UCalgary introduces ULearn

The University of Calgary has launched a refreshed suite of professional development programs for faculty and staff called ULearn. The new ULearn suite consists of three streams and offers a broad range of courses to support employees in every career stage: 

• UBegin provides resources for new hires as they begin their first year at UCalgary. The program includes required and recommended courses that supplement new employees’ overall orientation and onboarding experience. 
• UGrow offers a wide range of open enrolment courses designed to support continuous learning and career advancement for all employees. 
• ULead provides leadership development courses and process management resources for people leaders and managers. 

In addition to the three streams, the Academic Leadership Academy will continue to offer professional development for academic leaders. Learning opportunities are also available for employees about First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, identities, worldviews, and cultures through URise Indigenous. 

“ULearn supports UCalgary’s commitment made in our strategic plan, Ahead of Tomorrow, to invest in our people, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and encourage professional development at the University of Calgary,” says Mike Van Hee, vice-president (services). “The programs support individual growth while also contributing to our shared goals as an institution.” 

ULearn is designed with flexibility in mind, offering both in-person and online options to fit various schedules. Some courses have carried over from previous offerings, while others have been redesigned to better meet current needs. Additionally, several new courses have been introduced, with more learning opportunities to be added to keep content fresh and relevant.  

One of the new, in-person cohort programs is ULead: Engagement, tailored specifically for MaPS leaders with direct reports. The program is a unique opportunity for leaders looking to grow their skills and practices, while connecting with peers in a meaningful way. Applications for ULead: Engagement are open until Sept. 27, 2024. For leaders looking for focused development opportunities, new Leadership in Focus sessions and resources are also available. 

“We encourage all leaders to actively support their faculty and staff to take advantage of these valuable professional and leadership development opportunities,” says Sumana Dasgupta, associate vice president (human resources). “Supporting your employees in this way helps them grow professionally, demonstrates that their career development matters, and ultimately contributes to our collective success.” 

Faculty and staff are encouraged to visit ucalgary.ca/ulearn to explore the ULearn programs and participate in courses that align best with their professional development goals.