What is a program?
A program is a structured set of courses that leads to a credential, such as a certificate, diploma, or degree.
Some programs include a practical component as well as theory courses. The UFV Calendar contains program information such as entrance requirements, course prerequisites, and program requirements.
Certificates, diplomas, and degrees
Certificates, diplomas, and degrees are credentials you can earn when you complete a program. Diplomas and associate degrees are generally two years in length, while bachelor’s degrees are four years, based on full-time study. Most programs can also be completed on a part-time basis over a longer period of time. Certificate programs vary in length, and are generally completed in one year or less. UFV offers credit certificate programs (about 1,000 hours of training) as well as non-credit certificate programs (about 200–300 hours of training).
Qualifying Studies
Qualifying Studies is for students who need to upgrade their education to gain admission to UFV certificate, diploma, or degree programs; are undecided about their post-secondary goals; have missed a university program admission deadline; or have failed to meet the continuance requirements of a UFV program. Students admitted to Qualifying Studies may begin taking courses in their preferred area, provided they meet course and program prerequisites and seats are available.
Admission to Qualifying Studies allows you to:
- take courses to satisfy the entrance requirements for a program, provided you meet the course prerequisites;
- take courses to fulfill the first- or second-year requirements for professional programs; or
- take a few courses to get started if you are not ready to enter a program.
Studying for General Interest
Studying for General Interest is an admissions category for students who wish to take a course or two, with no intention of completing a UFV credential. Students admitted to Studying for General Interest may register for course(s) provided they meet course prerequisites and seats are available.
Laddering from one program to another
If you begin in a certificate, diploma, or associate degree, you may be able to “ladder” into another program, building on previously earned credentials. For example, credits earned in a diploma or associate degree could be used as credit toward a four-year degree in the same area. Check the current UFV Academic Calendar for additional details, including entrance requirements.
See programs accepting applications.
Credit versus non-credit
There are two types of courses offered at UFV: credit courses, and non-credit courses. Credit courses may satisfy certificate, diploma, and degree requirements or may be taken for general interest. They have a credit value and are generally assigned a letter grade. Information about credit courses and programs can be found in the current UFV Academic Calendar.
Non-credit courses are usually offered through Continuing Education (CE) and can be taken for general interest, upgrading skills, employment, and/or professional development.