2015/2016 Columbia College Viewbook

VIEWBOOK 2015/2016

www.columbiacollege.ca

COLUMBIA COLLEGE C elebrating over 75 years of helping students succeed at C anadian universities

Founded in 1936, Columbia College is Canada’s oldest international college. Located in downtown Vancouver, the college has prepared thousands of young adults for entry into some of the leading universities in Canada and the United States.

UNIVERSITY TRANSFER PROGRAMS Courses in these Programs are the same as university courses, and are transferable at the first and second year levels at universities in Canada and the United States.

University Transfer Programs help high school graduates gain university admission and succeed academically.

ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAMS An Associate Degree is an academic qualification awarded to students who have completed two full years of study at the first and second year university levels, including completion of specific course requirements. An Associate Degree is equivalent to the first two years of a four-year university degree, and as such is accepted as the basis for admission to the third year of university Bachelor Degree programs. Columbia College offers Associate of Arts Degrees in Liberal Arts, Business Administration, Economics and Mass Communication and Associate of Science Degrees in General Science, Computer Science, and Mathematics.

UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION PROGRAM The University Foundation Program allows students who have completed Grade 10 or 11 to take courses leading to a British Columbia high school diploma. This Program is designed for university-bound international students who wish to complete the last one or two years of high school in Canada.

ENGLISH FOR ACADEMIC PURPOSES (ESL) The College specializes in teaching international students and offers English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and support for students educated in languages other than English. Students are not only prepared for entrance into our University Transfer or Foundation Programs, but also to improve their academic English Skills.

Students are placed in courses that match their level of English fluency.

Columbia College is a CELPIP Test Delivery Centre.

Paragon Testing Enterprises is a subsidiary of The University of British Columbia.

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alumni

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“Me et R O B G I L L & M A R IA P O SP E L OVA”

Former Columbia College student Rob Gill, now a fourth year business student at the University of British Columbia, has moved far from his days as a bartender and a draftee in the Singapore Army. He knew he wanted to do something more meaningful with his life. Gill wanted to get a solid education and find a secure profession.

Gill, originally from Singapore, heard about the advanced education system in Canada. He yearned to study in a place that was green and environmentally-conscious, and offered a rich cultural life. For Gill, Columbia College in Vancouver was the natural choice.

In regards to the Vancouver lifestyle, Gill says, “I love the fact that Vancouver has such a great culture to balance work and play, while providing residents with an avenue to live organically, while caring for the environment in their day-to-day decisions.”

Maria Pospelova, also a former Columbia College student and now a third year business student at the University of British Columbia, echoes the sentiment: “I love the ecology of the city, and the fact that it is so clean and calm.”

For Pospelova, who hails from Chelyabinsk, Russia, Columbia College has everything that was important to her: close contact with instructors, a supportive classroom environment, and the opportunity to get involved in college social activities.

“Throughout my two years at Columbia College, I was socially involved like never before!” says Maria.

“I had the chance to participate in different clubs, partake in numerous activities like our Halloween party, International Day, and talent shows. I went snowboarding, kayaking, rafting, camping, and was a member of the dragon boat team, the C.C. Riders.”

Gill liked the fact that instructors took a close personal interest in the well-being of their students. He recalls once having a question about his school work and walking up to an instructor to see if he could book an appointment for the next day.

“The instructor conducted a short discussion in the hallway,” says Gill. “The passion that they took in my learning was unmatched, even at the university level.”

Gill and Pospelova still carry fond memories of their Columbia College days. “Over the four semesters that I attended Columbia College,” says Gill, “I made friendships that are ongoing to this day, and vividly remember the days I used to spend hours on campus, studying with friends, and having a great time meeting up over the weekend.”

As for Pospelova, she simply says, “I feel a strong sense of belonging at Columbia College. It reminds me of great experiences.”

