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Academic Upgrading

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Academic Upgrading

NorQuest College operates as an accredited high school and offers courses that follow the Alberta Education curriculum. These courses prepare you to continue your studies at NorQuest or other post-secondary institutions in Alberta and across Canada.

You can choose to upgrade only the courses you need for post-secondary entrance or you can earn a high school diploma.

If you want a fresh start, then try giving Norquest a try. There are countless easy ways to seek help during your studies. Everybody there is trying to succeed, and all the teachers help to see that happen.

—Austin Edward Brian Summers

What to expect from the program

Academic Upgrading is course-based. The variety of delivery methods and times provides you with the most flexibility. Choose the delivery method that suits your learning style and availability.

  • In-person: In the Fall and Winter terms, on-campus classes are 90 minutes and occur four days per week.  Each Wednesday is a flexible online-learning day, meaning up to 20% of your coursework will be completed online.   

  • Online real-time: In the Fall and Winter terms, online-only classes are 90 minutes and occur four days per week.  Each Wednesday is a flexible online-learning day.  Students in the Wetaskiwin area can receive support and access computers at the Wetaskiwin campus as needed.

  • Hyflex: In the Spring term, classes are three hours and occur five days per week. You may attend in-person or online.

  • Online anytime: Work on your course when it is convenient for you and have up to 20 weeks to complete it. For more information about this delivery method, watch a video about online anytime courses.  

After applying, you may meet with a readiness advisor to help your registration with academic advice or placement testing.

  In person Online real-time Online anytime
Fixed start, end, and exam dates ✔ ✔  
Start anytime; study anytime     ✔
Study anywhere (fully online)   ✔ ✔
Online testing   ✔ ✔
Daily schedule flexibility Low Medium High
Level of instructor direct support
(1-1 real-time support is available on request for all students)		 High High Medium
Level of students’ self-guided learning Low Medium High
Real-time classes each week
(in person or online)		 4 4 0

Choosing your delivery option

This program offers multiple options—select the format that best fits your life and the way you learn.

Online real-time

Classes follow a set schedule and require you to attend live, online sessions at specific dates and times.

Online anytime

Classes have no scheduled meetings, allowing you to complete coursework on your own schedule within set start and end dates, with deadlines for some assignments.

Career opportunities

Academic Upgrading increases your work and educational opportunities. Academic Upgrading courses will help you meet the specific academic entrance requirements for certificate, diploma, and degree programs at post-secondary institutions.

Important information for international students

This program qualifies for a study permit, but does not qualify for a post-graduate work permit in Canada as of November 1, 2024. Learn more about obtaining your study permit and other important immigration information.

Have a question about the Academic Upgrading program?

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