Programs Requiring Prior University Study

You must complete university study before you can apply to the following programs.

To find programs that require you to complete college study before you can apply, view Collaborative University and College Programs.

30 Prior Study Programs

New Media Studies

University of Toronto Scarborough

Undergraduate

Admission is by internal application, typically at the end of your first year after you have completed 4.0 full credits. To be competitive, you should have a 2.5 cumulative GPA and a 3.0 or higher GPA in Media Studies courses.

You must submit a Supplementary Application Form directly to the program supervisor.

You may be required to attend an interview before an admission decision is made. All applicants will be notified in early June. For more details on application procedures, see the "New Media Studies" section of the Joint Program website.

Nursing

York University

Undergraduate

This full-time second-entry BScN program was developed in response to an increasing demand for nursing programs that build on prior university learning. You must have completed a minimum of 60 credits toward any university degree and meet the program prerequisites. By studying in the concentrated and continuous 6-semester program, you can complete a BScN degree in 2 calendar years.

Nursing - Post RPN

University of Ottawa

Undergraduate

The Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Bridging Pathway is designed for Registered Practical Nurses with: A 2-year Ontario College Diploma (or the equivalent) in practical nursing, experience practicing as an RPN in Ontario within the last 5 years at full scope of practice for a minimum of 6 consecutive months full- or part-time OR have received their RPN license within the past calendar year and a College of Nurses of Ontario registration in good standing.

This compressed timeframe program allows for direct entry into Year 3 of the Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Ottawa after successful completion of 6 predetermined university courses. Students can upgrade their education from diploma prepared practical nurse to degree-prepared Registered Nurse in 6 terms (2.5 years).

Nursing Advanced Entry Program

Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Advanced entry, full-time, 2.5 year program
Program subject to formal approval

Interested in a career in nursing as a registered nurse? The Nursing Advanced Entry Program at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) condenses the required nursing curriculum and practicum work into 5 semesters.

Eligible candidates must have completed all of the prerequisites for entry into the program, as well as approximately 2 years of academic study equivalent to 20 TMU credits (approximately 20 semestered courses or 10 full-year courses) at an accredited university (or equivalent).

Occupational Health and Safety

Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Applied Science
Full-time, 2-year program for university graduates
Full-time, 3-year co-op program for university graduates
Recognized by the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals

The Occupational Health and Safety degree program at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), the only one of its kind in Canada, teaches you how to make workplaces as safe as possible. You’ll help prevent injury and illness by anticipating, evaluating and controlling physical, biological and chemical hazards. You’ll also develop and launch initiatives that improve health and safety in work environments across every sector. You’ll gain experience with a paid co-op option, active training performing lab tests and analysis, workplace visits and an opportunity to develop an independent research project.

After you graduate you can apply for the examination and certification as a Canadian Registered Safety Technician (CRST). With additional work experience and an exam, you may choose to pursue registration as a Registered Occupational Hygienist through the Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists. You can also apply for certification as a Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) through the Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals.

Optometry

University of Ottawa

Undergraduate

As the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, known as ophthalmic medicine, steadily grows in complexity, the demand for health care workers with specialized knowledge and skills in ophthalmic medical technology is growing as well. Ophthalmic medical technologists work with leading-edge equipment, including lasers and imaging systems, to provide quality patient care.

This bachelor's degree program provides students with a 2-year foundation in core sciences, followed by third- and fourth-year studies that specialize in ophthalmic medical technology and visual science. The academic training of students registered in the third and fourth years of the program takes place at the University of Ottawa Eye Institute, located on the general campus of the Ottawa Hospital. This program combines clinical, hands-on experience with theoretical training.

Psychology and English

University of Toronto Scarborough

Undergraduate

This Double Degree program creates an accelerated pathway for students who would otherwise have to complete two separate Specialist programs and two separate degrees. It will provide students with a thorough, interdisciplinary education in both literary studies and psychology. The Double Degree program takes advantage of existing synergies to allow students to complete both undergraduate programs and degrees within five years, without compromising on the core requirements of either program.

Enrolment in the Double Degree is limited. Students may apply after completing a minimum of 4.0 credits including ENGA01H3, ENGA02H3, PSYA01H3 and PSYA02H3. A final grade of at least 75% is required in each of PSYA01H3 and PSYA02H3.

Public Health

Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Applied Science
Full-time, 2-year program for university graduates
Program Accredited by the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors

Public health professionals develop and implement initiatives that improve the health, safety and well-being of populations in local neighbourhoods, cities, countries and beyond.

