2017 International Guide

2017 INTERNATIONAL GUIDE

NORTHWEST COMMUNITY COLLEGE

international experience

#NWCCBC

nwcc.ca 1.877.277.2288

Table of Contents University Transfer

2

English Certificate Program

3

Human Services Programs

4

Human Health Programs

6

Field Schools 8 Environmental Sciences Programs

10

Post-Degree Business

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Community & Student Life

13

Student Services

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Fast Facts

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This guide is not intended to be a complete statement of all procedures, policies, rules and regulations at Northwest Community College. The College reserves the right to change or cancel any provision or requirement at any time. NWCC does not accept responsibility for the cancellation or discontinuation of any program, course or class of instruction that may be necessary as a result of an act of nature, fire, labour issues, lack of funds or other similar causes. All course/program information including content, cost, length, prerequisites, start/end dates, postponements and/or cancellation is subject to change without notice.

Educational advisors and student services personnel may assist in planning programs, but the final responsibility for meeting the requirements for program completion rests with each student.

The College endeavours to provide students with the most current and accurate educational advice available; however, because of the dynamic and complex nature of post-secondary education in B.C., it is the responsibility of all students who are seeking transfer to other institutions to always verify the advice we offer them with the receiving institution. Information contained in this guide is subject to change and revision. While every effort is made to ensure that the content remains valid for the period covered, the reader should recognize that changes may occur. The College website is the official calendar and should be referred to for the most up-to-date information.

Northwest Community College International Experience

Terrace Prince Rupert

Vancouver Victoria

nwcc.ca

University Transfer

The choice is yours. With first- and secondyear university courses to choose from, you can complete the first two years of a four-year bachelor’s degree at NWCC and transfer into the third year of any degree program at a university in British Columbia, Canada.

Years one and two of Bachelor's Degree

Contact an education advisor for more information about transferability by emailing international@nwcc.ca Transfer for years three and four to one of these institutions:

University Credit Courses Arts & Humanities Art Art History English First Nations Studies

History Philosophy Women’s Studies

Anthropology Asian Studies Political Science Psychology Geography (Human)

Education Criminology Economics Sociology

Social Sciences

Sciences

Biology Chemistry Computer Science Geography

2

Geology Math Oceanography Physics

Northwest Community College International Experience

Personal Attention gets results "It’s all about the small class size," says Alexa Ruiz, a second year Criminology student at NWCC. Instructors have time to focus on each student’s questions.

“Before NWCC, I don’t think I ever had teachers that actually cared about the students,” she says. “They make sure you get your money’s worth in whatever class you’re taking.”

English Certificate Program

An academic English pathway

Learn the language and academic skills needed to study at college and university.

You will focus on: writing assignments, listening, note taking, and presentation skills. You will also better understand academic referencing, how to avoid plagiarism, and other dos and don’ts needed to succeed at college and university.

Length

The length of the English Certificate program is flexible and there are seven levels. After you register you will take a placement test to find out your entrance level. Most students study 12, 24, 36, or 48 weeks.

English Levels

There are seven levels from English 110 to English 145.

Looking for practical experience?

Work placements are available in Early Childhood Education, Social Service Worker, Criminology and other programs.

The personal attention leads to tangible results. “I’m taking an online course in Canadian law," Alexa says.

“But I have the ability to text or call my instructor if I have any issues. I usually get a text back in five minutes or my call gets answered on the first ring.”

The move to Terrace gave Alexa a chance to embrace her independence. She's active in campus politics as a student representative on the NWCC Board of Governors.

“It probably has been a highlight of my first year at the College. I learned leadership skills and met amazing people,” she says.

Alexa, who was born in Mexico and grew up in Texas, adapted easily to winter weather. “I thought it would get way colder but you could still go outside and stuff.”

Criminology is a popular field with international students. Alexa plans to transfer her NWCC credits to the Forensics program at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) next year.

For more information on courses with practical work experience components email international@nwcc.ca

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Human services programs

Early Childhood Education (ECE)

Social Service Worker (SSW)

Terrace Campus

Terrace Campus

There is a high need for certified and hard working early childhood educators who can give quality care for young children.

