Helping International Students Make Informed Decisions
Mathew Radford is the Associate Director of International Recruitment at Lambton College, a public post-secondary institution with campuses in Sarnia and Ottawa, Ontario. With over 10 years’ experience in international education, Mathew is well-qualified to advise prospective students considering Canada as a study-abroad destination.
1. What is the difference between colleges and universities in Ontario?
Ontario has a robust public education system of colleges and universities, each with their own unique advantages. Colleges typically focus on practical, hands-on training to prepare students for post-graduate employment. Programs and curriculum are industry-oriented, emphasizing skill development to meet the needs of local industry. Universities are typically more research focused, providing the necessary infrastructure, resources, and faculty expertise for in-depth study in a particular field. These programs are ideal for students interested in academic research, theoretical knowledge, and those aiming for careers in academia or other highly specialized areas.
Ultimately, the right option for you will depend on your previous education, current experience level, and future goals.
2. What are the advantages of choosing a ‘co-op’ program?
There are two primary advantages to choosing a program with co-op work integration: cost-savings and practical experience. Our programs commonly include a co-op semester and Lambton College does not charge tuition fees during work terms. Not only do students gain career-focused experience outside the classroom, they also have an opportunity to ‘earn while they learn’.
Co-op programs are designed to strengthen the areas where international students are often the weakest – by expanding their professional network in Canada, adding valuable Canadian work experience, and building important Canadian references. This can result in a more seamless transition from education to post-graduate employment.
3. How does Lambton College support international student affordability?
Affordability is at the core of our international education strategy. We’re committed to efficient class scheduling, allowing students to minimize their commute and maximize their ability to find part-time employment. Our programs are designed to use open educational resources (OER’s) when possible, reducing costly textbook requirements. Over the past two years we’ve awarded over $8 million dollars in international entrance scholarships, with most students receiving a first-year fee reduction between $1,000 and $3,000. Our graduation rate is much higher than the broader Ontario college system - this allows more students to finish on time, on budget, and with graduate satisfaction that routinely exceeds 90%.