Projects
Projects
2025-26 Institutional Projects
In 2025-26, ONCAT awarded funding to the following 27 institutional projects:
ONCAT COLLABORATION GRANTS support the development and implementation of learner-centric policies, practices and pathways across multiple postsecondary institutions or the entire postsecondary sector.
Building a Multi-University Network for Course Sharing
Lead institution: Queen’s University
Partner organizations: Carleton University, McMaster University, Trent University, University of Guelph, University of Ottawa, University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, Western University, York University
Project summary: Builds a network of language courses across a group of Ontario universities. By harmonizing academic content and streamlining enrolment processes, learners across the province can access a wide range of courses that seamlessly transfer to their home institution.
Establishing Transfer Pathways for Francophone Programs in Northern Ontario
Lead institution: Université Laurentienne
Partner organizations: Collège Boréal
Project summary: Establishes new transfer pathways between postsecondary institutions that deliver business programs in French. This project will expand access to educational opportunities for francophone learners, strengthen the bilingual workforce in Northern Ontario and support labour market needs in several industries.
Bridging Pathways Between Engineering Technology and Accredited Engineering Programs
Lead institution: Queen’s University
Partner organizations: University of Windsor, York University
Project summary: Pilots new bridging pathways between engineering technology and accredited engineering programs. By collaborating with multiple institutions and developing a framework to monitor student outcomes, this project will increase the number of dual-qualified engineering graduates in high-demand fields.
Establishing Transfer Pathways for Film Studies and Production
Lead institution: Wilfrid Laurier University
Partner organizations: Durham College, George Brown College, Humber Polytechnic, Sheridan College
Project summary: Establishes college-to-university transfer pathways in film studies and production. Through this project’s sharing of institutional resources, students will not only save time and money for their education but also gain more skills for careers in Ontario’s thriving film and television industry.
Supporting the Transferability of Francophone Courses
Lead institution: University of Windsor
Partner organizations: University of Ottawa
Project summary: Creates administrative processes that allow for the seamless acceptance of transfer credits from online French-language courses delivered by multiple universities. The project will pilot a model that could be scaled across more programs, strengthening bilingual employability in Ontario.
Developing an Implementation Plan for the Ontario Transfer Credit System
Lead institution: University of Guelph
Partner organizations: Algoma University, Lakehead University, Laurentian University, Nipissing University, OCAD University, Trent University
Project summary: Develops a standardized process for postsecondary institutions to implement the Ontario Transfer Credit System. Sector-wide adoption of ONTCS will reduce application costs and waiting times for learners interested in transferring between institutions or returning to postsecondary programs after a pause in their studies.
ONCAT CAPACITY GRANTS support the development and implementation of learner-centric policies, practices and pathways at a single postsecondary institution.
Developing a Pre-Screening Tool for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Seneca Polytechnic
Project summary: Develops a pre-screening tool for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. By leveraging technology to identify potential credit recognition and program requirements, the project will empower learners to better understand their options for postsecondary studies and career outcomes.
Supporting Upskilling Opportunities for Healthcare Professions
Lead institution: Fanshawe College
Project summary: Supports upskilling opportunities within the healthcare sector by formalizing transfer pathways and expanding access to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. By recognizing prior work experience, this project helps bolster workforce capacity in healthcare professions.
Empowering Learner Mobility by Offering Digital Credentials
Lead institution: McMaster University
Project summary: Implements a digital credential management system to streamline the distribution and verification of official documents. The project empowers learner ability by providing secure and centralized access to academic records, making it easier and faster to transfer between postsecondary institutions.
Reducing Barriers to Postsecondary Programs through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Durham College
Project summary: Creates a repository of Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition materials to expedite reviews for applicants with years of work experience. Improved PLAR efficiency will reduce the investment of time and money required by learners to gain additional education before returning to the labour market.
Establishing a Diploma-to-Degree Transfer Pathway for Paramedicine
Lead institution: Centennial College
Project summary: Establishes a framework for transfer pathways from two-year diploma programs to three-year degree programs in paramedicine. In alignment with evolving care standards and labour market needs, this project will create equitable transfer opportunities for diploma graduates from across Ontario.
Expanding Access to Co-operative Education for Transfer Students
Lead institution: Brock University
Project summary: Develops policies that help transfer students access co-operative education experiences. By considering the needs of transfer students in the design of work-integrated learning opportunities, the project will support successful transitions to employment in related industries.