Help others deal with personal and social problems by becoming a social services worker.

We blend classroom work with practicums to give you important work experience.

NWCC’s ECE Certificate program includes weekend workshops and fieldwork.

Career Opportunities: • Daycare worker • Preschool teacher • Child development consultant • After school care provider • School education assistant You can continue your studies at a university for a bachelor's degree in a related field.

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Work at the para-professional level or continue to diploma and degree levels of education.

Career Opportunities: • Child and youth worker • Financial assistance worker • Teacher assistant • Support worker • Family resource worker

Northwest Community College International Experience

Big-City Girl Loves The Small Town NWCC student Siobhan Von Hawyes has changed from a self-confessed “big-city girl” to one who prefers the warmth and friendliness of a small town.

“I absolutely love Terrace,” says the Johannesberg native, “the community here is so lovely. It’s really a great place.”

Social Service Worker Certificate The one-year Social Service Worker Certificate includes two semesters plus a practicum.

Social Service Worker Diploma The Social Service Worker Diploma requires successful completion of the certificate and two semesters plus a practicum.

Courses in the program are transferable. If you complete NWCC’s Social Service Worker Diploma program you can continue into the Bachelor of Social Work Degree program at the University of Northern British Columbia’s Terrace Campus.

The University of Victoria also awards additional transfer credits, on an individual basis, for a Social Services Worker Diploma or Certificate.

Siobhan knew right away she had picked the right school when she came to NWCC. “I had a really good experience with the staff on the first day.”

Siobhan says the move from South Africa has brought immense change in her life and she has embraced the opportunity.

With plans for a teaching career, Siobhan is taking a wide selection of courses including English, geography, history, and math. These transfer to her third and fourth years of an Arts degree at university.

High on her list for university placement is the University of Northern British Columbia, also in Terrace. “It would be great just to stay in Terrace,” she says.

For more information visit nwcc.ca/ international-campus/choose-my-education or email international@nwcc.ca or contact an International Admissions Officer by calling 1.877.277.2288 Ext. 5701.

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5

human HEALTH programs

6

Northwest Community College International Experience

Health Care Assistant

Practical Nursing

Terrace Campus

Terrace Campus

Become a valuable member of a healthcare team with our Health Care Assistant program. You will develop knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to provide professional care.

Our two-year Practical Nursing Diploma program teaches you to give professional care in a variety of settings. Upon completion of the program you can apply to write the Canadian Practical Nurse Examination (CPNRE) for licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

Health care assistants receive direction and supervision from other health professionals such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs).

Career Opportunities: • Practical nurse in a hospital

Our 29-week, full-time program combines theory and lab study. We also include practice experience outside of the college setting.

Career Opportunities:

• Leader in a long term care facility • Public health practical nurses

For more information visit nwcc.ca/ international-campus/choose-my-education or email international@nwcc.ca or contact an International Admissions Officer by calling 1.877.277.2288 Ext. 5701.

• Home support worker • Adult day care worker • Assisted living worker • Long-term care aid

An innovative path to a career in healthcare Our innovative NWCC health training model allows students to complete both the Health Care Aid and the Practical Nursing Certification as part of a two-year diploma program.

Health Care Aid program (7 months)

HCA complete

Practical Nursing Access Term (15 weeks)

Access level complete

Practical Nursing Level 3 Practical Nursing Level 4 Preceptorship

Practical Nursing complete

Fall + Winter (2 terms + 1 mo.)

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Experience our spectacular outdoor classrooms.

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Northwest Community College International Experience

FIELD SCHOOLS: Experience your education Experience Northwest B.C.’s incredible history, culture and environment while earning credits in one of NWCC’s unique field schools.

Intensive spring and summer field schools incorporate a full semester of learning into just a few weeks.

Kitsumkalum Field School | 6 credits Terrace Assess ecological diversity, the effects of land disturbance, land use issues and ecosystem management. Learn in the outdoors, improve your field research skills and experience the culture and environment that make this region so unique.

