5 Programs at Conestoga College and How to Get

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With over 300 career-focused programs, Conestoga college is quickly becoming one of Ontario’s to-go colleges for workplace-specific skills and knowledge. Granting a variety of credentials like degrees, diplomas and more, there are plenty of programs to choose from. If you’re curious about some of Conestoga’s strengths, read along as we tell you about five of the college’s top programs, along with how you can be the next condor. We’ve compiled the following programs from different faculties to cater to a variety of interests, but be sure to click here for a full full-time program list. 

1. BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (HONOURS)- INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Credential: Degree

Length: 4 years

Campus: Kitchener-Doon

If working for a global company, or yourself, has been a goal of yours, the international business management program is a great foundational degree for you. Covering topics such as marketing, accounting, management, communication and more, you will graduate with many of the skills required in the workplace. At the end of your second year, you will have the option of remaining in the program’s general stream or majoring in one of the following sectors: Human Resource Management, Supply Chain Management, Marketing Management or Sustainability Management. Some of the program’s highlights include three paid co-op terms, the choice to pursue a major consulting project or a Bachelor’s thesis, use of the Ivey Case Methodology and international exchange opportunities. 

To be eligible for admission, you need to have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) or be at least 19 years old. You also need to have taken a minimum of 6 grade 12 courses, two being grade 12 University English and one of Calculus and Vectors, Advanced Functions or Data Management, with a minimum average of 60% in both. The other four courses can be University of Mixed, but the cumulative average of the 6 courses needs to be a minimum of 65%. However, for competitive admission into the program, you want to aim higher than that. 

2. BIOTECHNOLOGY TECHNICIAN DIPLOMA

Credential: Ontario College Diploma

Length: 2 years

Campus: Kitchener-Doon

The Biotechnology technician program offers students a thorough look into the worlds of Biotechnology and Life Sciences. By studying biochemistry, microbiology, cell culture, analytical chemistry, molecular biology, and more, both technically and practically, you will be able to apply your skills in varying fields, such as environment, food, technology, chemistry and more.

To be eligible for admission, you need to have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) or be at least 19 years old. Mandatory courses include grade 12 English, C (college) or U(university), grade 12 mathematics, C or U, and two sciences, grade 11 or 12, C or U. Requirements may also be met by enrolling in Conestoga’s Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas.

3. BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING- MECHANICAL SYSTEM ENGINEERING AND ELECTRONIC SYSTEM ENGINEERING

Credential: Degree

Length: 4 years

Campus: Cambridge- Fountain Street

The mechanical and electronic system engineering programs are the only college-based engineering degrees in Ontario accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB). Whether you’re more interested in electrical application or mechanical parts, Conestoga has got an engineering degree for you. In both programs, you will develop a rich understanding of Physics, Math, management and other subjects and work on large Engineering projects that boost your confidence levels and communication skills. 

The admissions requirements for both programs are the same. To be eligible, you need to have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) or be at least 19 years old. Grade 12 U English, Physics, Chemistry, Calculus and Vectors, one of Advanced Functions or Data Management and another grade 12 U or M course are required. An overall average of 65% is required; however, due to the program’s competitive nature, students with higher averages are more likely to be admitted.

4. BACHELOR OF DESIGN (HONOURS)

Credential: Degree

Length: 4 years

Campus: Kitchener-Doon

Conestoga’s Bachelor of Design program is incredibly unique and one of the only programs of its kind in the province. Blending visual design, entrepreneurship, liberal studies, studio space, printing facilities and co-op placements, this program has got almost all, if not all, you need to develop an intuitive and comprehensive understanding of design. The Bachelor of Design program is also extremely interdisciplinary. You will learn and practice various elements of design like colour theory, typography, photography, drawing and illustration, and interactive design. You will also gain knowledge of the entrepreneurial aspect of design, studying marketing, business management, branding, writing and presentation skills, and group dynamics to ensure you can kick off your endeavours post-graduation!

To be eligible for admission, you need to have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) or be at least 19 years old. You need to have taken at least six U or M courses with an overall average of 65%. The only required course for this program is grade 12 U English with a minimum average of 70%. However, a portfolio is a large part of your application to this program. Your portfolio is limited to 15 pieces and must include a variety of work, showcasing drawings, paintings, digital artwork, illustrations, typography, sculpture, photography and more. To learn more about the portfolio requirement, click here. Here on Campusguides, we’ve written a couple of articles on portfolios, and while they might not be super applicable to this program, it is still worth reading them to get a few pointers about what schools look for when accepting students into creative programs. Check out our 8 Tips for Getting Into Sheridan Art School as well as our 8 Important Tips for A Competitive Waterloo Architecture Portfolio.

5. DIPLOMA IN JOURNALISM

Credential: Ontario College Diploma

Length: 2 years

Campus: Kitchener-Doon

Are you interested in storytelling, factual reporting, people, and finding your voice amidst the social and political context of today? If so, Conestoga’s diploma in Journalism is the right fit for you! In two years, you will develop a thorough understanding in subjects like writing and communication skills, reporting, technology, digital design, social media and more. You will also be exposed to multiple emerging sectors such as opinion writing and photojournalism. Working with the college’s digital news environment Spokeonline.com, you will practise your skills in a real world production cycle. 

To be eligible for admission, you need to have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) or be at least 19 years old. Grade 12 English is required at the University level, with a 60% minimum grade, or at the College level, with a 70% minimum grade. 

THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER

The programs above provide only a glimpse into the world of Conestoga college. With so many programs to choose from, it’s up to you to choose your path today!

Published on September 4, 2021

About Michael Salib

Michael Salib is a second-year architecture student at the University of Waterloo. As a content creator and designer, he self-identifies as a "creative enthusiast," letting creativity dominate his day-to-day life. Michael has tutored and mentored students through their transition from elementary to high school and high school to post-secondary for several years, helping them rise to their full potential. He also has a knack for public speaking. During his free time, you will find Michael doing a plethora of things, such as traveling, hiking, acting, drawing, cooking, taking photos, and spending quality time with loved ones.