Georgian College announced on Sept. 26 that it will consolidate its Orillia and Muskoka campuses into the Barrie campus next year. The decision comes after a review of efficiencies, enrolment, labour-market trends, community impact and the college’s financial realities.
Georgian creates value in many ways. We play a vital role in the growth and sustainability of our region and province’s talent pipeline with more than 130 market-driven programs that are responsive, address critical skills gaps and workforce shortages, and anticipate employer demands.
A recognized leader in student work experience, with 100% of our programs emphasizing hands-on experience and most offering a formal work-integrated opportunity, ranging from paid co-op terms to internships and field placements.
We’re committed to keeping accountable to those we serve, sharing the contributions we’re making, and being transparent about how we’re proactively responding to and anticipating the challenges and needs of our constituents.
This is a period of significant ambiguity, uncertainty and disruption at the college, across the postsecondary sector and industry, and in our lives. Georgian continues to meet the challenges we face with curiosity, determination, imagination and a steadfast commitment to those we serve.
We’re focused – as we always are – on leading with creative solutions, reframing obstacles as opportunities, tapping into our resourcefulness, and strengthening our organizational resilience and sustainability.
We know our future rests on our ability to innovate. This means stepping outside our comfort zone as a college – just like we expect of our students. It also means reimagining and redefining what teaching, learning, working – and, ultimately, serving you – looks like.
At the same time, chronic underfunding, compounded by significant revenue loss due to measures introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada in 2024, have resulted in us having to make some tough choices.
As the college continues to undergo transformation, we’re dedicated to keeping you informed:
Nothing guides us more during complex times than having a strong strategic plan. Georgian’s plan, Game-changing Innovation: Flourishing Students. Thriving Communities., outlines how we’ll remain at the forefront of transformative, career-focused education, deliver immersive and unrivaled experiences, and amplify our influence and impact. At its core? Our people – you.
At Georgian, our biggest strength is our people. Our students, alumni, employees and partners consistently strive for excellence, bring unique gifts and strengths to the college, and advance our mission to transform lives.
Our teaching, learning and working environment is refreshingly authentic, grounded in diverse perspectives and personalized supports. We strive for inclusive campuses where everyone feels seen, heard, valued, knows they belong and matter – where every voice and perspective are welcome.
We profoundly care about our communities, workplaces, planet and each other. Through learning outcomes, applied research, collaborative partnerships and projects on issues that matter to our constituents, we’re developing and leading solutions to complex challenges to make our world a better place.
Mechanical Technician – Precision Skills student Ethan McCallum competed in the 2024 WorldSkills Competition. Despite not taking home a medal, he received the highest score of any Canadian in the history of the competition.
People of Georgian
We regularly feature the inspiring perspectives of our community through our People of Georgian series. Check it out!
The Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development estimates one in six job openings will be in the skilled trades by 2026. Georgian is expanding our programs, partnerships and facilities in response.
Georgian’s Orillia and Muskoka campuses will close, with all programs and apprenticeship offerings planned to transition to the Barrie Campus by fall 2026.
The Orillia Campus will close in summer 2026, with programs transitioning to Barrie starting in May.
The Muskoka Campus will close in August 2026. Most current students will have completed their program of study by this time; however, students who need courses to complete their program will be supported with options.
Moving to Barrie will provide students with access to a wider range of services and facilities, a broader employer network and larger community, enhancing their experience and ensuring they complete their studies with additional opportunities and support.
Who made this decision?
This decision was made after careful evaluation by cross-functional Georgian leadership and recent approval by the Georgian College Board of Governors.
Why’s this happening now?
This decision comes after recent approval by the Georgian College Board of Governors and reflects careful consideration, including enhancements to the overall student experience, evolving enrolment and forecasts for regional labour-market demand, and ensuring optimal use of resources.
This decision ensures our students are accommodated with the high-quality standards Georgian is known for. We want to provide everyone with as much time as possible to prepare for the transition and be ready to support and welcome our students to a new campus. We also need to put things into motion to be ready for the upcoming recruitment cycle and Open House this fall.
