FAQs for Staff and Faculty

Why is a new residence and academic building needed?

Trent University Durham is seeing unprecedented enrolment growth.  There are currently approximately 1,400 students studying in Durham, and we are expected to grow to 2,200 students within the next five years. New space is needed to accommodate this growth, which means more classrooms, hands-on learning spaces and study spaces, as well as our first on-campus student residence. 

How long will construction take?

The University celebrated the official groundbreaking in May. Construction is underway now and is slated for completion in fall 2020. 

What are the features of the new building?

The bright, contemporary, six-storey building will continue the long-standing Trent tradition of collegiate communities and will fully integrate both living and learning spaces. The top four floors will be devoted to the creation of 200 residence spaces, with single and double room, as well as common hangout spaces with a kitchenette (and laundry). The first two floors will offer state-of-the-art academic space including a 100-seat tiered lecture hall and two 64-seat classrooms. Other features include group study spaces, expanded hands-on learning spaces, and public forum space to celebrate our rich community culture. And when you need a breath of fresh air, you can catch up with friends in a new central outdoor courtyard.

What are the plans to address parking? 

When you come back to campus this fall, you will find expanding parking is already complete. Be sure to check out the addition of 90 new parking spaces, now located behind our current campus building. 

Will new programs be created at Trent Durham GTA as part of expansion and future plans?

As our course and program offerings have greatly expanded in the last few years, we have seen tremendous uptake in student interest for unique program offerings. New programs will continue to evolve at Trent University Durham GTA as demand grow to study and learn here.

Will additional staff/faculty be hired?

The Trent Durham GTA expansion will mean more jobs. We expect to be hiring faculty and academic supports as well as housing staff for the new residence. We’ll post details as they become available.

How can I find out more?

We’ll be keeping you up-to-date on our expansion through our website. Be sure to check back regularly for updates and details as they become available. You can also follow us on social media, using #GrowingTrentUDurham.  In the meantime, if you have any specific questions about the expansion, or would like to share an idea, please email durhamexpansion@trentu.ca.