Laurentian University in Sudbury has approved a six-year, $136.9-million balanced budget, which includes provisions for the new school of architecture, new mining programs, and an update of the Sudbury campus.
The budget marks a 3.6 per cent increase from the previous year, as well as a $4.5-million (2.8 per cent) increase in academic investments and academic supports.
Highlights of the budget include the opening of the school of architecture; expansion of programs supported by the new Goodman School of Mines, including at least six new mining-related undergraduate minors or majors, and new module and executive programs; and $44.6 million for the modernization of the Sudbury campus by 2015.
Upgrades will include updating more than 50 classrooms and labs, and the creation of a multi-million-dollar student services area.
“In many respects, it will feel like a new campus to students in a few years,” Carol McAulay, vice-president of administration, said in a statement. “We are very excited about the new classrooms, teaching labs, residence upgrades and additions to food service options.”
The budget also makes room for the hiring of 23 new faculty members, including Canada Research Chairs in geochemistry and environmental microbiology, as well as additional positions in the faculty of management to support international accreditation.
Budget approval comes as Laurentian announces a 21 per cent increase in fall enrolments.
The Ontario University Applications Centre reports an increase of 26.6 per cent in college transfer students confirming Laurentian for fall 2013, and an increase of 48.8 per cent for those transfer students who will be granted advanced standing at Laurentian, based on their previous studies and work experience.
Laurentian University confirmations by secondary school students increased 15.4 percent over last year.
Among secondary students, 7.6 percent more have deemed Laurentian their first choice. Among community college students 15 per cent have named Laurentian as their first choice, while there is a 39.2 per cent increase in college transfer students with advanced standing who are making Laurentian their first choice. Students applying for a place at university through the OUAC typically apply to at least three institutions, ranking their choices from one to three.
