Douglas College, located in British Columbia, Canada, offers a comprehensive Associate of Science degree program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in various sciences, mathematics, and electives. This four-semester-long program serves as a stepping stone for students who plan to pursue further studies in science-related disciplines at universities or embark on careers in fields such as healthcare, research, technology, and environmental sciences.
Program Overview
The Associate of Science degree program at Douglas College is a well-structured and academically rigorous program where students are required to complete two years of first-year and second-year university-level courses to concentrate on one area of study. Core courses cover fundamental subjects, including mathematics, biology, chemistry, computing science, earth and environmental sciences, and more. These courses provide students with a solid understanding of scientific principles, research methods, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Faculty: Science & Technology
- Credits: 60
- Length of program: Four semesters (2 years)
- Credential type: Associate Degree
- Campus: Coquitlam, New Westminster
- Learning Format: Full-time, Part-time
- Admission Type: Open Enrolment – General Admission Requirements
Flexible Pathways
The Associate of Science degree program offers flexibility and customization, allowing students to tailor their education to align with their interests and career goals. For example, students can take on paid, full-time employment opportunities while they continue their studies under the optional Co-operative Education Program. Students will alternate semesters with classroom studies and full-time work to gain experience, build up resumes, and get employer references before graduating.
Admission Requirements
All applicants for admission to the College must satisfy at least ONE of the following criteria:
- British Columbia secondary school graduation or equivalent;
- One course short of British Columbia secondary school graduation or equivalent;
- Nineteen (19) years of age or older on the first day of the first semester of attendance;
- Seventeen (17) years of age on the first day of the first semester of attendance, and has
not been enrolled at a school for a minimum of one year; - Completion of a certificate or equivalent from a special needs program and has been in school for 12 years or has received an Evergreen or Leaving School Certificate
AND…
Demonstrate proficiency in English by providing proof of completing one of the following:
- English Studies 12 – minimum final grade “C,” or equivalent
- English First Peoples 12 – minimum final grade “C”
- English 12 – minimum final grade “C” *
- Communications 12 – minimum final grade “B” *
- AP English Language or Literature – minimum grade 3
- IB English Language (SL or HL) – minimum grade 3
*based on both the course and provincial exam grades
…or
- Douglas College English Assessment
- TOEFL iBT (in-person or online) – minimum score of 83
- TOEFL Essentials – minimum score of 9 (no score below 8 on any individual section)
- IELTS – minimum overall band test score 6.5 (academic module only)
- EIKEN Practical English – minimum placement of Grade 1
- CAEL – minimum overall and an essay score of 60 (computer or paper-based)
- Cambridge English CAE – minimum score 75 or “B”
- Cambridge English CPE – minimum score 60 or “C”
- Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 8 in each of Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing
- Duolingo English Test Minimum overall score of 110. Official test scores must be sent directly to Douglas College
See here for more information on general admission requirements and English requirements.
After Graduating – University Transfer or PGWP
Seamless Transfer Opportunities
One of the key advantages of pursuing an Associate of Science degree is the seamless transfer pathways to prestigious universities. The college has established transfer agreements and partnerships with universities both within British Columbia and across Canada, ensuring that students can easily transfer their credits and continue their education at the third-year level. This provides a cost-effective and efficient route for students to pursue a bachelor’s degree in their chosen science discipline while building upon the foundational knowledge acquired during the Associate of Science program. At Douglas College, students will be able to transfer all 60 credits obtained to university and will be able to enter the third year of a four-year bachelor’s degree program.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program
For international students who wish to gain work experience in Canada after completing their Associate Degree, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is an excellent opportunity. The PGWP allows eligible international graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies. This work experience not only provides valuable practical exposure but also allows graduates to contribute to the Canadian workforce and potentially obtain permanent residency in the future. See here to read Canada’s new approach to attracting immigrants skilled in STEM-related jobs for permanent residency.
Career and Academic Pathways
While the Associate of Science degree prepares students for further studies, it also opens doors to various career options. Graduates can pursue entry-level positions in fields such as laboratory research, scientific writing, pharmaceuticals, environmental consulting, healthcare, and more. Students who choose to continue their education can also pursue bachelor’s degrees in disciplines such as biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, environmental science, or engineering at universities across Canada.
Sources: Associate of Science Degree at Douglas College, Post-Graduation Work Permit Program, Canada Introduces New Approach to Attract Skilled Immigrants for Permanent Residency
