Canadian Education System

Diplomas and Certificates

With multiple pathways and credentials available across our institutions, LCI Education helps you find the best fit for your goals and aspirations.

This tool guides you in understanding diploma equivalencies based on an international framework, with names, structures, and durations that may vary depending on the country and institution.

Associate's Degree

Undergraduate studies

 Focuses on fundamental understanding.
 Acts as a stepping stone to further education or entry-levels positions.

Such as:

Associate's Degree
Technician

Bachelor's Degree

Undergraduate studies

 Focuses on comprehensive expertise.
 Acts as minimum qualification for many professional careers.

Such as:

Bachelor
Bac+3
Bac+5

Certificates

Continuing Education

 Focuses on specific skills or credentials without commitment to full degree program.
 Indicates increased skill-level in specific fields.

Such as:

Courses
Certificate
Technician's certificate
Continuing education programs

Diploma of College Studies (DCS)*

*Specific to Quebec, Canada

Undergraduate studies

 Pre-university DCS (2 years) prepares students for university
 Technical DCS (3 years) provides practical and theoretical skills for entering the workforce directly or continuing at university

Such as:

Pre-university DCS
Technical DCS

Diplomas

Continuing Education
Vocational studies

 Focuses on specialized education over the course of 1–3 years.
 Indicates competitive practical skills, understanding, job readiness, and specialized expertise.

Such as: