CANADA · NEW WESTMINSTER AND COQUITLAM
Douglas College
public · Founded 1970 · Languages: en
In short
Douglas College is a large public post-secondary institution in Metro Vancouver, British Columbia, offering university transfer courses, bachelor's degrees, diplomas, and career programs. It is known for its health sciences, criminology, and applied programs, with affordable tuition and convenient campus locations on the SkyTrain network.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1970
- Students
- 25,000
- International students
- 7,000
- Tuition (intl)
- €11–15k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- New Westminster and Coquitlam, Canada
Douglas College is a large public post-secondary institution in Metro Vancouver, British Columbia, offering university transfer courses, bachelor's degrees, diplomas, and career programs to approximately 25,000 students. Founded in 1970, it is the largest publicly funded college in the province and is well regarded for its health sciences, criminology, and applied programs. Its New Westminster and Coquitlam campuses sit on the regional SkyTrain network, giving students seamless access to all of Metro Vancouver.
Why study here
- Largest publicly funded college in BC with a wide range of bachelor's, diploma, and transfer programs.
- Campuses are directly on the Metro Vancouver SkyTrain network — easy access to the entire city.
- Strong university transfer pathways let you move into degree programs at UBC, SFU, and other universities.
- Dedicated international student services including immigration advising, peer support, and English language programs.
- Affordable tuition compared to university, with a high quality of education recognized by BC employers.
Student life
Douglas College celebrates student achievement and leadership through awards recognizing those who go above and beyond. The college encourages students to connect with the community, explore news, join events, and get involved in various activities. Campus clubs, athletics, and student association events create a lively community. Both campuses have libraries, fitness facilities, cafeterias, and dedicated international student lounges.
Fees
InternationalInternational tuition is approximately CAD 15,000–18,000 per year (EUR 11,000–13,000) for most diploma and bachelor programs.
HomeDomestic tuition is approximately CAD 3,000–5,000 per year.
LivingLiving costs in New Westminster/Metro Vancouver are approximately CAD 14,000–18,000 per year including accommodation, food, and transport.
Douglas College provides a tuition and fee estimator tool on its website to help students calculate the approximate cost of their studies. Additional student activity and health fees apply.
Admissions
Secondary SchoolBC Grade 12 or equivalent with program-specific course prerequisites
English ProficiencyRequired for applicants whose first language is not English
IELTS Academic6.0 overall (no band below 6.0) for most programs
TOEFL iBT80 overall for most programs
Duolingo English Test105 for most programs
University scholarships
Douglas College Excellence AwardCAD 1,000
International Student BursaryCAD 500–2,000
Indigenous Student AwardVaries
Accreditation
Douglas College is accredited under the British Columbia Degree Authorization Act for its bachelor's degree programs. Health science programs (e.g., Nursing) hold accreditation from the relevant professional bodies. The college is a member of Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan).
For international students
CanadaStudent visa & funds
International students must obtain a study permit from IRCC before arriving. Most college and undergraduate applicants must also include a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) confirming a space under the annual cap; from January 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public institutions are exempt from this requirement. Applicants must show living funds of CAD 22,895 (effective September 2025, for a single student, excluding tuition and travel), and Student Direct Stream applicants hold this amount as a GIC.
Working while you study
Full-time students at designated learning institutions whose permits include work authorization may work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic terms — a cap in effect since November 2024 that replaced the former 20-hour rule and a temporary 40-hour exception. Students may work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks such as summer and winter holidays. From April 2026, eligible students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for mandatory placements.
After you graduate
Graduates of eligible programs may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 180 days of confirmed completion. The PGWP matches program length up to a maximum of three years, and master’s graduates receive a three-year permit regardless of program length. Since November 2024 most applicants must show a recent language test at CLB 7 (university graduates) or CLB 5 (college graduates); degree graduates are exempt from the field-of-study alignment rule that applies to other applicants.