EDUCATIONAL PROGRESS CHART

Some of the universities Columbia College students have successfully transferred to: > > > > > >

The University of British Columbia Simon Fraser University University of Victoria McGill University University of Toronto University of Alberta

UNIVERSITY TRANSFER PROGRAMS University Transfer Programs offer first and second year university courses for transfer to major universities across Canada and the U.S. Over the years, Columbia College has consistently been one of the top providers of international students to the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University.

Statistics show that a large number of Columbia College students gain admission to university, and that Columbia College graduates have an above-average university graduation rate.

Many possible course combinations exist within 6 program areas:

Business I Communication I Computer Science Engineering I Arts I Science 3

“For me, enrolling in Columbia College was the main reason for coming to Vancouver. I liked taking the University Preparatory Courses because I was able to study many different subjects. This gave me time to think about what I wanted to major in, and at which Canadian university I wanted to enroll. I liked the small class sizes, and the instant feedback we got from our instructors. The instructors were always available during office hours, and sometimes they would meet you outside of school if it was more convenient for us.”

Mehak Arora, India

University Transfer Business Program Columbia College offers a wide range of business courses, including accounting, corporate finance, management science, marketing, statistics, and organizational behavior.

Students may take 27 to 60 credits of Business Program courses before transferring to a university Business/Commerce degree program at the second or third year level.

Columbia College classes are limited in size, allowing for greater interaction between students and teachers.

University program classes at the College have an average of about 25 students.

Sample Business Program courses (other electives are available): Semester 1

Semester 2

English 100 (3) Mathematics 111 (3) Economics 103 (3) Psychology 110 (3) Mass Communication 110 (3)

Business 272 (3) Economics 105 (3) Business 291 (3) Philosophy 102 (3) English 110 (3)

15 Semester Credits

15 Semester Credits

For more information, look under University Transfer Programs/ Business at www.columbiacollege.ca

University Transfer Science Program Students in the Science Program can choose from a wide selection of courses including natural sciences, chemistry, biology, physics, computer science, and mathematics.

Many courses are taught in the college’s science labs, enabling students to conduct experiments and get a better grasp of scientific theory.

Students can complete from 24 to 60 credits before transferring to second or third year in a university science program.

Sample Science Program courses (other electives are available): Semester 1

Semester 2

English 100 (3) Mathematics 113 (3) Physics 110 (4) Chemistry 121 (4)

Mathematics 114 (3) Physics 120 (4) / Biology 110 (4) Chemistry 123 (4) English 121 (3)

14 Semester Credits

14 Semester Credits

For more information, look under University Transfer Programs/ Science at www.columbiacollege.ca

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“A lot of our students are away from home for the first time in their lives. We pay close attention to students, and I’d say the environment is a cross between high school and college.

While they’re at the College, our students get great exposure to the North American education system — how courses are taught, how to study for exams, what a North American classroom is like. When our students leave the College, they’re fully prepared for university life.”

Helena Chen, Admissions Officer, Columbia College

University Transfer Liberal Arts Program “The value of a college education is not the learning of many facts but the training of the mind to think.”

Albert Einstein

Students in Liberal Arts focus on social sciences and the humanities. The Liberal Arts Program encompasses one of the widest academic areas, covering language, literature, philosophy, anthropology, sociology, Asian studies, economics, business, mass communication, and psychology.

Liberal Arts students complete from 24 to 60 credits before transferring to second and third year university programs.

Sample Liberal Arts Program courses (course choices depend on major): Semester 1

Semester 2

English 100 (3) Mass Communication 110 (3) Asian Studies 110 (3) Sociology 110 (3) Fine Arts 100 (3)

English 131 (3) Mass Communication 223 (3) Geography 100 (3) Philosophy 113 (3) Psychology 110 (3)

15 Semester Credits

15 Semester Credits

For more information, look under University Transfer Programs/ Arts at www.columbiacollege.ca

“Scientists dream about “Scientists dream doing great things. about doing great Engineers go out and things. Engineers do them.” go out and do James A. Michener them.”

