Study abroad options in Canada
After IGCSE, SPM, students can opt to study in foundation programmes.
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Foundation programme
A foundation programme is designed to address the needs of international students looking to study abroad. It helps assure that students are academically and personally ready to progress to an English-taught degree at a university in Canada. It helps students build the confidence they need to succeed as well as tackle the unique challenges international students face, such as adjusting to a new culture. The small class sizes and teachers experienced in working with students with an international background will also provide you with the support you need when learning abroad.
After completing CIMP, AUSMAT, A levels, IB, UEC, or STPM, students can opt to study at University immediately or study at a University transfer programme.
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Direct to University
University in Canada refers to academic institutions that are regulated by provincial legislation but are autonomous in terms of academic matters such as quality of programs, instructors, and policies and procedures. Distinct from colleges, which grant diplomas, universities in Canada are defined as degree-granting institutions that provide bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Universities typically focus on analytical skills (the ability to understand and use information), and academic and professional programs. For those who would like to obtain their first undergraduate degree, or who are interested in a professional program like medicine and law, universities are a good option. Obtaining a university degree is also necessary for anyone who is interested in working in academia or research-based professions.
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University transfer programme
In Canada, many students are deciding on a flexible option called a University Transfer program. This gives students the convenience of taking the first two years of a typical four-year university degree at a college, before transferring to complete the final two years of the degree at university. Students find University Transfers appealing because they offer a chance to enjoy the advantages of a college education: smaller class sizes, greater access to instructors, competitive tuition fees, and a more personal atmosphere.
This may be particularly attractive to international students away from home for the first time, or those for whom English is a second language. Students have a chance to adapt to university-level academics in an intimate environment, before going to university to take the more advanced courses required by their degree. Upon successful completion of the program, they are recognized university graduates.
After a Bachelor's degree, students can opt to study for their post-graduate certificate or post-graduate diploma.
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Post-graduate certificate
The Postgraduate Certificate, also known as Graduate Certificate is a specialised postgraduate qualification. This certification can be equivalent to a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree depending on the country in which you study it. Graduate schools offer postgraduate certificate programmes in almost any discipline and they usually take one year of full-time study to complete.
Postgraduate Certificates are ideal for people who already have work experience and want to advance their careers, but don’t have time for a Master’s degree. To graduate, students need to pass each course with a specific grade.
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Post-graduate diploma
Postgraduate Diploma is considered academically over the level of a Bachelor's, but under a Master’s level. A Postgraduate Diploma can normally be started after the completion of a Bachelor's degree and is typically completed in one year or less. You can find Grad.Dip. programmes available in most disciplines. Postgraduate Diplomas can usually be extended towards achieving a full Master's degree, such as a Master of Science or Master of Arts, at a later time. Postgraduate Diplomas are gaining popularity because they are more affordable than a Master's degree and take less time to complete.
After a Bachelor's degree, students can opt to study for their masters.
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Masters
Masters degrees are usually focused on one particular area of a wider subject, giving students a greater amount of specialist knowledge. It is more flexible in terms of modules and study options more intense, advanced and faster-paced. It is smaller in terms of class size and cheaper (but more expensive than PGCerts, PGDips and PhDs). Courses are typically split into separate core and optional modules, and depending on the subject studied you may get the opportunity to complete a work placement or a period studying abroad as part of the programme. Courses normally begin in September or October, though some start in January or February. You may have fewer than ten hours of weekly contact time, but you'll be expected to undertake at least 30 to 35 hours of independent study. Teaching methods include seminars, lectures and workshops. Assessment methods include practical assignments, essays, presentations, portfolios, degree shows and a thesis.