People of the Skeena Field School | 3 credits Terrace and Hazelton The People of the Skeena field school includes an immersive experience in the rich culture and history of Indigenous people. Learn about cultural practices and knowledge while preparing smoked salmon and weaving with cedar in an amazing outdoor classroom.

Stewart/Telegraph Creek Field School | 6 credits Terrace, Stewart and Telegraph Creek Experience the impacts of climate change, industrial development and tourism on the landscape, ecology and culture of the Indigenous people. Study volcanic and glacial landscapes, observe grizzly bears, and visit the Grand Canyon of the Stikine River and Mt. Edziza.

Haida Gwaii Field School | 6 credits Haida Gwaii Learn in spectacular Haida Gwaii and explore the unique ecology of the archipelago. Experience the culture and history of the people who have lived on Haida Gwaii for over 12,000 years.

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Environmental Sciences Programs

Applied Coastal Ecology (ACE)

Environmental Geosciences

Prince Rupert Campus

Terrace campus

Study rainforest ecology, fish and wildlife management and stream habitat restoration.

Our outdoor classrooms take advantage of the best of British Columbia’s natural ecosystems.

When you study environmental geostudies or geosciences at NWCC you learn how to practically apply knowledge of earth and environmental studies. You will spend a large part of your studies in the field exploring this spectacular region of northwest British Columbia.

Career Opportunities: • Eco-tourism guide • Environmental scientist • Environmental advisor • Marine resource manager • Aquaculture biologist • Laboratory technician Achieve a certificate after one year and a diploma after the second year of study. Continue your studies to complete a bachelor’s degree by transferring your credits to one of many related university programs.

Career Opportunities: • Analyst • Environmental specialist • Environmental engineer • Geological technologist • Environmental consultant Achieve a certificate after one year and an Associate's degree after the second year of study.

Continue your studies to complete a bachelor’s degree by transferring your credits to one of many related university programs.

For more information visit nwcc.ca/ international-campus/choose-my-education or email international@nwcc.ca or contact an International Admissions Officer by calling 1.877.277.2288 Ext. 5701.

10

Northwest Community College International Experience

Post-Degree business

Post-Degree Business Diploma Terrace and Prince Rupert Campuses Do you have an undergraduate degree and an interest in expanding your career into the world of business? Our post-degree diploma is an excellent choice.

We offer a Canadian practicum to help you acquire practical skills used in specific businesses.

The diploma is a four-semester program with a concentration in General Management.

Career Opportunities: • Entrepreneur • Consultant • Manager Entrance Requirements Requires an undergraduate degree in any field (science, arts, applied).

For more information visit nwcc.ca/ international-campus/choose-my-education or email international@nwcc.ca or contact an International Admissions Officer by calling 1.877.277.2288 Ext. 5701.

nwcc.ca

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NWCC Field (School) of dreams Nik Bukovec and Lara Weis came to Canada from Germany with high expectations. Their NWCC experience surpassed even their wildest dreams.

"Honestly, it has been the best experience I could have ever imagined," said Nik. "Every day has been better than the last day."

Nik and Lara hit the ground running.

On their first day in the country, some other students took them exploring in a jeep and their experience never slowed down from there. They have done everything from a paid work placement on a pristine island in the Pacific Ocean to signing up for local hockey teams to climbing glaciers to getting to know the local First Nations communities.

While everything has been a highlight, the field school may get the slight edge.

"Everything has been a highlight," said Lara. "But the field school was just so beautiful and so amazing. Every student we were with was so great.

And the teachers were the best I've ever had anywhere in the world."

The couple have been documenting their experience on their own blog.

For more on their adventures visit canadacation.wordpress.com

community & student life NWCC offers a high-quality, affordable education. With our region's low cost of living and natural beauty, studying at NWCC makes for an unbeatable package. Year-round activities such as hiking, fishing, skiing, cycling and more are close.

Orientation

We encourage you to attend orientation sessions. We will provide you with important information and help you with a smooth move to NWCC.

