Colleges
Colleges in Alberta are classified under two different categories in the Roles and Mandates Framework: Baccalaureate and Applied Studies Institutions and Comprehensive Community Institutions.
Baccalaureate and Applied Studies Institutions
These institutions provide certificate, diploma, applied degrees and baccalaureate degrees in specified areas. They may also offer academic upgrading and university transfer programs. They do not offer graduate-level programs.
Comprehensive Community Institutions
These institutions offer programs that prepare learners for employment or for further study. Programs offered may include academic upgrading, apprenticeship, certificate and diploma programs. university transfer, and applied degrees. Some of these colleges offer baccalaureate degrees in collaboration with a degree-granting institution. Each Comprehensive Community Institution is responsible for stewardship of adult learning opportunities within their defined region of Alberta.
Types of Programs and Credentials Offered
Academic UpgradingAcademic Upgrading programs are offered by most colleges and technical institutes. These programs may lead to a high school diploma or they may allow students to complete high school equivalency courses required for admission into a post-secondary program.
Applied DegreeApplied Degree programs provide advanced study in career or technical fields to prepare graduates for clearly identified employment opportunities. Generally, these programs have an admission requirement of high school completion. Students with a related diploma may be admitted as third-year students. Applied degrees include six semesters of instruction (90 credits) and two semesters of work experience (30 credits).
Advanced CertificateAdvanced Certificate programs prepare graduates for employment in specific entry-level positions. To gain admission into an advanced certificate program, students are required to successfully complete a related certificate program. Generally, these programs require students to complete 30 credits (one year of full-time study).
Baccalaureate DegreeBaccalaureate Degree programs, commonly known as bachelor’s degrees, provide broad knowledge including specialized knowledge in at least one discipline or field. These programs prepare graduates for further study and/or employment. Admission requirements include a minimum average in five specified Grade 12 subjects. Baccalaureate degrees typically require student to complete 120 credits (four-year programs) or may be 90 credits (3 year programs).
CertificateCertificate programs are primarily 30 credits or one year of study and prepare graduates for entry-level employment. These programs usually have an admission requirement of high school completion (which may include specified subjects).
Continuing EducationContinuing Education includes professional development and personal interest non-credit programs and courses that may contribute to an individual’s lifelong learning goals.
DiplomaDiploma programs prepare graduates for employment in a broad range of entry-level positions. Generally, these programs have an admission requirement of high school completion (which may include specified subjects), and require students to complete 60 credits (two years of full-time study).
Journeyman CertficateJourneyman Certificate programs combine both on-the-job training and post-secondary study to prepare graduates to work as tradespersons in Alberta. Successful completion of apprenticeship training leads to a Journeyman Certificate. Once certified, many trades offer graduates the opportunity to earn a Red Seal, which is recognized in other provinces and territories that participate in the Red Seal program. These programs require students to sign a contract with an employer for the on-the-job component of the program, and depending on the trade, require students to complete 4–12 weeks per year (1–4 years) in technical training at a college or technical institute.
Post-Basic CertificatePost-Basic Certificate programs are typically advanced studies in health-related areas, and prepare graduates for specialized employment. Generally, these programs have an admission requirement of a health-related diploma or degree, and require students to complete 30 credits (one year of full-time study).
Post-Basic DiplomaPost-Basic Diploma programs are typically advanced studies in health-related areas, and prepare graduates for specialized employment. Generally, these programs have an admission requirement of a health-related diploma or degree, and require students to complete 60 credits (one year of full-time study).
University TransferUniversity Transfer programs provide students with the opportunity to complete up to 60 credits of courses toward an undergraduate degree. Students then transfer to a degree-completion institution (university, college or private college) to complete their undergraduate studies.
For more information, please visit Credentials, Programs and Approval Processes.
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