How many students are impacted by this consolidation?
Approximately 1,340 students are impacted. All students will be supported through support and care plans ready to help them through and beyond the transition.
Is Georgian selling these campuses or leasing them out?
The Orillia and Muskoka campuses will be sold.
What’s happening to the Orillia Campus residence?
The residence is included in the sale of the campus. Impacted students will receive direct communication on their options.
Why these campuses and not others?
The decision to consolidate comes after careful evaluation and review of our multi-campus network. Maintaining the Orillia and Muskoka campuses is no longer viable since we can serve more students more effectively in Barrie with improved access to services, facilities and a vibrant campus life.
What’s happening with the South Georgian Bay, Midland, Orangeville and Owen Sound campuses?
We continue our work to evaluate potential opportunities for our John Di Poce South Georgian Bay Campus, and to build on the positive contributions of our Midland, Orangeville and Owen Sound campuses. These locations remain vital to our regional presence and our ability to serve diverse communities.
Why did Georgian choose to close these campuses over implementing other cost-savings measures?
Closing these campuses was a difficult decision and came after careful evaluation of everything from student needs and community impacts to our financial realities. The college has already implemented significant changes resulting in operational savings and continues to implement other key efficiencies. As examples, we’ve reduced budgets, transformed some of our areas to streamline operations, and are expanding and diversifying our revenue streams.
Is there a partnership agreement that will allow the college to continue to use the space through a lease?
Georgian won’t be leasing out space. We’re permanently closing the Orillia and Muskoka campuses, with all programs and apprenticeship offerings transitioning to the Barrie Campus by fall 2026.
Will Georgian maintain a presence in these communities?
We remain committed to serving Orillia and Muskoka and the surrounding region. While our physical campuses close, we’ll continue to advance community partnerships, provide access to a talented workforce through work-integrated and post-graduate learning opportunities, and collaborate with employers and community leaders to meet local needs.
Is this consolidation because Georgian is in financial trouble?
Georgian, like all Ontario colleges, faces financial challenges related to our funding model, shifts in student demographics, and sharply declining international enrolment. This decision was made after careful evaluation of not only our finances but various other factors like evolving regional labour-market forecasts. It’s a proactive step to ensure optimal use of resources, our financial sustainability and will ultimately enhance the overall student experience.
The provincial government committed to reviewing the Ontario colleges funding model. Is this decision premature?
Georgian is committed to driving meaningful change within the college sector and is actively participating in consultations with the ministry regarding governance and funding reform. While government action is crucial, future support alone won’t completely resolve Georgian’s financial shortfall. Therefore, proactive measures, such as consolidation, are essential to ensure student success and long-term sustainability.
Is there an anticipated impact on program delivery at other campuses by relocating most programs to Barrie?
No. Georgian’s other campuses – Midland, Orangeville and Owen Sound – continue to operate as usual at this time.
What’s happening to employees in Orillia and Muskoka?
Georgian will support all employees through this transition and communicate directly with those affected about how this consolidation impacts them.
What’s happening to the Orillia Campus?
Georgian remains committed to ensuring the next chapter for the site aligns with community priorities and supports regional social and economic development. We’re exploring ways the facility might continue to benefit the community under a new steward, building on our longstanding partnerships in the area.
What’s happening to the Truth and Reconciliation Trail in Orillia?
The Debwewin miinwaa Naaskodaadiwin Miikaans Truth and Reconciliation Trail has been an integral part of the campus and student experience and an important part of Georgian’s collective journey toward truth and reconciliation. Georgian will collaborate with the new site owners as well as Indigenous partners and communities on a way forward.
What’s happening to the Orillia Campus Cenotaph?
The cenotaph is an important gathering place for reflection and honouring those who’ve served and currently serve. Georgian will collaborate with the new site owners on a path forward.
What’s happening to the Muskoka Campus?
The campus will be sold, and those details remain confidential at this time.
