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University of Lethbridge. (Lethbridge News Now)

U of L expecting 60% of students returning this fall

Jul 27, 2020 | 1:38 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A smaller group of students are anticipated to be enrolled at the University of Lethbridge (U of L).

Academica Group polled continuing students across Canadian post-secondary institutions, asking if they would carry on with their studies in the Fall 2020 semester.

For the U of L, approximately 60.7 per cent, or 3,800 students, are expected to be in the city in September.

“We think that’s a very strong number and speaks to a variety of factors,” says Mike Mahon, president and vice-chancellor. “While the majority of our classes will be delivered in an online format, the student experience extends far beyond the classroom. There’s a strong social aspect involved, there are lab, co-op, applied study, volunteer and experiential opportunities, and there’s a willingness to live independently and mature as a young person living away from home.”

Around 70 per cent of the school’s student base typically comes from outside the City of Lethbridge’s boundaries.

Social distancing measures will limit the number of people who can live on university residences. The U of L anticipates that more than 400 students will be living on campus.

“U of L faculty and staff are looking forward to re-engaging with students in September, and our community partners have always remarked that the vibrancy of our city is greatly enhanced when students return to Lethbridge,” says Mahon. “I know that they too are looking forward to welcoming students back to our region.”

The first day of classes for the university’s Fall 2020 semester is Wednesday, September 9.