Academic Upgrading
Overview
Get started on a new path. If you’re looking to develop your skills, complete prerequisite courses for entry into college or university, or get your BC Adult Graduation Diploma—the “Adult Dogwood”—upgrading can help you get there. Upgrade in Castlegar, Grand Forks, Kaslo, Nakusp, Nelson (Silver King) or Trail.
Learn in a Supportive Atmosphere
- Take the courses you need to meet your goals.
- Get help with difficult concepts from other courses.
- Attend classes or work on your own.
- Understand the way you learn best.
- Get instruction and support when you need it to improve basic skills, like reading, writing and math.
Pathways to High-Demand Careers
Ready for a change? Our pathways to high-demand careers offer as much or as little support as you need. Access advising, funding, prerequisites, study skills and more to pursue the future you've always wanted.
Tuition Free
Upgrading courses are tuition free. The BC government funds Adult Basic Education. You can also apply for the Adult Upgrading Grant (AUG), a government grant to help you cover any additional costs of returning to school. It can help with transportation, unsubsidized daycare and the cost of supplies and student fees.
For more information, or to register get in touch!
Program Outcomes
Learners participating in Academic Upgrading courses at Selkirk College will finish their studies being able to demonstrate a number of the program outcomes:
- Demonstrate increased self-confidence
- Manage financial matters by applying principles of numeracy, accounting and integration of relevant technology
- Use appropriate verbal, non-verbal and written skills to communicate
- Develop effective learning strategies and adapt them to new situations
- Create realistic personal, work and educational goals and plans to achieve them
- Exhibit positive professional behaviour and employment related skills that maximize opportunities for success
- Demonstrate resilience, creativity and critical thinking in challenging situations
- Participate effectively as part of a team and in society
- Identify personal values, make decisions and balance responsibilities to increase well-being
- Practice appropriate safety procedures
- Use current and emerging technology effectively
Admission Requirements
Students applying to Academic Upgrading are not subject to the general admission requirements for Selkirk College.
- All applicants will meet with an instructor to discuss past education and current academic goals and choose an appropriate set of courses.
The College Readiness Tool is used for advising on course level placement. Students will write the CRT assessment prior to course registration to help instructors determine ideal course level placement. Program Chair or designate, in consultation with Assessment Services, will determine which subtests of the CRT will be required and the cut off scores for each subtest, in order to verify an applicant's potential for success and program admission.
Students must be 18 years of age or over at the time of registration.
- Notwithstanding the above, students 16 or 17 years of age may be considered for admission. Students will be assessed for admission based on referral to the program by a parent/guardian, a secondary school or other professional (e.g., social worker, counsellor).
- In addition, the instructor who met with the student must be satisfied that the underage student can perform in an adult learning environment. Such admission decisions will be made by the intake instructors under the supervision of the school chair.
Note: It is Selkirk College’s intention to work collaboratively with our local school districts to ensure an underaged student’s needs are best met by programming in the post-secondary system.
Before an applicant’s file is considered to be complete, a student must:
- Meet with an instructor (in person or by telephone)
- Complete a Selkirk College Application for Admission Form
- Sign their completed Course Registration Form
- Complete funding paperwork: forms for either an Adult Upgrading Grant, Supplemental Adult Upgrading Bursary or a funding Opt Out form, including any associated documentation required (childcare subsidy form, appendices, proof of income)
Selkirk College awards certificates of completion at the Fundamental, Intermediate and Advanced Levels, and the Adult Dogwood Diploma.
The British Columbia Adult Graduation Diploma (BCAGD) is recognized by colleges, institutes and universities in the British Columbia public post-secondary system. To be eligible to graduate with an "Adult Dogwood," students 18 years of age or over must have completed five courses.
BC Adult Graduation Diploma Requirements
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A provincial-level English or higher |
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An advanced-level or higher mathematics |
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Three additional courses at the provincial level or higher |
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OR |
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Advanced social sciences and two provincial-level courses or higher |
Courses and credits can be counted from post-secondary institutions, secondary schools and often from workplace or other learning establishments.
