Advancing U of G’s Distinctive Student Experience That Fuels Success and Future Impact
The University of Guelph is taking a holistic and inclusive approach to support student success. This includes continued investment in experiential learning opportunities and flexible academic pathways for our students to gain real-world experience, while creating a supportive and welcoming environment for our global community. Additionally, our dedication to providing comprehensive mental health and wellness supports establishes U of G as a leader in fostering healthy and successful student experiences.
Goals
- Propel student success by guaranteeing every student an experiential learning opportunity and flexible pathways for studying in and across disciplines.
- Design and deliver supports and services to ensure that international students thrive and have a sense of belonging within U of G’s community.
- Be recognized as a leader in providing mental health services and supports for our students and their support networks.
Key Measures
- More than 76 percent of students graduated with at least one experiential learning opportunity.
- 67 percent of students agree or strongly agree that they feel a sense of belonging to the university community.
- 75 percent of students believe they are receiving adequate mental and emotional support.
- 72 percent of students reported their mental well-being as excellent, good, or average.
- Nearly 91 percent of first-year students continued to their second year.
Achievements
President’s Co-op Program
U of G’s commitment to experiential learning is reflected in the expansion of on-campus co-op opportunities through the new President’s Summer Co-op Initiative. This program allows departments to hire co-op students for summer roles, with wages fully covered by the initiative. With over 5,000 students in 67 co-op programs, U of G is one of Ontario’s largest co-op universities. This initiative not only supports students in developing practical skills but also strengthens U of G’s position as a leader in providing high-quality experiential learning, equipping students with valuable experience for their future careers.
Curricular Innovation and New Degree Programs
U of G’s dedication to curricular innovation is evident in the enhancement of existing programs and the introduction of new degrees, including the Bachelor of Mathematics and Bachelor of Creative Arts, Health and Wellness, which launched in Fall 2024. By aligning academic offerings with evolving industry demands and societal needs, U of G ensures students gain cutting-edge knowledge and skills essential for success in a rapidly changing world. The new Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics Engineering further strengthens U of G’s impact in STEM fields, preparing future-ready graduates for high-demand careers and reinforcing the University’s commitment to student success.
Student Mental Health Task Force Report
The Task Force on Student Mental Health engaged over 2,600 members of U of G’s community to develop 40 key recommendations aimed at transforming the University's approach to student mental health. These recommendations focus on enhancing institutional structures, fostering a supportive campus climate, promoting mental health awareness, and improving services and accessibility. By implementing these targeted strategies, U of G is not only addressing current mental health challenges but also positioning itself as a leader in providing comprehensive, innovative mental health support to students, ensuring their well-being and success in an evolving academic environment.