More than 425 prospective students turn out for first-ever Graduate Programs Open Week

From Oct. 28 to Nov. 1, the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) hosted its first-ever Graduate Programs Open Week, a week-long event designed to connect with undergraduate and graduate students, as well as working professionals, in a meaningful way, and to introduce the more than 225 graduate credentials offered by the university. The week of activities combined both in-person and virtual experiences, creating an engaging and accessible platform for future graduate students.

“Hosting events throughout the week allowed FGS and graduate programs across the university to create a comprehensive, flexible experience for prospective students, enabling them to engage with various programs of graduate studies at UCalgary on their own schedule,” says Bronwyn Farr, manager of graduate recruitment. 

“Graduate Programs Open Week is a strategic opportunity to showcase graduate programs, connect with prospective students, and demystify the application process. It creates a welcoming environment for potential applicants to explore graduate studies, providing direct access to program representatives, faculty members, and current students who can share firsthand insights into academic and campus life.”

A week of interactive learning and exploration

Graduate Programs Open Week offered 10 activities, from informational webinars to in-person tours, drawing attendees from across provinces and attracting international students from different countries. The week ended with more than 425 registrations, reflecting strong interest from prospective students who are eager to explore both course-based and thesis-based graduate programs.

Open Week featured a multitude of themes discussed through engaging webinars, including admission requirements, insights from alumni and the key differences between thesis-based and course-based programs. Participants had the opportunity to experience campus through a guided tour led by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and explored many of UCalgary’s facilities, such as the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape’s City Building Design Lab. Interactive webinars and in-person sessions were hosted by eight different faculties, providing deeper insights into academic life, research opportunities and potential career paths.

Future students and their families also engaged with faculty, staff and current graduate students, making valuable connections while gaining an inside look at the university’s vibrant academic community.

“The program was a success for me. It gave me the information I needed to guide me through the application process,” says one Graduate Programs Open Week participant.

Collaboration fuels success

The success of Open Week was a testament to the collaborative spirit across the UCalgary community. Faculty members, staff and departments came together seamlessly, dedicating their time and expertise to deliver an unforgettable experience for prospective students. This level of teamwork and co-ordination was crucial to providing a rich, engaging event that showcased the best of UCalgary’s graduate offerings.

“Graduate Programs Open Week was an opportunity to connect directly with future graduate students and highlight the remarkable programs and facilities that are offered at UCalgary,” says Dr. Tara Beattie, PhD, dean and vice-provost (Graduate Studies). “Graduate students represent nearly 20 per cent of the University of Calgary student population and we are keen to see that number grow as we support students and working professionals as they decide to take the next step in their academic and professional journeys.”

The Faculty of Graduate Studies inaugural Open Week was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse group of prospective graduate students and showcasing the collaborative strength of our university community. The enthusiasm and engagement from participants set a strong foundation for future Open Weeks, with even more opportunities to connect and inspire the next generation of graduate students.

Stay connected with future events

If you missed Graduate Programs Open Week or want to stay informed about upcoming events, be sure to sign up for the GRADexplorer newsletter for more opportunities to learn about UCalgary’s diverse and innovative graduate programs.