When we launched the Integrated Enrolment Growth Plan (IEGP) in fall 2024, our goal was clear: to expand access for learners, increase our impact in Alberta and beyond and support the long-term sustainability of the university. The plan also reinforced that responsible growth depends on appropriate resources, funding and institutional capacity. In its first year, the IEGP moved from planning to coordinated implementation across the institution.
The newly released IEGP Annual Report 2025 captures progress across all 10 recommended strategic priorities and confirms completion of the seven short-term roadmap activities identified for the first year. Together, this work has strengthened coordination across colleges, faculties and institutional units, improved our data-informed planning and advanced investments needed to support growth responsibly and sustainably.
As a result, these efforts have translated into measurable outcomes. As of Dec. 1, 2025, official enrolment totals exceeded the IEGP Year 1 target by 3.9 per cent.
While overall growth surpassed planned levels, enabled by targeted enrolment expansion funding and strong retention, the composition of enrolment differed from initial assumptions. This reinforces the importance of continued attention to graduate enrolment pathways, international strategy, online and flexible learning and institutional capacity as we move forward. Future growth will continue to align with academic priorities, student supports and available funding to ensure it enhances the student experience.
Connecting strategy and enrolment outcomes
The IEGP Annual Report is being released alongside the 2025-26 Undergraduate and Graduate Enrolment Report, which provides a detailed overview of enrolment trends across domestic and international populations, including undergraduate, graduate and online learners.
Taken together, these reports provide both context and direction. The enrolment report outlines current enrolment patterns, shifts in demand and key demographic trends, while the IEGP Annual Report explains how we are positioning the institution for the future through coordinated governance, shared accountability and targeted investment.
This integrated approach supports our long-term goal of growing to 60,000 students over the next decade, as outlined in Shape: A Strategic Plan of Impact. Growth at this scale is not simply about increasing numbers. It requires proportionate investment in academic programming, student supports, infrastructure and faculty and staff renewal to ensure that expansion enhances rather than strains the university experience.
The first year of the IEGP focused on building this foundation. That groundwork now enables us to move into the next phase of implementation with greater clarity and alignment.
Looking ahead
As we move forward, our focus will include strengthening graduate pathways, advancing international enrolment strategy, expanding online and flexible learning opportunities and exploring transnational education initiatives where appropriate. Each of these priorities must be supported by thoughtful planning, proportionate investment and sustained collaboration.
The progress achieved in the first year of the IEGP reflects what is possible when we work with shared accountability for a sustainable future and a commitment to impact through excellence. Enrolment growth is not the responsibility of any one unit. It is a shared endeavour that impacts and relies on our entire university community.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this work. Your leadership, collaboration and commitment are helping shape a university that is accessible, impactful and sustainable for the future.
I encourage you to read the IEGP Annual Report and the Undergraduate and Graduate Enrolment Report to learn more about our progress and the path ahead.
Melissa Padfield
Deputy Provost (Students and Enrolment)