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Our History

Established in Sault Ste. Marie in 1965 as Algoma College, Algoma University was initially an affiliate of Sudbury's Laurentian University. In 1967, Algoma College began offering classes in a portable building located on the site of what is now Sault College. Algoma College moved into its current location, the former Shingwauk Residential School building, in 1971.

shingwauk hall in the sun

In 2008, after operating as Algoma University College for many years, Algoma University was granted its charter, achieving full autonomous university status as Ontario’s 19th University. The Algoma University Act, 2008 was amended in 2021 to authorize Algoma University to grant graduate degrees, certificates, and diplomas in any and all branches of teaching and learning. Algoma University now offers over 30 academic programs across three unique campuses (Brampton, Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins) in a range of diverse fields and through four faculties: Faculty of Business and Economics, Faculty of Cross-Cultural Studies, Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences and Faculty of Science.

The provincial Shingwauk Education Trust (SET) gives ownership of a portion of the site to Anishinaabek people, and Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig (SKG), one of nine provincially recognized Indigenous institutes of higher learning is located on the property. SKG provides academic programs, workshops and seminars on the site which reflect the Anishinaabe worldview, distinguished by Anishinaabe ways of learning and knowing.

In 2006, Algoma signed a Covenant with SET to reinforce the important work being done for the benefit of all students of Algoma and Shingwauk on the site. In 2018, Algoma University, SET, and SKG reaffirmed their partnership and mutual understanding by signing an addendum to the original Covenant. The addendum reinforces the strong commitment by all parties to work closely together to provide quality education to Anishinaabe students and to students of all cultural backgrounds while working in partnership to serve as leaders during this time dedicated by Canada as a period of truth, healing and reconciliation.

Former students of the Shingwauk Residential School formed the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association whose mission is to provide for the well-being of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni who are former students of the Shingwauk and Wawanosh Indian Residential Schools, their families and their communities. The CSAA facilitates the ongoing development of a partnership with Algoma University and the other partners in fulfilling Chief Shingwauk’s vision of “Sharing, Healing and Learning.”  

Our Values

We celebrate the values, personalities, and convictions that make each of us unique - because they also bring us together.

When you look back at your Algoma U experience, our hope is that it will be defined by more than what you’ve learned in the classroom. That’s why we are heavily focused on campus culture, vibrant programming, research and innovation, Anishinaabe Inendamowin, and overall institutional excellence. This is a place where you’ll connect with the most diverse student body in Ontario. Where you’ll benefit from dedicated and caring faculty. Where you’ll find your true self and more.

students at pep rally
Anishinaabe Learning

To encourage a cross-cultural experience, Algoma offers numerous opportunities for all students to experience Anishinaabe culture.

Events and programming are delivered to encourage student success and help promote and celebrate Anishinaabe culture on campus. Opportunities include the Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow, Anishinaabe Speaker Series, sharing circles, ceremonial feasts/soup & bannock days, elders’/youth gatherings, a ceremonial arbour, visiting elders, two unique programs such as Anishinaabe Inendamowin and Anishinaabe Studies, the Anishinaabe Research Symposium, “Gdo Akiiminaan Ganawendandaan” (Taking Care of our Land) Symposium, and many more.

anishinaabe students in traditional Anishinaabe regalia
students on campus
Students

Algoma University offers a wide range of cultural, academic and social activities that make for a unique, meaningful and life-changing experience for every student.

student and professor talking
Academics

Our faculty will know you by name, and will provide personal attention and a commitment to your success both inside and outside of the classroom.

students in computer lab wearing vr headset
Research

Students have ample opportunities to develop solid research skills in a very supportive, dynamic and creative environment that is linked to our community and the world.