As you develop and review your Individual Pathways Plan each year, be prepared to make some decisions about your initial post-secondary destination. Take time to reflect, research and have conversations with your family, teachers and guidance counsellor.
There are many post-secondary education options and opportunities available after secondary school:
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is a paid job that provides a hands-on training program for people who want to work in a skilled trade, such as automotive service technician, electrician, baker, tool and die maker.
As an apprentice, you learn by doing and earn while learning. You will receive 90 per cent of your training on the job, and spend 10 per cent of your time in the classroom learning theoretical applications.
Did you know that students have the opportunity to become registered apprentices and work towards becoming certified in a skilled trade while completing their secondary school diploma? You can apply to an apprenticeship after graduation, or you can get a head start on apprenticeship while in secondary school through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program.
College
Most college programs consist of a package of courses that will train you for a specific area of employment. There are over 500 programs available through the 28 Ontario colleges.
Colleges offer many types of programs, including Diploma Programs, Advanced Diploma Programs, Bachelors Degree Programs (just like university), and Certificate Programs. College Graduate programs are not available for direct entry from high school.
Did you know that some colleges and universities offer joint/collaborative programs where you can graduate with a diploma and a bachelor’s degree?
University
Ontario universities offer undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees, collaborative programs, co-op programs and professional programs. Your first degree is called an undergraduate degree.
Did you know that you can transfer to a university from a college program as well as transfer to a college program from a university program? There are many opportunities to move between colleges and universities. Check out the Ontario Post-Secondary Transfer Guide.
Private Career College
Private career colleges offer specialized training opportunities. Did you know that they offer flexible schedules, enrolment at many times during the year, and compressed programs that deliver training over a short time? Check for more information and to see if a private career college is the right fit for you.