As demand for health care services grows, Alberta is supporting post-secondary institutions as they prepare learners for in-demand careers. At Bow Valley College, $5 million will support the development of a proposal for a potential Health Care Centre of Excellence. This funding will advance the design, refine the project scope and develop more detailed cost estimates. The results will provide a stronger basis for assessing the proposal and potential next steps. The funding will move the proposal into a more detailed phase, allowing Bow Valley College to assess how its vision could translate into expanded health care education and training opportunities.
Bow Valley College currently offers programs for careers as practical nurses, psychiatric nurses, pharmacy technicians, health care aides, interdisciplinary therapy assistants and recreation therapy aides, and in mental health and addiction services. A Health Care Centre of Excellence could expand training in these and other fields, helping grow the health care workforce Alberta needs.
“Albertans need more health care professionals, and that starts with training them here at home. This $5 million will help Bow Valley College build a strong plan for a Health Care Centre of Excellence, so we can make smart decisions about preparing students for the careers our health system needs most.”
“This investment brings us one step closer to improving access to care for Albertans and strengthening Alberta’s health care workforce. Bow Valley College’s Health Care Centre of Excellence will expand training opportunities and give students access to modern learning environments with more hands-on experience, helping prepare graduates to serve communities across Alberta.”
Through this investment, Alberta is helping strengthen connections between post-secondary education and future workforce needs.
Quick facts
- Alberta’s 2025–2035 Occupational Outlook projects significant shortages across health occupations, pointing to continued demand for skilled professionals.
- Bow Valley College offers a range of health care education and training programs that prepare learners for careers in the sector.
- Bow Valley College’s proposed centre could include specialized health care labs, simulation spaces and classrooms, subject to planning outcomes and future funding decisions.