Acadia University recently signed an exciting new articulation agreement with Yukon University. The new agreement allows YukonU Earth Sciences students to directly enter into their third year of Geology or Environmental Geoscience at Acadia.

Currently, 83% of students in the two-year diploma program at YukonU go on to turn their diploma into a four-year degree. This new articulation agreement provides those students a smooth path forward with Acadia.

Students on both sides of the equation have something to gain from the new agreement.

“I think it's a really great opportunity for YukonU students because they get a guaranteed way into a degree program without the stress of having to worry about how you transfer things,” Dr. Deanne van Rooyen (Earth and Environmental Science) said in an interview with CBC.

Dr. van Rooyen says that for Acadia students, “it's wonderful because it brings new students with new perspectives and new lived experience—and our students learn a lot from that. It really adds something, especially with students coming from such a different geographical area. They're going to be very interested to learn from the Yukon students.”

The agreement will enhance the education and network opportunities for both existing Acadia students and the incoming students from Yukon University. Students will get to expand their horizons by learning from each other, and they’ll get to expand their circles with new friends and connections up North.

Dr. van Rooyen hopes that the cross-country conversations between students will spark an interest in expanding the areas that Acadia students will apply for jobs post graduation.

“We pride ourselves on the hands-on, student-centric approach that cements strong foundations in geoscience,” says Dr. Joel Cubley, Associate Professor of Earth Sciences at YukonU in their announcement of the agreement.

“Acadia similarly prioritizes the undergraduate student experience and has a long track record of producing quality geoscientists. Alignment in our philosophies is partly what makes this partnership so enticing. The joint experience, bridging both sides of the continent, will be an excellent educational opportunity for our graduates.”

“Our small classes and hands-on learning in Nova Scotia’s unique natural setting offers students meaningful and engaging educational opportunities,” adds Dr. van Rooyen. “This agreement will provide excellent options for YukonU students to complete their undergraduate experience, and our programs will be enriched by the experiences and perspectives they bring to the Acadia campus. We look forward to this partnership and are excited to foster collaboration and connections with YukonU.”

So, welcome to Wolfville, YukonU students! We’re excited to compare our rock collections.