Creating Transferable Land-Based Learning Modules
Lead institution: Shingwauk Teaching Lodge
Project summary: Creates credit-bearing, land-based learning modules that recognize Indigenous-led experiential education as transferable within Ontario’s postsecondary system. The modules will be co-designed with community partners to improve learner mobility and broaden access to culturally grounded education.
Streamlining Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition for Military-Connected Learners
Lead institution: Algonquin College
Project summary: Streamlines the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition process for military-connected learners. By recognizing the skills and competencies that are acquired via military training and experiences, this project facilitates successful transitions to postsecondary programs.
Removing Barriers to Admission and Expanding Transfer Opportunities
Lead institution: York University
Project summary: Improves learner mobility by converting admission pre-requisites into co-requisites for courses required by numerous in-demand programs. This project will not only remove barriers to admission for qualified applicants but also create more flexible scheduling options for transfer students.
Integrating Data Sources to Improve the Transfer Student Experience
Lead institution: Georgian College
Project summary: Improves the accuracy, consistency and timeliness of transfer-related information, from application through to registration. By integrating data from several sources, the project will ensure that mobile learners are appropriately identified and supported throughout their postsecondary journey.
Implementing Digital Credentials to Support Students
Lead institution: Algoma University
Project summary: Implements a digital credential management system to issue and manage transcripts, letters and other official documents. The project streamlines administrative processes, reduces costs and enhances student supports for students.
Broadening Access to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition in General Education
Lead institution: Mohawk College
Project summary: Develops a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition process to align with themes that fulfill General Education requirements. By recognizing learning from previous employment and community experiences, this project will make PLAR more efficient, inclusive and accessible to learners.
Building Capacity for Transfer Student Success
Lead institution: Nipissing University
Project summary: Builds capacity for the data infrastructure system used to monitor the enrolment and academic progress of transfer students. By improving digital systems, the project will facilitate coordination between departments and foster a more cohesive strategy for supporting transfer student success.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to Improve Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Humber Polytechnic
Project summary: Leverages artificial intelligence to improve Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition processes. By rapidly reviewing applicants’ prior learning, the system will create personalized assessments that identify options to earn postsecondary credentials and transition to the labour market.
Drawing on Indigenous Ways of Knowing for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Collège Boréal
Project summary: Adapts tools for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition by integrating Indigenous knowledge and teaching methods. Through workshops and consultations, the project will create inclusive processes that provide students with more equitable recognition for their diverse learning and work experiences.
Enhancing Digital Credentials to Support Employment Transitions
Lead institution: Carleton University
Project summary: Enhances the functionality of a digital credential management system. By incorporating features that allow students to securely send transcripts and other official documents to employers, the project will expedite verification of credentials and accelerate entry to the labour market.
Automating Workflows for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: St. Clair College
Project summary: Leverages integration with the student information system to automate Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition workflows. Through the creation of a central dashboard, the project aims to reduce processing time by 50%, improving student satisfaction and accelerating enrolment decisions.
Establishing Transfer Pathways from General Arts and Science Diplomas
Lead institution: University of Toronto Mississauga
Project summary: Establishes transfer pathways from two-year General Arts and Science diploma programs into four-year, university-level degree programs. The development of standardized transfer pathways will reduce administrative barriers and help learners move seamlessly from college to university.
Enhancing Transfer Credit Database to Support Learner Mobility
Lead institution: Durham College
Project summary: Enhances the functionality of a transfer credit database. By integrating application data with student information systems, the project will provide faster access to potential credit recognition and program requirements, empowering learners to make informed decisions about their options.
INDIGENOUS INSTITUTES TRANSFER GRANTS support the development and implementation of learner-centric policies, practices and pathways at a single Indigenous Institute.
Expanding Access to Postsecondary Studies for Indigenous Learners
Lead institution: FNTI
Project summary: Improves learner mobility for Indigenous learners by considering the knowledge acquired via professional experiences as equivalent to traditional admission prerequisites. By recognizing prior learning, this project will expand access to postsecondary studies and support entry to the labour market.
Strengthening Transfer Pathway Opportunities to Healthcare for Indigenous Learners
Lead institution: Six Nations Polytechnic
Project summary: Establishes transfer pathways to healthcare-related programs for Indigenous learners. By developing new academic resources and improving administrative processes, the project helps Indigenous students move from foundational studies programs into advanced healthcare-related programs that lead to in-demand careers.
