By Sandi Krasowski | The Chronicle-Journal
After a review of enrolment trends, financial performance and labour market data, Confederation College in Thunder Bay, Ont., has suspended 11 academic programs.
Michelle Salo, college president, said the program cuts come amid broader shifts in enrolment patterns, including the impact of federal policy changes on international student recruitment.
“These decisions are never taken lightly,” Salo told The Chronicle-Journal. “While we must ensure our long-term sustainability, our focus remains on supporting our students and employees throughout this transition. Confederation College continues to advocate for expanded program eligibility for post-graduate work permits and remains engaged with industry partners to ensure alignment with workforce needs for Thunder Bay and the region.”
Salo said these challenges are further compounded by ongoing constraints in post-secondary funding within the Ontario college sector.
“That impacts program sustainability and the ability to expand educational offerings to meet evolving student and industry demands,” she added.
The suspended programs include:
School of Business, Hospitality and Media Arts:
• Business – human resources.
• Business administration – human resources.
• Culinary management.
• Human resource management.
• International business management.
School of Engineering Technology, Trades & Aviation:
• Aerospace manufacturing engineering technician.
• Aerospace manufacturing engineering technology.
• Electronics engineering technician.
• Instrumentation engineering technician – process automation.
School of Health, Negahneewin and Community Services:
• Dental assisting – levels I and II.
• Educational support.
While the college’s admissions and recruitment teams are actively working with affected applicants to identify alternative program options, students currently enrolled in these programs will be able to complete their studies with full academic and student support. The college has notified all students, faculty, and staff impacted by these changes.
Salo said the suspensions will impact four per cent of projected incoming domestic students starting in September of 2025.
The news comes after the college announced a partnership with Seneca Polytechnic last week to strengthen its Aviation program and explore how a Veterinary Technician program could be delivered in our region.
