Academic and Career Entrance
Prepare for college programs and/or employment by taking Academic Upgrading courses.
- Courses offered in English, math, biology, chemistry and computer skills
- Free 1-on-1 appointments with Advisor for guidance
- Program can be started in any month of the year
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Availability varies by course. Click here to view availability for courses in this program.
Schedule
Given the part-time delivery of this program, there is not a standard schedule for all learners.
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Delivered as a continuous intake program, you can start in any month of the year. Full and part-time study options as well as a choice of timetables are offered. Placement tests determine which English and/or mathematics course you start in. Based on your results and preferences, your Orientation team works with you to develop a personal training plan. The time it takes you to complete your plan depends on which course(s) you start in, which course(s) you need to reach your academic or employment goals and your own rate of progress.
To obtain the ACE Certificate you must complete ENL5958 College Preparation Communication or ENL0076 Communications: Preparation for Degree Programs, and MAT5951 Intermediate Mathematics, plus two electives with departmental approval....(read more)
Overview
Prepare for college programs and/or employment by taking Academic Upgrading courses. Study only the courses you need to meet the admission requirements for your college program of choice, or earn the Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate. The ACE certificate is recognized across Ontario as a Grade 12 equivalency for admission to college and by many employers as meeting their minimum employment standard.
Delivered as a continuous intake program, you can start in any month of the year. Full and part-time study options as well as a choice of timetables are offered. Placement tests determine which English and/or mathematics course you start in. Based on your results and preferences, your Orientation team works with you to develop a personal training plan. The time it takes you to complete your plan depends on which course(s) you start in, which course(s) you need to reach your academic or employment goals and your own rate of progress.
To obtain the ACE Certificate you must complete ENL5958 College Preparation Communication or ENL0076 Communications: Preparation for Degree Programs, and MAT5951 Intermediate Mathematics, plus two electives with departmental approval.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for you if:
- You are ready to set goals for the future.
- You are willing to work and show progress.
- You are prepared to attend regularly,whether in person or in a remote setting.
- You are able to work independently.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Registration Note:
This program does not have a typical application process. Unless otherwise stated - you can register for courses online directly by clicking on the course title and selecting “Register Online”. Classes can take place online, or on campus in the evenings and weekends using our modern facilities. Different courses may be available each semester so don’t forget to check back regularly.
Courses |
Course Number | Hours | Course Name | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
DAT0110 | 64.0 | Computer SkillsDAT0110 Computer SkillsA solid foundation in basic computer skills and digital literacy is necessary to be successful in both college and a career. Students develop skills in word processing, file management, presentation software and spreadsheet operations. They also become familiar with Brightspace, Algonquin College's learning management system. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
ENL5958 | 96.0 | College Preparation CommunicationENL5958 College Preparation CommunicationGood communication skills and a self-directed approach to learning are key to sustained success in both college and a career. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students write essays using various organizational structures, read and report on short stories, explore and assess the role media and advertising plays in their lives, and practice using Algonquin College Library resources. Finally, students research and produce a report and present their findings in an oral presentation. Students monitor progress and produce work within set timeframes. This course is accepted as the English prerequisite for programs requiring ENG4C. Pre-requisites: DAT0110 and ENL5952 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
MAT5951 | 112.0 | Intermediate MathematicsMAT5951 Intermediate MathematicsA solid foundation in mathematics is necessary to everyday life and serves as a basic building block for more advanced mathematics. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students solve problems using number sense, integers, rational numbers, linear and non-linear relations, exponents, polynomials, modelling with equations and data management. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for programs requiring MBF3C. Pre-requisites: MAT5957 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
Electives: 2 with Departmental Approval | ||||||
DAT5959 | 10.0 | KeyboardingDAT5959 KeyboardingDevelop keyboarding skills. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