2024-25 Institutional Projects
In 2024-25, ONCAT awarded funding to the following 29 institutional projects:
ONCAT COLLABORATION GRANTS support the development and implementation of learner-centric policies, practices and pathways across multiple postsecondary institutions or the entire postsecondary sector.
Expanding Pathways for Engineering Technology and Engineering Programs
Lead institution: Queen's University
Partner organizations: University of Windsor, York University
Project summary: Develops new pathways between engineering technology and accredited engineering programs. By sharing capacity-building resources across the sector, the project will increase student access to in-demand labour market sectors across Ontario.
Creating Engineering Pathways for Military-connected Learners
Lead institution: Lakehead University
Partner organization: Georgian College
Project summary: Develops specialized pathways for military-connected learners to enrol in accredited Bachelor of Engineering programs. By recognizing the skills and experiences from the Canadian Armed Forces, the project will expand access to programs that support in-demand labour market sectors.
Developing Degree Completion Pathways
Lead institution: Conestoga College
Partner organizations: Algonquin College and the participation of multiple colleges
Project summary: Develops seamless 3-year degree completion pathways for graduates of high affinity advanced diploma programs. The collaborative, province-wide standardization of these degrees will expand opportunities to high-quality postsecondary education that meets the demands of today’s job market.
Building Pathways: Kinesiology to Massage Therapy
Lead institution: Ontario Tech University
Partner organization: Durham College
Project summary: Builds pathway opportunities from Kinesiology to Massage Therapy programs. By developing new course materials, the pathway will reduce the time required to complete a second program—helping learners enter the labour market sooner.
Expanding Pathways for Education-related Programs
Lead institution: Lakehead University
Partner organizations: Confederation College, Georgian College
Project summary: Expands pathway opportunities for Education-related diploma and degree programs. By supporting learners from Central and Northern Ontario with pathways into the Keewatinase Indigenous Teacher Education program, the project improves access to postsecondary education and in-demand careers.
Building Frameworks for Degree Pathways and Work Experience Recognition
Lead institution: Conestoga College
Partner organizations: Algonquin College and the participation of multiple colleges
Project summary: Builds sector-wide frameworks for diploma-to-degree pathways in business and applied computing programming programs. By developing assessments to recognize work experience, the project will reduce barriers for students and graduates seeking to upgrade their postsecondary credentials.
Developing Pathways for Architecture Programs
Lead institution: Laurentian University
Partner organization: Collège Boréal
Project summary: Analyzes the viability of developing pathways for architecture programs, especially within the context of professional accreditations. The project will explore ways to help students prepare for in-demand careers related to architecture, construction and housing.
Actualizing Indigenous Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Lakehead University
Partner organizations: Six Nations Polytechnic, Canadore College, Kiikenomaga Kikenjigewen Employment & Training Services
Project summary: Facilitates the co-creation of Indigenous Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition knowledge and strategies. The project will support the multi-institutional development of policies and practices that promote culturally relevant postsecondary education for Indigenous learners.
ONCAT CAPACITY GRANTS support the development and implementation of learner-centric policies, practices and pathways at a single postsecondary institution.
Improving Program Delivery to Enhance Learner Mobility
Lead institution: St. Clair College
Project summary: Improves program delivery to enhance accessibility and learner mobility. By modularizing courses, standardizing assessments, developing bridging resources and leveraging online platforms, the project will create flexible pathways that support student success.
Updating Transfer Credit Databases, Processes and Resources
Lead institution: University of Ottawa
Project summary: Updates transfer credit databases, streamlines administrative processes and improves communications resources. By creating new webpages and including transfer information in admissions offers, the project will facilitate seamless transitions for students.
Enhancing Transfer Pathways and Course Equivalency Database
Lead institution: Georgian College
Project summary: Enhances student mobility by developing and integrating transfer pathways and course equivalency databases and processes with ONTransfer. Through collaboration and data sharing, this initiative will empower students to make informed decisions about their transfer options.
Developing Evidence-informed Practices for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Humber Polytechnic
Project summary: Develops evidence-informed resources for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. By implementing new strategies and practices for PLAR advising, this project will help more learners access postsecondary opportunities that advance their professional goals.
Transfer Credit Database Expansion
Lead institution: Durham College
Project summary: Expands the functionality of a transfer credit database. By beginning a process to shift transfer credit assessments from post-admission to pre-admission, the project aims to provide students with clearer information about postsecondary options.