Upgrading instructors and college counsellors can help to determine which courses count toward the Adult Dogwood.
Selkirk College also awards certificates of completion at the Fundamental, Intermediate and Advanced levels.
A principle of delivery of education at the fundamental and intermediate level is that students must demonstrate mastery of the learning outcomes associated with a section of the course.
1. Fundamental level courses
a) Students in Fundamental Level courses will create an Academic Plan, which includes the student’s education goals and the education pathway, timeline and courses to achieve it.
b) Progress through Fundamental level courses is competency-based and requires the following:
i. achieving 80% or more on formative evaluations
ii. achieving 70% or more on summative evaluations
iii. passing final examination
iv. achieving the learning outcomes set out in each course outline
2. Intermediate level courses
a) Progress through Intermediate level courses is competency-based and requires the following:
i.) achieving 80% or more on formative evaluations
ii. achieving 70% or more on summative evaluations
iii. passing final examination
iv. achieving the learning outcomes set out in the course outline
PROMOTION
Students in good standing are eligible to attempt an Academic Upgrading course a second time without special permission. Third or more course attempts are possible with the approval of the Academic Upgrading School Chair or Dean. Approval is granted based on the rationale provided in the student’s Academic Plan.
In the Academic Upgrading program it is not necessary to obtain a level certificate in order to take courses at the next level. However, some courses in the subject areas are sequential and must be completed in order.
Courses
ADGD60 - Certificate(s) Earned
BIOL60 - Biology - Provincial Level
BIOL 60 Biology - Provincial Level provides an introduction to cell biology and human physiology. Students will learn about cell biology, mitosis and meiosis, bioenergetics, homeostasis, genetics, respiration, excretion, bones and muscles, nerves and immunity. This course is designed to help students build laboratory and field skills, scientific communication skills and critical thinking skills. Upon completion, students are prepared for post-secondary studies in Biology, Physiology and Health Sciences. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
CHEM60 - Chemistry - Provincial Level
CHEM 60 Chemistry - Provincial Level is a study of practical chemistry. Students will study reaction kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base reactions, oxidation-reduction, and gas laws. The lab portion of this course develops student skills in laboratory safety, chemistry lab procedures and techniques, data collection, analysis, and scientific communication. Upon completion of this course, students are prepared for academic post-secondary science studies. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
CPSC60 - Computer Science - Provincial Level
CPSC 60 Computer Science - Provincial Level is designed to prepare students for a career or program of studies where logical thought and structured design processes are required. Students will develop problem-solving skills whereby they are able to analyze a problem, devise an algorithm or process to solve the problem, use this process to write a computer implementation of the solution using the Python (or other as appropriate) Programming Language, and test the solution.
This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
CPST60 - Computer Studies - Provincial Level
CPST 60 Computer Studies: Provincial Level. This course provides students with an opportunity to showcase their skills in areas of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) that interest them. Students collaborate with instructors to develop three projects that meet the required provincial learning outcomes. For each project, students develop a proposal, write an interim progress report and present their finished project. Independent thinking and strong research skills are needed to complete the course successfully.
Upon completion of this course, students are prepared for post-secondary studies in multimedia. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
EDCP60 - Education and Career Planning - Provincial Level
EDCP 60 Education and Career Planning - Provincial Level is intended to enhance skills for further education and employment. Topics covered include personal awareness, communication, cultural diversity, education and career exploration, job search, study skills, and financial management.
This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
EDSS60 - Student Success Provincial Level
EDSS 60 Student Success, Provincial Level is for students to develop the learning skills, study strategies and self-awareness necessary for students to experience success as life-long learners.
This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
ENGL60 - English - Provincial Level
ENGL 60 English - Provincial Level is for students to upgrade their English skills. Students will develop academic English reading, writing, research, critical thinking and communications skills through studying Canadian literature. Various works of short fiction, poetry, plays and a novel are explored through discussion and analysis, while academic essay skills are developed throughout the course.
