Academic Upgrading

Grades 1-6

Helps adults improve their reading, writing, and math skills. Employability and essential skills are taught to help learners find entry-level employment.  It is ideal for individuals who lack work or volunteer experience and have less than 7 years of education.

Grades 7-9

Helps adult learners improve their English, mathematics, and computer skills for entry into the workforce.  It is ideal for mid-skilled learners who are looking to improve their employment status and return to work. Students at this level may also use the courses to prepare for entry into some training programs or entry into high school classes.

Grades 10-12

This program helps adult learners enter college or university programs.  It is ideal for individuals who are interested in improving their high school marks order to meet the entry requirements for post-secondary programs.

Please note that Columbia College does not offer all the courses required to obtain an Alberta High School Diploma, we offer only select credit courses at the 10-, 20-, and 30-levels that could be used towards a high school diploma. For more information on high school graduation requirements, credentials, and credits, please visit: https://www.alberta.ca/graduation-requirements-credentials-and-credits.aspx

It is strongly recommended that online learners have:

• Daily access to a reliable computer (Windows Pc recommended) for the full duration of the class.
• Reliable internet service with high-speed internet. A cable connection is the best however staying closer to the Wi-Fi also works
• A comfortable chair
• A workspace away from distractions
• A working microphone and video camera
• Earphones or earbuds (optional)

Grades 1-6

Mature Admission Only

• Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 3-5
• Score Grades 1-6 on Columbia College’s Accuplacer assessment test or equivalent reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics

Grades 7-9

Mature Admission Only

• Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 5-7
• Score Grades 7-9 on Columbia College’s Accuplacer assessment test or equivalent in reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics

Grades 10-12

Standard Admission

• A recent Canadian high school transcript (within the last 2 years.  Some conditions may apply.)

OR

Mature Admission

• Score Grades 10-12 on Columbia College’s Accuplacer assessment test or equivalent in reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics

Additionally, grant funded applicants must:

• be an Alberta resident and currently residing full-time in the province
• be unemployed or marginally employed
• be committed to seeking employment
• meet citizenship requirements (e.g., Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident or Convention Refugee) and be legally entitled to work and train in Canada

Grades 1-9

• English, Writer’s Workshop, and Math.
• Learn and practice the 9 essential skills regularly used in the workplace
• Learn how to target your resume and conduct a successful job search
• Receive individualized job search coaching and support from an Employment Specialist
• Apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations while attending 5 weeks of work experience

Grades 10-12

In consultation with the Principal of Academic Upgrading, develop an educational plan and select courses that meet the entry requirements of the College or University program of interest.