Why is Georgian expanding downtown Barrie while closing these campuses?
Georgian balances strategic financial decisions with the need to stay competitive and support future enrolment growth. Our downtown Barrie expansion aligns with our program innovation and new program development plans, especially in areas with strong domestic interest and demand.
The project is funded through a one-time, already designated capital investment and the generosity of partners, including the City of Barrie, which made a landmark $7.5 million contribution. Between the Georgian Dr., location and downtown, we’ve made sure there’s plenty of room in Barrie to welcome more students.
What about the temporary pause in operations at the John Di Poce South Georgian Bay Campus?
Georgian continues to reassess operations and possible future offerings in South Georgian Bay so we can effectively serve students, employers and our communities. Part of our assessment includes considering local and regional demographic trends, industry and community employment opportunities, and plans for development and programming already offered at other Georgian campuses in proximity to South Georgian Bay, balancing short-term needs and long-term possibilities.
How much is this consolidation going to save the college?
The consolidation is expected to save the college approximately $23.5 million over the next five years. It doesn’t solve our financial challenges, but it places us on a stronger path toward long-term sustainability. In addition to the savings that will be realized, our analysis indicates we have the opportunity to increase enrolment in the programs transitioning to Barrie.
Are other colleges closing campuses?
Yes. Georgian isn’t alone in making these tough decisions. Several other colleges in Ontario recently announced campus closures in response to rising financial pressures.
How much is this going to impact students – academically, emotionally, socially?
We recognize this will be a tough transition for everyone, including our students. Georgian has thoughtful and supportive student, employee and community plans in place grounded in our core value of care.
Georgian has been part of this community for years.
Georgian has deep roots in the Orillia and Muskoka communities – and a proud legacy. While our physical campuses will close, we remain committed to supporting access to education as a regional hub for postsecondary and continuing to collaborate with our partners to meet the needs of regional employers and community organizations.
This decision reflects careful consideration, including enhancements to the overall student experience, evolving enrolment and forecasts for regional labour-market demand, and ensuring optimal use of resources. By consolidating our operations, Georgian can focus our efforts to ensure maximum impact for learners while delivering on our strategic commitments.
What will happen to Employment Services in Orillia?
Employment Services remains committed to supporting the community. The future of the program is currently under review and will be discussed in the coming months.
Will partnerships continue in these communities?
We remain committed to supporting the diverse needs of our partners and collaborating with you on solutions.
Many local businesses rely on Georgian students and graduates for support. Will that continue?
Yes. We’ll continue to listen and respond to the evolving needs of local employers. Georgian students and alumni also continue to need good jobs.
How will local jobs and businesses be impacted?
We understand this decision will have an impact on the local community, and we don’t take that lightly. Georgian remains committed to listening and responding to labour-market needs and supporting our partners through this transition.
Will the Orillia and Muskoka communities now lose out on influence or opportunities with Georgian?
While our physical campuses will close, these communities remain important to us. We’re dedicated to supporting access to education as a regional hub for postsecondary and continuing to collaborate with our partners to meet the needs of regional employers and community organizations.
Is this step toward broader institutional decline?
I’m a member of a Program Advisory Committee. Will my membership continue?
Yes. We’re extremely grateful for and continue to rely on your valuable counsel and expertise.
Does the college plan to honour the legacy of these campuses in any way?
We’re exploring opportunities to commemorate these two campuses. The ripple effects they’ve had on the lives of our students, employees and on our partners and communities are immeasurable. That legacy and their contributions will carry forward in our work and future.
Will the college ever come back to our community?
While our physical campuses will close, we remain committed to supporting access to education as a regional hub for postsecondary and continuing to collaborate with our partners to meet the needs of regional employers and community organizations.
How will these campus closures impact local transit?
Local transit authorities may evaluate ridership changes and consider adjusting service frequency, routes, or schedules in response to decreased demand near the campuses.
I have a facilities rental at one of the closing campuses. What will happen to that?
We’ll reach out to all our partners who access our campuses for rentals.
