upGrad GSP https://upgradgsp.com/ The global marketplace for international student recruitment Thu, 25 Apr 2024 15:13:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://upgradgsp.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Favicon-150x150.png upGrad GSP https://upgradgsp.com/ 32 32 AI courses in Canada https://upgradgsp.com/ai-courses-in-canada/ Fri, 26 Apr 2024 00:00:18 +0000 https://upgradgsp.com/?p=25645 Canada is a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI). It was the first country to announce a national AI strategy in 2017, and along with exceptional talent and excellent research […]

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]]> Canada is a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI). It was the first country to announce a national AI strategy in 2017, and along with exceptional talent and excellent research facilities, the country has grown its AI industry exponentially. AI has ventured far beyond the laboratory; people can see it at play in a wide range of industries, and locals and foreigners alike enjoy the fruits of the tech. Canada’s prioritisation of AI has made it a leading study-abroad destination for students who want to pursue a degree and career in the field. To help students get started on this promising journey, here’s a list of schools, universities and other institutions offering AI courses in Canada:

Centennial College

Centennial College is Ontario’s first community college and is one of Canada’s most culturally diverse institutions—home to nearly 100 ethnocultural groups. It offers a wide variety of programs that focus on experiential learning through laboratory instruction, co-op education and industry placements. It offers two AI diploma courses:

  • Ontario College Advanced Diploma in Artificial Intelligence – Software Engineering Technology (Optional co-op)
  • Ontario College Diploma in Artificial Intelligence – Software Engineering Technology (Fast-track, optional co-op).

Canadian Institute of Management and Technology (CIMT College)

CIMT College, located in the heart of Ontario, has four main campuses and three satellite campuses. It aims to promote professional growth and world-class development through diploma programs and certificate courses. It offers specialised teaching and learning curricula across different disciplines, including artificial intelligence. Interested students can pursue machine learning and AI courses in Canada via CIMT College. These include a Diploma in Artificial Intelligence and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.

Conestoga College

One of Ontario’s fastest-growing colleges, Conestoga College delivers career-focused education, training and applied research programs that are designed not only to prepare students for success but to promote the local labour market, as well.  It offers hi-tech labs, project-based courses, field and clinical experiences, international exchange, and applied research and co-op opportunities to its enrollees.

The following AI programs are available at Conestoga College:

  • Graduate Certificate in Robotics and Industrial Automation
  • Graduate Certificate in Robotics and Industrial Automation (Optional Co-op).

Durham College (DC)

Durham College offers over 145 innovative and market-driven programs that provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in today’s in-demand professions and industries. It holds several accolades—it’s a top Greater Toronto Area employer (for the 13th time), is Canada’s greenest employer (for the seventh consecutive year) and is a Top 50 Research College (for the 10th time).

DC provides students with personalised support, excellent teams, clubs and associations, and opportunities for global discussions and research initiatives. It currently offers two AI courses: a Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence Analysis, Design and Implementation, and an Honours Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence.

Fanshawe College

Fanshawe College is renowned for producing graduates who are ready to succeed professionally. It upholds an above-average graduate employment rate of 86.7%. It also has a 65.1% graduate rate and 75% graduate satisfaction rate.

While its main campus is located in London, Ontario (and is one of the province’s largest colleges), it also has outposts in Simcoe, St. Thomas and Woodstock. Students can choose from over 200 programs at degree, diploma and certificate levels at Fanshawe College, including an Ontario College Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.

Fleming College

Fleming College is one of Ontario’s earliest applied arts and technology institutions. It offers a comprehensive catalogue of vocational training programs, from apprenticeships to post-graduate courses. Its programs are designed to meet the needs of employers, made up of both theory and practical learning components that address emerging trends in the industry.

Fleming College is a great choice for international students. It’s home to about 2,300 foreign learners, demonstrating a high employer satisfaction rate (95.7%) for the college’s ability to prepare graduates for the workplace.

Students can take a Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence at Fleming College.

Georgian College

Georgian College is a top-ranked co-op college that offers programs that emphasise practical and hands-on learning. It’s the first and only college in Canada designated as an Ashoka U Changemaker College. Moreover, it’s known as a leader in student work experience, social innovation and change-making in post-secondary education.

