ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAMS Columbia College offers two-year Associate Degrees. These degrees, awarded upon completion of at least 20 courses that meet specific requirements, are valuable admissions a stand-alone qualification and for admission to third year at university. These programs are offered with the consent of the Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills (effective December 2024)having undergone a quality assessment process and been found to meet the criteria established by the Minister. Nevertheless, prospective students are responsible for satisfying themselves that the program and the degree will appropriate to their needs for example, acceptable to potential employers, professional licensing bodies, or other educational institutions. Program Description An Associate Degree is awarded to students who complete two years of study at the first- and second-year university levels, including specific requirements. This typically involves completing 20 university-level courses, which may be 3 or 4 credits each. While an Associate of Arts Degree may be completed with as few as 61 credits, an Associate of Science Degree may require 64 credits or more. The requirements are standardized across the province, creating a recognized credential. This degree provides a solid foundation in a specific area of study while encouraging a broad range of courses, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. Students who complete their Associate Degree can continue their studies in various bachelor’s degree concentrations at Columbia College. Universities in British Columbia recognize Associate Degrees and accept them for admission to the third year of a bachelor's degree program. BC's public research universities guarantee the full 60 credits to students admitted with an Associate Degree, even if not all courses transfer individually. Some universities prioritize Associate Degree holders for admission. To qualify for a Columbia College Associate Degree, students must complete at least the last 10 courses at Columbia College. Additionally, at least 4 of the required 6 second-year courses must be taken at Columbia College. All qualifying courses must be completed within 5 years before the degree is awarded. A minimum grade-point average of 2.0 ("C" average) is required for all courses counting towards the Associate Degree, including those taken at other institutions. Admission Requirements The Associate Degree programs are open to students who meet one of the following criteria: • • •
Completed any of the four High School options at Columbia College or a BC Certificate of Graduation with a minimum average grade of C in four academic Grade 12 subjects, including English 12. Completed High School in another Canadian province with equivalent results. Overseas candidates must present Senior or High School Matriculation results with an average grade of C or better.
For specific curriculum requirements, please contact the Admissions office for details. Students applying through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) Program from: • • • • • • •
Antigua and Barbuda Brazil China Colombia Costa Rica India Morocco
LAST UPDATED: DECEMBER 19, 2025
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