• ACE Academic Upgrading

  • Testimonial

    "When my marriage ended at the age of 40, I found myself facing one of the most difficult life changes one could imagine. The prospect of going back to school to obtain my Grade 12 Math terrified me. Then I was introduced to the Durham College Academic Upgrading program. In less than a year I achieved what I needed with test results in the mid-90s."

    Liza Vasuik-Welch
    • Students engaged in discussion

    Academic Upgrading - Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate (Grade 12 equivalency)

    Are you:

    Programs of study:

    Benefits:

    Academic upgrading is:

    Campus locations:

    Oshawa campus - 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON  905.721.3131. Classes available Monday through Friday 9 a.m to 3 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday evenings 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

    Whitby campus - 1610 Champlain Avenue, Whitby, ON  905 721-3131. Classes available Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    Uxbridge campus - 2 Campbell Drive, Uxbridge, ON  905 852-7848. Class available Thursday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    On-line courses - visit the link below to learn more information on how to register for on-line ACE courses: http://www.durhamcollege.ca/EN/main/programs_courses/continuing_education/online/ace.php

    Here's how to get started:

    Interested students are invited to attend an Information session/Academic Assessment in math and/or English as a starting point.   Writing the assessment provides us the opportunity to determine your skills and knowledge in these subject areas and helps us to create a personalized education plan to help you reach your goals. How much formal education you have completed doesn't matter. In fact, the assessment is a great opportunity to reflect all types of learning from life experiences, work experiences, as well as formal education.

    Where:   Room 1286, Simcoe Building (smaller one storey building closest to Simcoe Street)
    Durham College   2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON

    Parking:  Founders 3, located at the north end of the campus by the hydro tower. Please advise the kiosk attendant that you are coming to the Academic Upgrading program and they will charge you the parking rate for our program.

    When:  Information/Assessment sessions will run on the following dates (there is no need to pre-register, pick the date that works for you):

    The math assessment will begin at 9 a.m. and the English assessment will begin at 10:30 a.m. and run until noon. *Please arrive 15 minutes prior to starting to allow for prompt start times.*

    Monday September 13th, 2010
    Monday September 27th, 2010
    Monday October 18th, 2010
    Monday November 1st, 2010
    Monday November 15th, 2010
    Monday November 29th, 2010
    Monday December 13th, 2010
    Monday January 10th, 2011
    Monday January 24th, 2011
    Monday February 7th, 2011
    Monday February 28th, 2011
    Monday March 14th, 2011
    Monday March 28th, 2011
    Monday April 11th, 2011
    Monday April 25th, 2011
    Monday May 9th, 2011
    Monday May 30th, 2011
    Monday June 13th, 2011
    Monday June 27th, 2011

    How can I prepare for the assessment?
    Remember, the assessment is not a pass or fail experience; it simply shows the skills you have gained or lost since you have been away from school.

    Math - a review of the following subjects may be helpful: decimals, fractions, metric, order of operations, ratio and proportion, percents, geometry, algebra, and trigonometry. Some useful web sites you may wish to visit include:
    http://www.math.com
    http://www.webmath.com
    http://www.sosmath.com

    English - a review of reading and comprehension and writing skills may be helpful. Some useful web sites you may wish to visit include:
    http://www.ucalgary.ca/UofC/eduweb/grammar
    http://lklivingston.tripod.com/essay
    http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar

    FAQ's:

    When will I find out my results of the assessment?
    Results of the assessment will be available by the Friday of the week you write. If you have not received your results within a week and a half, please contact our office at 905 721-3131.

    When can I start Academic Upgrading?
    Start dates are available within two weeks of writing the assessment. We offer flexible, personalized scheduling in both our day and evening classes.

    What courses can I take?
    Courses include math, English, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Computer Skills, and Self-Management (Self-Management is only available as an on-line course).

    How much does Academic Upgrading cost?
    The first 16 weeks of your Academic Upgrading program is funded by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Should you require more than 16 weeks, additional funding options are available. In addition, travel and child care funding is available to those who qualify. Your only expenses are a $50 per subject book deposit which is refunded to you when you finish the program.

    How long does it take?
    We work with you to create a personalized education plan focused on your goals. The length of time in the program is based on your individual needs.

    Will I get my Grade 12?
    Students in the Academic Upgrading program can achieve the ACE (Academic and Career Entrance) Grade 12 Equivalency Certificate. In most cases, this will fulfill the requirements for entrance into a student chosen college program, apprenticeship, or employment. If you do not require the credential, you can take only those courses you need to reach your goals.

    If you have additional questions please call us at 905 721-3131, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.