ENL0076 | 112.0 | Communications: Preparation for Degree ProgramsENL0076 Communications: Preparation for Degree ProgramsCommunication, reading, academic writing, and critical thinking skills are necessary for success in college, university, and daily life. Students develop and write academic essays and reports for different purposes. Emphasis is placed on generating ideas, developing a thesis, collecting and evaluating secondary sources and the correct citation of sources. Students acquire greater control over academic writing through coherent and grammatically correct use of academic language. Students read, interpret and respond critically to a variety of texts for a variety of purposes. Students create and present a multi-media oral report. This course is accepted as the English prerequisite for Algonquin College bachelor degree programs requiring ENG4U. Pre-requisites: DAT0110 and ENL5952 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
ENL5952 | 96.0 | Communication 5ENL5952 Communication 5Good communication skills and a self-directed approach to learning are key to sustained success in both college and a career. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students analyze the components of good writing, write short essays and business correspondence, take notes, summarize text and prepare a resume. Students identify their support system and potential barriers to success, articulate their readiness to learn, monitor their own progress and produce work within set time frames. Pre-requisites: ENL5956 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
MAT0001 | 96.0 | College Preparation Mathematics - TechnicalMAT0001 College Preparation Mathematics - TechnicalA solid foundation in mathematics is necessary for further study in technical fields. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students solve problems by analyzing linear relations, using linear systems, quadratic relations, quadratic expressions, quadratic equations and trigonometry of right triangles. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for technician/technology programs at Algonquin College requiring MAP4C and MCF3M. Pre-requisites: MAT5951 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
MAT0010 | 128.0 | College Preparation Mathematics - BusinessMAT0010 College Preparation Mathematics - BusinessA solid foundation in mathematics is necessary for further study in business fields. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students solve problems by analyzing linear relations, using interest, exponential functions, series and sequences, and annuities. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for business and health programs at Algonquin College requiring MAP4C and MCF3M. Pre-requisites: MAT5951 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
MAT0030 | 36.0 | Mathematics Fundamentals for Apprenticeship PreparationMAT0030 Mathematics Fundamentals for Apprenticeship PreparationA solid foundation in mathematics is necessary to succeed in apprenticeship training. Through skills-based problem solving, individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students learn to solve problems related to their trade which may include the following: fractions, decimals, percent, ratio and proportion, the metric system, measurement, order of operations, use number sense, manipulating linear and non-linear relations, exponents, polynomials and trigonometry of right triangles. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
MAT0034 | 128.0 | Degree Preparation Math - Data ManagementMAT0034 Degree Preparation Math - Data ManagementA solid foundation in mathematics is necessary for further study in postsecondary programs that require the ability to manage data. Students will examine permutations, combinations, and probability distributions. Through individual study, frequent feedback on progress, and a culminating assignment, students will learn to organize and analyze data as well as solve mathematical problems. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for degree programs at Algonquin College requiring MDM4. Prerequisites: MAT0001 or MAT0010 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
MAT5952 | 96.0 | College Preparation Mathematics - TechnologyMAT5952 College Preparation Mathematics - TechnologyA solid foundation in mathematics is necessary for further study in technology fields. Students solve problems using trigonometry of acute triangles, vectors, exponential functions and logarithmic functions. Through skills-based problem solving, individual study, and completing assessments, students refine technological math skills. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for technology programs at Algonquin College requiring MCT4C. Pre-requisites: MAT0001 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
MAT5957 | 144.0 | Fundamental MathematicsMAT5957 Fundamental MathematicsA solid foundation in mathematics is necessary in everyday life and serves as a building block for more advanced mathematics. Students solve problems using whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percent, ratio and proportion, the metric system, measurement and order of operations. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students refine their fundamental math skills. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
MAT5964 | 64.0 | Fundamental Mathematics for Preparation for Health ScienceMAT5964 Fundamental Mathematics for Preparation for Health ScienceA solid foundation in mathematical concepts and applications are essential to students entering health science professions. Through individual study, online tutorials and frequent feedback on progress, students solve problems using decimals, fractions, ratio and proportion, percent, the metric system, systems of measurement and special dosage calculations. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
