What's The Difference Between College and University In Canada?

Congratulations! Completing high school is a reason for celebration, and you should be proud of your accomplishment!

But, have you decided on your post-secondary education pathway and the steps you are going to follow to your future career?

No worries! We are here to help you understand the differences between:

College programs follow labour and economic trends, and focus on the development of:

• specific,

• practical,

• performance-oriented knowledge, skills, and abilities

to address industry needs.

University programs focus on the development of:

• deeper analytical skills

that serve as a base for academic, research-based, and regulated professions.

Colleges offer full-time and part-time certificate programs, diplomas, and vocational training.

Universities offer full-time and part-time degrees:

• Undergraduate degrees (Bachelor's Degree),

• Graduate degrees (Master's and Doctorate Degree), and

• Professional programs.

Colleges: Usually, a certificate program takes one year or less, while a diploma program takes two to three years.

Universities: Degrees typically take three to four years.

Heads Up: All programs vary in length and eligibility requirements. Check out the specific information for your program and institution before applying.

Colleges are a great option for careers that require practical hands-on training. They are a straight path to jobs in fields such as:

• Telecommunication

• Travel Services

• Game Development

• Culinary Management

• Videography

• and many more...

University is a better fit if you're more interested in:

• expanding your horizons throughout analytical and holistic learning,

• research-based professions (such as Sociologist, Neuroscientist, Astronomer, etc), or

• professional degrees (Dentist, Lawyer, Veterinarian, etc).

Colleges usually have smaller class sizes, which means closer guidance from instructors. Most colleges also provide additional practical experience via work-integrated learning (Work Placement and Co-operative Education - Co-op).

Universities are larger institutions where learners have more independence. To be successful at university, learners need a strong sense of:

• time management,

• self-motivation, and

• self-directed study.

Now, it's your turn to find out what best fits your career goals! (Maybe it will even be a combination of both).

When researching your dream career: