Exchange Magazine reports that a study by the Canadian Education and Research Institute for Counselling (CERIC) named Wilfrid Laurier University the “most impressive” in regards to career services offered by colleges and universities across Canada.
CERIC is a charitable organization that focuses on education and research regarding career counseling as well as development. CERIC is also the publisher of The Canadian Journal of Career Development. The study was led by Dr Peter Dietsche and Jim Lees. Both are associated with PSE Information Systems.
An online survey of 180 colleges and universities had 67 respondents. In addition, the survey team reviewed 207 post-secondary/graduate websites. The study, “Insight into Canadian Post-Secondary Career Service Models” considered the “impressive” universities as those that:
- Evaluate services regularly
- Measure outcomes
- Proactive in the delivery of services
- Collaborate with individuals on campus
Laurier recently created a Centre for Experiential Learning and Career Development. The Centre provides a variety of services including job postings, resume/interview resources as well as additional educational opportunities for current Laurier students and alumni. David McMurray, Vice-President, Student Affairs notes, “"Laurier's experiential learning and career development approach intentionally enhances academic learning, personal growth and professional development over the student’s entire life, from their first to final year at university, as well as after graduation.”
A graduate survey by the Ontario Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development found that approximately 89% of 2013 Laurier graduates were employed within six months of graduation. Jan Basso, Assistant Vice President, Experiential Learning and Career Development, attributes graduate successes to Laurier’s abilities in integrating career resources as well as emphasizing career preparation within a Laurier student’s education. She notes, “This involves the delivery of comprehensive programming that is diverse and relevant, with a focus on integration throughout the institution, both curricular and co-curricular.”
Wilfrid Laurier University's on-campus and online programs focus on career preparation. For example, Laurier’s online bachelor of arts in policing is tailored to experienced officers who wish to improve their critical thinking and analytical skills. Students learn with fellow police service members. In addition, the Ministry of Advanced Education & Skills Development recognizes crime and justice as areas of institutional strength for Laurier.
Students wishing to enter the public safety or criminal justice fields may want to apply for the online combined honours bachelor of arts in criminology and policing. Graduates with this online degree go on to work in a number of areas including border services, corrections, and other areas of interest. All classes are offered 100% online and are designed to be flexible for working professionals. In addition, online students receive the same attention to student success as on-campus students do, a Student Success Coach works with you from enrollment to graduation.
Learn more here. In addition, all Laurier graduates, including those who take a fully online program, have free access to all career services for life.