Okanagan College
Transforming lives and communities through excellence in learning.
📍 Kelowna, Canada 🇨🇦
Quick Facts about Okanagan College
- Type: Public
- Students: 20,000
- International: 16%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $8,200 – $16,960/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: January, May, September
About Okanagan College
Academics
Okanagan College offers a diverse range of programs across various faculties, including university arts and science, business, trades, health, and technologies. The teaching approach focuses on practical, real-world experience, with instructors who have industry experience fostering close connections with students. Notable programs include the Applied Bachelor of Arts in Community Research and Evaluation, Audio Engineering and Music Production, Common First-Year Engineering, and Culinary and Pastry Arts. The college also offers specialized programs in areas like viticulture and wine studies, reflecting the region's prominent wine industry.
International Students
Okanagan College provides a variety of support services for international students, including education planning advisors, immigration advisors, and student services support for general inquiries, medical insurance, and housing. In 2022-23, the college hosted 1,885 international students from over 40 countries, making up 11% of its total student population. While specific diversity statistics beyond this are not readily available, the college aims to create an inclusive learning community. English as a Second Language (ESL) courses are available to help international students meet language requirements. Student organizations like the Okanagan College Students' Union (OCSU) and Enactus Okanagan College provide opportunities for cultural integration and community engagement.
Campus & Location
The Kelowna campus, Okanagan College's largest, is situated near Kelowna's Pandosy Village, offering a vibrant array of shops, services, and food choices. The campus features a modern health sciences facility, a Centre for Learning, and a Trades training complex. Public transportation and biking options make commuting to the campus convenient. Kelowna itself is known for its four-season outdoor activities, including water sports on Okanagan Lake, skiing and snowboarding at Big White, and numerous parks and trails like Knox Mountain Park.
Career Outcomes
Okanagan College emphasizes preparing students for the workforce by aligning programs with regional job needs and involving employers in the training process. The college partners with local employers to create relevant programming and offers work-integrated learning opportunities such as co-ops and practicums. The annual Okanagan College Careers Expo connects students and alumni with employers from various sectors, including healthcare, business, trades, technology, and tourism. The Careers Hub offers virtual drop-in sessions for resume building, interview practice, and job search strategies. With over 60,000 alumni, Okanagan College has strong ties to industries and organizations throughout the region and beyond.
Information for International Students at Okanagan College
Okanagan College in Kelowna, Canada welcomes international students, with 16% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 16% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available (~$895/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Okanagan College
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Okanagan College:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 79
- Duolingo minimum: 105
- GPA minimum: 2.5
- Application fee: $100
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
- Application deadline: May 15
Programs at Okanagan College (10 programs)
Okanagan College offers 10 programs across Bachelor levels.
Bachelor Programs (10)
- Bachelor of Computer Information Systems (BSc) — 48 months · English · $16,000/yr · STEM
Focuses on software development, database management, and networking with a strong emphasis on practical application.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, IT Consultant - Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Accounting — 24 months · English · $14,000/yr
Designed for students who already hold a degree and wish to pursue a CPA designation through advanced accounting coursework.
Field: Accounting
Career outcomes: CPA Candidate, Financial Controller - Electronic Engineering Technology (BSc) — 24 months · English · $7,500/yr · STEM
Covers circuit design, microcontrollers, and telecommunications systems for the electronics industry.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Electronics Technologist, Hardware Designer - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · $6,500/yr · STEM
Offered in partnership with UBC Okanagan, this program prepares students for professional nursing practice in various healthcare settings.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Public Health Nurse - Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Marketing — 24 months · English · $14,000/yr
An intensive program for degree holders focusing on digital marketing, consumer behavior, and strategic brand management.
Field: Marketing
Career outcomes: Marketing Coordinator, Brand Manager - Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) — 48 months · English · $15,000/yr
A comprehensive business degree offering specialties in accounting, finance, human resources, marketing, and management.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Marketing Manager, HR Specialist - Bachelor of Arts (Associate Degree Transfer) (BA) — 24 months · English · $5,500/yr
Provides the first two years of a Bachelor of Arts degree with credits transferable to major universities in British Columbia.
Field: Liberal Arts
Career outcomes: Researcher, Social Worker, Writer - Civil Engineering Technology (BSc) — 24 months · English · $7,000/yr · STEM
A diploma-to-degree pathway focusing on structural design, surveying, and municipal infrastructure projects.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Technologist, Project Coordinator - Bachelor of Science (Associate Degree Transfer) (BSc) — 24 months · English · $6,000/yr · STEM
Covers foundational science courses in biology, chemistry, and physics for transfer into four-year university programs.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Lab Technician, Research Assistant - Sustainable Construction Management Technology (BSc) — 36 months · English · $8,000/yr · STEM
Focuses on green building practices, project management, and sustainable materials in the construction industry.
Field: Construction
Career outcomes: Construction Manager, Sustainability Consultant
Scholarships & Tuition at Okanagan College
Annual tuition for international students: $8,200 – $16,960/year
✅ Okanagan College offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Campus & Facilities at Okanagan College
- Student housing available
- No sports facilities
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Average class size: 18
- Housing cost: ~$895/month
Key Highlights
- Largest college in British Columbia interior
- Campuses in Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon, Salmon Arm
- Renowned Sustainable Construction Management Technology program
- Strong emphasis on practical trades training
- High graduate employment rates across programs
- Leading provider of vocational and academic education
Accreditation
- Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training
Notable Alumni
- Jeannette Armstrong
- Maureen Gruben
- Ryan Holmes
- Verlyn Olson
- Linda Larson
Frequently Asked Questions about Okanagan College
What is Okanagan College?
Okanagan College is a public university located in Kelowna, Canada. It has approximately 20,000 students, with 16% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Okanagan College?
Tuition fees at Okanagan College for international students range from $8,200 – $16,960/year. Student housing costs approximately $895/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Okanagan College?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 79. Duolingo minimum: 105. GPA minimum: 2.5. Application fee: $100. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: May 15.
What language are courses taught in at Okanagan College?
Courses at Okanagan College are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does Okanagan College offer?
Okanagan College offers 10 programs: 10 Bachelor's, 0 Master's, and 0 PhD programs across various fields of study.
Does Okanagan College offer scholarships?
Yes, Okanagan College offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Okanagan College provide visa support?
Yes, Okanagan College provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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