What educational options are right for me?
There is so much to consider when planning for life after high school. It may seem that this is way off in the distance but it's worth looking at now so you can start thinking about making your plans for your future.
Let's look at the following options so you can get a handle on your career, life, future and the opportunities available in Newfoundland and Labrador.
University? College? Apprenticeship? What does it all means for me?
The path forward could be through a university or a college, but not many really understand the difference between the two. Here's some information to give you a better idea of what you can expect from either option.
Deciding to go to university or college is a tough decision and while it might be a few years away for you it is important to start considering your options now! Many programs have specific entry requirements: if you don't have these requirements in high school it will mean additional time (and money) to complete them – even if you have already received your high school diploma! That said, don't feel that your entire future lies in the decisions and ideas you have right now; but keeping your options open is always the smartest thing to do in the long run.
The path forward could be through a university or a college. But what is the difference (very few people really understand!). Here is some basic information to help you understand the differences.
- At a university you will complete a degree. At a college you will complete a diploma or a certificate.
- A degree program typically takes longer to complete than other postsecondary options: University degrees typically take 4-6 years to complete, depending on the type of degree you choose. College programs are three years or less.
- In Newfoundland we have one publicly funded University (Memorial University (link)) and one College (College of the North Atlantic (link)).
- Some jobs (such as lawyer, doctor or teacher) require a university degree. Other jobs (such as graphic artist, office administrator or X-Ray Technician require college training).
- On average jobs that require a university degree have higher earnings than other types of post secondary education though you can still make a very good living with a college education.
Check out this site to help with choosing a college or school
University in Newfoundland and Labrador
Memorial University has two campuses in St. John's, including the Marine Institute as well as Grenfell Campus in Corner Brook and Harlow Campus in England. The largest university in Atlantic Canada, it offers more than 100 degree programs and has more than 17,000 registered students. Check out www.mun.ca (709 864-8000), www.mi.mun.ca (1-800-563-5799), www.swgc.mun.ca (709-637-6200)
If you're interested in pursuing entry level university studies closer to home the Comprehensive Arts and Science (CAS) Transfer might be a great option. This can often help bridge the gap between leaving home and moving on to university. This can be a difficult decision for students so experiencing what university is all about while living at home can make it much easier.
College of the North Atlantic
College of the North Atlantic is Newfoundland and Labrador's public college - with 17 campus locations throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and one in the Middle East State of Qatar. Nearly 100 full-time program offerings and more than 300 part-time courses for some 20,000 students annually it is one of the largest post-secondary educational and skills training centres in Atlantic Canada.
Are you interested in learning a trade on the job? Newfoundland and Labrador's education and apprenticeship system can help you get the training and experience you need to become a professional, skilled tradesperson. If you are looking for more information call 1-877-771-3737 or visit here.
Private Training
Private schools and or training options tend to have lower student teacher ratios and class sizes but can be more expensive than public post-secondary options. For a full listing check out this site.
