Equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives at Canadian universities
Memorial University of Newfoundland offers designated seats for qualified applicants
The school of social work stands out at Memorial University of Newfoundland in how it encourages prospective students in underrepresented groups to self-identify in their applications to both undergraduate and graduate programs.
In 2017-18, 31 of 122 applications to the bachelor program self-identified as a person of First Nations, Inuit, Métis or blended ancestry; financially disadvantaged; living with a disability; a member of the LGBTQ2 community; a member of a visible minority; or other.
Of these 31 self-identifying applicants, 16 were eligible and were offered a designated seat, while 15 were deemed ineligible.
Beyond the school of social work, the university has been focused on encouraging Indigenous students to apply for designated seats. In 2009, for example, a presidential task force suggested the school of medicine’s approach for attracting Indigenous students could be a model for other departments.
