Job boom hurting enrolment at B.C. universities

Job boom hurting enrolment at B.C. universities
Many potential students would rather work than hit the books

(CBC)

If you want a university education, now could be an easier time to sign up.

The economic boom is making it tougher for universities to meet their enrolment targets, which means some B.C. schools may have empty seats when classes resume after Labour Day.

University administrators say the economic boom with its abundance of good jobs has reduced the pool of potential students. Many would rather make money than hit the books, they say.

The University of British Columbia will meet its target of 4,500 new undergrads this September, but only because it has lowered its admission grade point averages.

Brian Silzer, UBC's registrar, said some departments have reduced their admission averages by three or four per cent from last year.

"So this year, in fact, it was a little bit easier to find a place," said Silzer.

The University of Northern British Columbia in Prince George says it will have room for more students when classes resume in September.

Spokesman Rob Van Adrichem said UNBC is trying to boost enrolment by offering more scholarships and bursaries.

"Money talks, and if we can be competitive in the awards we provide students we're hopeful that we'll be able to attract more students," said Van Adrichem.

Van Adrichem said UNBC is also trying to fill its empty seats with more students from Alberta.