University Degrees

• Bachelor’s (Undergraduate) Degree: Your primary degree after high school, taking 3 to 4 years to complete.

• Graduate Degree: Advanced study completed after a Bachelor’s degree.

  • Master’s Degree: Advanced specialization following a Bachelor’s (1–2 years).

  • Doctorate (Ph.D.): The highest academic research degree, usually following a Master’s.

  • Doctor of Medicine (MD): A professional medical degree requiring prior university study for admission.

• General vs. Honours Degree: General degrees are usually 3 years of study. Honours degrees are 4 years, require higher academic standing, and are often required for graduate school.

• BA vs. BSc: Some majors (e.g., Psychology) are offered as either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science. High school admission requirements differ depending on the stream you choose.

• Teacher Education Pathways:

  • Concurrent: You study education alongside your first degree.

  • Consecutive: You study education after completing your first degree.

Trades & Apprenticeships

• Red Seal Trade: A trade recognized nationally across multiple provinces without requiring additional exams.

• Journeyperson: A certified, fully qualified trade professional authorized to work at full standard pay and mentor apprentices.

Ontario College Credentials

• Certificate: A targeted post-secondary program, usually 2 semesters (1 year).

• Diploma: A practical post-secondary program, usually 4 semesters (2 years).

• Advanced Diploma: An in-depth technical program, usually 6 semesters (3 years).

• College Degree: A 4-year degree (8 semesters) offered by a college combining practical and academic learning. Requires six Grade 12 U/M courses to apply.