American novelist James A. Michener American novelist

University Transfer Engineering Program The University Transfer Engineering Program helps students enter a university engineering program at the second year level. Students may take approximately 30 credits of courses at the first year level before transferring into a university engineering program.

Sample Engineering Program courses (other electives are available): Semester 1

Semester 2

Mathematics 113 (3) Physics 110 (4) Chemistry 121 (4) English 100 (3) Applied Science 151 (4)

Mathematics 114 (3) Physics 120 (4) Chemistry 123 (4) Mathematics 252 (3) English 108 (3) Applied Science 160 (3)

18 Semester Credits

20 Semester Credits

For more information, look under University Transfer Programs/ Engineering at www.columbiacollege.ca

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“Being an international student, I wanted to start my education in Canada in the proper way. The College offers a great academic program, which allowed me to continue my studies at a more advanced university level, without wasting time or spending money on foundation programs.

I got to participate in a number of clubs, where I learned how to organize events and become a better team player.”

Lesken Murzatayev, Kazakhstan

“It is tough for international students to make a direct transfer from high school to university in Canada and therefore I decided to attend Columbia College’s University Transfer program. Columbia College is like a big family with its small class sizes of about 30 students; this offers big advantages for international students since you can make friends easily and the smaller classes help you learn faster. The clubs at Columbia College are lots of fun for students as you can join any club you’re interested in after school and have a good time and make friends. Most importantly, the counselors and professors at Columbia College are very helpful; they will give you many suggestions and advice about transferring, deciding your major, and which school is the best option for you. Overall, Columbia College is definitely a good option for international students!”

Helios Pang, China, UBC Commerce (Logistics), 4th year student Completed the University Transfer Program at Columbia College

University Transfer Computer Science Program Columbia College offers students an excellent foundation for higher level Computer Science studies, with courses covering the history of computer science, fundamental skills for implementing computer programs, and digital and computer system design.

Students in Computer Science can take courses at the first and second year level before applying to university programs in Science (University of British Columbia), Applied Science (Simon Fraser University) or Engineering (University of Victoria).

Sample Computer Science Program courses (other electives are available): Semester 1

Semester 2

English 100 (3) Mathematics 113 (3) Computer Science 120 (3) Sociology 110 (3) Chemistry 121 (4)

Economics 103 (3) Mathematics 114 (3) Computer Science 125 (3) Computer Science 150 (3) Mathematics 206 (3)

16 Semester Credits

15 Semester Credits

For more information, look under University Transfer Programs/ Computer Science at www.columbiacollege.ca

University Transfer Communication Program Do you have the ability to think creatively, an interest in communication, and strong visual and auditory imagination?

A career in Communication could be for you.

The University Transfer Communication Program is recommended for students who wish to specialize in Applied Media, Public Policy, Telecommunications, and Marketing Research.

Careers in Communication are numerous: journalist, editor, public relations expert, media consultant, advertising director, producer, film editor, media researcher, public policy consultant, media broadcaster.

Sample Communication Program courses (other electives are available): Semester 1

Semester 2

English 100 (3) Mass Communication 110 (3) Mass Communication 130 (3) Asian Studies 110 (3) Philosophy 113 (3)

English 101 (3) Mass Communication 220 (3) Mass Communication 230 (3) Sociology 110 (3) Psychology 110 (3)

15 Semester Credits

15 Semester Credits

For more information, look under University Transfer Programs/ Communication at www.columbiacollege.ca

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“Teachers are very enthusiastic about their subjects and are patient in teaching and helping new students, even though we always ask too many questions. Teachers here often encourage students to voice their opinions and ideas, and encourage us to work with other students. More importantly, our activity coordinator, Ben, usually organizes a lot of outdoor activities for students so that we can discover new places in Vancouver. He encourages students to join clubs and to volunteer within community, so that we can meet new people.”

