The Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS) has announced details of a new program for internationally educated professionals (IEPs) funded through a contract agreement with the Canadian federal government valued at $1,095,706 over the next three years. With the possibility of an additional two-year extension to be negotiated during the third year, the partnership is representative of the Faculty’s commitment to preparing qualified individuals for professional roles in Canada.
“It’s a tremendous honour to receive this funding from our federal government,” LA&PS Dean J.J. McMurtry said. “This exciting partnership will be very beneficial to the internationally educated professionals in our community. We look forward to providing additional tools and services uniquely designed to prepare them for employment in the Canadian workforce. Our Faculty recognizes the value of these experienced newcomers, and takes great pride in providing all the support we can to them through our excellent IEP team.”
Originally proposed to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in 2019, the enhanced framework will provide IEPs with access to English language support, in addition to university-level courses suited for their unique needs. The program’s approach to professional development will place an emphasis on building communication competencies and increasing familiarity with the Canadian professional setting.
Best suited for individuals who have migrated to Canada with an international postsecondary education and have been living in the country for fewer than three years, the LA&PS Bridging Program is structured to create pathways into the local labour market. This will not only benefit the IEPs themselves, but organizational stakeholders as well, through the addition of valuable global perspectives and skills.
Two foundational workplace readiness courses will be offered to help accomplish this mission, and employment support will be provided to assist IEPs in overcoming the challenges they may encounter along the way. For the next three years, this effort will reach new heights, spearheading positive change in York’s surrounding community and beyond.
“I am thrilled that York University, one of the finest education institutions in Canada, will have the support they need to ensure that newcomers to Canada are ready for the Canadian workplace,” said Judy Sgro, MP for Humber River – Black Creek. “For too long, people educated outside of Canada have been faced with the challenge of finding well-paying, relevant work in their professional field, and this program will be critical in making sure that we continue to attract and retain top international talent.”
With respect to public health guidelines regarding COVID-19, LA&PS is prepared to deliver these courses remotely, and will continue to provide students with knowledge and preparation to succeed in their professions. While enrolled in this program, IEPs will also have remote access to other career-building tools and services, including job search workshops, experiential education opportunities, internship listings, consultations with advisors and sessions with career coaches.
For more information, visit the LA&PS Bridging Program website.