British Columbia offers a wide range of post-secondary options for those wanting to study in this province. Over 1,900 programs are offered at 26 public post-secondary institutions. These institutions follow specific mandates that allow them to serve the diverse needs of communities and students throughout the province.
Six universities offer an array of undergraduate degree programs and a range of programs at the graduate level. Some also offer diplomas and certificates in a variety of professional fields, as well as continuing education programs. Universities also undertake the pursuit of original research in a range of program disciplines.
Three university-colleges offer undergraduate and master's degrees, often in specialized subject areas, as well as courses and programs in trades, vocational, and career technical studies leading to certificates and diplomas. They also provide developmental programs that prepare adult learners for post-secondary studies.
12 colleges offer developmental programs that prepare adult learners for post-secondary studies and provide courses and programs in trades, vocational, career technical and academic studies leading to certificates, diplomas, associate degrees and applied degrees.
Five institutes are organized according to career, vocational and technical specialties, covering a variety of occupations. They may offer credentials from certificates to degrees. Two institutes have an aboriginal focus.
A distance and online learning agency, BCcampus, a collaboration of all B.C.'s post-secondary institutions to offer one-stop access to online learning in the province.