Hang Nyugen, Vietnam

“The thing I like most about the courses at Columbia College is the training in critical thinking. Asking questions whenever one is confused or has different opinions is always encouraged, and different opinions on various matters are always tolerated as long as they are reasonable. Such an environment has encouraged me to think differently and communicate with the instructors and classmates about different opinions.”

Cédric Chen, Simon Fraser University, Arts and Social Science (Linguistics)

Associate Degrees give students a solid foundation in one particular area of study, while allowing them to take a variety of elective courses.

ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAMS Students can earn an Associate Degree at Columbia College on completing two years of university-level courses.

Students can pursue the following Associate Degrees: Associate of Arts Degree Associate of Arts Degree, Business Administration Concentration Associate of Arts Degree, Mass Communication Concentration Associate of Arts Degree, Economics Concentration Associate of Science Degree, General Science Associate of Science Degree, Computer Science Concentration Associate of Science Degree, Mathematics Concentration

Get work experience while studying Study permit holders in Canada may gain work experience by working on or off campus while completing their studies.

As of June 1, 2014, full-time Post-Secondary students may qualify to work off campus without a work permit. If you qualify, your study permit will allow you to work up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as the winter and summer holidays or spring break. For more information, please visit Citizen and Immigration Canada website at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/work-offcampus.asp Students with an Associate Degree or Bachelor’s Degree may also apply for a permit to work in Canada for three years after graduation, and thereafter may apply for Permanent Resident status in Canada.

For more information, go to the Citizenship & Immigration Canada website at www.cic.gc.ca and look under English/Come to Canada/Study and English/Come to Canada/Immigrate/Canadian Experience Class.

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UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION PROGRAMS University Foundation Programs are ideal for university-bound students who wish to complete Grade 11 or 12 in Canada, leading to a British Columbia high school diploma or certificate.

University Foundation Program courses are taught by high school instructors and College faculty.

Senior Secondary Program Upon completion of the Program, students earn a British Columbia high school diploma, and can apply for direct university admission. Because of the College’s 14-week semester system, students can complete Senior Secondary courses more quickly than at a British Columbia public high school. The Senior Secondary Program is open to students who have completed Grade 10 or 11 in Canada or elsewhere. Students must have Grade 10 courses completed prior to beginning this program.

Required courses: English 10

English 11/Communications 11

English 12/Communications 12

Science 10

Science 11 (any)

3 Academic Grade 12 courses

Social Studies 10

Social Studies 11

4 Electives

Math 10

Pre-calculus 11

Graduation Transitions

P.E. 10

Planning 10

Fine Arts or Applied Skills 10

“Columbia College is a place where long lasting friendships were made. Professors encouraged us to think outside the box. Studying at Columbia College was such a wonderful experience!”

Kevin Mann , Columbia College student

High School Completion Program The High School Completion Program is appropriate for students who wish to complete a British Columbia high school program. Students in this program finish quicker than students in the Senior Secondary Program because they take fewer courses than required under the full Senior Secondary Program. Students who complete this Program won’t be able to gain immediate admission to university, but may enter the College’s University Transfer Program, and then apply to university as a second or third year student.

Required courses: English 11/Communications 11

Pre-calculus 11

Social Studies 11

English 12/Communications 12

Planning 10

Science 11 (any)

3 Academic Grade 12 courses

Adult Secondary Program (18 years or older) This Program carries fewer courses than the Senior Secondary Program, and takes less time to complete. Students who complete this Program may enter the College’s University Transfer Program and then apply to university as a second or third year student.

Required courses: English 12/Communications 12 Pre-calculus 11 or 12

3 Academic Grade 12 courses

Accelerated Program Students with above-average grades (“B” or better) can choose the Accelerated Program. Although students completing the Accelerated Program won’t earn a high school degree or gain immediate university admission, they can enter the College’s University Transfer Program more quickly, and apply for university admission earlier than those in other Grade 12 programs.

