Toronto, September 13, 2022 – Today, Lassonde School of Engineering at York University announced a uniquely flexible and innovative alternative to traditional university study in Canada. Learners in the new Digital Technologies work-integrated degree program will be employed full time at the same employer for four years, earning a salary while studying towards a Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) degree. Twenty per cent of their work time will be dedicated to academic learning, delivered during an intensive five-day block period on campus every six-to-seven weeks.
The program, which starts Fall 2023, enables organizations to both upskill their existing workforce and access a new talent pipeline, while increasing equity, diversity and inclusion. As a vehicle for social mobility, the program offers a pathway into higher education for non-traditional learners, particularly those underrepresented in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector.
The four-year program operates over a full calendar year with learners earning 30 credits each year through a mix of workplace and classroom learning. It is suitable for a broad spectrum of learners, from recent high school graduates to employees already in the workforce. Learners are supported by various coaches and mentors both at the University and in the workplace to grow in their fields and build meaningful networks. With an opportunity to earn a competitive salary while they study, learners bring fresh ideas, knowledge and skills to help their employers remain competitive.
The design and development of York’s Digital Technologies degree program was a collaborative process between Lassonde and a visionary group of businesses, companies, public sector organizations, and industry associations known as “Trailblazers.” These include Ceridian, CGI, Cinchy Inc., Cisco Canada, Connected (Connected.io, Now part of Thoughtworks), EY Canada, General Motors of Canada Company, IBM Canada, mimik Technology Inc., RBC, Saa Dene Group, Shopify, TELUS Health, Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat and TribalScale Inc. Senior technology experts from these organizations contributed to curriculum and learning outcomes, ensuring the program delivers the required knowledge, skills and professionalism of graduates. CIO Strategy Council and TECHNATION were also instrumental in program design and employer engagement. To learn more about TribalScale, visit their website at https://www.tribalscale.com/.
About TribalScale: Founded in 2015, TribalScale helps local businesses to the world’s largest enterprises identify strategic opportunities to design, build, and release cutting-edge digital solutions. A unique team of skilled individuals, TribalScale operates with the mission to “right the future”, empowering businesses to grow through transformation, building products, establishing a brand, or supporting from the back-end. In its five years of existence TribalScale has amassed over 75 partners world-wide, working with clients such as Nissan, the PGA Tour, iHeart Radio, Radio.com, and John Hancock.
