Programs Requiring Prior University Study

You must complete university study before you can apply to the following programs.

To find programs that require you to complete college study before you can apply, view Collaborative University and College Programs.

117 Prior Study Programs

New Media Studies

University of Toronto – Scarborough

Undergraduate

Admission is by internal application, typically at the end of your first year after you have completed 4.0 full credits. To be competitive, you should have a 2.5 cumulative GPA and a 3.0 or higher GPA in Media Studies courses.

You must submit a Supplementary Application Form directly to the program supervisor.

You may be required to attend an interview before an admission decision is made. All applicants will be notified in early June. For more details on application procedures, see the "New Media Studies" section of the Joint Program website.

Nursing

University of Toronto

Professional

U of T offers a 2-year program leading to a BScN degree. Two years of undergraduate study with 10 university full-course equivalents are required. Academic prerequisites include 1 credit each in: human physiology; life or physical sciences; social sciences; humanities; and a half-course in statistics.

Most successful applicants have "B+" average or higher in final year of university study.

Nursing

York University

Undergraduate

This full-time second-entry BScN program was developed in response to an increasing demand for nursing programs that build on prior university learning. You must have completed a minimum of 60 credits toward any university degree and meet the program prerequisites. By studying in the concentrated and continuous 6-semester program, you can complete a BScN degree in 2 calendar years.

Nursing - Post RPN

Nipissing University

Professional

Nipissing University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program offer students a unique, flexible and collaborative education through its many partnerships, as well as 4 unique, educational pathways to obtain a professional nursing degree. As a BScN student, you will gain relevant nursing theory and professional knowledge provided by a university education, along with practical experience in diverse clinical settings.

Nipissing University offers currently employed Registered Practical Nurses the opportunity to complete the BScN degree through a blended delivery option. Admission consideration will be given to applicants who have successfully completed a 2-year RPN diploma (not certificate) from an Ontario college with a minimum GPA of 70%. The applicant must also be a current registered member in good standing with the College of Nurses in Ontario (CNO) as an RPN and be an employee (with a letter of support) of one of Nipissing’s partner health care agencies. This is a limited-enrollment program. The minimum GPA required for admission consideration may be higher than the stated minimum. There are 2 intakes per year (January and September).

Occupational Health and Safety

Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Applied Science 2-Year Option for University Graduates This program is unique in Canada. It equips graduates for careers in Occupational Health and Safety, and positions may be found in public, private and service organizations throughout Canada. Upon graduation, graduates are eligible to apply for the examination and certification as a Canadian Registered Safety Technician (CRST). Following a period of work experience and an examination process, graduates may choose to pursue registration as a Registered Occupational Hygienist through the Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists, or to apply for certification as a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) through the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals.

Optometry

University of Waterloo

Professional

Help preserve and enhance vision as an optometrist. After 3 years in a Bachelor of Science program, you can apply to Canada’s only Doctor of Optometry degree program taught in English. Learn about ocular health and disease, optics and vision while applying your knowledge in clinical settings. Recommended Waterloo programs to meet requirements include Honours Science, Biomedical Sciences, and Biology. The professional Doctor of Optometry program is 4 years in length, not including the minimum 3 years of university studies needed prior to entry. Completion of at least 3 full years of university-level science with specific course requirements. Optometry Admissions Test (OAT), Admission Information Form, online assessment of personal characteristics (Casper test), and optometrist and character references required. Minimum overall university average of 75%.

Pharmacy

University of Ottawa

Professional

Undergraduate Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) This program is designed to train students for future practice as pharmacists in community, hospital, or a variety of other settings, or to pursue more advanced studies. Offered in French, the program is aimed primarily at francophone Ontarians and secondarily at francophone students from elsewhere in Canada, with the objective of meeting the needs of bilingual pharmacists in minority settings. The 4-year program consists of courses, practical labs, and 40 weeks of practical training. All courses are based on an active learning approach.

Pharmacy

University of Toronto

Professional

U of T offers a 4-year program leading to a PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy) degree. Normally, 2 years of undergraduate study are required to meet academic admission requirements.

University-level subject requirements include: 1.0 FCE (full-credit equivalent) Biology; 1.5 FCEs Chemistry; 1.0 FCE Math (including minimum of 0.5 FCE Calculus); and 1.0 FCE Humanities/Social Science. A minimum total of 8 FCEs must be completed at the university level.

Other requirements include the Casper test (situational-judgement test) and an Individual Assessment (which will include asynchronous video-based questions, as well as written and multiple-choice questions) completed through an online platform.