Continuing Education to Support Learner Mobility and Labour Market Outcomes
Lead institution: Canadore College
Project summary: Tracks the academic progress and post-graduation outcomes for Continuing Education students. With a focus on learners from rural communities and underrepresented groups, the project will promote alignment between education programs and labour market needs.
Continuing Studies: Transfer Credits and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: University of Guelph
Project summary: Develops new policies and tools to consider Continuing Studies programs for transfer credits and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. By improving the transparency and speed of evaluation processes, the project will help students accomplish their educational goals.
Expediting Transfer Assessments for Healthcare Programs
Lead institution: Michener Institute at UHN
Project summary: Expedites credit transfer assessment for students applying to direct entry healthcare programs. By developing a process to identify eligible transfer credits as part of the admission letters, the project will help students make informed decisions about education and career pathways.
Developing a Toolkit for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Fanshawe College
Project summary: Develops a comprehensive toolkit for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. By reviewing the challenges associated with current institutional processes, the project will engage faculty members and create resources that support student success and mobility.
Empowering Transfer Students: Strategies for Academic and Social Integration
Lead institution: Trent University
Project summary: Launches community-building and outreach initiatives that will empower transfer students during their transitions to a new institution. The project will develop academic resources and expand support programs for transfer students.
Innovation in Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Université de Hearst
Project summary: Develops and implement a comprehensive framework for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. By enhancing the process to validate skills and experiences, the project provides learners with more flexible options to pursue postsecondary education.
Developing Healthcare-related Pathways
Lead institution: George Brown College
Project summary: Develops healthcare-related curriculum within programs that support newcomers and English as a Second Language. By focusing on content related to healthcare careers, the project will help learners successfully pursue pathways into postsecondary programs that support in-demand labour market sectors.
Engaging Faculty to Support Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Loyalist College
Project summary: Creates resources that support faculty engagement with policies and practices related to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. By expanding PLAR awareness across the institution, this project will promote flexible, responsive and equitable access to postsecondary education.
Highlighting Postsecondary Pathways for Francophone and Bilingual Students
Lead institution: Collège La Cité
Project summary: Updates a website that provides information about pathway opportunities. By modernizing the website with resources related to transfer and mobility, the project will help Francophone and bilingual learners continue their postsecondary education and reach their career goals.
Embracing A Two-Eyed Seeing Approach to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Lead institution: Brock University
Project summary: Implements culturally relevant assessment practices for admission and advanced standing. By creating resources that support Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition, the project will increase opportunities for Indigenous learners to access postsecondary programs.
Improving Transfer Opportunities for Francophone and Bilingual Students
Lead institution: Laurentian University
Project summary: Reviews a framework for articulation agreements between institutions that deliver French-language programs. By updating credit recognition analyses, the project will facilitate more opportunities for Francophone and bilingual students to pursue their educational and professional goals.
Academic Transition Program Review and Development
Lead institution: University of Guelph
Project summary: Identifies effective practices for supporting learners who do not meet standard admission requirements. The project will provide recommendations for reducing postsecondary barriers and redesigning academic transition programs.
Building Campus Capacity to Support Transfer Students
Lead institution: York University
Project summary: Strengthens capacity among campus partners to understand the unique circumstances and challenges faced by transfer students. The project will build a transfer-receptive culture that supports students’ transitions and academic success.
Pathways to Postsecondary through Community-Based Prior Learning Evaluations
Lead institution: Mohawk College
Project summary: Supports Black, Indigenous and racialized youth by awarding micro-credentials that can be applied for credit toward a college certificate. The project will enhance a framework for community-based prior learning and improve the accessibility of postsecondary education.
INDIGENOUS INSTITUTES TRANSFER GRANTS support the development and implementation of learner-centric policies, practices and pathways at a single Indigenous Institute.
Strengthening University Partnerships to Support Learner Mobility
Lead institution: Six Nations Polytechnic
Project summary: Establishes a structured system to support students in first-year pathway programs. By strengthening university partnerships, enhancing student tracking and developing transition resources, the project aims to improve student success and create more opportunities for learner mobility.
Developing Frameworks for Admissions and Assessment
Lead institution: FNTI
Project summary: Develops a framework for the evaluation of transfer credits and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. By creating transfer guidelines rooted in Indigenous pedagogy, the project will empower learners to navigate their postsecondary and career journeys.
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