Georgian College maintains a large network of employer partners. As a result, it has a high graduate employment rate with almost 90% of its graduates finding employment within six months of completing their studies.

Georgian College offers a Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence – Architecture, Design, and Implementation.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Saskatchewan Polytechnic is the province’s primary public institution for post-secondary technical education and skills training. The school is recognised for its Programme Advisory Committees, which are made up of industry experts who keep the school up to date on labour markets and help students stay ahead of trends in multiple industries. Students interested in AI can take Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Post-Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics program.

University of Ottawa (uOttawa)

uOttawa is the largest bilingual (English-French) university in the world. It offers the space, expertise, tools and technologies to help students be their best future selves. It moulds graduates to be equipped to build a better society and a more sustainable world.  Research Infosource Inc. listed it as part of Canada’s Top 50 Research Universities for 2023. Moreover, for the third year in a row, it placed eighth in the category of universities with a medical school.

uOttawa offers an amazing array of 550 undergraduate and graduate programs, including some of the best AI courses in Canada:

  • BASc in Computer Engineering, Engineering Management and Entrepreneurship
  • BASc in Software Engineering, Engineering Management and Entrepreneurship
  • Master of Applied Science Electrical and Computer Engineering with a Concentration in Applied Artificial Intelligence
  • Master of Computer Science Concentration in Applied Artificial Intelligence
  • Master of Engineering Electrical and Computer Engineering with a Concentration in Applied Artificial Intelligence.

University of Regina

The University of Regina is a comprehensive university with roots dating back to 1911. It has 10 faculties, 25 academic departments and schools, 10 research centres and three federated colleges: Campion College, First Nations University of Canada and Luther College.

The U of R strives to connect students’ experiences with big issues in modern life, important local or global goals and personal impact and empowerment. It does this through purposeful teaching, learning, research and community work.

The U of R offers multiple AI-related programs:

  • Bachelor of Applied Science in Software Systems Engineering
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science and Math (combined major)
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Math (combined major)
  • Bachelor of Science in Software Systems Development.

Explore AI courses in Canada with upGrad GSP

upGrad GSP can help you connect with some of the best academic institutions that offer AI courses in Canada. Check out our app to see available programs from partner schools and universities. You may also contact our business development experts to know more!

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]]> What is the Genuine Student requirement? https://upgradgsp.com/what-is-the-genuine-student-requirement/ Wed, 24 Apr 2024 00:00:47 +0000 https://upgradgsp.com/?p=25557 As part of its efforts to improve the quality of international education in Australia, the local government has replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement with a Genuine Student (GS) […]

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]]> As part of its efforts to improve the quality of international education in Australia, the local government has replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement with a Genuine Student (GS) requirement. The GS requirement is designed to ensure that all applicants for an Australian student visa are genuine applicants for entry; that they understand that studying in Australia is their primary reason for obtaining a visa and that they will remain as a student during their stay in the country.

The change from the GTE to the GS requirement was announced in the Migration Strategy released on 11 December 2023. The GS requirement commenced for student visa applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024. Student visa applications lodged before then were still assessed against the GTE requirement.

 

GTE vs. GS requirement

The GTE requirement is a declaration made by a student visa applicant which attests that their intention to stay in Australia is temporary. It assures that they will use their visa for its intended purpose of education and not as a channel to pursue residency in the country.

The GS requirement serves a similar purpose. But instead of demonstrating the genuine student criterion through a written statement, applicants must answer a set of questions on the online student visa application form. The student visa declaration will be amended to require applicants to confirm that they:

  • understand what it means to be a genuine student for the purposes of studying in Australia
  • have read, understood and committed to comply with student visa conditions
  • to notify the Department of Home Affairs of any changes to their circumstances in relation to their student visa
  • understand that while post-study pathways are available, only a limited number of graduates will be eligible and that those who are unable to stay lawfully in Australia must leave the country.

 

The Genuine Student requirement questions

In the online student visa application form, students need to explain the following:

  • current circumstances: The applicant’s ties to family, community, employment and economic circumstances.
  • reason for studying in Australia: Why the applicant is choosing Australia and their education provider. The applicant must also confirm their understanding of the requirements needed to study and live in Australia, including those specific to their program.
  • benefits of completing the course: How their chosen program benefits the applicant.