Pharmacy

University of Waterloo

Professional

Pharmacists are medication experts who identify, resolve, and prevent medication-related problems for their patients. Many pharmacists work in community pharmacies, but they also provide care in hospitals, family health teams, and long-term care facilities, often collaborating closely with other health professionals. As the only co-op pharmacy program in Canada, you'll get paid, hands-on experience throughout your studies. Spend co-op work terms at a community pharmacy practice or choose to explore careers in industry and government. Recommended Waterloo programs to meet requirements include Honours Science, Biomedical Sciences, and Biology. The professional Doctor of Pharmacy program is 4 years in length, not including the minimum 2 years of university studies needed prior to entry. Successful completion of at least 2 full years of university-level science with specific course requirements. Minimum overall university average of 75%. Admission Information Form, reference, online assessment of personal characteristics (Casper test), interview, Fundamental Skills Assessment required. High school students may qualify for Conditional Admission to Pharmacy.

Physician Assistant

McMaster University

Professional

Physician Assistant (PA) Education Program:
The PA Education Program is a 2-year course of study delivered over a 24-month period beginning in September. Year 1 consists of clinical science courses delivered in the first 12 months. Year 2 consists of clinical training delivered in the next consecutive 12-month period.

Applicants must have completed a minimum of 2 years of undergraduate work.

Physician Assistant

University of Toronto

Professional

U of T offers a 2-year (24 consecutive months) program leading to a BScPA. Two years of undergraduate study with 10 university full-course equivalents are required. Academic prerequisites include a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on the OMSAS 4.0 scale. A full-year postsecondary course in each of Human Anatomy and Human Physiology is preferred. Additional academic and non-academic requirements are available on the program website. A minimum of 350 healthcare experience hours is required.

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Accounting

Carleton University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

The Post-Baccalaureate Diploma (PBD) in Accounting provides students who have an undergraduate degree in any discipline with the prerequisite core courses to be eligible to apply to the Sprott Master of Accounting program or enter the CPA Professional Education Program, pathways leading to the Chartered Professional Accountant designation and a career in professional accounting.

The PBD in Accounting is delivered online.

Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Business Administration

Nipissing University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

This is a general management post-degree diploma program. The primary purpose of this diploma is to provide a 2-year learning experience for students wishing to build upon their current education with business courses.

Admission consideration will be given to applicants who have graduated with a minimum of a 3-year university undergraduate degree from a recognized university. Applicants possessing an undergraduate degree in Business will be given admission consideration to an area of study in business other than the 1 studied within their undergraduate degree. Applicants to the Post-Baccalaureate diploma programs in Business are not eligible to receive transfer credits for previously completed courses. All courses in the diploma program admitted to must be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. International applicants must have at least 6 credits of university English and/or Communications (at a recognized English language university in an English-speaking country) prior to admission or have met Nipissing University's English language proficiency requirements through the acceptable English language tests. The English/Communication courses and/or English language tests must have been completed within the 2 years prior to attending Nipissing University. Domestic applicants with international education may be required to meet the English/Communication requirement unless otherwise exempt under Nipissing’s English Language Proficiency policy.

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Cognitive Science

Carleton University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

The Post-Baccalaureate Diploma (PBD) in Cognitive Science is designed for students who already have an undergraduate degree but want to learn about cognitive science and gain research experience in the field. The program consists of the equivalent of 4.0 credits (8 one-term courses). Students take advanced courses (third- and fourth-year courses) that are required in the Bachelor of Cognitive Science degree.

The PBD in Cognitive Science is also an option for students who are interested in pursuing graduate work in Cognitive Science at the Master’s level, but whose undergraduate degree did not include any research experience or who may not have a high enough GPA to enter the Masters of Cognitive Science program directly.

The PBD in Cognitive Science can be completed in 1 academic year (fall-winter), or students may opt to spread the course work over 2 or more years.

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Economics

Carleton University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

The Post-Baccalaureate Diploma (PBD) program in Economics is designed for people who already have an undergraduate degree – whether in a math-intensive field like engineering or a writing-intensive field like journalism – and would like a rigorous and structured introduction to economics; new Canadians, international students, and others with a degree from outside Canada, whether in economics or another discipline, who are looking for a 1-year, recognized, Canadian qualification in economics; and anyone who would like additional preparation for graduate education in economics beyond that provided by the degree(s) they hold already.

The PBD in Economics provides 8 months of intensive training in economic theory, econometric methods, and applied economics; an opportunity for English-language training in academic writing skills for students whose first language is not English; and a structured and clearly defined course of study.

