In 2009, Yukon University and the University of Alberta established a cooperative working relationship to offer students in northern Canada increased access to post-secondary learning opportunities in or near their home communities, through delivery of a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Conservation Sciences degree program at Yukon University and accredited through the University of Alberta. The Northern ENCS Program resulted in the development of a new major in Northern Systems that was approved by the Government of Alberta for implementation effective September 2013. This partnership has since expanded to include more options for students from University of Alberta in Edmonton to come to Yukon University and experience the Yukon, through the Semester in the North program, and three Yukon-based field schools.