Professional Programs for International Students
Join us for career-building opportunities and life-changing experiences. Gain an entirely new perspective. Study and make friends with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Start a new life in Canada.
Continuing Education International Professional Programs are full-time, professional development certificate programs that provide students with skills sought by employers. International students in these designated programs are eligible to apply for study permits. Upon completion, students can apply for post-graduate work permits that will allow them to work in friendly and beautiful Calgary, or elsewhere in Canada. All International Professional Programs require in-person attendance.
IRCC Study Permit Changes
Effective January 22, 2024, the federal government announced caps on the number of study permits to be issued to each province. As part of these new regulations, the Government of Canada requires that all new study permit applicants need an attestation letter from the province in which they intend to study.
Let us prepare you for the shifting demands of the Canadian workplace
We have eight-month and one-year program formats for international students wishing to study and work in Canada.
There are three admission periods per year: fall, winter, and spring/summer...
Professional Management
8 Month Program
Enhance your business knowledge and human resource skills. This program consists of a certificate in Professional Management and two short Human Resource Management certificates.
Business Analysis, Intelligence and Analytics
1 Year Program + Work-Integrated Learning
Understand, manage and deliver value with data. This program will take three four-month terms to complete, followed by a four-month work-integrated (WIL) learning component.
Digital Media and Marketing
1 Year Program + Work-Integrated Learning
Learn to excel in advertising, marketing, and design. This program will take three four-month terms to complete, followed by a four-month work-integrated (WIL) learning component.
Project Management
1 Year Program + Work-Integrated Learning
Learn to implement new processes and manage projects. This program will take three four-month terms to complete, followed by a four-month work-integrated (WIL) learning component.
All programs are subject to change with regards to scheduling, classes, and cohorts. Classes may also take place during evenings.
Work-Integrated Learning
Beginning January 2024, we will be introducing work-integrated learning (WIL) to the Business Analysis, Intelligence and Analytics and Project Management programs. This co-op or practicum will be a valuable opportunity for you to gain real-world experience in a professional role. This unique learning environment will provide real-world insight into Canadian workplace culture and the opportunity to network and build rapport with employers and others in your industry. Upon graduation from your program, you will have work experience with a Canadian employer that you can highlight on your resume.
Career Support
Students in the International Professional Programs receive services and access to resources for their career development, to help improve their job search strategies and discover essential skills valued in the Canadian workplace. We understand transitioning to a foreign work environment can be challenging, our customized career advising will help you with job search, resumes, cover letters, and interviews. Additionally, you will have access to attend events to network with employers.
Admission Requirements
Admission requires the following*:
- You must be 18 years or older
- You must meet our English language proficiency requirements
- You must have completed a post-secondary degree or diploma (minimum 2 years in length) from a college or university
* Please note that admission criteria may be subject to change.
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Program Delivery Methods
Course delivery may vary, and can include in-person courses during the daytime or evening. Some courses may also be online. All courses are taught in English.
Study Permits
When you should apply for a Study Permit
International Professional Programs (IPP) students are required to apply for a study permit at least three months prior to the program start date. This is to ensure the student receives their study permit and entry documents prior to the start of the term. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's processing times may be subject to delays. Applying for a study permit early will help to mitigate any foreseeable delays.
Applying as a Study Permit holder
The International Professional Programs often fill up very quickly. If a program is full for a specific term, you will not be able to apply regardless of whether you hold a valid study permit in Canada or not. Learn more...
* A Temporary Resident Visa is a counterfoil document attached to the passport that allows students from certain countries to enter Canada.
Information Session
Learn more about the International Professional Programs with this information session recorded in February 2023.
Learn at the Downtown Campus
International Professional Program students attend classes at the University of Calgary Downtown Campus, a unique intellectual and corporate hub in the downtown core.
The Downtown Campus is a place for learning and community engagement. The fresh and collaborative meeting and event spaces are designed to facilitate new, innovative thinking.
The Downtown Campus is an ideal location from which to explore downtown Calgary's cuisine, park spaces, events, music, and entertainment. It is only a 12 minute train ride from the main UCalgary campus.
Explore Calgary
Before you get started, take a quick tour of Calgary. Learn more at www.lifeincalgary.ca.
Located in Canada's energy capital and close to the majestic Rocky Mountains, the University of Calgary is a world-class university that inspires and supports discovery, creativity and innovation across all disciplines.
Questions?
Everything international students need to know about taking our courses and programs...