This year, the government improved the post-secondary system by ensuring more Albertans get an affordable education, closer to home.

The Government of Alberta gave Red Deer College and Grande Prairie Regional College approval to pursue becoming universities and develop full degrees.

From capping tuition and helping institutions diversify their program offerings in high-tech to supporting colleges transitioning to universities, the province continued to improve affordability and accessibility of university and college education.

“Alberta’s universities and colleges are absolutely critical to securing our province’s future. Our government is investing in students so they can reach their full potential and get the education they need for the economy of the future,” said Minister of Advanced Education Marlin Schmidt.

Some of the highlights of the year include Freezing tuition for a fifth year to save students an average of $2,000 for a four-year degree as well as introducing new legislation to grow post-secondary learning spaces by 3,000 seats through a $43-million investment and $7 million for scholarships and learner supports.

-Submitted by the Government of Alberta