environments, integrating new technologies and partnering with other post-secondary institutions, such as Calgary’s Mount Royal University.

Henderson said he is particularly proud of the school’s ability to retain students.

“Although it is important to attract new students, it is also crucial that we retain them and provide the necessary supports to ensure they graduate, or in some cases, move on with their education,” he said.

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