Algoma University Ranks Last in Maclean’s University Rankings Again

Algoma University has received the lowest ranking in the Maclean’s magazine survey for the second consecutive year, placing 20th out of 20 primarily undergraduate institutions in Canada. This annual ranking assesses universities across several categories, including reputation, student services, and faculty awards. Algoma’s performance in these categories has raised concerns, particularly in reputation, where it ranked last based on surveys of faculty, administrators, and employers.

The university finished at the bottom in seven out of twelve metrics used by Maclean’s. In addition to its overall reputation, Algoma had poor showings in student awards, faculty awards, and the student-faculty ratio, which measures full-time students against full-time faculty members. It also ranked last in categories such as library expenses and grants for social sciences and humanities.

Despite these challenges, Algoma University excelled in specific areas, notably in scholarships and bursaries. The institution allocated more of its budget to these offerings than any other primarily undergraduate university. Algoma also led in the operating budget category, with expenditures per full-time student reaching $43,826. This figure is nearly $20,000 more than the second-ranked St. Thomas University in Fredericton, New Brunswick.

Currently, Algoma University has approximately 4,482 students enrolled, significantly down from last year’s total of around 9,000. This decline is attributed to a 60 percent drop in international students, resulting from federal government-imposed enrolment caps.

When addressing the university’s reputational score, a spokesperson acknowledged that the ranking is expected, citing the university’s relatively recent establishment. “Algoma’s reputational ranking remains relatively low, which is expected for a young and growing university,” the spokesperson stated. Established as an independent institution in 2008, Algoma is one of Canada’s smallest universities, with a specific focus as an access university.

The university’s administration believes that as it develops a national profile, broader recognition of its strengths will follow. “We’re particularly excited that Maclean’s has recognized Algoma University as the best public university in Canada for scholarship opportunities,” the spokesperson added.

In response to its low rankings, university officials expressed pride in being included in the top 20 primarily undergraduate universities. They emphasized their commitment to creating a supportive environment for students, referencing investments in Learning and Accessibility Services to meet growing student needs.

Officials noted that categories like student services reflect budget allocations rather than the effectiveness of the services themselves. “Algoma continues to invest strategically in areas that respond to evolving student needs,” they stated, highlighting ongoing enhancements to systems aimed at better supporting students.

As Algoma University navigates its challenges, it remains focused on fostering a supportive community for its students, aiming to improve its standing in future rankings.