Transfer pathways

Confidence to start. Options to continue.

Not sure if post-secondary is for you? Find your confidence to start at NorQuest College. This is where you'll discover what you're truly capable of—building hands-on skills, gaining momentum, and graduating career-ready, with transfer pathways that open doors to possibilities you might not have imagined.

What are transfer pathways?

Through partnerships and transfer agreements with colleges, polytechnics, and universities across Western Canada, the credits you earn at NorQuest can transfer towards further education, so you can keep climbing without starting over.

How transfer works at NorQuest

  • 1

    Complete a NorQuest certificate/diploma program

  • 2

    Earn credits recognized by partner institutions

  • 3

    Meet the requirements of the post-secondary institution you plan to attend

  • 4

    Transfer into year 1, 2, or 3 of a related program

You don’t need to have it all figured it out from day one.

Some students enter NorQuest planning to move on to further studies. Others find their passion to continue learning after taking a few classes. And some are ready to jump straight into the workforce, but want to keep their options open for future education. All paths are valid, and all are possible here.

More students should know that starting at NorQuest can be a smart and supportive path to university. The supportive instructors, welcoming environment, and meaningful mentorship gave me the strong foundation I needed—so much so that I went on to graduate from university with a 3.97 GPA.  NorQuest helped me believe in myself which gave me the confidence to continue my studies at the University of Calgary and know that I belong there.

— Jirehl Carlos, Social Work graduate

Why start at NorQuest?

Connected across Western Canada

We offer over 90 recognized credit transfer options. Many of our students go on to the University of Alberta, MacEwan University, University of Calgary, NAIT, and many other post-secondary institutions, including:

  • Local universities
  • Alberta polytechnics
  • Online universities
  • Western Canadian university partners

A strategic start

NorQuest offers competitive tuition rates, so you can access quality education without breaking the bank. Starting here means you're setting yourself up for the rest of your degree without the burden of overwhelming debt from day one.

Learn in a supportive environment

Smaller class sizes mean you're not just a number. You'll actually get to know your instructors, and they'll get to know you. You'll also have access to free tutoring, mental health resources, and career coaching to help you thrive.

Learn from instructors who know the field

Our instructors bring something special to the classroom: real experience. Many teach at NorQuest while staying active in their professional fields. They understand both academic standards and what employers are looking for, so you get the best of both worlds: solid theory and practical knowledge you can use.

Skills that open doors

We design our programs with input from industry and government partners. That means what you learn directly matches what Alberta's employers need. As we grow our program offerings, we're strategically expanding transfer credit opportunities in high-demand fields, so you can advance your education in areas where careers are thriving.

Your personal roadmap

Our academic advisors work one-on-one with you to create a study plan that matches your goals. Whether you're aiming for a specific career, planning to transfer, or still figuring things out, we'll help you map it out.

Connecting with us

Got questions? There are multiple options available for you to connect including via phone, email or in person. You can call to book an appointment or check drop-in availability.

Hours of operation

Monday - Wednesday, and Friday: 8:15 am – 4:30 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

In-person

Visit us in CELT main floor. View our campus map.

Join the queue

Phone

Call us at 780.644.6000

Email

Send us an email.

We will respond within 5 business days.

Frequently asked questions

How do my grades affect transfer to another program? Your GPA can affect which programs you’re eligible for and how competitive your application may be. Some programs have minimum grade requirements, so it’s a good idea to check each program’s criteria and plan ahead with a NorQuest Academic Program Advisor. And if you need to boost your grades to hit those transfer requirements, free tutoring is available to help you get there.
Which prerequisites do I need for a transfer program? Each program has its own requirements. For the most accurate and current information, review the receiving institution’s program pages or speak with a NorQuest Academic Program Advisor. Transfer Alberta can also be a helpful resource for seeing what courses may transfer across Alberta institutions.
Which year will I start at my new school?

This depends on the program and the credits you’ve earned. Some students start in year 1, 2, or even 3, depending on the equivalencies recognized by the receiving institution.  

Many NorQuest programs offer 2+2 transfers, where you complete a two-year diploma at NorQuest and then apply to finish the final two years of a related degree at a partner institution. Your Academic Program Advisor can help you estimate where you might start and which pathway fits your goals.

Can I transfer if I don’t meet all the requirements yet? You may still explore your options! Advisors can help you plan to meet prerequisites, identify alternative pathways, or guide you on strengthening your competitiveness for admission. Keep in mind that transfer admission is often competitive, so applying early and staying on top of deadlines is key.
How do transfer credits actually work? Many NorQuest courses are transferable, but it’s important to know that not every course may count toward specific requirements at the receiving institution. For example, some credits may fulfill elective requirements rather than program-specific courses. Your Academic Program Advisor can help clarify which credits are most likely to transfer.
Why would I start in a NorQuest 2+2 or transfer pathway program if I already know what degree I want? There are several reasons students choose this route. You might not yet meet the grades or prerequisites for your desired degree, or cost could be a factor. Starting at NorQuest can give you a supportive environment, help you build skills and confidence, and still allow you to move on to a degree program when you’re ready.
I completed a NorQuest career program—do I need more education to get a job or make money? Not at all! Your diploma is a valuable credential on its own and prepares you for meaningful work. Transfer pathways are optional opportunities if you want to continue your education, explore a related degree, or open up new career options—but your current program is designed to give you real-world skills and career readiness from day one.
How do I find the most up-to-date transfer policies and deadlines? Transfer rules, credit recognition, and application requirements vary by institution and can change over time. Always confirm details directly with the receiving institution, and work with a NorQuest Academic Program Advisor to ensure you have the most accurate information.
What if I want to transfer to a program without a formal agreement? Even if a program doesn’t have a formal transfer agreement, advisors can work with you to explore options, build a personalized pathway, and help you plan next steps.
How do I stay on top of my transfer application and next steps? Keep track of application deadlines, email updates, required documents, and transfer credit forms. Once admitted, plan for finances, tuition, and course registration while making sure you meet any program prerequisites. Readiness Advisors and Academic Program Advisors can support you throughout this process.