Bow Valley College Jumps Ahead in Ranking of Top 50 Research Colleges in Canada

Bow Valley College Jumps Ahead in Ranking of Top 50 Research Colleges in Canada

December 4, 2025

Driven largely by important investments in Health Care technology and delivery, Bow Valley College saw a 153% jump in research revenue year over year, climbing to 30th on the annual list of Top 50 Research Colleges in Canada

Thursday, December 4, 2025 (Calgary, AB) – Bow Valley College moved up Research Infosource Inc’s annual rankings this year to 30th in the country, and first overall for income growth among medium-sized colleges. With over 153% growth, Bow Valley College significantly outpaced the average increase of 19.8% in year over year research revenue nationally.

In total, this $4.7 million investment in applied research is being used to inform teaching practice, entrepreneurial success, and to push hard-won insights into the world of work where they can grow Alberta’s economy.

Significant funding came through Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI)and Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC). The funding covered applications of virtual reality, motion capture technology, and the creation of an immersive simulation room. High-fidelity AI training mannikins and an interactive robot are also being used to improve health care training and outcomes.

“These enhancements have made our research possible – research that shows these technologies lead to more efficient learning and stronger clinical skills,” says Melissa Bruce, program chair in the School of Health and Wellness at Bow Valley College. “There are significant benefits for both students and the broader healthcare community.”

The completed research initiatives are vital to improving productivity, including the streamlining of recognition of foreign healthcare credentials, advancing Black entrepreneurship and early childhood education.  

“Moving up the list again this year validates the impact and value created by our research teams,” says Tanya McDonald, Dean of Research and Innovation at Bow Valley College. “Improved understanding and access to leading-edge infrastructure help lift up the lives of our graduates, their families, and Alberta’s economy.”

As part of its effort to provide an education that pairs academic excellence with practical relevance, Bow Valley College has set a goal of becoming a top 20 research college in Canada, a key marker of success in the Launch | Advance | Evolve strategic plan.

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Media Requests

Bill Macfarlane
External Communications Specialist
Bow Valley College
403-681-7393
wmacfarlane@bowvalleycollege.ca

About Bow Valley College

For 60 years, Calgary’s college has grown to prepare 14,000 students annually for meaningful careers in health care, social services, business, technology, and creative industries. Every program has a Work Integrated Learning requirement, ensuring students contribute to the workplace before they graduate. With a strong focus on advanced simulation training and Alberta’s evolving needs, Bow Valley College’s new Health Care Centre of Excellence is working to expand space and programs, aimed at graduating four-times as many health professionals annually by 2036. Proudly recognized as one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges, we combine innovative learning with hands-on experience. Home to Alberta’s only major e-sports arena and a state-of-the-art digital production hub. Learn more about the opportunities Bow Valley College creates for students, Calgary, and Alberta at bowvalleycollege.ca.

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