Calgary

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Post-Secondary Education

Universities, colleges, and technical institutes offering higher education programs and training for a variety of careers.

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Comprehensive Guide to Post-Secondary Education in Calgary, Canada

Calgary, Alberta, is a vibrant and growing city that offers excellent opportunities for post-secondary education. Known for its high quality of life, safety, and proximity to the Rocky Mountains, Calgary is an attractive destination for both domestic and international students. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the post-secondary education system in Calgary.

1. Institutions Available

Calgary is home to several reputable post-secondary institutions, offering a wide range of programs and opportunities for students. These include:

Universities

  1. University of Calgary (UCalgary)

    • A leading research-intensive university offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
    • Known for its strengths in engineering, business, health sciences, and environmental studies.

  2. Mount Royal University (MRU)

    • Focuses on undergraduate education with smaller class sizes and a strong emphasis on teaching.
    • Offers programs in arts, business, health, and communication.

Colleges

  1. Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)

    • A polytechnic institution offering hands-on, career-focused programs in technology, trades, business, and health sciences.
    • Known for its strong industry connections and co-op opportunities.

  2. Bow Valley College

    • Specializes in career-focused programs, including diplomas, certificates, and English language training.
    • Offers flexible learning options for adult learners and newcomers to Canada.

  3. St. Maryโ€™s University

    • A small, Catholic liberal arts university offering undergraduate degrees in arts, sciences, and education.

  4. Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts)

    • A specialized institution for students pursuing degrees in fine arts, design, and media arts.

2. Types of Programs Offered

Calgaryโ€™s post-secondary institutions offer a wide variety of programs to suit different career goals and academic interests:

  • Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelorโ€™s programs in arts, sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and more.
  • Graduate Degrees: Masterโ€™s and Ph.D. programs in research and professional fields.
  • Diplomas and Certificates: Shorter, career-focused programs in trades, technology, business, and healthcare.
  • Apprenticeships: Hands-on training in skilled trades, offered through SAIT and other institutions.
  • Continuing Education: Professional development courses, certifications, and part-time programs for working professionals.
  • English Language Programs: ESL (English as a Second Language) and academic preparation programs for international students.

3. Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary depending on the institution and program. Below are general guidelines:

Undergraduate Programs

  • Domestic Students: High school diploma with specific course prerequisites (e.g., English, math, sciences).
  • International Students: Equivalent secondary school credentials, proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and course prerequisites.

Graduate Programs

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in a related field with a competitive GPA.
  • Additional requirements may include:
    • Letters of recommendation.
    • Statement of purpose.
    • Resume/CV.
    • GRE/GMAT scores (for some programs).

Diplomas and Certificates

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Some programs may require prior work experience or specific prerequisites.

English Language Proficiency

Most institutions require proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers. Commonly accepted tests include:

  • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 (with no band below 6.0).
  • TOEFL: Minimum score of 86 (with no section below 20).
  • Duolingo English Test: Accepted by some institutions.

4. Estimated Costs

Tuition Fees

  • Domestic Students: CAD 5,000โ€“8,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
  • International Students: CAD 18,000โ€“25,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
  • Graduate program fees vary widely but typically range from CAD 6,000โ€“20,000 per year for domestic students and CAD 12,000โ€“30,000 for international students.

Living Expenses

  • Housing: CAD 600โ€“1,500 per month (depending on whether you live on-campus or off-campus).
  • Food: CAD 300โ€“500 per month.
  • Transportation: CAD 112 per month for a Calgary Transit UPass (discounted for students).
  • Miscellaneous: CAD 200โ€“400 per month for personal expenses.

Total Estimated Annual Cost

  • Domestic Students: CAD 15,000โ€“20,000.
  • International Students: CAD 25,000โ€“35,000.

5. Application Procedures

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Research Programs: Visit the institutionโ€™s website to explore programs and admission requirements.
  2. Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and other required documents.
  3. Apply Online: Most institutions use an online application portal. Pay the application fee (typically CAD 100โ€“200).
  4. Submit Supporting Documents: Upload transcripts, test scores, and other materials.
  5. Wait for Admission Decision: Processing times vary but typically take 4โ€“8 weeks.
  6. Accept Offer and Pay Deposit: Once admitted, confirm your spot by paying a deposit.
  7. Apply for Study Permit: International students must apply for a Canadian study permit.

6. Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships for Domestic and International Students

  • University of Calgary: Offers entrance scholarships, including the Presidentโ€™s Admission Scholarship (up to CAD 5,000) and International Entrance Scholarships (up to CAD 15,000).
  • Mount Royal University: Provides scholarships based on academic merit and financial need.
  • SAIT: Offers awards for academic excellence and leadership.
  • Government of Canada: Provides scholarships for international students through programs like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.

Financial Aid

  • Domestic Students: Eligible for government student loans and grants through Alberta Student Aid.
  • International Students: Limited financial aid options, but part-time work opportunities are available (up to 20 hours per week during the academic term).

7. Unique Aspects of Student Life in Calgary

Cultural Diversity

  • Calgary is a multicultural city with a welcoming environment for international students. Youโ€™ll find cultural associations, events, and restaurants representing cuisines from around the world.

Outdoor Activities

  • Proximity to the Rocky Mountains offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Student Discounts

  • Students can access discounts on public transit (UPass), entertainment, and local attractions.

Work Opportunities

  • Calgary has a strong job market, particularly in industries like energy, technology, and healthcare. International students can work part-time during their studies and full-time during scheduled breaks.

Public Transit

  • Calgary Transit operates buses and a light rail system (CTrain), making it easy to navigate the city. Most institutions provide a UPass, which gives students unlimited access to public transit.

8. Practical Advice for New Students

  • Housing: Start looking for accommodation early. On-campus housing is convenient but fills up quickly. Off-campus options include shared apartments and homestays.
  • Weather: Calgary experiences cold winters, so invest in warm clothing and boots.
  • Banking: Open a student bank account with a local bank (e.g., RBC, TD, Scotiabank) for easy access to funds.
  • Health Insurance: Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) covers basic healthcare for international students. Ensure you register upon arrival.
  • Community Support: Join student clubs and associations to build a network and make friends.

Calgary offers a dynamic and supportive environment for post-secondary education, with excellent academic programs, diverse cultural experiences, and abundant career opportunities. By planning ahead and taking advantage of the resources available, you can make the most of your time as a student in this vibrant city.