Canada: Education system and popular colleges

Part I: Why you should consider studying in Canada

Today we take a look at the education system in Canada and the institutes generally opted for by Indian students. The list though in itself is exhaustive, is not restricted to these.

Education system
The basic structures of provincial and territorial education systems across Canada are similar. Each has three tiers -- elementary, secondary and postsecondary. Postsecondary institutions issue degrees, diplomas, certificates, depending on the nature of those institutions and the length of the programmes.

At universities and university colleges, there is an emphasis on degree programmes. A certain number of colleges offer applied degrees. At all other institutions, the emphasis is on diploma, certificate programmes.

University degrees are offered at three consecutive levels -- bachelor's, master's and doctoral -- with the possession of a degree from the lower level generally a prerequisite for admission to the next. Many universities also offer diploma and certificate programmes.

Generally speaking, university diplomas and certificates require one or two years of study in a specific field or discipline. However, these programmes vary widely from institution to institution, and from province to province.

University calendars are the best sources of information about the nature and requirements of university diplomas and certificates.

Students at the baccalaureate or bachelor's level are known as undergraduates. Successful completion of the secondary school programme is the normal prerequisite for admission to undergraduate study.

Bachelor's degrees normally require three or four years of full-time study, depending on the province or whether the programme is general or specialised.

A master's degree typically requires two years of study after successful completion of an honours baccalaureate.

Colleges Indian students opt for
Given below is the list of institutes generally opted for by Indian students with us. The list though in itself is exhaustive and not restricted to these only.  

• Kwantlen University College
• Brock University
• Georgian college
• Seneca College
• City George Brown college
• University College of Fraser Valley
• Fanshawe College
• Algonquin Institute Of Technology
• Fleming College
• Malaspina University College
• Wilfred Laurier University
• University of New Brunswick
• Centennial college

Part I: Why you should consider studying in Canada

Pushpinder Bhatia is the CEO of PAC Asia Services, a study abroad consulting firm. He will host a chat with GA readers on Friday (February 8) from 3 pm to 4 pm and will answer any questions you may have on studying in Canada. Join us then!