Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission

The Commission is charged with the duty to improve and maintain the best possible service to students as lifelong learners in the Maritime provinces.

What is the function of the commission?

The Commission's principal duties are:

• (a) to undertake measures intended to ensure continuous improvement in the quality of academic programs and of teaching at institutions, which without limiting the generality of the foregoing may include the review of institutional programs and practices for assuring such improvement and making recommendations to institutions and the Provinces;
• (b) to ensure that data and information is collected, maintained and made available for assuring the public accountability of institutions, and to assist institutions and the Provinces in their work, which without limiting the generality of the foregoing may include
  • (i) establishing data and system standards,
  • (ii) establishing public reporting requirements and producing public reports, and
  • (iii) carrying out studies in regard to public policy, institutional concerns and issues related to post-secondary education, and providing advice to institutions and the Provinces on these matters;
• (c) to take initiatives to stimulate action among institutions and the Provinces where such action is likely to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the post-secondary education system in the Provinces, which without limiting the generality of the foregoing may include
  • (i) encouraging initiatives for institutions to offer joint, complementary and regional programs, and
  • (ii) encouraging administrative, financial and common service arrangements which reduce the overhead cost of programs and the overall cost to students and the Provinces;
• (d) to continue to develop and administer funding transfers among the Provinces for regional programs, which without limiting the generality of the foregoing may include developing and administering funding arrangements for programs outside the region, as required to provide additional educational opportunities for students from the region; and
• (e) to undertake such other duties as the Ministers may assign.

Primary Role:  Adjudicative

Material Role:  Strategic Development 

How many people are on the commission?

The Commission shall consist of 20 members appointed by the Council of Maritime Premiers, and the Chief Executive Officer. The Minister shall appoint members as follows:

• (a) at least six from among those nominated by the nominating committee;
• (b) at least six from among senior public officials and the executive heads of non-university institutions; and
• (c) at least six from the public, of which at least two shall be students. At least one of the members appointed under each clause shall be selected from each of the Maritime provinces.

What are the requirements of commission members?

Formal Qualifications
Dependant on the position sought.

Work & Experience Requirements
Dependant on the position sought.

Skills Required
Mediation skills.

What are the nomination requirements?

Statutory Nomination Requirements
The Ministers responsible for post-secondary education in the Maritime provinces shall appoint all members.

Will I be paid?

No remuneration.

What is the time commitment of the commission?

The Commission shall meet at least four times each year, 

Members appointed by the Ministers shall hold office for three years from the date of appointment, or such lesser period as may be specified in the appointment. Members are eligible for reappointment. Meetings may take place outside of PEI.

How can I apply?

If you would like to serve as a member of a provincial government agency, board, or commission (ABC) you can apply online through Engage PEI. 

Who can I Contact?

Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission
Phone: (506) 453-2844
Email: mphec@mphec.ca
Website: www.mphec.ca 
P.E.I. Contact: (902) 368-5956