About Edmonton

Higher education in the region

MacEwan University (our host for this conference)

Founded in 1971, MacEwan University has a long tradition of learner access and quality education. This comprehensive university, offers more than 60 programs including undergraduate degrees, applied degrees, diplomas, certificates, continuing education and corporate training.  Over the last 40 years, the institution has evolved and grown to become a degree-granting university offering a broad complement of programs. To view a factsheet about MacEwan University please click on the following link:

http://www.macewan.ca/contribute/groups/public/documents/document/macewan_university_fact_sheet.pdf

University of Alberta (our co-host for this conference)

Among Canada's premiere research universities, The University of Alberta has been providing education in many areas for over a hundred years. University of Alberta researchers have been instrumental in the development of insulin, performed the first open-heart surgery, and have been on the cutting edge of research in areas too numerous to mention. Please visit their website for more details:

http://www.ualberta.ca/

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)

Since its establishment in 1962, NAIT has built a reputation for providing outstanding applied education with a human touch. A number of unique programs and strong industry ties make NAIT stand out:

• Two unique baccalaureate programs developed to respond to industry’s needs.
• Twelve apprenticeship programs exclusive to NAIT in Alberta.
• The most nationally accredited engineering and applied science programs in Canada.

In addition, program advisory committees advise NAIT on industry trends and the skills graduates should possess. To find out more about NAIT, please visit:

http://www.nait.ca

Edmonton Research Park

The Edmonton Research Park houses approximately 55 companies collectively employing over 1500 people engaged in advanced research in medicine, biotechnology, software, petroleum research, cold climate engineering, nanotechnology and clean energy among other areas.

Canada's Festival City

Edmonton is home to over 30 festivals every year including its world-renowned Folk Music Festival, International Fringe Festival, Heritage Festival and International Street Performers' Festival. Edmonton's river valley is North America's largest urban park offering year-round recreation opportunities. Less than an hour outside of town is Elk Island National Park where free-roaming herds of bison, moose, elk and 250 species of birds can be seen.

Entertainment

Edmonton is also home to world famous shopping, dining, music, art and theatre, boasting many locations and venues.

For more information about Edmonton, please refer to the website of Edmonton Tourism:

http://www.edmonton.com/for-visitors.aspx