SCI5952 | 128.0 | College Preparation BiologySCI5952 College Preparation BiologyDetailed knowledge of the human body and biological systems is essential for students entering health science professions. Students study the cell, genetics, nutrition, and the following body systems: nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, lymphatic, reproductive and digestive. Student activities include lectures, laboratory exercises, group work, online exercises and video commentary. This course is accepted as the biology prerequisite for programs in the college system, including the two-year Ontario College Diploma in Practical Nursing. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
SCI5953 | 128.0 | College Preparation ChemistrySCI5953 College Preparation ChemistryFoundational knowledge of chemistry is valuable for students entering health science professions. Students study matter, the atom, the periodic table, chemical bonding, the mole, chemical reactions, gas laws and basic organic chemistry. Student activities include lectures, laboratory exercises, group work, online exercises and video commentary. This course is accepted as the chemistry prerequisite for programs in the college system, including the two year Ontario College Diploma in Practical Nursing. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
SSC5727 | 64.0 | Success StrategiesSSC5727 Success StrategiesUnderstanding and developing key strategies for learning are essential skills to ensure academic and career success and strengthen future learning opportunities. Students explore the theories and principles of learning, brain function, learning styles, motivation and group dynamics. Special attention is placed on analyzing oneself as a learner and preparing for future personal and career goals. Students learn the importance of critical thinking, problem solving and working in a team. The course lays the foundation for students to develop personalized learning strategies in a collaborative and supportive learning environment through interactive workshops, discussion board activities, team presentations and journal writing. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. |
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
DAT0110 Computer Skills
A solid foundation in basic computer skills and digital literacy is necessary to be successful in both college and a career. Students develop skills in word processing, file management, presentation software and spreadsheet operations. They also become familiar with Brightspace, Algonquin College's learning management system.
ENL5958 College Preparation Communication
Good communication skills and a self-directed approach to learning are key to sustained success in both college and a career. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students write essays using various organizational structures, read and report on short stories, explore and assess the role media and advertising plays in their lives, and practice using Algonquin College Library resources. Finally, students research and produce a report and present their findings in an oral presentation. Students monitor progress and produce work within set timeframes. This course is accepted as the English prerequisite for programs requiring ENG4C.
Pre-requisites: DAT0110 and ENL5952
MAT5951 Intermediate Mathematics
A solid foundation in mathematics is necessary to everyday life and serves as a basic building block for more advanced mathematics. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students solve problems using number sense, integers, rational numbers, linear and non-linear relations, exponents, polynomials, modelling with equations and data management. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for programs requiring MBF3C.
Pre-requisites: MAT5957
DAT5959 Keyboarding
Develop keyboarding skills.
ENL0076 Communications: Preparation for Degree Programs
Communication, reading, academic writing, and critical thinking skills are necessary for success in college, university, and daily life. Students develop and write academic essays and reports for different purposes. Emphasis is placed on generating ideas, developing a thesis, collecting and evaluating secondary sources and the correct citation of sources. Students acquire greater control over academic writing through coherent and grammatically correct use of academic language. Students read, interpret and respond critically to a variety of texts for a variety of purposes. Students create and present a multi-media oral report. This course is accepted as the English prerequisite for Algonquin College bachelor degree programs requiring ENG4U.
Pre-requisites: DAT0110 and ENL5952
ENL5952 Communication 5
Good communication skills and a self-directed approach to learning are key to sustained success in both college and a career. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students analyze the components of good writing, write short essays and business correspondence, take notes, summarize text and prepare a resume. Students identify their support system and potential barriers to success, articulate their readiness to learn, monitor their own progress and produce work within set time frames.
Pre-requisites: ENL5956
MAT0001 College Preparation Mathematics - Technical
A solid foundation in mathematics is necessary for further study in technical fields. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students solve problems by analyzing linear relations, using linear systems, quadratic relations, quadratic expressions, quadratic equations and trigonometry of right triangles. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for technician/technology programs at Algonquin College requiring MAP4C and MCF3M.
