Overview & Identity

Seneca Polytechnic, formerly known as Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology, is a multi-campus public polytechnic institution based in the Greater Toronto Area and Peterborough, Ontario, Canada. The “Polytechnic” rebranding, which began in 2023, highlights its blend of rigorous academics and hands-on, career-oriented training .

Academic Programs

Seneca offers an extensive range of programs—including certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, bachelor's degrees, graduate certificates, and even master’s programs in collaboration with other institutions. Students benefit from experiential learning through co-ops, internships, placements, and industry partnerships.

Campuses

Key campuses include:

• Newnham Campus – one of Canada’s largest, offering programs in business, engineering, aviation, fashion, ICT, and more; equipped with residence, sports centre, daycare, and modern facilities like CITE.
• Markham Campus – hosts business, marketing, tourism programs, along with the Seneca International Academy for global students (set to close end of 2024, with programs relocating).
• Peterborough Campus – aviation-focused, complete with aircraft fleet and flight training facilities.
• Yorkgate & Downtown Campus – originally serving specialized communities; both operations have since been indefinitely suspended or closed.

Student Body & International Presence

Seneca serves approximately 30,000 full-time and 60,000 part-time students annually, with about 10,000 international students hailing from around 130 countries. It also houses an English Language Institute to help students develop language proficiency or train as ESL educators.

Applied Research & Innovation

Seneca’s applied research arm, Seneca Innovation, champions real-world problem solving through centers like CITE, DARC, OSTEP, and Seneca Centre for Innovation in Life Sciences . The institution emphasizes industry collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Career-focused Education & Student Life

Seneca’s "polytechnic difference" focuses on producing career-ready graduates via rich academic instruction and practical training. The institution organizes campaigns like "This is Seneca Polytechnic" to reinforce this philosophy. With over 1,000 industry partnerships, extensive student services, and pathway programs, Seneca supports both Canadian and international students in building meaningful careers.

Athletics & Student Engagement

Seneca is home to 18 varsity sports teams (“The Sting”) and offers outstanding athletic facilities—such as ice arenas, gyms, courts, fields, and fitness centers—especially at Newnham Campus . Its campuses also feature vibrant student life with art, clubs, and wellness initiative