In fall 2025, the Association of Canadian Publishers (ACP) commissioned Higher Education Strategy Associates (HESA) to conduct research on the Canadian higher education course materials market. This report examines how course material adoption, purchasing, and sales interact within the sector, and explores the factors contributing to declining sell-through for publishers. Drawing on survey data, interviews, and market analysis, the study identifies key economic, technological, and institutional pressures shaping the course materials landscape, while offering recommendations to help Canadian publishers adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
ACP would like to thank the Government of Canada and Ontario Creates for providing funding to support this project.