Pre-requisites: MAT5951
MAT0010 College Preparation Mathematics - Business
A solid foundation in mathematics is necessary for further study in business fields. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students solve problems by analyzing linear relations, using interest, exponential functions, series and sequences, and annuities. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for business and health programs at Algonquin College requiring MAP4C and MCF3M.
Pre-requisites: MAT5951
MAT0030 Mathematics Fundamentals for Apprenticeship Preparation
A solid foundation in mathematics is necessary to succeed in apprenticeship training. Through skills-based problem solving, individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students learn to solve problems related to their trade which may include the following: fractions, decimals, percent, ratio and proportion, the metric system, measurement, order of operations, use number sense, manipulating linear and non-linear relations, exponents, polynomials and trigonometry of right triangles.
MAT0034 Degree Preparation Math - Data Management
A solid foundation in mathematics is necessary for further study in postsecondary programs that require the ability to manage data. Students will examine permutations, combinations, and probability distributions. Through individual study, frequent feedback on progress, and a culminating assignment, students will learn to organize and analyze data as well as solve mathematical problems. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for degree programs at Algonquin College requiring MDM4. Prerequisites: MAT0001 or MAT0010
MAT5952 College Preparation Mathematics - Technology
A solid foundation in mathematics is necessary for further study in technology fields. Students solve problems using trigonometry of acute triangles, vectors, exponential functions and logarithmic functions. Through skills-based problem solving, individual study, and completing assessments, students refine technological math skills. This course is accepted as the math prerequisite for technology programs at Algonquin College requiring MCT4C.
Pre-requisites: MAT0001
MAT5957 Fundamental Mathematics
A solid foundation in mathematics is necessary in everyday life and serves as a building block for more advanced mathematics. Students solve problems using whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percent, ratio and proportion, the metric system, measurement and order of operations. Through individual study and frequent feedback on progress, students refine their fundamental math skills.
MAT5964 Fundamental Mathematics for Preparation for Health Science
A solid foundation in mathematical concepts and applications are essential to students entering health science professions. Through individual study, online tutorials and frequent feedback on progress, students solve problems using decimals, fractions, ratio and proportion, percent, the metric system, systems of measurement and special dosage calculations.
SCI5952 College Preparation Biology
Detailed knowledge of the human body and biological systems is essential for students entering health science professions. Students study the cell, genetics, nutrition, and the following body systems: nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, lymphatic, reproductive and digestive. Student activities include lectures, laboratory exercises, group work, online exercises and video commentary. This course is accepted as the biology prerequisite for programs in the college system, including the two-year Ontario College Diploma in Practical Nursing.
SCI5953 College Preparation Chemistry
Foundational knowledge of chemistry is valuable for students entering health science professions. Students study matter, the atom, the periodic table, chemical bonding, the mole, chemical reactions, gas laws and basic organic chemistry. Student activities include lectures, laboratory exercises, group work, online exercises and video commentary. This course is accepted as the chemistry prerequisite for programs in the college system, including the two year Ontario College Diploma in Practical Nursing.
SSC5727 Success Strategies
Understanding and developing key strategies for learning are essential skills to ensure academic and career success and strengthen future learning opportunities. Students explore the theories and principles of learning, brain function, learning styles, motivation and group dynamics. Special attention is placed on analyzing oneself as a learner and preparing for future personal and career goals. Students learn the importance of critical thinking, problem solving and working in a team. The course lays the foundation for students to develop personalized learning strategies in a collaborative and supportive learning environment through interactive workshops, discussion board activities, team presentations and journal writing.