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Environment and Sustainability

Nipissing University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

Open to international applicants only The Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Environment and Sustainability is designed for international students who have an undergraduate degree in a complementary science discipline and want to pursue employment in the environmental sector or graduate studies in the environment in Canada. This program will provide extended science training on the environment and an introduction to the environmental sector in Canada. Admission consideration will be given to applicants who have graduated with an undergraduate degree in science and/or engineering or equivalent with an overall average of 70% or higher.

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Film Studies

Carleton University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

The new Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Film Studies is intended for students applying for admission into the MA in Film Studies who have at least an 8.0 GPA, but minimal background in Film Studies.

Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Finance

Nipissing University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

This is a post-degree diploma program in Finance for students who wish to build upon their current education with Finance and other related business courses.

Admission consideration will be given to applicants who have graduated with a minimum of a 3-year university undergraduate degree from a recognized university. Applicants possessing an undergraduate degree in Business will be given admission consideration to an area of study in business other than the 1 studied within their undergraduate degree. Applicants to the Post-Baccalaureate diploma programs in Business are not eligible to receive transfer credits for previously completed courses. All courses in the diploma program admitted to must be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. International applicants must have at least 6 credits of university English and/or Communications (at a recognized English language university in an English-speaking country) prior to admission or have met Nipissing University's English language proficiency requirements through the acceptable English language tests. The English/Communication courses and/or English language tests must have been completed within the 2 years prior to attending Nipissing University. Domestic applicants with international education may be required to meet the English/Communication requirement unless otherwise exempt under Nipissing’s English Language Proficiency policy.

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Health and Social Impact

Nipissing University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

Open to international students only The Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Health and Social Impact is geared towards applicants who wish to obtain additional qualifications enabling them to gain valuable experience within the field of global health. This interdisciplinary program reflects the unique characteristics of sustainable health service provision in Canada. Admission consideration will be given to applicants who have graduated with an undergraduate degree with a minimum overall average of 70% or higher.

Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Human Resources Management

Nipissing University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

This is a post-degree diploma program in Human Resources Management for students who wish to build upon their current education with Human Resources and other related business courses.

Admission consideration will be given to applicants who have graduated with a minimum of a 3-year university undergraduate degree from a recognized university. Applicants possessing an undergraduate degree in Business will be given admission consideration to an area of study in business other than the 1 studied within their undergraduate degree. Applicants to the Post-Baccalaureate diploma programs in Business are not eligible to receive transfer credits for previously completed courses. All courses in the diploma program admitted to must be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. International applicants must have at least 6 credits of university English and/or Communications (at a recognized English language university in an English-speaking country) prior to admission or have met Nipissing University's English language proficiency requirements through the acceptable English language tests. The English/Communication courses and/or English language tests must have been completed within the 2 years prior to attending Nipissing University. Domestic applicants with international education may be required to meet the English/Communication requirement unless otherwise exempt under Nipissing’s English Language Proficiency policy.

Post Baccalaureate Diploma in International Business

Nipissing University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

This is a post-degree diploma program in International Business for students who wish to build upon their current education with international/intercultural business courses. Students will have the option to complete an international special project/field-based consulting project during the program.

Admission consideration will be given to applicants who have graduated with a minimum of a 3-year university undergraduate degree from a recognized university. Applicants possessing an undergraduate degree in Business will be given admission consideration to an area of study in business other than the 1 studied within their undergraduate degree. Applicants to the Post-Baccalaureate diploma programs in Business are not eligible to receive transfer credits for previously completed courses. All courses in the diploma program admitted to must be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. International applicants must have at least 6 credits of university English and/or Communications (at a recognized English language university in an English-speaking country) prior to admission or have met Nipissing University's English language proficiency requirements through the acceptable English language tests. The English/Communication courses and/or English language tests must have been completed within the 2 years prior to attending Nipissing University. Domestic applicants with international education may be required to meet the English/Communication requirement unless otherwise exempt under Nipissing’s English Language Proficiency policy.

Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Marketing

Nipissing University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

This is a post-degree diploma program in Marketing for students who wish to build upon their current education with Marketing and other related business courses.

Admission consideration will be given to applicants who have graduated with a minimum of a three-year university undergraduate degree from a recognized university. Applicants possessing an undergraduate degree in Business will be given admission consideration to an area of study in business other than the one studied within their undergraduate degree. Applicants to the Post-Baccalaureate diploma programs in Business are not eligible to receive transfer credits for previously completed courses. All courses in the diploma program admitted to must be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. International applicants must have at least 6 credits of university English and/or Communications (at a recognized English language university in an English-speaking country) prior to admission or have met Nipissing University's English language proficiency requirements through the acceptable English language tests. The English/Communication courses and/or English language tests must have been completed within the 2 years prior to attending Nipissing University. Domestic applicants with international education may be required to meet the English/Communication requirement unless otherwise exempt under Nipissing’s English Language Proficiency policy.