Answers to each question must be written in English, with a maximum of 150 words per question. Applicants must also attach documents supporting their responses to their ImmiAccount. Generic statements unsupported by evidence won’t be considered, so students should only submit relevant documentation.

There will also be a section where the applicant may provide details of any other relevant information they’d like to include. An additional question will also be given to applicants who have previously held a student visa or who are lodging an application in Australia from a non-student visa.

 

What to include in the Genuine Student requirement

Students are encouraged to provide information or evidence of the following:

Previous study

The applicant must show their previous study experience through records of academic transcripts and certificates of attainment. They should include the name of their education providers and the length of study done with each.

Previous study in Australia

If the applicant previously studied in Australia, they should show a complete history of their study records in the country. They must also explain why they’re changing their course and/or education providers, with details of information on the progress they’ve made on other courses. The applicant should also provide details of study gaps of more than two months during an academic year, if any. Any other information that may be relevant to their study record in Australia may also be included.

Current employment

Employed applicants must share details of their current employer and company address, with the name and contact details of someone who can confirm their employment. They should also provide information on their period of employment and details of all positions held.

Circumstances in their home country or country of residence

The applicant must expound on the nature of their personal ties in their home country or country of residence. These include family, community and employment ties. The applicant must also give reasons for not studying in their home country if a similar program is available.

Economic circumstances in their home country or country of residence

Applicants may describe their economic situation through:

  • documents showing employment or business activities for 12 months before application
  • potential employment offers, including salary and other benefits, after course completion
  • income tax return or bank statements.

If the applicant is incentivised to leave their home country due to political and civil unrest or military service commitments, they must provide reasons and supporting evidence.

 

How the Genuine Student requirement is assessed

The GS requirement is assessed based on a student’s intention to genuinely pursue education in Australia. It considers an applicant’s circumstances, immigration history and compliance with visa conditions and any other relevant matter. Here’s a quick overview of what immigration officers will take into account when deciding on visa application approvals:

Situations in their home country or country of residence

The Australian government will consider the reasons the applicant isn’t studying in their home country, especially if a similar program is available there. They’ll also look into the applicant’s ties to their country of residence and economic circumstances.

Potential situation in Australia

The immigration office will put weight on the applicant’s potential situation in Australia. They will consider the level of knowledge of their chosen course and education provider (including research the applicant has taken into their study) and previous academic experience and qualifications. They will also assess the student’s planned living arrangements and whether or not itis financially feasible.

Value of the course to their future

The GS requirement checks if the applicant’s chosen course is consistent with their level of education and if it will help them gain employment or improve their career prospects after graduation. It assesses if their program is relevant to past or proposed experience, while weighing expected salary and other benefits the course may provide the student after finishing it.

Immigration history

The immigration office will also put weight on the applicant’s immigration history, considering their:

  • visa and travel history for Australia and other countries
  • previous visa applications for Australia or other countries
  • visa refusals or cancellations.

For minor applicants, the following criteria will be considered of their parent or legal guardian.

 

Learn more about the Genuine Student requirement

upGrad GSP works to help students achieve their academic dreams. Speak to our business development experts to learn how you can help your students pass the genuine student requirement and stay tuned to our blog for the latest updates on student visa news in Australia.

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]]> US sees a growth to over 10 million international students globally by 2030 https://upgradgsp.com/us-sees-a-growth-to-over-10-million-international-students-globally-by-2030/ Tue, 23 Apr 2024 02:13:15 +0000 https://upgradgsp.com/?p=25525 A recent outlook report suggests that by 2030, the United States could witness a significant surge in international student enrolment, with projections indicating a rise from 6 million in 2023 to over 10 million.

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A recent outlook report suggests that by 2030, the United States could witness a significant surge in international student enrolment. Projections indicate a rise from six million in 2023 to over 10 million in the six-year period.  

 

Authored by US. and International Education, Allan Goodman and Mirka Martel, Ph.D., the report “Outlook 2030 Brief: The US. and International Education” sheds light on the driving factors behind this anticipated increase and outlines key trends in academic mobility in the United States. The report also assesses annual results forecasts for 2030 and proposes recommendations for campus planning to accommodate the anticipated growth in international students.  

