About this program
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Campus: Welland & NOTL
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Delivery Length: Flexible
Overview
Prepare for college...at college!
Academic Upgrading at Niagara College, offered through the Get SET Program, provides free, flexible learning for adults 18 years or older who want to strengthen academic skills, prepare for postsecondary programs, or complete high-school equivalency requirements.
Learners can choose to study at one of three locations:
Daniel J. Patterson Campus
Full-service campus environment (Niagara-on-the-Lake) with comprehensive supports
Welland Campus
Modern full-service campus with comprehensive supports
Hamilton Academic Upgrading Site
Dedicated downtown, flexible learning hub for adult learners
Our small-class environment and individualized learning plans help adults return to learning with confidence. Students complete a full online orientation before starting their course(s), outlining next steps, academic responsibilities, academic integrity, and an overview of Niagara College’s Learning Management System, Brightspace.
Why Choose Academic Upgrading?
- Free for Ontario adults
- Flexible scheduling (day, evening, online options vary by location)
- Small classes and personal support
- Pathways to 100+ college programs and apprenticeships
- Transit and training supports for eligible learners
- Virtual accommodations available
Academic Upgrading is funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, so eligible learners do not pay tuition. Based on eligibility, learners may also qualify for training and transportation supports.
Study Locations
Welland Campus
A modern, full-service campus offering a wide range of supports and learning spaces. Welland offers both continuous intake and term intake options.
Available to Welland Academic Upgrading learners:
- Accessible by public transit
- Paid on-campus parking available
- Gym and recreation facilities
- Library and Learning Commons
- Open access computer labs and study spaces
- Student services and student advisor support
Daniel J. Patterson Campus (Niagara-on-the-Lake)
A full-service campus environment with access to student supports and learning resources. Daniel J. Patterson offers both continuous intake and term intake options.
Available to DJP Academic Upgrading learners:
- Accessible by public transit
- Paid on-campus parking available
- Gym and recreation facilities
- Library and Learning Commons
- Open access computer labs and study spaces
- Student services and student advisor support
Hamilton Academic Upgrading Site
A dedicated downtown Niagara College learning space designed for adult learners who want a supportive, flexible environment close to home. Hamilton operates on continuous intake.
Hamilton learners have access to:
- Student advisors for academic planning and support.
- Training and transportation supports, including Presto Pass for eligible learners.
- On-street paid parking available.
- Quiet study space, Wi-Fi, and dedicated computer lab for AU learners.
- Virtual access to accommodations and remote appointments with Niagara College’s Health, Wellness and Accessibility Services (HWAS).
- Small class sizes and supportive classroom instruction.
Hamilton Site at a Glance
- Downtown learning hub
- Small, adult-focused classes
- Presto transit support for eligible learners
- Virtual access to college-wide services
- Dedicated computer lab for AU learners
Location Comparison Chart
Use this chart to compare key features and services available at each Niagara College Academic Upgrading location:
| Feature | Welland Campus | Daniel J. Patterson | Hamilton Site |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location Type | Full-Service Campus | Full-Service Campus | Dedicated Satellite Site |
| Public Transit Access | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Parking | Paid On-Campus | Paid On-Campus | Paid On-Street |
| Gym and Recreation | Yes | Yes | No |
| Library and Learning Commons | Yes | Yes | No |
| Computer Labs | Open Access | Open Access | Dedicated AU Lab |
| Student Services and Advising | In-person | In-person | In-person + Virtual |
| Accommodations Access | In-person (HWAS) | In-person (HWAS) | Virtual (HWAS) |
| Study Spaces and Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Course Offerings | Full Suite | Full Suite |
What You Will Study
Learners work with a student advisor to build an individualized learning plan, which may include Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) courses that are accepted as equivalent to Grade 12 (OSSD) by Ontario colleges and for many apprenticeship registrations.
Communications
- Pre-ACE English (ENSD1185)
- ACE Communications (ENSD1088)
Mathematics
- ACE Core Mathematics (MASD1085)
- ACE Technical Mathematics (MASD1081)
- ACE Business Mathematics (MASD1082)
- ACE Apprenticeship Mathematics (MASD1083)
Sciences
- ACE Biology (BIOL1061)
- ACE Chemistry (CHEM1061)
- ACE Physics (PHYS1061)
Digital Skills and Self-Management
- ACE Computer Studies (CAPL1085)
- ACE Self-Management (STDV1084)
Hamilton Course Availability
Hamilton currently offers a limited but expanding selection of Academic Upgrading courses.
Currently Available Courses:
Communications
- ACE Communications (ENSD1088-75)
Mathematics
- ACE Technical Mathematics (MASD1081-72)
- ACE Core Mathematics (MASD1085-71)
Sciences
- ACE Chemistry (CHEM1061-73)
- ACE Biology (BIOL1061-75)
Fast Track Biology Option
Fast Track Biology provides an accelerated pathway for learners who require Grade 11/12-level Biology for admission into postsecondary programs. This condensed delivery completes ACE Biology in approximately 10 weeks with lab-focused learning, instructor-led support, and pathway-ready preparation for health, veterinary, and science-related programs.
Available at: Welland Campus and Daniel J. Patterson Campus
ACE Certificate (Grade 12 Equivalent)
You may optionally complete the requirements for the Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) Certificate, which is accepted as equivalent to Grade 12 (OSSD) by Ontario community colleges and for registration as an apprentice.