Northwest communities are friendly and safe.

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Student Services Residence

In Terrace, we have six residence buildings on campus. Space is limited so apply early. Most of our rooms come with a twin bed, table and wardrobe. All buildings have shower rooms, TV rooms, kitchen areas and access to free wireless Internet. For more information on campus residence email: residence@nwcc.ca

Homestay

If you wish to apply for a homestay accommodation with local families contact Derek Lemieux, Director of International, at dlemieux@nwcc.ca

Bookstores

Find textbooks, course materials and tools for NWCC courses. We also have stationery, backpacks and clothes.

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Northwest Community College International Experience

Libraries

Financial Aid

Career Resources

Accessibility Services Coordinators

Borrow books and movies for free. Campus libraries have over 39,000 electronic titles you can use at the campus and from home. A chat service is available to access a librarian if you need help after hours.

The NWCC student services team and campus libraries have information about careers, personal development, and other post-secondary programs.

Personal Counseling

You can receive confidential personal counseling services. Talk to our student services team or an instructor for a referral.

NWCC offers scholarships and bursaries to eligible students. Contact an educational advisor at 1.877.277.2288 for more info or visit our website at nwcc.ca/financial-aid or email international@nwcc.ca

If you have a disability, we can help you. We offer academic and classroom accommodations and program enrolment assistance. For more information email international@nwcc.ca or call 1.877.277.2288 Ext. 5701.

Food

On-campus food services are available at NWCC Terrace Campus.

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Fast Facts Some fast facts about living in northwest British Columbia: • Groceries are about $300 to $400 per month • A used bicycle costs about $100 (free rentals of bikes, skis, fishing gear and snowshoes are available through the NWCC library)

• A cup of coffee is $2 to $4 dollars • Lunch at a restaurant is $10 to $15 • A pint of beer at a pub is about $7 • A shared apartment off campus is approximately $400 to $700 per month (see page 14 for more information on residence living and homestays)

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Northwest Community College International Experience

Getting Here Work opportunities

Full-time students can work 20 hours per week on or off campus. For more information visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada website at cic.gc.ca/english/study/work-offcampus.asp

Medical Insurance

Make sure you are covered under one of the medical insurance programs in British Columbia. For more information email international@nwcc.ca

Shopping

Shopping in the area includes: Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart, Sport Chek, Safeway, Mark's, as well as a range of shopping malls and boutique stores.

Banking

Major Canadian banks include CIBC, RBC, Bank of Montreal, TD Canada Trust, Scotiabank and the Northern Savings Credit Union. All of these banks have ATM facilities.

By air

Terrace is a 90-minute flight from Vancouver with several departure times available on Air Canada, WestJet and Central Mountain Air. Our Terrace campus is 12 km from the Northwest Regional Airport. NWCC staff will pick you up at the airport to help you get settled in.

By car

Driving to Terrace from Vancouver, Calgary or Edmonton is a scenic adventure. For information about the drive and the best routes explore destinationbc.ca

By ferry

A popular choice is to take the ferry between Vancouver Island and Prince Rupert. You will drive the last 90 minutes to Terrace from Prince Rupert. Your ferry must be booked through bcferries.com. The journey takes you through coastal waters where it is common to see whales.

By rail

VIA Rail trains pass through Terrace traveling between Prince George and Prince Rupert.

You will see beautiful scenery not visible by car. Trains don’t run every day so check schedule information at viarail.ca

By bus

Greyhound Canada has a bus station in Terrace with daily departures heading in all directions. Visit greyhound.ca for details.

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How to apply

1

Fill out International Application Go to: nwcc.ca Click on: NWCC International Pay $100 application fee

Submit all required documentation:

2

• Official Transcript (translated if not in English)

• Proof of high school graduation • English Proficiency • Any other program specific documents Once documents are received they will be reviewed for eligibility.

If you are eligible we will send you a "Conditional Letter of Acceptance."

3 #NWCCBC

nwcc.ca 1.877.277.2288

Fee payment Once fees are paid we will send you the documentation required to apply for a student visa.