 

Utilising comparable data from the Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange and new insights from the field, the report lays out what is being done currently to promote international student growth and current and future components for success to further expand student mobility. 

Growing markets 

With a rising youth population seeking higher education opportunities beyond their borders, coupled with an unprecedented number of students completing secondary education, the demand for international education is expected to soar. 

 

With this surge, emerging markets are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the global landscape of academic mobility. Countries such as Bangladesh, Ghana and Vietnam are projected to experience significant growth in tertiary-age populations, presenting advantageous opportunities for international student recruitment. 

Key trends in academic mobility  

International student numbers in the United States are growing 

The United States has historically been a leading destination for international students, boasting a decentralised tertiary education system that offers opportunities at state, city and local levels. This accessibility, combined with over 368,000 jobs associated with supporting international students, highlights America’s commitment in maintaining its status as a preferred study-abroad destination. 

 

Key trends discussed in the report include the steady growth of international student numbers in the US. Forecasts suggest an 8% increase in international student numbers for the 2023-2024 academic year. International students hail from diverse regions, with top places of origin including China, India, Bangladesh and Brazil. 

 

According to the Open Doors® Report on International Educational Exchange, student flows to the US. have expanded rapidly, growing from just 144,708 students in 1970-1971 to 1,057,188 students in 2022-2023. Notably, recent years have seen increases of 4% in 2020-2021 and 12% in 2022-2023. Despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, this marks the highest recorded rebounds. 
 

International students come from every world region 

The international student population in the United States is diverse, with learners hailing from over 210 locations across the globe. China and India continue to be the top two countries of origin, with 52% of all students coming from these nations. 

 

The 2022-2023 academic year saw rebounds in international student totals from various regions following the COVID-19 pandemic, with eight countries among the top 25 experiencing all-time highs. These regions include Bangladesh, Colombia, Ghana, India, Italy, Nepal, Pakistan and Spain. 

 

US colleges and universities want to host more international students

Institutions across the US are keen to host more international students, with 92% expressing a desire to increase enrolment. To accommodate this growth, efforts are underway to expand support services, student housing, and academic programs. 
 

The Fall 2023 Snapshot on International Student Enrollment revealed that 85% of institutions had the same or higher financial support for their international student recruitment efforts from the previous year. Additionally, 89% of institutions noted that 2023-2024 applications were up from the previous year, indicating a positive trend in international student interest. 

 

International students are important for the US. economy and jobs 

The economic impact of international students is substantial, contributing over $40 billion to the US. economy in the 2022-2023 academic year, underscoring the significance of global talent in driving economic growth. 

 

According to NAFSA, contributions by international students supported over 368,000 jobs in the United States, marking an almost 10% increase compared to the prior year. Additionally, every three international students created or supported one US. job, with economic benefits exceeding $1 billion in nine states across the nation. 

Ingredients for success 

Looking ahead to 2030, the report presents three growth scenarios for international enrolment, ranging from robust to slowed growth trajectories. With proactive measures and strategic initiatives, the United States is well-positioned to sustain its leadership in international education as a premier education destination. 
 

To ensure success in attracting and retaining international students, the report emphasises the importance of prioritising internationalisation, incorporating diversity strategies, expanding support services and advocating for policies that facilitate student visa issuances. 
 

With concerted efforts from the government, higher education institutions and international organisations, the report serves as a roadmap for stakeholders to navigate the opportunities and challenges of an increasingly interconnected international education landscape. 

 

To know more about the opportunities available for international students and updates about education in the USA, check out our blog or reach out to our North American team at gspna@globalstudypartners.com.     

 

To view the full report, check out the Outlook 2030 Brief, The US. and International Education report from IIE. 

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]]> Canada releases study permit allocations and targets for 2024 https://upgradgsp.com/canada-releases-study-permit-allocations-and-targets-for-2024/ Tue, 23 Apr 2024 01:58:08 +0000 https://upgradgsp.com/?p=25515 Canada announced the national cap allocation and study permit target of 364,000 approved study permits which translates into a cap of 606,000 study permit applications received for 2024.