University Preparatory Program This Program is ideal for students who have a high school diploma or equivalent but lack one or more Grade 12 courses required to enter the College’s University Transfer Program. The Program is tailored to the student’s background and goals, and normally consists of one semester of courses. Upon completion of the Program, students may enter the College’s University Transfer Program.

For more information on Grade 11 and 12 Foundation courses please visit http://www.columbiacollege.ca/programs-and-courses/courses/ grade-11-12

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“What I liked most about the courses at Columbia College was that they were interactive and there was a constant exchange of ideas and information between teachers and students. Our courses gave us a better idea of what to expect at the university level.”

Cogilavani Padmanathan, Fourth year, Faculty of Business, University of British Columbia

“This experience is the most important in my life. In Columbia College all the personnel are friendly and since the first time that I came here they helped me in everything I needed. They know how difficult it is for us to go far away from our country. All the teachers helped me a lot in my English. They are so patient and always trying to explain easier and clearer to us. They’re so professional with their jobs and how to teach us.“ Mayra Reyes, Columbia College English Language Centre student

COLUMBIA COLLEGE ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTRE Columbia College offers comprehensive English language courses for international students who wish to improve their English before entering a University Transfer Program or University Foundation Program.

The English language program covers core skills such as listening, speaking, reading, writing and grammar. Students may also choose elective courses that cover conversation, IELTS preparation, and business English.

Courses are taught by experienced and qualified English language instructors.

The college emphasizes academic English language skills to prepare students for academic studies.

An effective way to improve your English > Students are tested at all stages to ensure their English is improving. > After every seven-week session, students get a progress report and a one-onone interview with their teacher to make sure they are achieving as much as possible. > Students are encouraged to join school activities, where they can practice their English. > The English Language Centre offers full-time and part-time courses designed to meet the needs of international students.

Our students have access to all of Columbia College’s state-of-the-art facilities > Computer labs with the newest language learning software and Internet and email services > Up-to-date print and digital library and an ESL section > Tutorial centre where students can get one-on-one tutoring

English 094 >

English 095 >

English 096 >

English 097/097A >

English 098

Upper Beginner

Intermediate Level 1

Intermediate Level 2

Advanced Level 1/ Advanced Level 2 plus one University Transfer course or one University Foundation course

Columbia College Academic Progams

Integrated Skills

Integrated Skills

Integrated Skills

Integrated Skills

Listening

Listening

Listening

Academic Writing

Conversation

Conversation

Conversation

Academic Reading

Pronunciation

Writing

Academic Writing

IELTS Preparation

Reading & Vocabulary

Reading & Vocabulary

Reading & Vocabulary Media Studies

Composition Skills

Composition Skills

Current Events

Academy Study Skills

Drama

Presentation Skills

Composition Skills

English for Science English for Humanities English for Business Composition Skills

Start dates and fees Programs start six times per year. The minimum program length is seven weeks.

For more information, look under English Language Programs/Academic ESL Program at www.columbiacollege.ca

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“When I first came to Columbia College in September 2012, I had a lot of fun during Orientation Week. We got to participate in a lot of different activities such as paintball and dragon boating. We visited places like the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Harrison Hot Springs. Later on, I served as president of the Students Association where I learned new leaderships skills, and got to apply some of my business knowledge.”

Mariya Zhikhareva, Kazakhstan

“At Columbia, there’s never a dull moment. I enjoy the movie nights, and the sporting events like snowboarding and football. I consider many of my classmates at Columbia to be my friends; they are all helpful and friendly. It’s amazing how we all click together just after a simple ‘Hello!’”

Oluwakemi Adekeye, Columbia College student

SERVICES AND FACILITIES Columbia College offers a full range of student services to help you with your academic, personal, and social life in Canada.

