Academic Upgrading, Certificate

Foundations of Academic Upgrading program offers three study options:

• Certificate in Fundamental Academic Upgrading

• Certificate in Intermediate Academic Upgrading

• Individual courses are also available for Pre-requisites

Upgrading programs and courses are tuition-free for domestic students. The Adult Upgrading Grant (AUG) will continue to cover the cost of textbooks and student and registration fees for eligible students.

Certificate in Fundamental Academic Upgrading

The Foundations Academic Upgrading program is designed for students who want to upgrade their basic reading, writing, and math skills.

This program is available full or part-time and varies in completion time.  

Opportunities for Academic Advancement

Completion of this program certificate can prepare students for academic upgrading courses at the Intermediate level, and, in some cases, will provide direct entry into some college programs. For a full understanding of how this certificate can lead to other programs, students are encouraged to see an Academic Advisor.

Certificate in Intermediate Academic Upgrading

The certificate in Intermediate Academic Upgrading is designed for students requiring upgrading in math and English, as well as students who wish to undertake career exploration combined with academic preparation. 

This program is available full or part-time and varies in completion time.

Opportunities for Academic Advancement

Completion of this certificate prepares students for courses at the Advanced (math) and Provincial levels (English) with ENGL 050, and for direct entry into Technology Access Programs, HCA, as well as the math for the Electrical Foundation Program.

Individual courses are also available for Pre-requisites

Gain admission requirements or finish grade 12

Camosun offers a range of upgrading courses in English, mathematics, biology, chemistry, and physics that prepare you to enter trades and career programs or college and university programs and courses.

Courses can be taken individually or grouped to complete a Certificate in Academic Upgrading or the BC Adult Graduation Diploma. 

BC Adult Graduation Diploma (BCAGD)

For adult learners who want to take courses in order to complete high school and obtain their adult high school diploma, contact an Admissions Advisor for information. 

You will take five courses, including:

• a Language Arts 12 BC secondary course, or ABE equivalent or higher, and
• a Math 11 or 12 BC secondary course, or ABE equivalent or higher, and
• three Grade 12 level BC ministry-authorized courses or ABE equivalent or higher

Once you have completed your course requirements:

1. Contact Academic Advising to confirm you meet the course requirements
2. Once course requirements are met, email Student Records – Graduation and Credentials with your request to apply to graduate from the BCAGD. Please include: your full name, student ID, the name you wish to appear on your diploma and the address to which you would like it mailed (no pick-up option available).

This diploma is for Canadian citizens and permanent residents. If you are an International student, please contact Camosun International for your options.

A supportive learning community

As well as offering programs on both the Lansdowne and Interurban campuses, the School of Access engages with Community Learning Partners (CLP) off-campus sites to enhance your education.

Our instructors are highly qualified and committed to providing a friendly and caring learning experience in an adult learning environment. We understand diverse learning needs and are committed to student success. We provide Help Centres staffed with expert tutors and filled with resources to assist you. 

Advantages of upgrading at Camosun

Our scheduling is flexible to fit your busy life: part-time, full-time, daytime, or evening. Take advantage of Camosun's customized upgrading to meet the admission requirements for specific trades, human services, or access career programs.

If you’re working towards admission into another Camosun program and enrolled in the courses you need to meet its admission requirements, your application may be granted provisional qualification status. You’ll need to complete your prerequisite courses at least two months prior to the start of your chosen program.