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About Post-Secondary

Questions & Answers

  1. How long does it take to complete a certificate?

    It can take anywhere from one day to one year to complete a certificate, depending on the course or the program.

  2. How long does it take to complete a diploma?

    A diploma takes two years to complete.

  3. What is a bachelor’s degree?

    A bachelor’s degree is a collection of university-level courses from a variety of disciplines. Students will specialize in a certain area of study, but will complete courses in a number of areas. A bachelor degree will take a minimum of four years to complete.

  4. What factors should I consider when choosing a post secondary institution?
    • Location
    • Cost
    • Admission requirements
    • Transfer availability
    • Career goals
    • Travel opportunities
  5. What is foundation trades training?

    Foundation programs are pre-apprenticeship programs that provide trainees with the basic knowledge and skills needed for entry into a particular occupation. They are typically conducted in a classroom or shop setting, and do not involve any significant work-based training component. As a result, trainees do not require an employer/sponsor to participate.

  6. What is university transfer?

    University transfer describes college courses that are transferable to other colleges, universities, and institutes in BC. At NIC students can take first and second year courses that are transferable within BC and often across Canada.

  7. How do I get accepted into NIC?

    NIC accepts students on a first-come, first serve basis. This means that if you are the first to apply, and you meet all the admission requirements, then the seat is yours. Please follow this link to access our steps to apply.

  8. Why is NIC less expensive than a university?

    Since colleges are focused solely on teaching, they tend to cost far less to operate. They don’t have to fund research facilities and many are located outside major cities, where the cost of living and doing business is much less.

  9. Can I take high school courses at college?

    Absolutely! NIC offers a variety of adult upgrading courses at all of our campuses and centres. Upgrading students have the opportunity to participate in regularly scheduled classes, or enroll in a self-paced class, take distance courses or study on-line. (Not all courses are offered by all of these instructional methods.) The student's current level will be assessed so that he/she can begin at the correct level.

  10. What type of financial aid is available?
    • NIC Scholarships & Bursaries
    • Student Loans
    • Canada Study Grants
    • ABESAP Funding
    • Apprenticeship Incentive Grant

    Please visit Financial Aid to find out more about financial aid at NIC.