Choosing the right credential is an important step in planning your education and career. St. Clair College offers a variety of credentials designed to meet different educational goals, career pathways, and industry requirements. The descriptions below come from the Minister's Binding Policy Directive on Framework for Programs of Instruction, Ontario Qualifications Framework (except for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing).
An Ontario College Certificate is typically a one-year program that provides a level of skills, knowledge and attitudes to allow graduates to perform in a defined range of varied activities within a prescribed range of functions involving known routines and procedures. Programs also engage students in some learning in disciplines outside their main field of study.
Typical duration: 2 semesters (1 year)
Ideal for: Students seeking employment at entry-level positions and for further postsecondary studies.
An Ontario College Diploma is typically a two-year program that provides a level of skills, knowledge, and attitudes to allow the graduates to work within a broad range of technical and/or administrative requirements, coordination and evaluation, and engage students in learning in disciplines outside their main field of study.
Typical duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Ideal for: Students looking for employment at entry-level positions and for more specialized education at an advanced level.
Ontario College Advanced Diploma
An Ontario College Advanced Diploma is typically a three-year program that provides the knowledge, skills and attitudes to enable graduates to work within a broad range of technical and/or management functions in a broad range of occupational areas. Graduates understand both the required conceptual frameworks as well as applications related to the specific occupational area.
Typical duration: 6 semesters (3 years)
Ideal for: Students seeking employment at entry-level positions and for more specialized education at an advanced level, or for pathways to degree-level programs.
Ontario College Graduate Certificate
An Ontario College Graduate Certificate deepens knowledge and skills already gained through a diploma or advanced diploma program or provide graduates of baccalaureate programs with specific knowledge and skills related to an applied occupational area.
Typical duration: 2 semesters (1 year)
Ideal for: Professionals seeking employment in a more specialized role and for further postsecondary studies.
Bachelor Degree (including Honours)
A Bachelor Degree is an undergraduate credential that provides some broad knowledge and conceptual sophistication, including specialized knowledge in at least one discipline or field.
Typical duration: 6 to 8 semesters in duration (normally 90 to 120 credits, or the equivalent). A Baccalaureate / Bachelor's Degree: Honours is 8 semesters or more. Normally, 120 credits or the equivalent. It May be supplemented by required professional experience (for example, supervised practica, internships, work terms, co-ops.)
Ideal for: Students seeking entry into graduate study in the field, second-entry professional degree programs or, depending upon content, employment in a particular field of practice or employment in a variety of fields.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) is four years in length and is designed for individuals who are seeking to prepare for a career in nursing. At St. Clair College, this credential is delivered in collaboration with the University of Windsor. Upon successfully completing the program, students of the Collaborative Program will receive a BScN Honours degree from the University of Windsor and are eligible to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and/or pursue graduate studies.
Typical duration: 8 semesters (4 years)
Ideal for: Students pursuing a career in Registered Nursing (RN) and healthcare leadership.
Unsure Which Credential Is Right for You?
The right credential depends on your career goals, previous education, and desired length of study. Whether you are starting your postsecondary journey, building on an existing credential, or preparing for a professional career, St. Clair College offers pathways to help you achieve your goals.
Need help choosing a program? Contact the Recruitment team for guidance on programs, admission requirements, and educational pathways.