Is there a difference between a college and a university?

Categories: College, Education, University 

Alberta, like many other provinces, makes a distinction between colleges and universities. Whether you choose to attend college or university will depend on what you are looking for out of your education and your career.

Colleges in Alberta

Colleges usually offer diploma and certificate programs in applied areas of study. In general, colleges offer training that is more directly related to a career in everything from skilled trades to careers that need certification in order to practice. Many colleges also offer bachelors degrees in career-oriented areas of study.

Universities in Alberta

Universities are generally more academic, offering full ranges of undergraduate and graduate degree courses. Many also offer professional training in fields like law, medicine and business. In many cases, students can start professional degree programs after just two or three years of regular undergraduate study.

General Information

Universities and Colleges are regulated by the Alberta Ministry of Advanced Education and Technology.

Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees in Alberta are usually structured as follows:

Program Time
Certificate 0 - 2 years
Diploma 1 - 3 years
Bachelor’s General 3 years
Bachelor’s Honours 4 years
Masters Degree +2 years
PhD/Doctoral +4 - 5 years

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