Four-year Bachelor Degree Programs can now be completed in a College Campus
Traditionally in Canada, colleges are known for their applied teaching methods towards a diploma or an associate's degree, while universities provide intensive academic training towards a diploma with a Bachelor's degree standing. With the benefits of both worlds, colleges enhancedtheir programs to include more advance theories than previously placed on curriculums, resulting in degree programs. One college that stands out with accessible and inclusive environment is Centennial College.
Located in Toronto, Centennial College is committed to educating students for career success. The programs in the college are heavy in practical learning and in group work, both of which serve valuable experience for the work life ahead. Centennial's commitment to diversity contributed to the support of many student-centered initiatives,which also brought life to its degree programs. It created several four-year college programs in which students will graduate with the following designations:
- Bachelor of Applied Information Science,
- Bachelor of Applied Information Science,
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing,
- Bachelor of Public Relations Management,
- And various Bachelor degrees in Arts and Science, in conjunction with the college's partners.
Centennial's degree programs have a distinct enrollment process, including admission requirements and tuition information. To reflect the quality of these programs, students must accomplish the following minimum academic requirements:
- Must obtain an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or an equivalent standing, with a minimum of six Grade 12 university credits, 12 university-college credits, or equivalent number of OAC credits (Grade 13, eliminated in 2003)
- All high school or equivalent credits must be achieved at the minimum grade for a passing mark, but some may require greater satisfactory levels to enroll in highly competitive programs.
- Non-academic requirements may be requested to help process the application for enrollment, including for specific programs and programs with many applicants. Some of these requirements may include an essay, a résumé, a portfolio, and a program admission session.
Bachelor degrees at Centennial fair well with its university counterparts and the Centennial has an impressive list of benefits in comparison with other colleges. Some program highlights include:
- A combination of intensive theory and academic curriculums with real-life case studies and hands-on training
- Smaller classes directs faculty attention to individual needs, while teaching students to engage in textbook learning and a practical approach
- Knowledgeable and industry-trained professors teach at many classes, making the experience much more valuable
- An increase in network contacts and opportunities for employment upon graduation, with many degree programs offering mandatory co-op placements to expose students in their industry
- Students gain field experience and hands-on training from placements and from lab practices at Centennial's contemporary training facilities, specific for different program needs.
College programs are evolving to fit with student needs. One of the products of innovations at Centennial College is the four-year degree programs, offered in different areas of studies within the college. Students learn to apply the theories from the classrooms to the lab sessions on-campus and at a real employer organization.