University of Regina president Dr. Jeff Keshen, left, and North West College president and CEO Dr. Eli Ahlquist, second from left, along with other officials, sign agreements to deliver a full Bachelor of Education program in northwest Saskatchewan. (submitted/North West College)

By battlefordsNOW staff

EDUCATION

North West College to deliver full education degree through U of R partnership

Jan 15, 2026 | 2:50 PM

Students in northwest Saskatchewan will soon be able to complete an entire Bachelor of Education degree closer to home through a new partnership between North West College (NWC) and the University of Regina.

The two institutions have signed an agreement that will see NWC deliver the full Bachelor of Education program, expanding access to teacher training in rural and Indigenous communities across the region.

The program is designed to respond to a growing demand for qualified educators in rural and remote areas by reducing barriers to post-secondary education and allowing students to train and remain in their home communities, NWC stated in a statement issued Thursday.

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Under the agreement, NWC will deliver the entire program locally, with coursework reflecting the realities of teaching in regional communities. The program will emphasize rural and remote learner experiences and aim to prepare graduates to be “classroom-ready, community-connected and culturally responsive.”

“This partnership is a significant milestone for education in northwest Saskatchewan,” said NWC president and CEO Dr. Eli Ahlquist.

“By delivering the full Bachelor of Education program locally – and offering a block transfer option for eligible students – North West College is removing barriers and creating clear career pathways into teaching,” he said, adding the program responds directly to educator shortages in the region.

University of Regina president Dr. Jeff Keshen said the agreement builds on an existing relationship between the two institutions.

“Delivering the Bachelor of Education program in the region is another successful example of how the University of Regina and North West College are working together to ensure that future teachers can prepare for their careers close to their home communities,” he said.

The Bachelor of Education program is scheduled to launch in September 2026. NWC said students interested in the program are encouraged to contact the college for information on admissions requirements, enrollment timelines and upcoming information sessions.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com