Keyano College opened in Fort McMurray in 1965 as the Alberta Vocational Centre. The official opening ceremonies were held on January 26, 1966. In 1975 the College was reopened under its current name, "Keyano", which is a Cree word which, roughly translated, means, "Sharing". The college's slogan was further adapted from that to be "Yours, Mine and Ours". In 1978 Keyano College went public and became a community college when the province appointed a Board of Governors to serve as the decision-making body for the institution. Keyano College has grown to become a modern series of buildings on many campuses.
Programs offered
Students can choose from certificate and diploma programs in a wide variety of areas, such as Aboriginal Entrepreneurship, Business Administration, College & Career Preparation, Childhood Studies, Bachelor of Education, EMT, Environmental Technology, Office Administration, Practical Nurse, Human Resources Management, Social Work, and University Studies. A number of trades programs are also offered, such as Heavy Equipment Technician and Power and Process Engineering. There are one- and two-year university transfer programs in a variety of disciplines with collaborative degrees in Nursing and Elementary Education. Apprenticeship programs are also offered in Electrician, Heavy Equipment Technician, Millwright, Steamfitter/Pipefitter, and Welding. To make entering the workforce an easier process, Keyano offers pre-employment programs as an alternative to traditional apprenticeship training. First-rate technology is also used to provide the Keyano Advantage, including a new Oilsands Power & Process Engineering Laboratory. This facility was funded in part by industry leaders. Keyano also has an active Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada Program, which is funded by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, and that offers English language instruction to newcomers to Canada. The program numbers over 125 students, who represent more than 20 nations.
Scholarships and bursaries
Each Fall, Keyano hosts a Student Awards ceremony where sponsors give out their awards to deserving students. In November 2019, over $350,000 was awarded to 235 students.
Student life
Keyano’s own theatre offers concerts and plays as well as lectures and guest speakers.
