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New Master’s in Information Systems Technology (MIST) Program Addresses Soaring Demand for Skilled Cybersecurity and AI Professionals
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IRVINE, Calif. & TORONTO — Westcliff University, a global leader in career-focused higher education, is establishing its first international campus in Toronto—one of North America’s fastest-growing technology hubs—to help meet Canada’s urgent demand for skilled IT professionals. Ontario’s tech sector is projected to add 300,000 jobs by 2030, yet key IT roles already face a 51% vacancy rate, with a 90% surge in the need for cybersecurity, AI and smart manufacturing talent. To address these workforce gaps, Westcliff is launching a Master’s in Information Systems Technology (MIST) degree, developed in close collaboration with regional IT leaders to directly align with the needs of local employers.
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Toronto is home to more than 288,000 tech professionals and the world’s highest concentration of AI startups, creating a vibrant ecosystem requiring specialized training in cybersecurity and smart technology. Westcliff’s MIST program equips mid-level professionals and emerging graduates with the skills essential to drive industry growth, strengthen the local talent pipeline and reinforce Toronto’s standing as a world tech leader.
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“Toronto is a recognized force in global technological innovation, and our institution is honored to support its impressive trajectory,” said Dr. Anthony Lee, president and CEO of Westcliff University. “Establishing a presence in Canada enables us to deepen multinational knowledge exchange while delivering the hands-on, job-oriented education that defines Westcliff. With a 30-year legacy of market-driven education, we are committed to staying attuned to shifting industry trends and integrating regional insights with global expertise. Our focus is on graduating employment-ready leaders equipped to drive advancement, contribute to their local economy and help solidify Toronto’s position as a world-class technology hub.”
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The new MIST program features:
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- Industry-Designed Curriculum: Developed in consultation with leading technology firms and local officials to ensure immediate real-world applicability.
- Flexible Learning Models: Eight-week course cycles with in-person and online engagement to accommodate working professionals.
- Innovation Sandbox: A collaborative, project-based learning environment that delivers hands-on opportunities for students to tackle real-world business challenges.
- Real-World Expertise: A multidisciplinary faculty with extensive industry experience in cybersecurity, AI and enterprise IT solutions.
- Agile, Evolving Coursework: A program structure that adapts to dynamic trends and labor force demands.
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The campus, located within Venture Lab’s 50,000-square-foot innovation space in Markham—one of the area’s fastest growing tech hubs just north of Toronto—places students at the center of a dynamic environment that has supported over 4,000 companies and attracts significant investment. By learning in this immersive setting alongside the sector’s top thought leaders, Westcliff students will gain invaluable exposure, build lasting professional connections and access career and entrepreneurial opportunities in Canada’s growing digital economy.
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“Toronto is proud to welcome Westcliff University as a valuable addition to support our region’s burgeoning tech landscape,” said Markham City Mayor, Frank Scarpitti. “By cultivating a skilled workforce that aligns with industry needs, Westcliff is equipping future professionals with the specialized skills and leadership capabilities that will yield even more innovation and economic prosperity in our city.”
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As a Canadian-registered institution recognized for its commitment to Ontario’s workforce development, Westcliff’s Toronto campus will continue to be guided by its Program Advisory Committee (PAC) of Toronto-based tech leaders to ensure its curriculum remains aligned with evolving market requirements.
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Westcliff’s Toronto campus will welcome its first cohort of students in July 2025, with information sessions and webinars leading up to the opening to help prospective students explore programs, meet faculty and tour the facilities. For more information, program offerings and enrollment details, visit https://www.westcliff.edu/canada.
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About Westcliff University:
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is an innovative global higher education institution with its finger on the pulse of the international business landscape and the needs of today’s employers. Founded in 1993 and based in Irvine, Calif., it offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees spanning multiple areas of study including business, education, technology, computer science, engineering and law. Westcliff is a California Public Benefit Corporation which affirms its dedication to operating in the best interests of its students and the surrounding community. Its programs focus on both the hard and soft skills needed to secure quality jobs in high-growth industries; it offers community and business engagement opportunities for the hands-on experience today’s students require; and it provides innovative and affordable programs live online and in classrooms across the globe. Visit
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MEDIA CONTACT:
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Leslie Licano, Beyond Fifteen Communications, Inc.
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| (949) 733-8679 ext. 101
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