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With a focus on ensuring a sustainable environment for incoming international students and safeguarding the welfare of local communities, Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller has announced the national cap allocation and study permit targets for the year 2024. The announcement was made last 5 April, after months of anticipation and speculation surrounding the implementation of Canada’s new cap on international student enrolment. 

Overview of 2024 study permit allocations and targets 

The Canadian government’s decision to impose a two-year cap on the issuance of new study permits in January 2024 hastened Minister Miller’s recent announcement. By setting a target of 485,000 approved study permits initially set for 2024, adjustments were made to account for various factors influencing student migration patterns. The government aims to align the number of incoming international students with the capacity of educational institutions and local communities to provide quality education and support services. 

Adjustments for optimal allocation 

Adjustments and considerations were also made to the target study permit numbers, taking into account various factors, including the number of expiring study permits and extension applications. Minister Miller emphasised the importance of ensuring that the allocation of study permits reflects the evolving needs and priorities of both international students and Canadian communities.  

 

Minister Miller explained that around 20% of students apply for extensions annually, leading to a deduction of 97,000 permits from the initial target. Additionally, exemptions for certain student groups, such as primary and secondary school students and master’s or doctoral degree students, necessitated further revisions. These adjustments resulted in a revised target of 364,000 approved study permits which translates into a cap of 606,000 study permit applications received for 2024.  

 

Moreover, the government anticipates a slightly lower approval rate of around 53% for 2024, compared to the historical average of 60%. This adjustment is part of a proactive approach to manage approval rates in a manner that fosters sustainable growth and supports the successful integration of international students into the country. 

Allocation strategy for provinces and territories  

The allocation strategy for provinces and territories is designed to distribute study permit applications based on population share with adjustments made to accommodate provinces.  Notably, provinces and territories experiencing growth were capped at a 10% increase compared to 2023, while those facing declines received adjusted allocations to mitigate negative impacts in the first year.  Furthermore, additional allocations were provided to provinces with lower approval rates to guarantee they reach their expected number of approved study permits in 2024.  

Promoting access and mitigating impacts 

The newly implemented approach for incoming international students aims to ensure equitable access to educational opportunities across the country while mitigating any potential negative impacts on local communities. 

 

Minister Miller’s allocation model accounts for various variables that may influence the influx of international students in 2024 with potential adjustments throughout the year. As the government remains committed to collaboratively strengthening the International Student Program and providing necessary support for international students to thrive in Canada, these insights will inform decisions on allocations for 2025.  

Flexibility and continued support 

Looking ahead, Minister Miller emphasised the importance of flexibility in responding to changing circumstances and needs. The insights gained from the 2024 allocation process will inform future decisions on international study in Canada. 

 

The Canadian Immigration Minister’s unveiling of the 2024 study permit allocations and targets marks a pivotal moment in Canada’s efforts to manage international student enrolment while also prioritising the continued success of its education system. With careful planning and proactive measures, the government aims to strike a balance between welcoming international students and maintaining the quality of education and integrity of its immigration policies. 

 

To know more about the opportunities available for international students and updates about education in Canada, check out our blog or reach out to our North American team at gspna@globalstudypartners.com.

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]]> US student visa news in 2024 https://upgradgsp.com/us-student-visa-news-in-2024/ Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:00:56 +0000 https://upgradgsp.com/?p=25507 Students worldwide dream of pursuing their education in the United States due to its prestigious universities, extensive academic offerings and opportunities for personal and professional development. As they plan and […]

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]]> Students worldwide dream of pursuing their education in the United States due to its prestigious universities, extensive academic offerings and opportunities for personal and professional development. As they plan and prepare for their educational journey, a vital part of their decision-making process involves understanding the student visa. By knowing the visa application requirements and process, prospective students can ensure a seamless transition into the American academic system. In this article, we’ll go through how to get a student visa for USA, what categories there are and some of the latest US student visa news in 2024.

 

What is the US student visa?

Generally, the US offers two major categories of student visas for foreign nationals: the F or M visas. Both are issued to full-time international students. The difference boils down to what kind of institution or program a student plans to pursue.

The F category student visa is for those who plan on entering the US to attend any of the following:

  • university or college
  • high school
  • private elementary school
  • seminary
  • conservatory
  • other academic institutions (including a language training program).

On the other hand, the M category student visa is for those who are set to attend a vocational or other recognised nonacademic institution.

There is also a J visa or the exchange visitor visa. This is for foreign nationals approved to take part in work-and-study-based exchange programs. The students who obtain this visa are typically visiting scholars, camp counselors, au pairs and research assistants.

 

US student visa news 2024

Certain aspects of the US student visa remain static. However, there can also be a handful of updates released in a year, as both the government and institutions alike constantly revise their regulations with respect to the needs and goals within their sectors. Here are some of the latest news about US student visa:

F-1 visa students are now eligible for immigrant visas

In a landmark policy update released just last December 2023, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that students on an F-1 visa can now directly apply for immigrant visas under the Employment-Based (EB) category.

F-1 visa students can work for startups

In the same statement, the USCIS stated that “F students seeking an extension of optional practical training (OPT) based on their degree in a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) field may be employed by startup companies, as long as the employer adheres to the training plan requirements, remains in good standing with E-Verify and provides compensation commensurate to that provided to similarly situated [US] workers, among other requirements.”

Visa wait times for Indian applicants dropped by 75%

According to the US Bureau of Consular Affairs, the US Department of State (DHS) is working to reduce the wait time for visa appointments for Indians hoping to travel to the US. The US Embassy in India processes a significant number of F-1 student visas. One in four international students in the US comes from India. In 2023, wait times for student visas improved despite increasingly high demand.

 

How to get a student visa for USA institutions

There are several steps to apply for a student visa. The order of these steps and how to complete them may vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin. It’s always best to consult a consulate or the local US Embassy for more detailed and specific information. Here is a general guideline for some of the steps in the process that almost all international students would need to undergo when applying for a US student visa:

1. Acceptance into a school or program

Before a student can apply for an F, M or J student visa, they must first apply and be accepted by a US institution of higher education. The school must be certified by the Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP).

2. SEVIS fee payment

After being accepted into a program, each student or exchange visitor issued an initial Form I-20 or DS-2019 must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. The payment supports the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).

3. Online Nonimmigrant Visa application

Students will need to fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa form or the DS-160 form which collects their basic information and the purpose of their stay in the US.

4. Visa interview appointment

After submitting their DS-160 application, which takes about 90 minutes (about 1 and a half hours) to complete, students can proceed to scheduling their interview appointment at the nearest US embassy or consulate. Students should prepare the necessary documents for their visa interview which typically include:

  • passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay in the US
  • DS-160 form confirmation page
  • SEVIS fee payment confirmation (Form I-901)
  • acceptance letter from a SEVP-certified school or program
  • financial evidence
  • Form DS-7002 (for J visas, if applicable)
  • Form DS-2019 (for J visas) or Form I-20 (for F and M visas)
  • any additional documents required by the embassy or consulate.

5. Visa interview

During their visa interview, students must be ready to answer questions about their academic plans, financial situation and ties to their home country while demonstrating confidence, transparency and honesty. Any dishonesty or inconsistencies in responses may lead to visa application rejections.

It’s important to note that other specific requirements and procedures can vary depending on the type of student visa (F, M or J) and the US embassy or consulate where a student applies. Our business development experts are always more than happy to assist you with processes, news and updates surrounding international study in the US. Connect with them today!

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]]> VFX colleges in Canada https://upgradgsp.com/vfx-colleges-in-canada/ Fri, 19 Apr 2024 00:00:02 +0000 https://upgradgsp.com/?p=25396 Visual effects, often called VFX, are a key element in film production and video animation. This discipline involves the process of creating or manipulating imagery, such as computer-generated images, to […]

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]]> Visual effects, often called VFX, are a key element in film production and video animation. This discipline involves the process of creating or manipulating imagery, such as computer-generated images, to integrate into live-action footage. An essential aspect of the entertainment industry, VFX presents an enticing avenue for study for those interested in the world of movies and television. Canada is a top study-abroad destination that’s home to multiple world-class institutions – including colleges that offer VFX courses. Here are some VFX colleges in Canada that upGrad GSP can connect you with.

