🎓 The Groundbreaking Announcement

In a significant development for higher education in British Columbia, Columbia College and Quest University Canada announced on March 5, 2026, their intent to merge and establish a new university. This collaboration between two longstanding non-profit institutions aims to create a resilient post-secondary entity capable of addressing the province's evolving workforce demands. The proposed new university, whose name is yet to be revealed, represents a fresh chapter in British Columbia higher education, focusing on innovative programs tailored for domestic students amid recent shifts in international enrollment policies.

The announcement comes at a pivotal time for B.C.'s post-secondary landscape. With federal caps on study permits reducing reliance on international students, institutions are pivoting toward serving local learners more effectively. This merger unites Columbia College's established presence in Vancouver with Quest University Canada's pioneering liberal arts model, promising expanded access to quality degrees and credentials.

📜 A Brief History of Columbia College

Founded in 1936, Columbia College has been a cornerstone of independent education in Vancouver. As a not-for-profit institution, it has offered university-transfer programs, associate degrees, and high school completion options for decades. Located in downtown Vancouver, the college has built a reputation for small class sizes, personalized support, and pathways to top B.C. universities such as the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Simon Fraser University.

Over the years, Columbia College has adapted to meet the needs of diverse students, including those seeking affordable alternatives to public universities. Its programs emphasize foundational skills in arts, sciences, and business, preparing graduates for further study or direct workforce entry. This merger builds on that legacy, positioning the new university to scale up degree-granting capabilities under British Columbia's Degree Authorization Act (DAA), which governs private institutions' authority to award credentials.

🏔️ Quest University Canada's Innovative Legacy

Quest University Canada, launched in 2007 in Squamish, was Canada's first secular, non-profit liberal arts and sciences university. Its unique Block Plan structure allowed students to immerse fully in one course for 3.5 weeks, fostering deep engagement and interdisciplinary thinking. Starting with just 73 students, it grew to around 700 by 2017, attracting learners with its focus on self-directed education and real-world application.

Despite its academic successes, Quest faced mounting financial pressures exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and declining enrollments. Operations suspended after the 2022/23 academic year, and the Squamish campus was sold to Capilano University in 2023 for $63.2 million, with government support. Quest maintained its board and leadership as mandated by the University Act, actively seeking revival partners. This strategic merger fulfills that commitment, relocating operations to Vancouver while preserving Quest's spirit of intellectual curiosity.

🔬 Proposed Programs and Curriculum Highlights

The new university's inaugural offerings will include a flagship Bachelor of Arts and Sciences (BASc), structured as two years of foundational studies followed by a self-authored concentration. This mirrors Quest's original model but adapts it for broader appeal. Complementing the BASc are Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees, providing flexible entry points for students exploring career paths.

Specialized programs in allied health fields—such as medical laboratory assistants, health care aides, and therapy support roles—address critical shortages in B.C.'s healthcare sector. These credentials emphasize practical training, small cohorts, and direct workforce transitions. All programs prioritize experienced faculty and quality curriculum, ensuring graduates are workforce-ready.

• Bachelor of Arts and Sciences: Customizable degrees blending liberal arts and sciences.
• Associate of Arts/Science: Transferable credits for university progression.
• Allied Health Diplomas: Hands-on training for in-demand healthcare roles.

By focusing on domestic students, the institution responds to B.C.'s skills gaps in healthcare, technology, and sustainability, as outlined in provincial labor market reports.

Photo by Fotos on Unsplash

🎯 Strategic Goals and Alignment with B.C. Workforce Needs

Leaders from both institutions emphasize sustainability and relevance. Arthur Coren, President of Quest University Canada, stated, “This partnership represents a strategic step forward, better positioning ourselves to expand access to programs that respond to the province’s evolving skills and workforce needs.” Matt Wadsworth, Principal of Columbia College, added, “The new university will prepare the next generation of graduates for meaningful careers.”

The merger addresses broader challenges in B.C. higher education, including funding constraints and demographic shifts. With international student numbers capped—leading to a reported 61% drop in some areas—institutions must innovate for local talent development. The new entity aims to serve communities province-wide, fostering intellectual growth alongside employability. For more on career opportunities in this sector, explore higher education jobs in British Columbia.

Read the full announcement details in the Squamish Chief.

🏙️ New Home in Downtown Vancouver

Unlike Quest's scenic Squamish location, the new university will operate from Columbia College's Vancouver campus. This urban setting offers proximity to industries, cultural hubs, and public transit, enhancing student access and experiential learning. The move avoids past financial burdens tied to remote operations while honoring Squamish's role as Quest's birthplace.

Vancouver's vibrant ecosystem supports partnerships with employers, aligning education with real-world demands. Students can benefit from internships, co-ops, and networking in a major economic center.

⚖️ Navigating Regulatory Approval

The proposal awaits consent from the B.C. Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills under the Degree Authorization Act. This process involves review by the Degree Quality Assessment Board (DQAB), ensuring program quality, financial viability, and governance standards. If approved, classes could commence as early as fall 2026.

Private institutions like this must demonstrate sustainability, a lesson learned from past challenges. For context on B.C.'s regulatory framework, visit the Ministry's Degree Authorization page.

🌍 Broader Impacts on British Columbia Higher Education

This merger signals adaptability in B.C.'s diverse post-secondary system, which includes 26 public institutions and numerous privates. It highlights the role of non-profits in filling gaps left by public universities amid enrollment pressures. By prioritizing domestic access, it supports provincial goals like increasing skilled trades and health workers.

Economic ripple effects include job creation for faculty and staff. Prospective educators can check university jobs for openings as the institution grows. The model may inspire similar collaborations, strengthening B.C.'s reputation for innovative education.

Photo by Kevin LEE on Unsplash

💼 Opportunities for Students, Faculty, and the Community

For students, this means affordable, high-quality options with small classes and career-focused paths. Those undecided on majors will appreciate the flexible BASc. Faculty opportunities abound in teaching and program development, especially in allied health and liberal arts.

• Actionable advice: Review transfer credits via the BC Transfer Guide if switching institutions.
• Parents and advisors: Emphasize the non-profit status for transparent operations.
• Professionals: Consider adjunct roles to shape the curriculum.

Communities gain a resilient education provider committed to local needs. Learn about professor experiences at Rate My Professor.

Explore salary insights at professor salaries and career tips via higher ed career advice.

🔮 Looking Ahead: The Future of the New University

As approval progresses, expect updates on the name, enrollment, and expansions. This partnership exemplifies forward-thinking amid sector turbulence, blending tradition with innovation. It promises to enrich B.C.'s higher education tapestry, preparing graduates for dynamic careers.

In summary, the Columbia College and Quest University merger heralds exciting prospects. Share your thoughts in the comments below. For job seekers, visit higher-ed-jobs, rate professors at Rate My Professor, and discover openings at university jobs. Aspiring academics can post resumes via recruitment services.

Stay informed on B.C. opportunities through higher education news. Whether you're a student, educator, or policymaker, this development underscores the vitality of British Columbia's post-secondary sector.