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Wilfrid Laurier University and Navitas have announced a 10-year strategic partnership that will transform international education at the university and expand learning opportunities for international and domestic students.
The cornerstone of the partnership is the introduction of a pathway program for international students designed to prepare them for academic success. To be known as Wilfrid Laurier International College (WLIC), the integrated and highly customized program includes academic course content, study skills development and wraparound social and academic support systems. WLIC will be located at the university’s Brantford campus.
Wilfrid Laurier International College, a new pathway program for international students designed to prepare them for academic success, will be located at the university’s Brantford campus.
Through successful completion of the WLIC first-year program, students will be eligible to continue their degree studies in their second year at either the Brantford or Waterloo campus. Laurier will retain full control over all academic aspects of the WLIC program.
– Brian J.R. Stevenson, president and CEO of Navitas North America
“Laurier’s partnership with Navitas is part of our multi-pronged approach to increase international student enrolment and cultivate global citizens,” said Deborah MacLatchy, Laurier president and vice-chancellor. “The increase in number and diversity of international students will further enhance the cultural landscape of our Brantford campus and provide significant economic opportunities for the downtown.”
Navitas has more than 25 years of experience establishing successful pathway programs in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Navitas was the first to launch such a program in North America with Simon Fraser University in 2006 and with the University of Manitoba in 2007. Combined, these programs welcome approximately 5,000 international students from more than 90 countries each year. Ninety-five per cent of students progressed from Navitas’ Canadian programs to their host university.
“Wilfrid Laurier University’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community combined with its reputation for academic excellence makes it an ideal destination for international students,” said Brian J.R. Stevenson, president and CEO of Navitas North America. “Through our global marketing network, we look forward to introducing even more of the world to Laurier and expanding international students’ access to high-quality post-secondary education for which both Canada and Laurier are known.”