The Ontario government announced Thursday that it will invest $90-million for the construction of a new post-secondary site in Brampton, next to the downtown GO Station, for Ryerson University, with Sheridan College as Ryerson’s academic partner. The Brampton City Council made an historic commitment of up to $150 million for the new university and centre for innovation.

The development of a Brampton campus marks the first time that Ryerson University has expanded academic programming outside of downtown Toronto.

“In expanding to Brampton, Ryerson University will provide much-needed university programs to students in one of the fastest-growing and most diverse communities in Canada,” said Mohamed Lachemi, president and vice-chancellor of Ryerson University. “We are looking forward to working with Sheridan to provide students in the region with innovative academic programs that offer the critical thinking and problem solving skills needed to succeed and thrive in the modern economy.”

In addition to delivering a mix of data driven science, business programs and experiential learning opportunities, Ryerson’s Brampton expansion will also include:

A centre for education, innovation and collaboration

An innovation hub, connecting students with external organizations in the region

A national centre for cybersecurity

“Sheridan College has a long history and deep roots in the region both as an educator and as a strong partner with community organizations and businesses,” said Chris Evans, the executive lead at Ryerson for the Brampton initiative. “Ryerson University looks forward to working with Sheridan to create new programs, educational pathways, and shared experiential learning opportunities for our students.”