Upon completion of this course, students are prepared for academic post-secondary studies. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
ENGL66 - Essential English - Provincial Level
ENGL 66 Essential English - Provincial Level is for students to upgrade their English skills. Students will develop practical skills in reading, writing and communicating. These skills will enable students to perform the tasks required by their occupation and other aspects of daily life.
This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
GEOG60 - Geography - Provincial Level
GEOG 60 Geography – Provincial Level provides an introduction into physical and human geography. Specifically, students will develop an understanding of geomorphology, gradational processes, meteorology, climate change, and demography. An important component of this course is the interconnection between human activities and the earth’s physical systems and resources. Students will develop skills in analyzing and interpreting data from maps, tables, graphs and text.
This course prepares students for further studies in social sciences at the post-secondary level. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
HIST60 - History - Provincial Level
HIST 60 History – Provincial Level examines the major social, economic and political movements from the late 1900's into the 21st century. Students develop an understanding of global events, from war to social movements to economic crises as presented through text, video and lecture/discussion. Students learn how global issues are interconnected geographically and politically. Skills to analyze events and to write brief synopses for presentations are developed.
This course prepares students for further studies in social sciences at the post-secondary level. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
INDG60 - Indigenous Ways Through Art - Provincial Level
INDG 60 Indigenous Ways Through Art - Provincial Level. Under the guidance and mentorship of local Elders, artists and facilitators, and drawing on the collective knowledge of the participants, the course will explore topics including: colonization, reconciliation, traditional knowledge, and identity how these concerns manifest physically and aesthetically in contemporary art practices. Students will become more aware of Indigenous peoples and their ways of knowing, their relationship with community and the land, their history before and after European contact in an arts-based teaching and learning environment.
MATH60 - Algebra And Trigonometry - Provincial Level
MATH 60 Algebra and Trigonometry - Provincial Level is for students to upgrade their mathematics skills. Students will review basic algebra and study the following topics: functions and graphs including transformations, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, and arithmetic and geometric sequences and series. This course will help prepare students for academic or technical post-secondary studies in mathematics, engineering or sciences. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
PHYS60 - Physics - Provincial Level
PHYS 60 Physics - Provincial Level further develops physics' core concepts, building upon introductory material. In this course students explore the nature, scope, relevance and limitations of physics. Students will study two-dimensional kinematics and dynamics, electrostatics, electromagnetism, waves and optics. Upon completion of this course, students are ready to enter further post-secondary studies in physics. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
PORT60 - Portfolio - Provincial Level
PORT 60 Portfolio – Provincial Level guides students through the creation of a comprehensive portfolio to showcase past and current knowledge, skills, and abilities within a specific theme. Students examine types and purposes of portfolios, document and reflect upon their own experiences, and design and present their portfolio. Portfolios help students in a variety of settings, for example to gain employment or admission to post-secondary programs or to capture experiential learning.
This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
SOST60 - Social Studies: Introduction to Psychology Provincial Level
SOST 60 Social Studies: Introduction to Psychology – Provincial Level provides an exploration of the foundations of modern psychology. Students study emotion, perception, personality, intelligence, motivation, learning and memory. The influence of heredity, culture, gender and age on psychological health is investigated by the students. Current psychological research is incorporated throughout the course.
This course prepares students for further studies in social sciences at the post-secondary level. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
WORK60 - Workplace Experience - Provincial Level
WORK 60 Workplace Experience - Provincial Level is intended to provide students with a framework to recognize previous work experience. The course includes opportunities to demonstrate knowledge about the workplace and skills and experience gained at work. Students prepare a job posting and participate in all aspects of applying for the posted job in order to show their awareness of workplace health and safety, effective communication, workplace ethics, and labour relations, as well as mastery of technical and applied skills, knowledge, and attitude for success in the workplace.
