It's expanding and the numbers confirm our local college is definitely growing into its soon to be new location.
More students than ever before are taking university classes at Parkland College in Yorkton this fall. For the first time, the College has had to cap the number of students in a course because of limited classroom space says University Coordinator Dr. Gwen Machnee.
"Close to 70 students are enrolled in an Indigenous Studies class. Over 40 students attend a Biology course, while between 35 and 40 students are registered in Chemistry, Psychology, and two English offerings.
"Enrolments are high partly because we are now offering more full four-year degrees in Nursing, Education, and Social Work. But I think more students are learning about the benefits of taking their first year of university at Parkland College, regardless of the degree they're pursuing."
Many students find it easier to make the transition from high school to full-fledged university student if they take a year at Parkland College adds Machnee. First-year students take classes in a wide range of subject areas to get a broader understanding of learning at the university level. The College's smaller class sizes and access to instructors often help students get better grades. And many are able to save money by staying close to home and avoiding the relocation and travel costs associated with moving to the university cities.
"Our students study the exact same material as their counterparts at the universities," Machnee adds. "But our unique learning environment can help them adjust to university life and the expectations that come with the pursuit of a degree."
Because of partnerships with the University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina, students are able to take the first year of almost any undergraduate degree from the two institutions at Parkland College. Students can earn full degrees at Parkland College in Nursing (U of S), Social Work (U of R), and Indigenous Education (First Nations University of Canada).
