Bridging Programs

If you have been away from formal education for some time and/or do not meet the necessary requirements to enter a professional program, our bridging programs may be a good choice. These bridging programs are intended to close the gap between what you know and what you need to know to enter your chosen professional program.

The bridging programs (College Prep) are:

• Pre-Health Care Program
• Pre-Management Program
• Pre-Human Services Program
• Pre-Criminal Justice Program
• Pre-Dental Program

COLLEGE PREP PROGRAM
Tuition Free Courses

What is the College Prep Program?

The College Prep Program is a series of bridging programs that will help you gain the necessary skills to enter your chosen professional program. These programs consist of courses that focus on developing the actual knowledge and skills you need, while providing an accelerated path to help you meet the entrance requirements for admission to the professional program of your choice.

What is the cost for these courses?

These courses are tuition-free to you once you have been conditionally accepted into one of Columbia College’s professional programs.

What courses are offered in the College Prep Program?

• English
• Math
• Biology
• Medical Terminology
• Computer Workshops

These courses are offered over a 5-10 week semester, with class times scheduled twice during the evening, between 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. Exception: Medical Terminology is offered once per week for 10 weeks on Saturdays.

How do I get textbooks?

• Textbooks are available though the library.

• You will be required to purchase certain text books and others will be loaned out to you for a fee.

PRE-PRACTICAL NURSE PROGRAM
Government of Alberta Grant Eligible

Pre-PN Program is a bridging program designed to prepare the student for the Practical Nurse Program. There are two entry points, depending on the level of academic upgrading needed. Students entering at Level 1 (35 weeks) will be required to take four English courses, while students who enter at Level 2 (20 weeks) will be required to take 2 English courses. Other courses include basic academic entry requirements and courses such as computer study, medical terminology and other nursing-focused courses.

Admission Requirements

• A high school diploma is not required. The student may enter as a mature student.
• Successful results on the Columbia College Assessment
• Clear Police Information Check (PIC) with vulnerable sector search
• Up-to-date Immunizations
• Alberta Human Services Career Investigation Report

English as a Second Language Students may apply with a Minimum CLB 6/7.

Start Dates:

Level 2 – Jan. 28 – June 14, 2013 (20 weeks)
Level 1 – Apr. 8, – Dec. 6, 2013 (35 weeks)
Level 2 – July 22 – Dec. 6, 2013 (20 weeks)
Level 1 – June 17 – Feb. 28, 2014 (35 weeks)

This program is offered during the evenings from 4:00 – 9:30, Monday to Thursday. Medical Terminology is offered on the weekends or in the evening.

Funding: This program is grant eligible through Alberta Government Human Services. Eligible students will have their tuition, books, and living expenses paid through grant funding.

Testimonials

“I am very impressed with the facilitator’s way to teach and the knowledge he presents. I liked his style.”

Julio Oliva – Bridging to Human Services Program

 

“The facilitator provided a friendly environment, encouraged the asking of questions, and was well prepared for every question being asked. He was great.”

Sanam Bukhari – Bridging to Business Management Program

 

“Everyone is willing to help me. I had no hope before I joined the College but now my future looks so bright with the help of staff advice and facilitators.”

Christine Zuwe – Bridging to Practical Nurse Program

 

“The facilitator is a very fun teacher. he makes math class easy to come to and I love the way he has multiple ways of teaching for every student’s unique way of learning. I am enjoying the program a lot. It’s a lot in a short amount of time but the teachers are great and I feel like I have a lot of support.”

Jena-Rae Aldoff – Bridging to Dental Assisting Program

 

“TThe facilitator is an impressive teacher. Amazing. He explains in a way that helps us understand the whole concept. He loves his topic and knows it exceptionally well. I love the assistance, the support and the belief of all who work here that we can accomplish our goals. I love that all staff seem happy and in turn it creates a cohesive unit of the students.”

Jacqueline Lloyd – Bridging to Practical Nurse Program