Loyalist College and Trent University are strengthening post-secondary learning opportunities through a new agreement that creates a direct and accelerated diploma-to-degree pathway for Business – Accounting graduates. 

The agreement enables eligible graduates of Loyalist’s Business – Accounting Diploma to receive 10.0 credits toward Trent’s 20.0-credit Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) degree. Students can enter directly into the upper years of their degree, saving time, reducing costs and accelerating their academic and career goals in a four-year timeframe. 

For many learners, college is an essential first step. This agreement recognizes the skills students develop at college and provides a clear path for students to build on their diploma to pursue a university credential without repeating coursework or losing momentum. 

“Some students know exactly the learning and career path they will take but the majority of students will adjust or extend their educational plans in some way as they learn and as they spend time working,” said Dr. Mark Skinner, Provost and Vice-President, Academic at Trent University. “Trent has long offered students interdisciplinary and diverse learning experiences, including more than 200 transfer pathways with colleges across Ontario. This new business pathway reflects the growing need for program variety and learning mobility as aspirations change, people work longer in their careers, and industry needs change.” 

The pathway is available to graduates of Loyalist’s two-year Business – Accounting Diploma who began their studies in Fall 2024 or later and who graduate with a minimum overall average of 75 percent. Students who commenced prior to Fall 2024 will be assessed for transfer credit on a course-by-course basis. 

Upon admission to Trent, transfer students will have access to comprehensive academic advising, skills development resources, career services, accessibility supports and transfer bursaries to help ensure a smooth transition and continued success. 

The new agreement builds on an established partnership between Loyalist and Trent that includes multiple transfer opportunities across disciplines. Existing pathways support graduates from programs such as Biotechnology, Child and Youth Care, Community and Justice Services, Customs Border Services, Fitness and Health Promotion, Police Foundations, and Social Service Worker in pursuing related undergraduate studies. 

“Today’s students are looking for flexible, efficient pathways that allow them to build credentials over time,” says Mark Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of Loyalist College. “Transfer agreements are an important way we support student mobility and access to further education. Students come to Loyalist with different circumstances, and for many, beginning at college is the most practical first step. We’re proud to partner with Trent University to provide a clear, structured route from diploma to degree and a seamless academic experience for our students.” 

Together, Loyalist and Trent are creating flexible, student-centred pathways that strengthen Ontario’s post-secondary system and empower graduates to move confidently from classroom to career and beyond.