Considering pursuing a university degree after college is not always an easy decision. Many factors must be considered, such as programs, courses, tuition fees and transfer credits. The good news is that several universities are partnering up with colleges across the Durham Region to build different pathways and transfer programs.

In this blog post, I'll walk you through a few steps to explain how the college-to-university transfer program works here at Ontario Tech University.

Pathway partnership

If you’re almost done or have already finished your major in college and wish to expand your career options by pursuing a university degree, I suggest you research the different pathway partnerships your college offers.

Most educational institutions list their pathway partnerships with other institutions online; it’s very common to find a complete guide with partnered universities located inside and outside Canada.

My advice to you is to double-check the partnerships at your current—as well as at your future—educational institution. Once you narrow down and find the potential school you would like to transfer to, assure yourself by emailing (or calling) and asking if that partnership is still ongoing.

Program selection

The idea behind our college-to-university transfer program at Ontario Tech is to earn a university degree with the help of a completed college diploma. For this reason, the different faculties at our university offer a wide range of programs designed for college-to-university students.

Once you’re sure about the partnership between your college and the university you’re interested in, find the advanced entry program that you'd like to pursue—one that is hopefully related to your program in college.

For example, I graduated from a media program in college and always wished to expand my knowledge in the industry. Therefore, my best option was to bridge to the Communications and Digital Media Studies program at Ontario Tech.

Transfer requirements

Remember that continuing education is not the same as starting a major from scratch; there are different requirements for pathway or transfer students.

The first thing to consider is submitting your college courses and credits to continue with your transfer application.

Along with the transfer credits, you will be asked to complete online applications, including submitting transcripts, photo ID, deposits, etc.  Remember to organize and gather all your documents promptly so that you can submit all the requirements before the deadline.

If you don’t know how to do this, don’t panic! Contact the transfer office to get help as you move forward with your application.

Inquire and keep track    

Once you have submitted all your documents, make sure you save copies and keep track of them. Another helpful tip is to follow up with the academic advisors at your potential university.

At Ontario Tech, each faculty has its own academic advisors. They're available to you throughout the year, so it’s a good idea to contact them during the transfer process to address any questions or concerns you have.

Although there are more steps to follow during the transfer application process, these are the initial steps you must go through if your considering continuing your education. Remember, no matter which program you transfer to, make sure you do your research, plan ahead and reach out if you need help.

Do you want to learn more about all of our transfer programs here at Ontario Tech?