We think it’s because you have a goal you want to achieve. Because you don’t want your education to feel one-size-fits-all. Because you want freedom to grow while also developing first-class skills that will lead you into a successful career.
Ontario’s colleges make sense for all these reasons. And for 10 more.
Top 10 Reasons to Choose Ontario's Colleges
1. Innovative and Groundbreaking Programs
Ten years ago, many of today’s most exciting careers didn’t even exist. Ontario’s colleges are leaders in technology and workforce development, preparing students for success in not only the cutting-edge careers of today, but also those of tomorrow.
With over 480 industry partners advising on curriculum, programs and courses are continuously evolving to ensure students receive the most up-to-date training. And with over 300 courses now offering innovation and entrepreneurial components, students are reaping the benefits of participating in groundbreaking research and innovation projects.
2. Explorer-Friendly
Not sure what you want to do for the rest of your life? You’re certainly not alone. That’s why Ontario’s colleges offer programs specifically for explorers, helping you earn valuable credits while you figure out what your future holds.
Exploratory options can be broad, exposing you to a variety of areas of study in a single program. Or, they can focus on one specific area of study, giving you a foundation to build on when you move into a more specialized program. Whichever option you choose, you can count on an explorer program to build your confidence and prepare you to make informed decisions about your education and your future.
3. Something for Everyone (And We Do Mean Everyone)
5,000-plus programs across 200-plus areas of study? There’s definitely one that’s right for you. Whether you’re business-minded or creative, good with numbers or good with your hands, like working with people or like working with technology, there’s a college program that will help you turn the things you’re good at into a successful career.
Not sure where your interests lie? Explore college programs using our program search engine.
Source: Skills Canada
4. Choose Your Own Adventure
One-year certificate programs that help you build skills and get working fast.
Two and three-year diploma programs that prepare you for the career you’ve dreamed about.
Graduate certificate programs that build on the education you already have. And did we mention, over 200 degree programs that give you not only the credential you want, but valuable practical experience?
Ontario’s colleges offer them all, for wherever you want your education to take you. And, with more than 800,000 transfer opportunities that recognize your existing credits – that can mean anywhere.
Source: Colleges Ontario
5. It’s Never Too Late
With job commitments, family at home, bills to pay and other responsibilities, are you worried it’s too late to go back to school? Worry not. College classrooms aren’t just for teenagers fresh out of high school. They’re full of individuals at different phases in their lives, from workers looking to upgrade their job skills, young parents and empty-nesters looking to re-enter the workforce, adults training for new careers and so many more. Wherever you are in your life, it’s never too late to build your skills and knowledge through a college education.
6. Real-World Experience Before You Graduate
You’ve probably heard this one already, but we never get tired of saying it. College programs are famous for their unique blend of academic learning and practical skills training. Led by instructors with professional experience, you’ll benefit from hands-on training and real-world projects right in the classroom, while co-op and work study options give you the chance to gain valuable experience in your chosen career before it’s even begun.
You’ll also benefit from industry partnerships and professional relationships that will not only help you land co-op, internship and work placement opportunities but can also lead to jobs after graduation.
7. No Stereotypes, Just Acceptance and Support
There is no typical college student – and if you don’t believe us, take a look at these numbers:
- 73% of college applicants don’t come directly from high school.
- 6% of students have a university degree.
- 15% of students use special needs / disability services.
- 33% of students have parents who did not have postsecondary education.
- Over 38,000 college students are 25 years or older.
- More than 55,000 international students are studying at Ontario’s colleges.
- More than 3,800 applicants indicate having Indigenous ancestry.
With such a diverse student body, Ontario college campuses are dedicated to creating programs and environments that support every student throughout their college experience. Just a sample of these include academic and career counselling, mental health and wellness services, disability services, day care programs, international student advising, Indigenous resources, LGBTQ communities and so much more.
Source: Globe & Mail
8. Classrooms That Connect
With sizes that average around 30 rather than 130 (or more), don’t expect to be lost in the crowd. Instead, expect your classes to be full of spontaneity and energy, with instructors who challenge you to engage openly, ask questions, share ideas and work hands-on to get more out of each class than you ever thought possible. And let’s talk a bit more about those instructors. With real-world experience to draw from and many who still actively work in the area they’re teaching, you can count on them to be current on the latest trends and technologies and to keep the classroom connected.
9. Locations That Work for You
Can’t wait to ditch your hometown and start fresh somewhere new? Our adventurous spirit is totally with you. Or maybe you’re thinking of staying close to home, where you’ll have family and friends close by as you start a new chapter in your life? Hey, we get that, too.
Whatever your geographical preferences, Ontario’s colleges can accommodate – with over 100 campuses in small towns and big cities all over the province, there’s one that’s perfect for you to call home (even if it’s in the place you already call home).
10. Graduate With Less Debt (Need We Say More?)
We saved the best news for last. No one wants to graduate with a mountain of debt, and unfortunately, higher learning comes with a price tag. Ontario college programs have significantly lower tuition costs than other postsecondary options, without sacrificing on the quality of the education you receive. They also help get you into the workforce faster, so you can be earning money rather than spending it.
In addition to lower tuition fees, there are also thousands of dollars available to Ontario students each year through scholarships, bursaries and grants, which can help lessen the financial burden even further.