What to expect from a College Prep Program
College programs can be very competitive and, once you get there, the course load and work requirements can be very demanding if you’re not prepared. Pre-college programs at Ontario colleges are designed to help students refine, update or advance their knowledge in a variety of areas, preparing them for what’s to come in the college program of their choice.
If you’re concerned that your skills and education won’t land you your spot in college, but you have the drive to do what it takes to get yourself there, here’s what you need to know.
Pre-College Courses
Pre-college programs can be discipline-specific, such as health sciences prep or music prep. In these programs, focus will be placed on building up students’ skills to help them qualify for their desired program when the time comes. Other broader skills necessary for a successful career, such as written and oral communication, will also be part of the curriculum.
While pre-college programs can help prepare you for your chosen field, there are other prep programs available if you’re not quite sure what you want to study. General Arts and Science programs give you a taste of a variety of different fields, from humanities and social science to business and applied arts. These programs can help you choose the area of study that’s right for you while also increasing your chances of gaining acceptance when you apply to your program of choice.
General Pre-College Program Requirements
Ontario pre-college programs require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a grade 12 English credit. Depending on the particular program, additional credits may also be required.
Pre-College Jobs and Salaries
While the main goal of a pre-college program is to obtain the qualifications and skills necessary to enter a college program, it is possible to enter the working world with the credential earned. With pre-college programs that have a specific focus area, graduates will find career opportunities in the following industries:
- Business
- Trades
- Retail
- Technology
Because of the diversity of fields and job offerings, salaries will be difficult to predict. While most graduates will start off with entry-level positions and salaries, with experience, it is possible to move up in earnings quickly.
Ontario Colleges Offering Pre-College Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of pre-college programs at Ontario colleges.
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