Mandatory Courses:
- ACE Communications (ENSD1088)
- ACE Math (Choose 1):
- MASD1085 ACE Core Mathematics
- MASD1081 ACE Technical Mathematics
- MASD1082 ACE Business Mathematics
- MASD1083 ACE Apprenticeship Mathematics
Completion of 2 Additional Elective ACE Courses Required
- CAPL1085 ACE Computer Studies
- STDV1084 ACE Self-Management
- BIOL1061 ACE Biology
- CHEM1061 ACE Chemistry
- PHYS1061 ACE Physics
- An additional ACE Math course that was not completed from the list above.
Admission & Eligibility
You are eligible for Academic Upgrading if you:
- Are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, refugee claimant, or convention refugee.
- Are eligible to work in Ontario.
- Are an Ontario resident.
- Are 18 years or older.
- Can speak and listen well enough to benefit from lessons in English.
- Want to strengthen skills, prepare for college, or complete high-school equivalency.
- Are ready to learn in a flexible, supportive environment.
Training and Learning Supports
Based on eligibility and location, Academic Upgrading learners may receive:
Welland and Daniel J. Patterson Campuses
- UPASS or local transit passes for eligible learners.
- Access to required software and course materials.
Hamilton Academic Upgrading Site
- Presto Pass and transportation support for eligible learners.
- Access to required software and course materials.
Access to Accommodations (All Sites)
- In-person accommodations support at Welland and Daniel J. Patterson campuses.
- Virtual accommodations and technology support available at all sites, based on requirements and eligibility.
- Hamilton accessibility and accommodation appointments available virtually.
- Students are required to register with Niagara College’s Health, Wellness and Accessibility Services (HWAS) to be connected with accessibility and accommodation supports. Your student advisor can assist you with this process.
- Eligible training supports may include childcare assistance, or other transportation support, depending on program criteria.
How to Get Started
Follow these four simple steps to begin your Academic Upgrading journey:
Step 1: Complete Your Expression of Interest
Complete the Academic Upgrading Expression of Interest form. A member of our team will contact you shortly to review your goals and next steps.
Step 2: Meet Your Student Advisor
Your student advisor will help you create a personalized learning plan based on your goals, education experience, and the assessment required for Academic Upgrading courses. They will also discuss course options and locations, and explore possible training and transit supports.
Step 3: Complete Online Orientation
Before starting your course(s), you will complete a full online orientation with everything you need to get started, including Brightspace login information and key contacts for advising and support.
Step 4: Start Classes
Your instructor will confirm your start date and initial expectations. Throughout your courses, you will receive regular feedback, support, and opportunities to adjust your learning plan.
How to Apply
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply to Academic Upgrading?
Adults 18 years or older who live in Ontario and want to strengthen academic skills, complete high-school equivalency, prepare for college, or enhance employment readiness. No high school diploma is required.
Is Academic Upgrading really free?
Yes. Academic Upgrading is funded through the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, and eligible learners can access the program at no cost.
What supports are available to help me succeed?
Learners may be eligible for training supports such as transit assistance, learning materials, and technology support. Students also have access to accommodations, including virtual appointments with Niagara College accessibility consultants.
What courses are offered, and when can I take them?
Academic Upgrading offers courses in Communications, Math, Science, Computer Studies, and Essential Skills. Course availability varies by location and term. Your student advisor will help you choose a schedule that aligns with your goals.
What is the difference between studying at Welland, DJP, and Hamilton?
Welland and Daniel J. Patterson are full college campuses. The Hamilton location is a satellite site dedicated solely to the Academic Upgrading program. All locations are accessible by public transit.
How long does the program take to complete?
There is no fixed timeline. Your progress depends on the courses you need and the pace that works best for you. Your student advisor will help you build a personalized plan.
Do I have to study full-time?
No. Academic Upgrading is designed for adult learners with varying schedules. You may enrol part-time or full-time depending on your needs and availability.
What happens after I apply?
A student advisor will contact you to schedule an intake appointment. You will then receive your orientation package explaining next steps and how to begin classes.
Can I take Academic Upgrading while working or managing family responsibilities?
Yes. Academic Upgrading offers flexible learning options across locations and online delivery. Advisors help you build a schedule that fits your commitments.
Can Academic Upgrading help me get into a Niagara College program?
Yes. Many Niagara College programs accept Academic Upgrading courses to meet admission requirements. Your student advisor can help you identify the specific courses required for your chosen program and pathway.
Phoebe, who is just 22, gained the confidence to launch her home-based business after successfully completing Academic Upgrading courses at Niagara College and starting the college’s Baking and Pastry Arts program.
Phoebe couldn’t be happier with her decision to undertake Academic Upgrading, which was the starting point of her dream of operating her own business. Her advice to others who might be nervous about Academic Upgrading: “Don’t hesitate. It was a great experience.”
Read Phoebe’s NC Academic Upgrading Story
Laid off from full time employment as a result of the recession, Kelly Cooley found herself in her early 40’s moving back from Kitchener to Niagara seeking a new career. Kelly discovered that Niagara College’s Academic Upgrading program could provide her with the advanced math and sciences that she needed to further her career goal.
“Academic upgrading gets you places that you otherwise wouldn’t get to; it fills your knowledge base…you are always going to need and use what you learn. My upgrading got me to where I am now.”
Read Kelly’s NC Academic Upgrading Story
Despite starting NC’s Academic Upgrading program at the same time that COVID changed traditional methods of learning, Eddie Turner is close to successfully completing his upgrading plan and is looking forward to his future. Although at one time he couldn’t wait to be out of school, he now looks forward to furthering his education and achieving his career goal.
“The world changed. I finally felt that someone heard me. All those supports opened up doors for me.”
Read Eddie’s NC Academic Upgrading Story