Counselling Columbia College has six academic program counsellors to help you with career planning, course selection, university selection, study permit questions, and personal issues. Our counsellors welcome students any time to discuss career objectives or to have an informal chat.

Library The Columbia College Library website is the gateway to a wide range of print and digital resources. Students have off-campus access to thousands of journals in all disciplines as well as a collection of approximately 120,000 e-books. Professional librarians assist students in their research through reference services and the Library’s information Literacy program.

Activities Columbia College has an Activities Coordinator who plans fun activities and events every week throughout each semester. The College believes it is important for students to have an active and healthy lifestyle by engaging in activities, and this is a great way to meet other students. Activities vary depending on the season and there are also several clubs run by students and instructors at the College, including the Student Association, badminton, soccer, basketball, dance, yoga and much more.

Student Services Columbia College is dedicated to facilitating adjustment to a Canadian College lifestyle. The Student Services Coordinator assists students by guiding them in the right direction or referring them to the relevant staff member. The Coordinator organizes major events such as the annual Graduation ceremony, Scholarship and Book Awards and Orientation for new students. In addition, the Coordinator finds internal and external volunteering opportunities for students to gain professional experience to support them to achieve their future goals.

Fitness Centre Columbia College students can use the Steve Nash Fitness World facility, a health club and weight training facility, located at various locations throughout the city. The Club has up-to-date training equipment, and qualified fitness instructors are available to help students.

Health Services Columbia College has a licensed practical nurse who helps students with ailments ranging from colds and flu to sports injuries. The nurse’s office is fully equipped, and, whenever required, the nurse assists students in seeing doctors, dentists, physiotherapists, psychologists, and other medical experts.

Tutorial & Testing Centre The Tutorial and Testing Centre offers qualified Math, English, and Economics tutors to help students with their coursework. Students can book appointments with their tutors without charge, and have access to the Centre’s audio, visual and multimedia equipment for their learning needs.

Homestay Students can enrich their Canadian cultural experience by staying with a Canadian family. For students away from home for the first time in their lives, staying with a Canadian family offers a safe and secure environment.

Our Homestay Coordinator screens host families to ensure they can provide comfortable accommodation for students.

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“I found the instructors at Columbia to be very friendly and readily available whenever you needed help with your studies. They are very personable and they remember each student’s name; this is something that is not found at a larger college or university. I still keep in touch with some of them. Outside of studies, I was involved with the Student Association of Columbia College from my very first term, before joining the Entrepreneurs Club. The clubs really helped me hone my leadership and organizational skills, as well as my teamwork skills.”

Mellissa Tan, Indonesia

Vancouver British Columbia Canada

What’s it like to live and study in one of the most beautiful places on earth?

In recent years, the Economist has consistently ranked the city of Vancouver as one of the most livable cities in the world.

Surrounded by snow-peaked mountains, Vancouver is known for its “green” environmental planning and boasts hundreds of city parks, beach access and a vibrant multicultural population.

Vancouver has Canada’s most temperate weather with temperatures ranging from an average of 25 degrees in summer to an average of 5 degrees in winter. It is Canada’s third largest metropolitan area of approximately 2.1 million people. Vancouver has a highly educated population and is safe and secure. The city is proud of its world-class health care system, advanced infrastructure, and rich cultural diversity.

The Columbia College campus is conveniently located near the Main Street Skytrain Station and major bus routes, making it easily accessible within Vancouver’s extensive public transit network. It is within walking distance to TELUS World of Science and is close to Olympic Village, Rogers Arena and BC Place Stadium.

The province of B.C. has more than ten universities, and is home to two of Canada’s leading post-secondary institutions: The University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University. Another top Canadian institution, The University of Victoria, is located two hours away from Vancouver.

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NOTES

Admissions Office 438 Terminal Avenue Vancouver, British Columbia V6A 0C1 Canada Tel: Fax: email: web:

+1 604 683 8360 +1 604 682 7191 admin@columbiacollege.ca www.columbiacollege.ca