*Minimum requirements are listed; higher-level courses may be substituted
**ADGD 60 – Adult Graduation course representing learning completed as an adult that is at least 100 hours in duration and delivers and assesses explicit learning outcomes to determine to what degree the learner has met the learning outcomes (eg. assigned a letter grade, pass or completion). Examples include workplace certifications like Level 3 First Aid and Class 1 Driver’s License, micro-credentials like Anti-racism or Drone operator training.
To acquire this credential, students must
· be a minimum of 18 years of age,
· complete at least three courses after entering an adult learning program (by enrolling in courses or by Prior Learning Assessment. See Policy 8614)
· use no more than two high school-level courses toward the BCAGD.
The BC government oversees adult education and graduation credentials. Information is found here.
BIOL50 - Biology - Advanced Level
BIOL 50 Biology - Advanced Level introduces students to biology: the study of living organisms and life processes. Students will study the diversity of life, plant and animal cells, ecology, and evolution, exploring concepts in the classroom, laboratory and in field. Building upon life experiences, students improve their understanding of the natural world and their role in it. The course is designed to build a student's laboratory and field skills, scientific communication skills, and critical thinking skills. This course prepares the student for further studies in biology, natural resources and earth sciences.
CHEM50 - Chemistry - Advanced Level
CHEM 50 Chemistry - Advanced Level is a course for students with little or no previous experience in chemistry. Students will study basic chemical properties, principles and procedures, nomenclature, and chemical reactions, acids and bases, and an introduction to organic chemistry. Lab experiments provide an opportunity to work with standard lab ware and apparatus, observe a variety of chemical compounds and reactions, and perform some quantitative measurements.
CPST50 - Computer Studies - Advanced Level
CPST 50 Computer Studies - Advanced Level is an introduction to word processing using Word, spreadsheets using Excel, and databases using Access. Students will learn about computer security (viruses and other malware) and critical thinking as applied to computers. Practical exercises and projects are used to apply new concepts throughout the course, including an internet research report project.
Students will develop an understanding of computers and concepts to aid the students’ employment opportunities, personal productivity, and enjoyment. This course will provide students with a survey of the major applications of computers and enable the students to acquire skills to contribute and participate productively in society.
Upon completion of Computer Studies 50, students are ready to enter Computer Studies 60 - Provincial Level or further post-secondary studies in office or business administration, or computer applications.
ENGL50 - English - Advanced Level
ENGL 50 English - Advanced Level is for students to upgrade their English skills. Through reading and writing, students will focus on critical and creative thinking, demonstrate oral and written communication, and develop reading, research, and cooperative learning. This course is designed to help students become natural, confident communicators. Students will engage in discussions and activities which will cover a diversity of topics, including: pre-writing strategies, essay development, summarizing, critical reading, plagiarism, grammar, and dictionary use.
Upon completion of ENGL 50 students are ready to enter ENGL 60: English – Provincial Level.
MATH50 - Algebra - Advanced Level
MATH 50 Algebra - Advanced Level is for students to upgrade their mathematics skills. Students will begin with an algebraic skills review and move on to develop skills in solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities, relations and functions, and systems of linear equations and inequalities. They will study operations with polynomials and polynomial functions, rational expressions and equations, radical expressions and equations, quadratic equations and functions and be introduced to trigonometric functions. Upon completion of Math 50, students are ready to enter Math 60 (Pre-calculus 12 equivalent) or non-science or career post-secondary programs. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
MATH54 - Mathematics: Advanced Level Business/Technical
MATH 54 Mathematics: Advanced Level - Business/Technical is for students to upgrade their mathematics skills. Students will begin with an initial review of equations, inequalities and graphing and will move on to develop skills in selected topics covering both consumer and technical math. This is a math course with an applied focus designed for those planning to enter the workforce or take vocational or technical training in the future. This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
MATH56 - Foundations Mathematics - Advanced Level
MATH 56 Foundations Mathematics - Advanced Level is for students to upgrade their mathematics skills. Students will study financial math, measurement, algebra, geometry, statistics, logical reasoning, and trigonometry. Students will develop various problem-solving strategies throughout the course.
