On May 29, 2025, FH’s guidance department was invited of attending the Guidance Counselor Conference at York University Markham Campus. This event offered a first-hand look at how York is shaping the future of post-secondary education through innovation, hands-on experience, and industry integration.
1. About York University
Founded in 1959, York University is one of Canada’s leading comprehensive research universities. With over 55,000 students from 180+ countries, York is home to 11 faculties.
For the YorkU Markham campus, it opened in 2024 and it is situated in one of the GTA’s fastest-growing tech cities. This campus represents a new model of education — one that brings industry, technology, and community into the classroom.
Key Features:
- Strong industry partnerships (IBM, AMD, GE, Aviva, CIBC, etc.)
- Programs designed with Work-Integrated Learning in mind
- High-tech infrastructure: Visualization studio, Media Creation Studio, AR/VR labs
- Academic focus: Digital technology, business innovation, data science, health tech
2. What We Learned: Co-op and the Digital Technologies Program
During the main presentation, York’s Co-op and Student Services team shared details about the university’s extensive Co-op opportunities, even in programs that may not directly indicate it on the OUAC application system. Available CO-OP faculties are:
- Lassonde School of Engineering
- Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies
- Faculty of Science
- Faculty of Health
- EUC (Environmental & Urban Change)
- Markham Campus programs
Digital Technologies Program – A Canadian First
One of the day’s highlights was the in-depth introduction to the Digital Technologies Program, a 4-year “Earn While You Learn” full-time work-based degree under Lassonde.
Program Details:
- Bachelor of Applied Science
- Students work full-time with companies (e.g., IBM, Toronto Hydro)
- 30 credits/year: Part academic, part evaluated job experience
- Weekly self-study time + six on-campus week-long intensives
- Applicants must secure a job offer to be admitted
3. Campus Tour: Visualization & Media Studios
We had the chance to explore two standout facilities on campus:
– Visualization Studio
A stunning 18-screen video wall used for:
- High-res exploration of classical art
- Professors’ lectures & research visualization
- Movie nights, video games, and interactive learning
- We even played GeoGuessr, a geography game using Google Street View scenes!
– Media Creation Studio
Fully equipped with:
- Professional filming and podcasting tools
- VR/AR headsets and immersive simulators
These spaces empower students to engage in real-world digital media production and creative innovation.
FH: Your Trusted Post-Secondary Guide
At FH, our guidance team is committed to helping students navigate their post-secondary journey with confidence. We stay up to date with evolving programs like those at YorkU to offer the most relevant, personalized advice.
We believe in matching each student’s interests and strengths with the right academic path. Whether it’s applying for Co-op programs, unique degrees like Digital Technologies, or choosing between universities, we’re here to help.