Alternative Routes to University

By: Adam Wingate, student recruitment officer

Many secondary school graduates find themselves unsure about their academic futures. Some may have pursued a college-bound curriculum and now feel that university is a viable option. Others may be missing the necessary prerequisites to be admitted to their university program of choice, and are considering returning to secondary school for another semester or year. Before deciding what to do, take note that there are other options available to students.

At the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT), we currently offer 14 diploma-to-degree pathways for successful graduates of relevant Ontario college diploma programs*. Many of these pathways enable students to complete a two-year college diploma, and a four-year university degree in a little over four years. Furthermore, applicants to these diploma-to-degree programs do not require specific secondary school prerequisites for admission. With options such as these, not only do students not fall behind their peers, they are in many cases ahead of the game.

Additionally, prospective employers often look favourably upon applicants who hold both college and university credentials. These individuals not only possess the applied skills gained from a college diploma, they also improve their ability to conduct research and think critically given their university-level studies. It is important for students to realize there are alternative routes to university and should research all available options in order to make an informed choice that is right for them.

*College credentials from outside of Ontario will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.