Finishing High School
Getting into a post-secondary program does not start after high-school; you need to prepare as soon as possible in order to get an edge in today’s universities, colleges and institutes with growing entrance requirements.
Universities
For the past 15 years, the major trend has been gaining a university degree. Because of this, major universities such as the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University or the University of Victoria all require a minimum of 75%-89% average mark with 2 provincially examinable courses (most faculties require 3 or more). Fortunately, most Canadian institutions have First Nations entrance policies that allow for students who may fall under these requirements a chance to be accepted into a university.
Planning to go to university is essential as early as possible. Around grade 9-10 students should be positioning themselves into getting into the courses they need for university. English and math are two courses that are the two most important courses. English 12 is a provincially examinable course and is required for any university entrance. Math is just as important but with many more options.
Colleges
While university requirements are growing, a more viable options my be to go to one of BC’s many colleges or university-colleges.
College provides many students their first step into their post-secondary experience. Most colleges offer many of the same first and second year courses you’ll find in university, but in a much smaller classroom environment. Entrance requirements are also much lower than university, often around 68%. Almost all credits earned in college are transferable to universities (check the BC Transfer Guide to ensure that the courses you take do transfer) where you can continue your studies.
Another advantage to college is accessability; most colleges are located in small regions allowing students to go to school without having to relocate to Vancouver, Victoria or Prince George. First Nations run and founded schools are also a viable option for today’s students. Many colleges offer ABE programs, while some also offer various first year university transfer courses. Some of these institutions are even located on site with partnerships with local colleges and universities, such as the Cariboo Chilcotin Weekend University.
Institutes
Other post-secondary institutions may specialize in technologies, trades, art and design, law enforcement and indigenous studies. These schools generally are not academic institutions, but focus more on applied skills and specialized training for use in an actual work environment. Institutes such as the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) or Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) offer many courses such as trades, computing or business training.
While the trend today is for a university degree, a large number of skilled
trades people are going to be retiring in the next 10 years leaving many
unfilled jobs. Many people believe that soon the shift will be from a
university degree to technical training to get the skills needed for these
jobs.
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