Degree programs offered at BOTH universities and colleges focus on theoretical learning.  This means that:

• Learning is abstract and conceptual; you will learn mostly from textbooks, articles, and journals.

• You MUST be able to work independently to understand course material and complete work.

• Your professor or instructor will expect you to come to class having completed readings and/or other assigned work so they can explain in more depth. 

• You will be learning in large class sizes ranging from 50-1000 people.

Each degree program will differ in their specifics for type of learning required, how long the program is, and what it costs.  Here are the main facts:

• Most degree programs are between 3-4 years long. 

  • Some special programs are 5-6 years long, but typically grant you two degrees instead of just one.  Concurrent Education is an example. 

• Some programs will include optional or mandatory work experience in the form of co-op or internship.  These can be paid or unpaid.

• Average tuition cost per year is  approximately $8,000. 

You will earn a “degree” when you finish your studies.  Examples include:

• BA - Bachelor of Arts

• BBA - Bachelor of Business Administration

• BCom - Bachelor of Commerce

• BEd - Bachelor of Education

• BEng - Bachelor of Engineering

• BFA - Bachelor of Fine Arts

• BSc - Bachelor of Science

Universities have subject departments called "Faculties".  Your specific program will be listed under one of those Faculties.  For example, at York University:

• The program of African Studies is offered by the Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies. 

• The program of Psychology is offered by the Faculty of Arts. 

• The program of Athletic Therapy is offered by the Faculty of Health.

• The program of Biotechnology is offered by the Faculty of Science.

The type of person that best enjoys a degree program is someone who:

• Is interested in exploring academic, theoretical, and conceptual learning.

• Is willing to independently review course materials and manage academic challenges.

• Has a minimum 75% average in 6 grade 12 “4U” (University) or “4M” (Mixed) courses.

• May benefit from a degree to apply to a professional school (e.g. Teaching, Medicine, Law, etc.) or a post-graduate Masters program (e.g. Social Work, Physiotherapy, etc.).