This course is for students who are interested in gaining entry to some non-science career programs and/or earning credit for their BC Adult Graduation Diploma (Adult Dogwood).
This course qualifies for the BC Adult Graduation Diploma.
PHYS50 - Introduction to Physics Advanced Level
PHYS 50 Introduction to Physics - Advanced Level introduces students to physics as a study of the fundamental laws of nature. Students will study measurement, kinematics, dynamics, electricity, heat, waves and optics. This course aims to foster and develop a scientific way of thinking and a basic knowledge of scientific ideas. This course prepares the student for further studies in physics and provides groundwork for further academic or career training.
SOST50 - Social Studies - Advanced Level
SOST 50 Social Studies – Advanced Level is for students to upgrade their social studies skills. Students begin by focusing on the emergence of Canada as an autonomous nation before World War I and changes in the Canadian identity up to the present day. Students will also study the government of Canada and Canadian political trends as well as an analysis of global issues and how these affect Canadians. The course aims to advance the learner toward five goals: global citizenship, broadened perspectives, critical thinking skills, analysis of values, and lifelong learning skills.
CPST40 - Computer Studies - Intermediate Level
CPST 40 Computer Studies - Intermediate Level is designed to help students develop a range of computer skills to use in everyday life, including personal, work, and educational environments. Students will develop a practical knowledge of computer technology, customize their physical and digital workspaces, learn how to stay safe online, improve their keyboarding technique, create professional quality word processing documents, and develop basic presentations or spreadsheets. The practical skills and understanding in this course can help students become more confident and work more efficiently with a computer.
Upon completion, students are prepared to enter CPST 50 Computer Studies - Advanced level
EDCP49 - Education and Career Planning - Intermediate Level
EDCP 49 Education and Career Planning – Intermediate level aims to enhance the life and employment readiness skills of adult learners. Students develop a set of core skills to help them meet their personal, career, and educational goals. Specifically, students will investigate and practice a variety of communications skills applied to workplace settings. Students will also explore personal skills and values, workplace ethics and safety, and job search methods. The course will culminate with the creation of a sample career portfolio.
This course can be used to complete the Intermediate Level Foundation for Work Certificate.
MATH44 - Intermediate Mathematics
Math 44 Intermediate Mathematics provides a solid foundation in number operations. Topics include estimation, measurement, fractions, ratio and proportion, percent, geometry, statistics, signed numbers, exponents, and algebra. This course is a terminal math course; students looking for a trades prerequisite need Math 46 and students looking for an algebra pre-requisite need Math 49.
MATH46 - Mathematics - Intermediate Level
MATH 46 Mathematics - Intermediate Level is for students to upgrade their mathematics skills. This math course provides a solid foundation in number operations. Topics include estimation, measurement, fractions, ratio and proportion, percent, geometry, statistics, signed numbers, exponents, algebra, trigonometry, graphing and polynomials. This course prepares students for most trades programs with the exception of Electrical Foundation.
MATH49 - Introductory Algebra - Intermediate Level
MATH 49 Introductory Algebra - Intermediate level provides an introduction to algebra. Topics include a review of number functions, followed by an introduction to real numbers, equations and inequalities, polynomials, rational expressions, graphing linear equations and inequalities and systems of equations. A brief introduction to trigonometry completes this course. Completing this course prepares students for Math 50.
SOST10 - Social Studies - Intermediate Level
SCIE40 - Science - Intermediate Level
SCIE 40 Science Intermediate Level introduces adult learners to the study of science in general, the scientific method, and to the three major areas of scientific study: biology, chemistry and physics. One additional topic, such as astronomy, geology, nutrition, infectious diseases, or disabilities is included. Hands-on experiments in each area of study develop science laboratory techniques and skills while increasing understanding of course topics.
SCIE 40 prepares students for courses in biology, physics, and chemistry at the Advanced (50) level.
