EASYUNI Ultimate University Guide 2013 Issue 4 | Page 57

S T U DY I N G A B ROA D Canada’s systems of education Canada’s college, polytechnics and university system commences after high school. You can also choose to complete some or all of your primary and secondary school in Canada in either the public or private system. Both offer quality global graduation standards to continue postsecondary studies, as well as exceptional student services. Beyond high school, career choices are endless with thousands of post-secondary options to suit every interest. Canada represents a tremendous opportunity for students to advance their career goals. An increasing number of Malaysian students are making Canada their preferred destination for post-secondary education, with almost 1,800 studying there in 2013. Over 293,000 international students selected Canada in 2013 for superior education, access to global career opportunities and an exciting cross-cultural experience. Choose from among Canada’s top-ranked colleges, polytechnics and universities for the highest quality education and return home with a globally recognised degree. Universities Canada’s 125 public and private not-for-profit universities offer high-quality education at relatively low costs. They offer a vast choice of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as professional designations, certificate and diploma courses, and short career-focused programmes in fields such as engineering, business, accounting and actuarial science, among many others. Canadian institutions are known for their cutting-edge technology and research labs. They also provide opportunities for cooperative education and internships. Opportunities abound for international students who can work during their study programmes. Research Focus Canada’s universities, colleges and polytechnics are engaged in innovative research in the fields of health, nanotechnology, biotechnology, high-performance computing, environmental technologies, nutraceuticals and renewable fuels, among other sectors. Research and development cross-funding between the private sector and post-secondary education institutions ranks highly, by international standards. New economic research is also highlighting the important role of universities, colleges and polytechnics as knowledge hubs – connecting business, government and post-secondary education institutions with commercial firms that help create marketable applications for a wealth of Canadian-based discoveries. If you’ve got ideas to change the world, we’ve got the programmes to help you realise them! Canada is a world leader in post-secondary research, outpacing most G-7 countries on overall investment in education, according to the OECD Education at a Glance 2013. The College System Canadian programmes are taught by highly experienced faculty members. Canada’s colleges and polytechnics are leaders in applied higher education. Over 8,000 programmes at 150 public institutions offer credentials that prepare students for the job market. Colleges/ Polytechnic offer a variety of recognised credentials including certificates, diplomas, university transfer programmes, academic and applied degrees, and postgraduate diplomas. Programmes are available with varying lengths of study, from a few months to four years. Practical programmes are designed with potential employers that offer work placements. Some colleges have transfer agreements with universities and represent an alternate pathway to a top-ranking Canadian university. easyuni Guide 2014 Issue 4 55