Author: gillc

Thinking about pursuing a degree? Pondering going to college? Can’t make up your mind? Don’t! You can earn a degree and go to college at the same time. And that’s not all; if you’re still mulling over university or college, this article is for you.

A degree? At college?

No, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you: you can get a degree at college. College degrees are equal to (and sometimes better than) university degrees. Employers value the combination of theory and practical hands-on experience which is why Algonquin College has over 17 degree options to choose from. Ranging from Automation and Robotics to Interior Design, there’s a degree program for you here. If that sounds too good to be true, hold on to your socks ‘cause it only gets better.

Bigger isn’t better

Afraid you’ll be lost in the crowd? Don’t sweat it. At Algonquin College, bigger doesn’t always mean better. We believe that learning is a lot easier when you can ask questions freely and get to know your fellow classmates. That’s why our degree classes have an average of 32 students. Flagging down your prof and making friends has never been so simple.

The real deal

Speaking of profs, you’ll be learning from the best of the best: real industry professionals. This is a huge advantage since they’ll be able to teach you the ins and outs of your field. They’ve been through the wringer a few times and know their way around the place so strap in while they show you the ropes.

Best of both worlds

College is the perfect marriage of theory and practice. If you learn things more easily through an interactive, hands-on approach, you’ll love it here. Whether you’re in the nursing program or digital marketing program, you’ll be able to build, create, invent, and more. You’ll learn through experience and experience through learning.

Cash money, honey

While we’re on the topic of experience, did we mention that most of our degree programs have paid co-op terms? Yessiree! Students can earn upwards of $10,000 per work-term and get an “in” in the field they’re passionate about. Co-op terms are a great opportunity to hone your skills, network and maybe even land a permanent position before you graduate. Colleges, on average, have a much higher employment rate than universities.

No pressure

Both paths lead down the same winding road. Be it college or university, both will land you a career in the industry you’re passionate about but just know that, whatever path you take, we’ll be cheering you on from the sidelines. You’re going to do great things, we know it.

Chelsie McHugh is a graduate of the Advertising and Marketing Communications program at Algonquin College. She’s a funny, fiery redhead with a passion for writing.

College or university? Now that’s a tough decision. Here’s what you should consider before making up your mind:

Your learning style

If you like practical experience, simulated work environments, and smaller classes, then we have news for you: college is calling your name. College can offer a more practical, industry-oriented education. You learn about the industry you’re passionate about from real industry professionals. With smaller classrooms, caring professors, and real world experience, College will set you up for success.

University is great if you’re more of a theory-oriented learner. There can be a lot of reading and studying, which may be good for you. If you don’t mind being in a class with hundreds of other people, then university is something to consider. Regardless of where you choose to go, you’ll learn loads of neat stuff and have a ton of fun doing it.

Getting to the good stuff

Ranging from three years to ten, it’s no secret that it can take a long time to complete a university program. As incredibly thorough and in-depth as that is, you may not feel like sitting around in school for what seems like forever — we bet you want to work. With a college education, you can make a great salary and start your career more quickly.

College has a bunch of different types and lengths of programs; from one year certificates, two year diplomas, three year advanced diplomas, Honours degrees, and graduate certificates. This means that you can get to the good stuff and start working in your field faster! It’s also reassuring that 84.1% of Algonquin College alumni were working in their field within six months of graduation..

The best of both worlds

If you still can’t make up your mind: then don’t. Algonquin College offers over a dozen Honours degree programs, ranging from commerce to robotics, building science to interior design – so there’s something for everyone! Most of the Honours degree programs that Algonquin College offers also have paid co-op terms where students can earn upwards of $10,000 per work-term.

Algonquin College also has tons of articulation agreements, which means you can often use your college credits towards a university program, saving you even more time if you decide to pursue a degree down the road.

Too expensive? We can help

Think about how much post-secondary education is going to cost. College is often less expensive than university because programs tend to be shorter and tuition is often less costly. Algonquin College offers a Tuition Fee Estimator that will give you a good idea of how much you’ll actually be spending. If the total’s looking a little steep, don’t sweat it. There are loads of places you can turn to for financial aid.

A final thought

All in all, the choice is up to you. Only you know what benefits you most. Our (somewhat biased) opinion is only here to guide you. Both university and college teach you how to do amazing things. Wherever you end up, your experience is going to be life-changing, and we know you’ll rock it.

Chelsie McHugh is a graduate of the Advertising and Marketing Communications program at Algonquin College. She’s a funny, fiery redhead with a passion for writing.