Alexander College

Alexander College is a private post-secondary institution serving approximately 2,000 students each year. Established in 2006 under the British Columbia Ministry of Advanced Education.^[1] Alexander College consists of two urban campuses located in Burnaby and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Alexander College offers a variety of undergraduate degree and transfer programs [see Programs] including University Transfer, Associate of Arts degree and Associate of Science degree. An integrated English for Academic Purposes program is also available to assist non-native English speakers with their transition to university level studies in the English language.

Alexander College is recognized and accredited by the BC Ministry of Advanced Education, Degree Quality Assurance Board (DQAB),^[2] BC Education Quality Assurance (EQA)^[3] program, and is a proud participant in the BC Transfer System,^[4] organized by the BC Council on Admissions and Transfer (BCCAT)^[5]

The academic year is divided into four terms: Fall (Sept-Dec), Winter (Jan-Apr), Spring (May–July) and Summer intensive (July-Aug).

History

Alexander College is named for Sir Alexander Mackenzie, the Scottish-born fur trade adventurer and author. Alexander Mackenzie holds a special place in Canadian history and it is in the spirit of his achievement and vision that Alexander College is so named.

Established in 2006, Alexander College first offered University Transfer and English for Academic Purposes programs designed to help first and second year undergraduates to achieve success in their transition to the post-secondary environment through strong student support and services. In 2006 Alexander College was approved to offer the Associate of Arts degree, followed by the Associate of Science degree in 2011.

Campuses

Alexander College operates two campuses located in the urban centres of Burnaby and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Burnaby Campus

Burnaby is a large suburb located in the geographic centre of the Greater Vancouver Regional District. Alexander College’s Burnaby Campus is located on the corner of McKay Street and Kingsway, one block from one of the largest shopping centres in Canada, Metrotown Shopping Centre. Facilities at the Burnaby campus include spacious classrooms, science laboratory, Writing & Learning Centre, library, and bookstore.

Vancouver Campus

Alexander College’s Vancouver Campus is located in the centre of downtown Vancouver on the corner of Seymour and Hastings Street. The Vancouver campus is steps away from the major shopping and entertainment districts, as well as major tourist attractions and the Vancouver waterfront. Facilities at the Vancouver campus include large classrooms, science laboratory, Writing & Learning Centre, library, and bookstore.

Programs

Alexander College’s programs are designed to provide a broad range of course offerings balanced by in-depth study in specific disciplines. Since many students will continue their post-secondary studies at the third and fourth year level, the requirements are flexible enough to enable students to plan their educational program carefully and to complete the required prerequisites for upper level course work in their intended major.

University Transfer Students explore their interests through 1st and 2nd year university courses that may be transferred to a college or university in the second or third program year. The academic offerings in Arts span the humanities, social sciences, and creative and performing arts. Students pursuing science may choose from a number of specialized subject areas, including mathematics, computer sciences, pre-engineering, and biological sciences.

Associate of Arts degree The Associate of Arts and Associate of Arts (Business) Degree programs are foundational degrees consisting of 60-64 credits, typically completed over a 2-year period. The programs provide a comprehensive learning experience that also allows students to customize and focus their coursework in an area of interest. On completion of the program, students may choose to either enter the work force or continue their studies in pursuit of a bachelor's degree. International students completing the Associate of Arts Degree program are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit^[6]

Associate of Science degree The Associate of Science Degree program consists of 60 credits and is typically completed over a 2-year period. The Associate of Science degree is a program for students who wish to establish a scientific background for academic or professional opportunity. The program is flexible enough that students may choose to focus on a particular area of interest or explore several different subjects within the areas of Physical, Biological, or Engineering Sciences. Students gain a well-rounded understanding of the essential concepts as well as engagement and insight into contemporary scientific issues, applications, and development. On completion of the Associate of Science Degree program, students may choose to either begin their career or to continue their studies in pursuit of a bachelor's degree. International students completing the Associate of Science degree program are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. [7]

English for Academic Purposes The English for Academic Purposes Program is a preparatory program designed to develop core English Language skills within a post-secondary context, enabling students to approach College/University studies with the required foundational English language competencies. The English for Academic Purposes Program (EAP) consists of 5 levels, each of which focus on language learning through academic subjects such as science, economics, psychology, sociology, literature, and philosophy. They are specifically designed to develop a students’ academic study and participation skills, while improving their English to a level that will ensure their success in further university work.

Financial Assistance

Financial assistance is available to students through StudentAid BC.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply for educational funding from the province of British Columbia through StudentAid BC.^[7] Educational student loans are available for students of Alexander College from the national government of Canada, as well as from the province of British Columbia.

External links

• Alexander College

References