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Canada’s universities present a wealth of options
The 95 universities that belong to the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada each offer unique settings and experiences. What they have in common is a dedication to high-quality teaching and research and to providing opportunities that enhance your learning, your career and your life.
Canada offers a wealth of higher education options and life-enriching opportunities at its universities and university degree-level colleges.
These institutions are diverse varying in size and programs and they're located across the country, with at least one in every province.
Quality education
High academic standards and rigorous quality controls mean that you can have confidence in receiving a high quality university education in Canada. The provinces and territories are responsible for all levels of education in Canada, including universities. There's no federal ministry of education or formal national accreditation system. Instead, membership in the AUCC, coupled with the university's provincial government charter, is generally deemed the equivalent.
Academic programs
Universities offer programs that range from fine art, biology and commerce to astronomy, engineering and medicine. Currently, there are more than 10,000 undergraduate and graduate degree programs offered in Canada as well as professional degree programs and certificates. Regardless of the program, Canadian degrees are globally recognized and considered equivalent to those from U.S. and other Commonwealth or Francophonie universities. (For more information on Canadian higher education quality assurance, visit www.aucc.ca/qa).
University size and character
Each university has a style all its own. You can study at a large, research-intensive campus in an urban centre, or if you would prefer, you can enrol at a small liberal arts institution with a focus on undergraduate education, where most of the students live in residence. Some universities specialize in areas such as business, engineering or arts, while others offer a range of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs.
Language and enrolment options
Canada has English-language and French-language institutions with some universities offering instruction in both official languages.
Many universities offer full-time and part-time enrolment options as well as opportunities to participate in cooperative education, distance learning, continuing education and student exchange or study abroad programs.
Services and programs for students
Canadian universities are much more than academic institutions; they also provide support and opportunities for their students through a wide range of services and resources. University life extends beyond the lecture hall or lab to include:
- Student exchange programs (study abroad for part of your degree);
- First-year student programs (orientation week, study skills workshops, counselling);
- Academic and campus services (bookstore, career placement centre, academic advisers);
- Financial assistance (entrance scholarships and bursaries);
- Athletics (recreational, inter-university teams, fitness centres).
Students also have access to career, personal or academic counsellors and can get help with medical concerns or resolving housing issues. Many universities also have services for students with specific needs, such as single parents, those with physical, sensory or learning disabilities, Aboriginal students, part-time students, GLBTQ community, mature students and students of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Universities as part of the community
Canada's universities also play a vital role in their local communities, offering concerts and plays, day care centres, sports and fitness facilities, lectures, museums, on-campus radio stations and art galleries. Together, our universities make up a diverse, vibrant, dynamic and high quality system. Visit a university - either in person or online at www.aucc.ca/programs - to see for yourself how varied and enriching their offerings can be for you.
Your career – a key reason for attending a Canadian university
No matter what you study, or where, attending a Canadian university helps you prepare for a rewarding career. For Canadians, higher education is considered the ticket to future success because a university education translates into new skills, better prospects and higher salaries.
Deciding to study at a Canadian university will help you learn how to solve problems, think critically and creatively, present your ideas persuasively, work in teams, gain global skills and make effective decisions - all attributes that are in high demand by today's top employers. Over 70 percent of new jobs over the next decade will require some form of postsecondary education. Now, and even more in the future, a university degree, a college diploma or some combination of the two will help you get a great job and prepare you for life's challenges.
For more articles about Canadian higher education, visit us online at www.aucc.ca/can_uni/student_info/index_e.html
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