Academic Upgrading

Launch your path to post-secondary education, apprenticeship or direct employment

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Academic Access Centre


The Academic Access Centre prepares students for further education, training and employment through academic upgrading and advisement. We are known for our innovation, leadership, qualified instructors, highly effective teaching techniques, and student success. We are proud to offer programming at our Ottawa and Pembroke campuses, as well as in partnership with the John Howard Society.

We offer a range of personalized program options to support learners with a variety of goals. Generally, students have the flexibility to learn at their own pace and in the style best suited to their needs, year-round. We offer a mix of full- and part-time, virtual and on-campus learning options. Some programs and courses are offered at scheduled times, including day and evening course offerings. Learners can complete individual courses, pursue their Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate (Grade 12 equivalency), or participate in packaged and specialized programs such as Preparation for Health Sciences.

Communication skills are critical tools which enables academic success together with personal growth. Algonquin College Academic Access Centre has helped thousands of international students from around the world to improve their skills in the areas of language comprehension, vocabulary, writing and grammar. For more Language program information, please follow this link: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/languages/.

Guidance & Support

Academic Access Advisors


Our advisors are available to meet with you one-on-one to discuss your academic goals and identify the steps necessary to reach them. Book a free consultation to discuss college program and course options, admissions requirements, application procedures, and more. 

Contact us to book an appointment.

Choosing a Program and Planning Your Career


Career planning can be both exciting and extremely stressful. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed with possibilities or discouraged that no program or career path feels quite right, these online tools will help you focus on what you are looking for in a program or career. See resources.

Our Service Pledge


As part of the Ontario College system, we provide provincially recognized academic programming and credentials in a supportive environment to help you plan and reach your educational and career goals. We care about your success and personal experience and will connect you to supports and services across our college and community to meet your needs. Read our full pledge.

Programs


Our Partners

Employment Ontario


Our Academic Access Centre programs are Employment Ontario programs, funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario and through the Canada-Ontario Job Fund Agreement. This means that programs and courses are FREE for most Ontario residents, and in some cases childcare and transportation costs are covered.

For more information on other Employment Ontario programs and services in the Ottawa area, visit the Employment Ontario Ottawa Network.

John Howard Society of Ottawa


JHS Ottawa has partnered with Algonquin College since 2007 to provide Academic Career Entrance (ACE) programming in the community, making it accessible to a marginalized and underrepresented population. These learners need additional support in order to be successful. JHS Ottawa provides its learners with flexible, individualized wraparound services, helping them to succeed and preparing many of them to make the transition to the college environment.

Resources


Contact


General

General Inquiries