Operational Updates FAQs

On February 12, the Government of Ontario announced new investments in public colleges, polytechnics, universities and Indigenous institutes, including lifting the tuition freeze and introducing a new funding model.

Algonquin College welcomes this investment which provides needed stability and reinforces the essential role colleges play in powering Ontario’s workforce and economy.

The College has since received additional information from the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security and has begun incorporating it into its operational outlook. What remains clear is that financial mitigation efforts must continue to ensure the College’s long-term sustainability. This includes aligning programming with enrolment demand, labour market needs, Provincial priorities, and financial reality.

As a result, on March 2 the Board of Governors approved a recommendation to cancel seven programs and suspend, with intent to cancel, twenty-three additional programs (including one apprenticeship), effective Fall 2026. We recognize this is difficult news for many in our community. The decision reflects the College’s current financial realities and is in no way a reflection of the dedication of those who teach and support our learners every day. It also provides responsible, timely clarity for learners and applicants as they finalize their plans for Fall
2026.

What this means

No new students will be admitted to these programs starting Fall 2026. Currently enrolled students and students admitted to their program for Spring 2026 will be able to complete their studies, provided they meet all the necessary academic requirements. Teach-out plans will follow Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security guidelines. 

If you applied to one of the suspended programs you will receive information from Algonquin College about next steps to support your academic journey.

Algonquin College offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the needs of learners and employers. Visit our website to discover programs that align with your interests and career goals.

List of Suspended Programs by School

Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) 

Sustainable Architectural Design  

Horticultural Industries  

Horticulture Techniques – Apprenticeship  

Pembroke Campus (Pemb) 

Business (Program still offered at the Ottawa Campus and AC Online) 

Business Fundamentals (Program still offered at the Ottawa Campus and AC Online) 

Computer Programming (Program still offered at the Ottawa Campus and AC Online) 

Environmental Management and Assessment (Program still offered at the Ottawa Campus) 

School of Advanced Technology (SAT) 
Manufacturing Engineering Technician  

Faculty of Arts and Media Design (FAMD) 
Pathways to Indigenous Empowerment (New Indigenous Studies programs offered)  

Applied Museum Studies 

Design Foundations 

General Arts and Science – Aboriginal (New Indigenous Studies programs offered) 

Journalism 

Music, Media and Film Foundations  

General Arts and Science (except English for Academic Purposes)  

Music Industry Arts  

Illustration and Concept Art 

School of Business and Hospitality (SOBH) 

Bachelor of Culinary Arts & Food Science (Honours) 

Bartending  

Business Development and Sales  

Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations Management  

Tourism – Travel  

Law Clerk  

Event Management  

Financial Services  

Paralegal  

School of Health Studies (SOHS) 

Pre-Health Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas  

Pre-Health Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees (Program still offered at our Pembroke Campus)  

School of Wellness, Public Safety & Community Studies (SWPSCS) 

Recreation and Leisure Services  

Fitness and Health Promotion (Program still offered through AC Online) 

How will this affect students in these programs?

No new students will be admitted to these programs starting Fall 2026. Currently enrolled students and students admitted to their program for Spring 2026 will be able to complete their studies, provided they meet all the necessary academic requirements. This approach is referred to as a “teach-out” and ensures students can finish their program as outlined by Algonquin College’s and Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security policies. As a general principle, the College is to provide the students with the opportunity to complete the program at the College in which they are enrolled within the normal time period. 

Why are these programs being suspended?

This is part of Algonquin College’s strategic program planning, which includes responding to recent policy decisions by the federal government and prevailing provincial funding shortfalls.  It is a necessary response to rapid and significant shifts in the postsecondary landscape, including enrolment volatility and changing labour market and student demand. Our responsibility is to ensure that we can continue to deliver a high-quality learning experience and strong student supports, while making decisions that protect the long-term sustainability of Algonquin College. 

What options are available for new learners who have applied to or have been accepted to the suspended programs?

For new learners, the Registrar’s Office will be reaching out with alternative program choices via email based on your individual circumstance. For cancelations of program offerings, alternative options include an offering of the same program at either a different campus or modality, as available. 

