Holland College suspends 8 programs, citing drop in revenue caused by foreign student caps

Prince Edward Island's biggest community college is phasing out eight programs for the coming school year because of a drop in revenue from "a sharp decrease in the college's international student enrolment." 

Charlottetown-based Holland College says three other programs are being downsized because enrolment numbers have dropped. Those programs were not named in a statement issued late Friday afternoon. 

"While we regret having to take this unprecedented step, we must respond to these new realities to maintain the integrity and viability of our programs and ensure our long-term financial sustainability," Holland College president and CEO Sandy MacDonald was quoted as staying

Students already on Prince Edward Island and enrolled in the eight programs being dropped will be able to finish their second year, but no new students will be accepted for September, the college said. 

The eight affected programs are:

The cuts will affect 35 staff members, the college said, adding: "Those who are affected have been notified, and the college is working to ensure that they are supported as they transition."

The college estimates that it's facing an 83 per cent decrease in its foreign student enrolment because of two federal moves in 2024 design to decrease pressure on Canada's housing markets. The result for Holland College is "$7 million in lost tuition and fees annually," the statement said.

The first federal measure was a cap on the number of study permits that can be issued overall in Canada, with each post-secondary institution allowed to offer only so many admission letters. 

As well, Holland College said, "in order to be eligible for a post-graduation work permit, students must have graduated from a program that has been deemed to be in a field where there is a labour force shortage.

"Fewer than half of Holland College's programs have been deemed to be an acceptable field of study by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, and programs that are not approved are less attractive to international students," the statement said.

"Although domestic enrolment may increase slightly, the increase cannot cover the losses the college will suffer because of IRCC's policy changes." 

Holland College said it was talking with the provincial government about its funding model after receiving extra money from that source last year, but would also need to take action on other fronts to reduce costs.

"These measures include a reduction in program staffing and administrative positions and attrition through retirements and vacant positions. We are also engaged in energy-saving measures across our campuses to reduce utilities expenses, vendor contract negotiations to secure better rates and terms, and streamlining administrative processes to improve efficiency and reduce redundancy."