Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) is lengthening its list in-demand offerings after receiving a Mental Health Professions Enrollment Expansion grant from the Government of Alberta.
The Polytechnic is one of 12 post-secondary institutions who will benefit from new funding and an enhanced focus on mental health and wellbeing. Northwestern Polytechnic topped the list with 152 of the 761 new seats committed to various programs across the province.
"This is a timely announcement that will support the development of two new diplomas as well as two new degree programs that can be completed in their entirety, without leaving the region," says NWP Provost and Vice-President Academic, Dr. Terry Kowalchuk. "Our goal is to train and retain, recognizing that these professions are central to creating strong, productive, and resilient northern communities."
Over the next three years, Northwestern Polytechnic will receive nearly $1 million in grant funds to facilitate program development and implementation. The new programming and anticipated launch dates are as follows:
- Psychiatric Nurse Diploma - 2025/26
- Social Work Diploma - 2025/26
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology - 2026/27
- Bachelor of Social Work - 2026/27.
"This is an exciting announcement for our communities and individuals who are looking to obtain the necessary qualifications and preparation for a meaningful career serving our region," says School of Applied Science and Technology Dean, Dr. Julia Dutove. "We are very much looking forward to building local capacity with workforce-ready professionals who will be able to not only provide support, but also increase understanding around the complexities of mental health."
While the future programming will now officially enter the development phase, there are options for those who are eager to get started today. Northwestern Polytechnic's academic advisors can help prospective students explore a variety of complementary program pathways as well as the application process.
To learn more about the NWP's new program additions, visit NWP.me/MentalHealthExpansion.