 

LaSalle College Vancouver

LaSalle College Vancouver is an applied arts and design school located in an 80,000- square-foot, state-of-the-art learning space with modern facilities. It boasts small-sized classes taught by leading experts in the fields of film and television, video games, graphic design, fashion and culinary arts, among others. The college aims to provide excellence in knowledge building and skill development to help students achieve their career goals. The school is set to move to a larger campus in 2024.

The VFX courses in Canada offered by LaSalle College Vancouver include:

  • Diploma in Animation Art & Design
  • Diploma in VFX for Film & Television
  • Diploma in Digital Film and Video.

 

Fanshawe College

Fanshawe College is one of Ontario’s largest colleges with campuses in London, Simcoe, St. Thomas and Woodstock. It offers over 200 programs at different educational levels and 86.7% of its graduates are employed after college. The college also boasts a 65.1% graduate rate and a 75% graduate satisfaction rate.

Fanshawe College offers the following programs for students interested in VFX:

  • Ontario College Graduate Certificate in Advanced Filmmaking
  • Ontario College Graduate Certificate in Visual Effects and Editing for Contemporary Media.

 

Centennial College

Ontario’s first community college, Centennial College is one of Canada’s most culturally diverse institutions with nearly 100 ethnocultural groups and 80 languages spoken in campus. It offers over 250 diploma, certificate and degree programs on a full-time or part-time basis. These programs promote experiential learning through laboratory instruction, co-op education and industry placements. Students can choose between the following VFX-adjacent programs at Centennial College:

  • Ontario College Certificate in Art and Design Fundamentals
  • Ontario College Diploma in Animation – 3D
  • Ontario College Diploma in Digital Visual Effects.

 

Durham College

Durham College (DC) has a lot of accolades under its belt. It’s a top Greater Toronto Area employer, is one of Canada’s greenest employers and is a Top 50 Research College in the country. DC is dedicated to forming students to be career-ready graduates through personalised support, access to award-winning in-campus organisations and extra-curricular and research initiatives. Students wanting to learn VFX can take DC’s Advanced Diploma in Animation – Digital Production program.

 

Canadore College

Canadore College takes pride in creating the best learning environment by focusing on student success, program and service excellence, community connection, sustainability and innovation. It boasts outstanding facilities, including an innovative health training facility (called The Village, the first of its kind in Canada), a 75,000-square-foot Aviation Technology Campus and more than 150,000 square feet of premium skilled trades lab training space. VFX students can pursue their Diploma in Digital Visual Effects program.

 

Conestoga College

Conestoga College is one of Ontario’s fastest growing colleges, with a focus on polytechnic education. It delivers career-focused education, training and applied research programs to prepare students for success while promoting prosperity in the local community. Conestoga enrollees can enjoy high-tech labs, project-based courses, field and clinical experiences, international exchange, applied research and co-op opportunities.

Is VFX a good career in Canada? Conestoga College seems to believe so, as they provide students multiple program choices in this field:

  • Diploma in Animation
  • Graduate Certificate in 3D Computer Animation
  • Graduate Certificate in Computer Animation – Motion Graphics.

 

Cambrian College

Cambrian College is the largest college in northern Ontario with over 4,000 full-time students studying from a catalog of more than 75 programs. It’s one of the country’s top 50 research colleges and has won the national silver award for Indigenous Education Excellence from Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan).

Cambrian College offers 700 scholarships and bursaries to students annually, as well as degree pathways for all diploma and advanced diploma programs. A program for an Advanced Diploma in Animation is available for students interested in VFX.

 

St. Clair College

St. Clair College is among Ontario’s largest post-secondary educators of health science students. It provides state-of-the-art tech in its Centre for Applied Health Sciences, which is designed to simulate a real hospital environment. Its dedication of excellence doesn’t just stop at this field; St. Clair College also offers over 120 diplomas, advanced diplomas, degrees and graduate certificates in technology and trades, business and IT, social justice services and media, art and design. This includes the following for those interested in VFX:

  • Ontario College Advanced Diploma in Animation 2D/3D
  • Ontario College Advanced Diploma in Child and Youth Care.

 

Help students achieve their VFX education goals with upGrad GSP

upGrad GSP is proud to be a partner of all these featured VFX colleges in Canada. Contact our business development experts to find out how you can connect your students to these institutions and help them achieve success in promising VFX careers.

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