English tests
- IELTS Academic6.0–6.5 with no band below 6.0; research-intensive universities 6.5–7.0
- TOEFL iBT80–100; top universities (e.g. University of Toronto) 100+
Main intakes
SeptemberJanuaryMay
Typical living cost
€1,250/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesIRCC — Study permit: get the right documents · CIC News — Increased fund requirements for study permits (Sept 2025) · CIC News — Off-campus work rules update (May 2026) · IRCC — Post-graduation work permit: who can apply · ETS — Minimum TOEFL score requirements for the USA, UK and Canada · Mastersportal — Living costs & tuition in Canada
Programs
a selectionDouglas College · Canada
Accounting (Diploma)
This Accounting Diploma program provides practical experience with essential accounting software like QuickBooks, Excel, and Sage 50. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for junior management roles in financial, general, or cost accounting, as well as accounting information systems or financial management practices within small to medium-sized businesses. The program offers flexibility with day and evening classes, and options for full-time or part-time study. You can also choose from online, hybrid, or in-person courses to fit your learning preferences. You have the option to gain valuable work experience through the Co-operative Education Program or complete real-world projects via the Business Internship Program before graduating.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
16 mo
Duration
Douglas College · Canada
Associate of Arts
The Associate of Arts (AA) degree is a two-year program designed to provide a broad educational foundation. Upon completion, you will have earned 60 university transfer credits, which can typically be applied towards the third year of a four-year Bachelor's degree program at a university in British Columbia. Careful course selection is crucial to ensure your credits transfer seamlessly; consult the BC Transfer Guide for detailed information. The AA degree allows for specialization in various disciplines by completing 18 or more credits in a chosen field, with at least nine of those being second-year courses. This specialization will be noted on your transcript, preparing you for a Major or Minor Bachelor of Arts degree.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Douglas College · Canada
Associate of Science
The Associate of Science degree provides a foundation for students interested in pursuing science at the university level. Over two years and 60 credits, you will complete university-level courses in math, various sciences, and electives. You can choose to focus your studies by selecting courses within a specific science theme, such as biology, chemistry, earth and environmental sciences, or mathematics, or pursue one of the available specializations. Upon successful completion, this degree allows for transfer of all 60 credits to a university, typically granting entry into the third year of a four-year bachelor's degree program. It is crucial to plan your courses carefully using resources like the BC Transfer Guide to ensure your credits align with your chosen university program.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Douglas College · Canada
Child and Youth Care Diploma
The Child and Youth Care Diploma program prepares you to support children, youth, and their families who are facing challenges such as abuse, neglect, addiction, or family breakdown. You will develop the skills to assist individuals with behavioural or learning difficulties and make a positive impact in their lives. Graduates are qualified for frontline roles in various settings, including schools, community centers, residential facilities, and programs for youth. The program offers both online and in-person learning options at the Coquitlam Campus.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Douglas College · Canada
Commerce and Business Administration (Diploma)
The Diploma in Commerce and Business Administration provides a solid foundation in essential business subjects like economics, marketing, and accounting. This program is designed to introduce you to a broad range of topics, preparing you for success in today's business environment. You will engage with real-world case studies and utilize modern computer labs to enhance your learning experience.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Douglas College · Canada
Early Childhood Education (Diploma)
The Diploma in Early Childhood Education (ECE) prepares you to work with young children and apply for provincial licenses as an early childhood educator and a special needs educator. This program combines coursework with practical experience, including a practicum in an ECE setting where you'll work with children aged newborn to eight years old. You will learn about child development, curriculum planning, managing child-care settings, and promoting health and nutrition. An innovative aspect of this program is the 'Children Teaching Teachers' method, offering a unique experiential learning opportunity. Graduates can pursue further studies with a post-diploma certificate in ECE: Infant/Toddler to gain an additional license. The ECE diploma program is also recognized for potential transfer credits to other post-secondary institutions in British Columbia. With a strong job outlook, early childhood education is a growing field. Surveys indicate a high rate of employment for graduates. If you don't meet the direct English proficiency requirements, Douglas College offers English Upgrading courses that can serve as a pathway to ECE programs.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
16 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Canada
full fundingUniversity of Toronto
Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship
For international students beginning undergraduate study at the University of Toronto who are first-time entrants from outside Canada. Students must be nominated by their school, then complete the U of T application and scholarship process. Selection recognises exceptional academic achievement and creativity, with a record of leadership and impact at school.
full
Funding
€200k
Max
Nov 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of British Columbia
International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT) Award
For international students entering their first undergraduate degree at the University of British Columbia (UBC) who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and financial need. Students must be nominated by their school and require financial support to study at UBC; the award is need-based, covering costs the student and family cannot meet.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingWestern University
Western University National Scholarship Program (Canada)
Open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents entering full-time undergraduate study at Western University's main campus, with a minimum academic average of 90% in Grade 12 U/M courses (or equivalent), a school nomination, a reference letter, a transcript and an essay.
full
Funding
€47k
Max
Feb 14, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingUniversity of Ottawa
University of Ottawa International English Scholarships
Open to international undergraduate students who hold a valid Canadian study permit and are newly admitted to an English-language undergraduate programme in Arts, Engineering, Health Sciences, Science, Social Sciences, or the Telfer School of Management. A minimum admission average of 80 percent is needed for the Admission Scholarship and 90 percent for the Academic Excellence Scholarship. Students in the French immersion or French-language streams are not eligible.
partial
Funding
€46k
Max
Apr 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingCanadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Open to Canadian and international students pursuing a doctoral (PhD) degree at a Canadian university. Candidates must be nominated by the Canadian institution, not yet have started the doctoral program beyond defined limits, and demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership.
full
Funding
€34k
Max
Nov 4, 2026
Deadline
full fundingCIHR / NSERC / SSHRC (Tri-Agency), Government of Canada
Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS-D)
For doctoral students undertaking a PhD at a Canadian institution, with an outstanding academic record. Awards are made by Canada's tri-agency (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC); applicants apply through their university, and eligibility (including for international students) follows the current Canada Graduate Scholarships rules.
full
Funding
€27k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the approximate tuition fees for international students at Douglas College?
+
International tuition fees for most diploma and bachelor programs are approximately CAD 15,000–18,000 per year. It is recommended to use the college's tuition and fee estimator tool for precise calculations, as additional student activity and health fees apply.
What are the estimated living costs for students in New Westminster or Metro Vancouver?
+
Living costs, including accommodation, food, and transport, are estimated to be around CAD 14,000–18,000 per year for students in New Westminster/Metro Vancouver.
How can I apply to Douglas College as an international student?
+
Prospective students apply through EducationPlannerBC. Most undergraduate programs require completion of senior secondary school, and international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
For most programs, international students need a minimum score of 6.0 on the IELTS Academic (with no band below 6.0), an 80 on the TOEFL iBT, or a 105 on the Duolingo English Test.
Does Douglas College offer university transfer pathways?
+
Yes, Douglas College has strong university transfer pathways with articulation agreements that allow students to transfer into degree programs at universities like UBC and SFU.
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