Faculty of Education to expand B.Ed. enrolment by more than 100 seats for Fall 2026
UM Education responds to growing demand for teacher education and teacher shortages
Students
The University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Education is increasing the number of seats in its Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) programs for Fall 2026, responding to growing demand for teacher education and significant workforce needs across Manitoba and beyond.
School divisions continue to report challenges recruiting and retaining qualified teachers, particularly in high need areas such as early years education, Indigenous education, French immersion, and inclusive education. Expanding enrolment capacity is one important way the University can help address these needs.
“As Dean of the Faculty of Education, I see firsthand the growing demand for well prepared teachers across the province,” said Jan Stewart, Dean of the Faculty of Education. “By increasing enrolment in our B.Ed. programs, we are creating more pathways for aspiring educators while continuing to meet the needs of schools and communities.”
Education students promote the B.Ed. program at the University Open House.
Education students promote the B.Ed. program at the University Open House.
By increasing enrolment in our B.Ed. programs, we are creating more pathways for aspiring educators while continuing to meet the needs of schools and communities.
The increased interest in teacher education follows recent government changes for teacher certification and admissions criteria. “Teachers play a foundational role in shaping children’s learning and well‑being” said Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning. “This expansion demonstrates how collaboration between the Government of Manitoba and our post‑secondary partners can respond to workforce needs. Together, we are supporting future educators while addressing staffing pressures in schools and ensuring Manitoba’s children and families continue to receive high‑quality education.”
Minister Renee Cable, Minister of Advanced Education and Training, agrees. "This is an important step toward strengthening Manitoba’s education workforce. Our government values its strong working relationship with the U of M, and this increase reflects our shared commitment to creating clear pathways for aspiring educators. By investing in post‑secondary today, we are helping ensure that schools and communities across the province have access to the skilled, qualified teachers they need for years to come.”
The additional seats have been made possible through careful planning and targeted investments to ensure program quality, student support, and practicum experiences are maintained at a high standard. This includes close collaboration with partner school divisions to secure appropriate practicum placements, as well as ensuring sufficient instructional, advising, and student support resources.
Preparing future educators is central to the Faculty of Education’s mission. By expanding access to the Bachelor of Education program, the Faculty is supporting more students while strengthening the education workforce that serves children, families, and communities across the province.
Further details about program structures, admission requirements, and application timelines for Fall 2026 are available through the Faculty of Education and the Office of Admissions.
Media inquiries: communications.education@umanitoba.ca