Post-graduate certificate in Human Resource Management

Trent University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

The postgraduate certificate in Human Resource Management (HRM) is designed for students who wish to learn how HRM contributes positively to both organizations and the people who work for them.

This exceptional program is ideally suited to new graduates seeking further specialization, or working professionals wishing to further develop their understanding of human resource management, develop new talent, drive organizational change and become a true HR leader.

Complete this professional certificate program in as little as 8 months of full-time studies, or part-time in 2 years, after you complete your undergraduate degree.

Post-graduate certificate in Human Resource Management

Trent University – Durham Greater Toronto Area

Certificate and Diploma Programs

The post-graduate certificate in Human Resource Management (HRM) is designed for students who wish to learn how HRM contributes positively to both organizations and the people who work for them.

This exceptional program is ideally suited to new graduates seeking further specialization, or working professionals wishing to further develop their understanding of human resource management, develop new talent, drive organizational change and become a true HR leader.

Complete this professional certificate program in as little as 8 months of full-time studies, or part-time in 2 years, after you complete your undergraduate degree.

Post-graduate certificate in Marketing & Entrepreneurship

Trent University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

Trent's Marketing & Entrepreneurship post-graduate certificate program will help you develop your business acumen and better prepare you for a rewarding career in marketing, sales, product development or brand management.

This exciting career-boosting professional program can be completed in as little as 8 months of full-time studies, or part-time in 2 years, after you complete your undergraduate degree.

Post-graduate certificate in Marketing & Entrepreneurship

Trent University – Durham Greater Toronto Area

Certificate and Diploma Programs

Trent's Marketing & Entrepreneurship post-graduate certificate program will help you develop your business acumen and better prepare you for a rewarding career in marketing, sales, product development or brand management.

This exciting career-boosting professional program can be completed in as little as 8 months of full-time studies, or part-time in 2 years, after you complete your undergraduate degree.

Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program

Lakehead University

Certificate and Diploma Programs

The Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner (PHCNP) Program is a unique program offered at Lakehead University as part of the Council of Ontario University Programs in Nursing (COUPN) PHCNP Programme. A consortium of 9 Universities (including Lakehead University) offers this program.

PHCNP program courses may be taken at Lakehead University as part of the Master of Nursing with PHCNP or Master of Public Health Nursing Specialization with Nurse Practitioner Electives Programs.

Psychology and English

University of Toronto – Scarborough

Undergraduate

This Double Degree program creates an accelerated pathway for students who would otherwise have to complete two separate Specialist programs and two separate degrees. It will provide students with a thorough, interdisciplinary education in both literary studies and psychology. The Double Degree program takes advantage of existing synergies to allow students to complete both undergraduate programs and degrees within five years, without compromising on the core requirements of either program. Enrolment in the Double Degree is limited. Students may apply after completing a minimum of 4.0 credits including ENGA01H3, ENGA02H3, PSYA01H3 and PSYA02H3. A final grade of at least 75% is required in each of PSYA01H3 and PSYA02H3.

Public Ethics

University of Ottawa – Saint Paul University

Graduate

The Faculty of Philosophy at Saint Paul University offers the Graduate Diploma and Master of Arts (MA) in Public Ethics.

Ethics is the branch of study that deals with human behaviour and values in the context of the society in which we live. Ethics seeks to answer 2 questions: How to live one’s life well and how to do the right thing.

These programs are based on course and seminar work, reflection on practical experience and research in public ethics. These programs are designed for students wishing to specialize in public ethics at the graduate level or to prepare themselves for doctoral work, or for mid-career professionals wishing to reflect and build on their professional experience and previous studies and who may wish to advance their career or make career changes.

Public Health

Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Applied Science 2-Year Program for University Graduates Program Accredited by the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors This program is designed to equip graduates for careers in a broad range of environmentally-related health fields, but in particular, for a career as an environmental health officer or public health inspector. Demand for graduates comes from across Canada. Regional and provincial health agencies continue to be major employers, but significant numbers of graduates establish careers with either public agencies or private companies. Professional certification as an Environmental Health Officer or Public Health Inspector is a valued addition to a graduate's portfolio and is possible after successful completion of the degree plus a 12-week practicum and a certification examination.

Public Health and Safety (for university graduates)

Queen's University

Graduate

Students in the Masters of Public Health Program will develop the applied skills needed to organize, analyze, interpret and communicate public health knowledge, and apply this knowledge to the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of public health policies and programs.

Admission requirements: Successful completion of an Honours undergraduate degree program and minimum GPA.