For new international learners, you (or your agent if you have one) will be contacted by the Registrar’s Office directly in the application portal with your options and next steps. You (or your agent) can reply in the portal with your questions and comments. If your program is affected, but you were not contacted or you can’t access the application portal, contact the representative for your country by visiting this page International Education Centre Recruitment Page. 

I am an international student in a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligible program which may be suspended. Will I have issues applying for my PGWP?

We do not anticipate issues with PGWP applications, as long as you meet the PGWP eligibility requirements. 

I am an international student in a program that may be suspended. Will I have issues extending my study permit for the duration of my program, if necessary? 

We do not anticipate issues with study permit extensions for students who have remained compliant with all study permit conditions.   

What if a student plans to take a year off from a program that is suspended?

It is recommended that all learners should avoid unnecessary breaks, follow the program progression as closely as possible and shouldn’t plan to take time off. If you’re not sure you can take an unscheduled break, talk to your academic advisor or program coordinator. 

How does this impact Co-operative Education (Co-op) for these programs?

Currently enrolled students and students admitted to their program for Spring 2026 will be able to complete their studies, including all ongoing and future co-op activities, provided they meet all the necessary academic requirements.  

For current co-op students in an affected program, please contact your Co-op Student Advisor. If you do not have a Co-op Student Advisor yet, please email coopandcareer@algonquincollege.com 

For employers hiring co-op students from an affected program, please contact your Industry Engagement Specialist or email Employer Request for Information- Co-op & Career Centre 

I am enrolled in an affected program – would my field placement be impacted?

If you are currently in a field placement in an impacted program you will be given the opportunity to complete your placement as planned. Please continue to attend your placement as scheduled. We are committed to working with our employer partners and Field Placement Officers to minimize any disruptions and provide the necessary support to help you successfully fulfill your requirements. 

I have questions about how these decisions could impact my academic journey, who can I contact?

For new applicants, please email admissions@algonquincollege.com. 

For new international applicants, please visit the International Education Centre Recruitment Page to connect with the Algonquin College representative for your country. 

For current international learners, please open the Ask the IEC Help Ticket and follow the steps to connect with the International Education Centre for questions relating to potential immigration impacts not covered in the FAQs Students should choose “immigration” as the topic from the drop down list. 

 For current learners who have questions about their teach out plans, please contact your program coordinator. 

Are there any additional supports that I can access?

All learners are encouraged to visit the Student Services website for a full list of resources available to support learners. 

 All international learners are encouraged to visit the IEC Future and Current website for a full list of resources available to support international learners. 

Will these changes impact the quality of education at Algonquin College?

No, these changes are ultimately designed to enhance the quality of education. By continually updating and focusing on financially viable and in-demand programs, the College ensures its offerings remain relevant, sustainable and aligned with learner, industry and community needs. 

What steps is the College taking to support potentially affected learners?

The College has implemented comprehensive support measures, including: 

  • Ensuring all current students can complete their programs through the teach-out process.
  • Providing referrals and guidance for prospective students to find alternative programs. 

 International learners 

  • For new international learners, the Registrar’s Office will contact you, or your agent if you have one, directly in the application portal with your options and next steps. You or your agent can reply in the portal with your questions and comments, if your program is affected, but you were not contacted or if you are a new applicant, please visit the International Education Centre Recruitment Page to connect with the Algonquin College representative for your country. 
  • For current international learners with questions relating to potential immigration impacts not covered in the FAQs, please open the Ask the IEC Help Ticket and follow the steps to connect with the International Education Centre. Students should choose “immigration” as the topic from the drop-down list. For current international learners who have questions about their teach out plans, please contact your program coordinator. 

What is the long-term impact of these cancellations and suspensions on the College?

They are meant to help the College remain financially sustainable and focus on programs with strong student demand and industry relevance. This ensures the College continues to serve learners and the community effectively. 

Need Assistance?

Current Domestic and International learners: contact your Program Co-ordinator or the Registrar’s Office if you have questions.  

New Domestic learners: contact the Registrar’s Office for guidance and support. 

New International learners, please visit the International Education Centre Recruitment Page to connect with the Algonquin College representative for your country. 

Current International learners, for immigration questions please open the Ask the IEC Help Ticket and follow the steps to connect with the International Education Centre.