Founded in 1971, MacEwan University has a long tradition of learner access and quality education. This comprehensive university, offers more than 60 programs including undergraduate degrees, applied degrees, diplomas, certificates, continuing education and corporate training.
Over the last 40 years, we have evolved and grown to become a degree-granting university offering a broad complement of programs. Our name may have changed, but the learning and commitment continues.
1971: Grant MacEwan Community College is established, in Scona Campus (Strathcona High School). The college is named in honour of Dr. J.W. (Grant) MacEwan former Lieutenant Governor, MLA, Mayor of Calgary, and a noted author, historian, environmentalist and educator. The first classes are held in September. The first programs offered included: Nursing; Social Worker; Child Care and Psychotechnician.
1973: The Jasper Place Campus opens in Edmonton's west end, leasing space from elementary schools.
1974: Construction begins on the Mill Woods Campus (current home of MacEwan's South Campus).
1975: On June 17, the Board of Governors approves the griffin as MacEwan's athletic symbol.
1976: The Mill Woods Campus opens in the city's southeast corner. The original Scona Campus closes.
1981: The Jasper Place Campus re-opens in a purpose-built building (currently the Centre for the Arts and Communications) on Stony Plain Road and 156 Street.
1985: MacEwan Alumni Association (now Alumni Relations and Services) is established.
1988: Grant MacEwan Community College receives approval to offer university transfer programs.
1988: The provincial government commits $100 million for the construction of City Centre Campus.
1991: Construction begins on the new City Centre Campus building on former Canadian National rail yards, located on the north edge of downtown Edmonton.
1993: City Centre Campus opens.
1996: Grant MacEwan Community College celebrates its 25th anniversary.
1999: The college is renamed Grant MacEwan College.
2002: On July 1, Alberta College is officially integrated with Grant MacEwan College, making the building the college's fourth campus.
2004: MacEwan becomes an accredited degree-granting institution.
2005: Student Residence opens at City Centre Campus.
2006: MacEwan launches two undergraduate degrees: Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Child and Youth Care.
2007: The Robbins Health Learning Centre opens in September.
2008: The university's Coat of Arms is approved by the Board of Governors on April 10 and is entered in Volume V, Page 286 of the Public Register of Arms, Flags and Badges of Canada on March 20.
2009: Grant MacEwan University becomes Alberta's sixth university on September 24.
2012: MacEwan University is accepted as a member of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC).
2013: MacEwan University becomes the 17th member of Canada West Universities Athletics Association, as a probationary member.
