Algonquin College’s board of governors has voted unanimously to cancel 30 programs as the school faces ongoing financial pressure.
The decision came during a virtual meeting Monday afternoon that was held online only. Members of the public who wanted to watch had to register for free tickets through Eventbrite.
Programs slated for cancellation include paralegal studies, law clerk, journalism, several horticulture programs and music industry arts.
The programs to be cut at Algonquin College’s Pembroke campus are Business, Business Fundamentals, Computer Programming, and Environmental Management and Assessment.
College president and CEO Claude Brulé said the move is not a reflection of the work done by students or faculty. Instead, he said the cuts are part of broader efforts to ensure the college’s long-term financial sustainability.
Senior vice-president academic Julie Beauchamp said even with the province lifting a tuition freeze, a two per cent annual increase will not close the financial gap needed to keep the programs running.
Students currently enrolled can finish their programs, but no new students will be admitted.
The confirmation comes just months ahead of the planned closure of Algonquin’s Perth Campus.
