What college program should you take?

Feeling overwhelmed by post-secondary options? We recently explored the difference between degrees, diplomas and certificates, but how do you choose which of these college programs to take? While a four-year degree can be valuable, it’s not the only path to career success. In fact, many high-paying careers can be accessed through shorter, more affordable programs. The key is to choose the right educational path for your specific goals. Let’s explore the steps you can take when deciding what college program to take.

1. Assess your interests

If you’re not sure what subject or career interests you, you’re not alone! Even if you have a broad idea of what to study in college, you may need help choosing a specific subject. Check out this guide on how to pick a career and then jump into Fanshawe’s Pathfinder quiz, where you’ll answer a few questions to see what programs might be of interest to you. Also, remember your educational pathway isn’t set in stone and neither is your career pathway. You’ll adapt to new interests, demands and technologies throughout your career.

2. Identify your goals

Often, the first step to accomplishing any task is to identify your end goals. The goals you want to consider when it comes to your education will be longer-term and typically end with a career. After you graduate from your college program, what career would you like? Or, what further education do you want to pursue? Once you know what you need your education to do for you, it will be easier to identify the best college program you should take to meet your goals.

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3. Consider your learning style

Do you prefer hands-on learning or theoretical learning? Do you need more flexibility in your learning or is a structured environment better for you? Also consider what will fit your current lifestyle, such as full-time, part-time, online or in-person learning. Fanshawe has many different delivery options available, so consider what will work best for you. Explore our different flexible learning and delivery options.

4. Explore programs offered in your chosen field

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Now that you’ve identified your goal and learning style, you can start researching programs. Look for programs that will fit your learning needs and help you reach your learning goals. Be sure to do your research on specific programs and institutions you’re considering; visit the campus, go to Open Houses and speak with faculty, students and alumni. As you do your research, be mindful of practical considerations such as costs, program duration, personal circumstances and any other factors that will affect your ability to commit to a program.

Some questions to ask about college programs you’re considering:

• What’s the quality of the program you’re considering, including the institution, faculty, technology and resources?
• Do graduates from your program get good jobs and do they graduate with hands-on or co-op experience?
• How practical is the program for you? Where is it located, what are the costs and is financial aid available?
• Do you have the prerequisites to be accepted into the program? Can you apply prior learning or work experience to earn credits for this program? Learn more about PLAR opportunities.

Start with Pathfinder

Learn about program delivery options

Then check out our program offerings