NOSM University

STRATEGIC PILLAR 1

DELIVER EXCEPTIONAL HEALTH EDUCATION FOR THE NORTH

STRATEGIC PILLAR 1

DELIVER EXCEPTIONAL HEALTH EDUCATION FOR THE NORTH

NOSM University is delivering an exceptional, learner-centric academic experience that equips learners with advanced health expertise and cultural competencies tailored to Northern needs. We are building a dynamic, inclusive, and culturally safe environment, responsive to Indigenous, Francophone, and rural communities. Importantly, we are ensuring our growth is financially sustainable to secure our long-term future as we continue shaping health education in the North. We are committed to continually improving the learner experience through innovation, collaboration,and reflection.

OUR STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

  • Integrate culturally—and contextually—appropriate content into academic curriculum.

  • Improve access and experience for Northern, Indigenous, Francophone, and rural learners from recruitment to graduation.

  • Collaborate with faculty to develop innovative, learner-centric and community-led teaching models such as simulated and layered learning.

  • Develop new academic and continuing education offerings that prioritize community needs and are financially sustainable.

OUR VIEW OF SUCCESS IN 5 YEARS

NOSM University will have an improved integrated curriculum that reflects the cultural and health realities of Northern Ontario. Learners from Indigenous, Francophone, and rural communities will experience improved access, support, and outcomes, with a measurable increase in numbers of graduates choosing to practise in the North. Innovative, community-led teaching models will be embedded across the region, strengthening local capacity and learner-community relationships.

NOSM University Students learn in the medical lab.

HOW WE WILL MEASURE OUR SUCCESS

  • By 2031, all academic programs meet defined standards for culturally and contextually appropriate curricula, as demonstrated through annual reviews confirming alignment with recognized frameworks, considering feedback from persons with lived experience, and increasing faculty participation in cultural competency education.

  • By 2031, NOSM University achieves demonstrable, system-wide improvement in equitable access, learner experience, and outcomes for Northern, Indigenous, Francophone, rural, and Black learners, validated through application growth, learner satisfaction metrics, equity-informed quality improvements, and successful accreditation outcomes.

  • institution-wide readiness for innovative teaching, evidenced by trained faculty/preceptors, active use of layered learning and simulation-enabled models across teaching sites, and documented alignment with curriculum gaps and program accreditation requirements.

  • By 2031, at least 75% of new and expanded CEPD and academic offerings meet the needs of the Northern workforce and community partners, are financially sustainable, are accessible across Northern Ontario, and are impactful as reflected by high relevance/satisfaction ratings.