SCI5952 - COLLEGE PREPARATION BIOLOGY
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
SCI5953 - COLLEGE PREPARATION CHEMISTRY
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
ENL5958 - COLLEGE PREPARATION COMMUNICATION
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
PreRequisite(s)
MAT0010 - COLLEGE PREPARATION MATHEMATICS - BUSINESS
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
PreRequisite(s)
MAT0001 - COLLEGE PREPARATION MATHEMATICS - TECHNICAL
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
PreRequisite(s)
MAT5952 - COLLEGE PREPARATION MATHEMATICS - TECHNOLOGY
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
PreRequisite(s)
ENL5952 - COMMUNICATION 5
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
PreRequisite(s)
ENL0076 - COMMUNICATIONS: PREPARATION FOR DEGREE PROGRAMS
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
PreRequisite(s)
DAT0110 - COMPUTER SKILLS
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
MAT0034 - DEGREE PREPARATION MATH - DATA MANAGEMENT
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
MAT5957 - FUNDAMENTAL MATHEMATICS
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
MAT5964 - FUNDAMENTAL MATHEMATICS FOR PREPARATION FOR HEALTH SCIENCE
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
MAT5951 - INTERMEDIATE MATHEMATICS
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Notes
PreRequisite(s)
DAT5959 - KEYBOARDING
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
MAT0030 - MATHEMATICS FUNDAMENTALS FOR APPRENTICESHIP PREPARATION
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
SSC5727 - SUCCESS STRATEGIES
Schedule
All sections for this course are in progress.
Description
Careers & Pathways
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at https://www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- 19 years of age or older.
Application Information
Registration Note:
This program does not have a typical application process. Unless otherwise stated - you can register for courses online directly by clicking on the course title and selecting “Register Online”. Classes can take place online, or on campus in the evenings and weekends using our modern facilities. Different courses may be available each semester so don’t forget to check back regularly.
Additional Information
Program Resources
The Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate is offered by Algonquin College at the Woodroffe and Pembroke campuses, as well as at the John Howard Society in downtown Ottawa (ACElinks). While the learning outcomes for the Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate courses at all locations are standardized, elective courses vary between campuses.
Academic Upgrading courses are offered in both remote and in-person classroom settings up to 30 students. The courses have set curriculum, and you are expected to meet the learning outcomes within given timelines. In light of this, Academic Upgrading is not recommended if you required a significantly modified or adaptive learning program in high school.
Algonquin College participates in the Literacy Services Planning and Coordination process in Ottawa and Renfrew counties. As such, you may be referred or redirected to other literacy service delivery providers whose programs may better suit your needs.
Academic Planner:
The Academic Planner provides registered part-time students the ability to declare into a program of study. The Academic Planner outlines successfully completed courses to date, as well as courses that need to be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. It is therefore, essential that all part-time students declare to their program of study, allowing administrators to plan course offerings. The tool is available on ACSIS, located under `Part-time Studies` on the left-hand toolbar.
- Academic Upgrading is also offered at Algonquin College's Woodroffe campus during the daytime, the Smiths Falls Centre and Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley (Pembroke).
- Academic Upgrading courses are offered in a classroom setting of up to 30 students. The courses have set curriculum and you are expected to meet the learning outcomes within given timelines. In light of this, Academic Upgrading is not recommended if you required a significantly modified or adaptive learning program in high school.
- Algonquin College participates in the Literacy Services Planning and Coordination process in Ottawa, Lanark and Renfrew counties. As such, you may be referred or redirected to other literacy service delivery providers whose programs may better suit your needs.
- While learning outcomes for the Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate at the Woodroffe, Smiths Falls and Pembroke Campuses are standardized, the program of study at each location is reflective of local circumstances.
- The delivery of the communication and mathematics courses is individualized. The length of time it takes to complete a course depends on your own rate of progress. You may require more than one term to complete all requirements for a communication or mathematics course.
- To obtain the ACE Certificate you must complete ENL5958 College Preparation Communication and MAT5951 Intermediate Mathematics plus two electives with departmental approval.
- Once you have completed the courses to qualify for the ACE Certificate, it is the responsibility of the student to contact the Career and Academic Access Centre to apply for the certificate.