CPST02 - Computer Studies: Fundamental Level
CPST 02 Computer Studies: Fundamental Level course helps students develop basic computer skills, essential to education, work and personal life. Students will gain confidence performing basic computer operations, working online, using email and video conferencing software, and creating word processing documents. Students will also learn about computer systems and uses in society, develop touch-typing technique, and manage their digital files.
Upon completion, students are prepared to enter CPST 40 Computer Studies: Intermediate Level—Computer Skills.
EDCP02 - Education and Career Planning - Fundamental
EDCP 02 Education and Career Planning – Fundamental level aims to enhance the life and employment readiness skills of adult learners. Students develop a set of core skills to help them meet their personal, career, and educational goals. Students begin with an exploration of personal qualities, develop communication skills, explore email etiquette and safety. Working with others, problem solving and decision-making all contribute to the development of their core skills. They will also study education and career planning, goal setting, and personal finances.
Students will be ready to enter an Intermediate (Grade 10) level Education & Career Planning course, upon completion of this course.
ESK01 - Fundamental English Level 1
ESK 01 Fundamental English Level 1 is for students who are ready to develop their skills with the printed word. This course is designed to foster learners' basic reading and writing abilities and to help students gain the skills to cope well in personal, work and educational situations. Throughout the six levels of Fundamental English, students will improve their reading and writing skills. Students begin at the level that is right for them. Upon completion of Fundamental English Level 6, students are ready to enter an Intermediate (Grade 10) level English course.
ESK02 - Fundamental English Level 2
ESK 02 Fundamental English Level 2 is for students who are ready to build on their existing skills to start reading simple passages and writing complete sentences. This course is designed to foster learners - basic English abilities and to help students gain the skills to cope well in personal, work and educational situations. Throughout the six levels of Fundamental English, students will improve their reading and writing skills. Students begin at the level that is right for them. Upon completion of Fundamental English Level 6, students are ready to enter an Intermediate (Grade 10) level English course.
ESK03 - Fundamental English Level 3
ESK 03 Fundamental English Level 3 is for students who are ready to build on their existing skills to read longer written passages and write short passages and messages. This course is designed to develop learners' basic English abilities and to help students gain the skills to cope well in personal, work and educational situations. Throughout the six levels of Fundamental English, students will improve their reading and writing skills. Students begin at the level that is right for them. Upon completion of Fundamental English Level 6, students are ready to enter an Intermediate (Grade 10) level English course.
ESK04 - Fundamental English Level 4
ESK 04 Fundamental English Level 4 is for students who are ready to read longer passages on less familiar topics and write in paragraphs using complex sentences. This course is designed to foster learners' English abilities and to help students gain the skills to cope well in personal, work and educational situations. Throughout the six levels of Fundamental English, students will improve their reading and writing skills. Students begin at the level that is right for them. Upon completion of Fundamental English Level 6, students are ready to enter an Intermediate (Grade 10) level English course.
ESK05 - Fundamental English Level 5
ESK 05 Fundamental English Level 5 is for students who are ready to expand their reading comprehension skills, and to write longer passages. This course is designed to foster learners' English abilities and to help students gain the skills to cope well in personal, work and educational situations. Throughout the six levels of Fundamental English, students will improve their reading and writing skills. Students begin at the level that is right for them. Upon completion of Fundamental English Level 6, students are ready to enter an Intermediate (Grade 10) level English course.
ESK06 - Fundamental English Level 6
ESK 06 Fundamental English Level 6 is for students who are ready to read and analyze short stories and other forms of literature and to write long paragraphs on abstract topics. This course is designed to foster learners' English abilities and to help students gain the skills to cope well in personal, work and educational situations. Throughout the six levels of Fundamental English, students will improve their reading and writing skills. Students begin at the level that is right for them. Upon completion of Fundamental English Level 6, students are ready to enter an Intermediate (Grade 10) level English course.
SSK01 - Skills and Strategies for Learning Level I
SSK 01-06 Skills and Strategies for Learning are available for students to take. Please see your program advisor for information on these tutorial courses.
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