Aurora College

Aurora College has been providing education and training for Northerners for nearly 50 years. From its roots as a technical-vocational school operating out of Fort Smith, NT, Aurora College has grown into an institution that offers a broad spectrum of adult and post-secondary programs ranging from Developmental Studies to trades, certificate, diploma, and degree programs. Aurora College programs are developed and chosen to meet the needs of individuals, communities and the labour market. Through the Aurora Research Institute, Aurora College is responsible for scientific activity and innovation that responds to Northern priorities. The College’s goal is to deliver programs and courses as close to communities as possible. This is achieved through a network of three regional campuses – located in Fort Smith, Inuvik and Yellowknife – as well as 23 Community Learning Centres across the Northwest Territories. The programs and services delivered provide students the vocation and professional skills, communication skills and life skills required for success in their chosen careers. Aurora College serves a population of 41,000 dispersed across 1.3 million square kilometres in 33 communities. The majority of Aurora College students are Aboriginal, and many are from small, remote communities. Aurora College is focused on student success and is committed to supporting the development of Northern society through excellence in education, training and research, while always remaining culturally sensitive and responsive to the people served.

Fast Facts

• In any given year, the equivalent of 10 percent of the adult population of the NWT is enrolled in a class, course, program, or workshop delivered by Aurora College.
• Nearly 300 Registered Nurses have graduated from our programs, many of whom continue to reside and work in the north.
• Teacher Education (now Bachelor of Education) has been offered, in partnership with University of Saskatchewan, since 1968.
• Traditional Knowledge is a component of a number of research projects overseen by the Aurora Research Institute.
• The first program offered at Aurora College was Heavy Equipment Operator; it is still one of the most popular and well subscribed courses offered.