Humber expands its dynamic polytechnic education throughout Asia

Polytechnic education provides a comprehensive range of postsecondary credentials, and unlocks global opportunities for learners. This is why Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning, a publicly-funded institution in Toronto, emphasises international education in its inclusive teaching model. The college also reflects the cultural diversity that has helped shape Toronto into one of the fastest-growing economic regions in North America.

"In the modern economy, people are more and more likely to change careers multiple times," says Chris Whitaker, president and CEO of Humber. "We prepare our students to be lifelong learners in an international context so they can be successful in their local communities and in the global economy."

Some 25,000 students are enrolled full-time at Humber, which is the largest college in Canada. It has eight academic schools offering 170 full-time programmes that lead to globally-recognised credentials ranging from diplomas to degrees and postgraduate certificates.

Humber is bringing its distinctive teaching model to Asia through focused partnerships in the region. Building on its long-standing partnership with Ningbo University in Zhejiang province, the institute has connected Xiamen's Jimei University, Taiwan's National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism, and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University to its international network.

This has drawn an increasing number of Chinese students to Humber, where they have the opportunity to earn in-demand credentials such as a diploma in business administration or hospitality and tourism management within three years. Staff and students in Toronto are similarly immersed in Asian culture and business practices through continuing exchange programmes.

"It's a meaningful experience for our faculty to live and work in China," says Diane Simpson, dean of international affairs. "They develop a better understanding of the challenges that international students face in a Canadian classroom and share their insights with other faculty."

The experience is just as enriching to the students. Xia Wei, a postgraduate student of global business management who interned with a skylight manufacturer in Toronto and joined a study tour to Finland during the summer, appreciates the practical knowledge he has gained.