Georgian College in Owen Sound is now a partner with Huron County's Gateway Rural Health Research Institute.

Gateway's main mandate is to study illness in rural areas.

Georgian has been involved with the Gateway Institute since 2005 when it started offering a practical nursing program at the Seaforth-based facility.

College officials say this new partnership will encourage students to stay closer to home by offering the Seaforth area and Huron East enhanced educational opportunities.

Student access to programs is one of the cornerstones of Georgian College's "Vision 2015" strategic plan.

Gateway President Gwen Devereaux says the collaboration will enhance access to academic resources.

The partnership was announced in Seaforth on Friday.