Privacy Policy

Use of Personal Information

Westlake College is authorized to use personal information for the purposes for which it was originally collected or for purposes consistent with those original reasons. Student information collected may be used to support activities such as admissions, registration, graduation, tracking academic performance, issuing student identification cards, granting access to IT systems, and administering academic, financial, residence, alumni, and other college programs. Information gathered from prospective or current students—before or after enrollment—may also be used for statistical analysis, research, or marketing purposes.

Most processing of personal data occurs within Canada. However, if Westlake engages a service provider based outside of Canada. When transferring personal data, Westlake implements appropriate safeguards to maintain privacy and security, ensuring information is used only in ways consistent with the individual’s relationship with Westlake and this Notice.

Disclosure of Personal Information

(a) Legitimate Purposes Related to College Operations
Personal information regarding admissions, enrollment, and academic performance may be disclosed as part of Westlake’s day-to-day operations. Such information may also be used or shared for research or statistical purposes, when necessary and appropriate for fulfilling Westlake’s responsibilities, for investigating academic standing or program completion, or for employment-related matters. Disclosure may occur as required or permitted by law.

Westlake may share information with other postsecondary institutions to support student enrollment and participation in collaborative programs established through partnership agreements.

Protection and Retention of Personal Information

Westlake College takes reasonable precautions to safeguard personal information against loss, theft, and unauthorized access, disclosure, copying, use, or modification—regardless of how the information is stored—by employing appropriate administrative and security measures. When working with external service providers who manage personal information on our behalf, we take steps to select providers who can meet Westlake’s security and privacy standards. These obligations are formalized in contractual agreements with our service providers.

Records are kept according to specific departmental or program retention schedules and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Website Privacy

Westlake College respects your privacy while you interact with our website. Personal information may be collected and used in certain online interactions. For example, information you provide through our website’s chat or online help forms is collected so we can effectively respond to your questions.

(a) Cookies

Our website uses cookies—small text files stored on your computer by your browser—to store information. Most browsers accept cookies automatically, but you can adjust your browser settings to block them if you prefer.
We use cookies to authenticate users, prevent fraudulent activity, and provide requested services. Additionally, cookies help us assess website performance, improve our site, and analyze how visitors interact with our pages to enhance your experience.

(b) Web Analytics and Advertising Services

Westlake College uses services like Google Analytics 4 and Google Ads to analyze data collected through our website and online forms, measure advertising effectiveness, and optimize our advertising strategies. We do not share personally identifiable information with analytics or advertising service providers.

(c) External Websites

Our website may contain links to external sites not operated by Westlake College. We do not endorse or take responsibility for the content or privacy practices of these third-party websites. Our privacy notice applies only to our own website. When visiting other sites, we recommend reviewing their privacy policies.

Accountability

Westlake College is responsible for protecting personal information in our custody, including data shared with third-party service providers. Our Privacy Office provides guidance and oversight to ensure compliance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) and other relevant privacy laws. However, every Westlake employee is individually responsible for safeguarding the personal information they handle.

For questions or concerns about how Westlake collects, uses, or shares your personal information—or about our privacy practices—please contact the Westlake Privacy Office.

Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL)

Canada’s anti-spam legislation (CASL) is a federal law designed to protect Canadians from spam and electronic threats while allowing businesses to remain competitive. CASL applies to commercial electronic messages (CEMs) sent to electronic addresses, including emails, texts, or multimedia messages that encourage participation in commercial activities.

Some messages sent by Westlake College are exempt from CASL requirements, such as communications directly related to:

• Student applications, admissions, or registration for Westlake programs and courses;
• Promotion of products, goods, or services offered by Westlake or closely tied to our core educational activities;
• Responses to inquiries, requests, or complaints;
• Fundraising messages endorsed by Westlake College.

Westlake takes care to ensure that all CEMs comply with CASL requirements. For any questions or requests regarding CASL, please email our designated CASL contact at info@westlakecollege.ca