The Public Health degree program at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) offers experiential learning opportunities such as a paid co-op option, laboratory testing and analysis training, site visits, presentations and seminars, and an optional independent research project. You’ll graduate prepared to protect the health of communities large and small, and make a difference in the lives of many.

After graduation, you can become certified as an environmental health officer or public health inspector.

Social Work

Lakehead University

Undergraduate

The 1-Year Honours Bachelor of Social Work program is offered at the Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses. This program is designed for graduates of a 3- or 4-year undergraduate degree program.

Social Work

Nipissing University

Undergraduate

Nipissing University offers a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program that prepares students for the practice of social work through the development of competencies in working to effect change in a variety of situations that affect individuals, families, groups, organizations or communities.

Students will develop a knowledge base related to the ways in which social, cultural and institutional contexts influence human behaviour and shape social work interventions and how social structures benefit and disadvantage various segments of society. In addition to fostering intervention skills related to individuals, groups, families, communities and policies, students will develop a critical awareness of the role of social work in the development, maintenance and resolution of social and personal troubles.

Applicants must apply for admission to the professional years (Years 3 and 4) of the program. The professional years are open to both Nipissing and non-Nipissing students.

Admission to the professional years of the Bachelor of Social Work is limited and based on both academic and non-academic criteria.

Admission consideration is determined on the following criteria:

  1. 1. Grades (Minimum 70% overall average required)
  2. 2. Statement of Interest
  3. 3. Analysis of a Social Issue
  4. 4. Resume of Volunteer, Work and Educational Experience
  5. 5. References

For further information, contact the Admissions Office at 705-474-3450, ext. 4600, or email [email protected].

Admission consideration will be given to applicants who have completed or will be in the position to complete 60 credits (10 full-course equivalents), including SWRK-1007 (or equivalent), SWRK-2006 (or equivalent), SWRK-2106 (or equivalent), SWLF-1006 (or equivalent) and 6 credits (1 full course equivalent) in Humanities by the end of April 2026. A minimum of 70% is required in each of SWRK-1007, SWRK-2006, SWRK-2106 and SWLF-1006. If admitted, a final transcript indicating that all courses have been completed and required grades/averages have been met must be received by June 30, 2026.

Find a list of approved course equivalencies for Nipissing University’s SWRK-1007, SWRK-2006, SWRK-2106 and SWLF-1006 courses. Applicants who have completed course(s) not listed and wish to have them evaluated for equivalency should contact the Admissions Office at [email protected]. We recommend that prospective applicants send their request prior to submitting an application. You may be asked to provide detailed course outlines when requesting the equivalency.

Find examples of subject areas that can satisfy the Humanities requirement.

There is only one intake per year (September).

Meeting the minimum admission average does not guarantee admission.

Social Work

Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Social Work
Full Time: Advanced Standing to Second Year
Part Time: Advanced Standing to Third Year
Accredited by the Canadian Association for Social Work Education

Social workers strive to advance social justice and equity for individuals, families, groups and communities. In the Social Work degree program at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), you’ll learn how processes of marginalization and oppression shape people’s experiences and access to resources, power, and social and health services. You’ll gain experience through 700 hours of placements at local or international organizations, live actor simulations and opportunities to work on community projects. With a focus on social justice, you’ll be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to advocate and work effectively in a variety of settings.

After graduation, you’ll be eligible for membership in the Ontario Association of Social Workers, and the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.

Social Work

University of Waterloo

Undergraduate

The Bachelor of Social Work is offered as a full-time or part-time professional degree program at Renison University College, which is located on the University of Waterloo campus. The program prepares students for ethical, critically reflective, anti-oppressive, competent and accountable social work practice. Waterloo's BSW distinguishes itself through strong academics as well as a hands-on, skills-oriented approach to social work practice. Admission requirements include successful completion of either a 3 or 4 year undergraduate university degree (Bachelor of Arts or equivalent) from an accredited university, with a minimum 70% average and at least 6.0 academic units (12 one-semester courses) in the social sciences, including 7 prerequisite courses listed on the Renison University College website. Interested in becoming a social worker? Learn how Renison can help you in your journey? Learn more about the BSW at Renison

Social Work

Western University – King's University College

Undergraduate

The Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) program begins in third year and is one of the most respected programs of its kind in Canada. If you're passionate about creating change and helping others, your path can start at King’s—even before you're officially in the program.

In your first 2 years, you'll take foundational courses and get guidance from academic advisors to help you prepare for admission. Entry into the professional program in Year 3 is competitive and based on both academic performance and non-academic qualities, like your commitment to the field and readiness for practice. Applications are due in March of second year.

Once accepted, you’ll join a small, dedicated group of students learning from experienced social work professionals in a collaborative, hands-on environment. The program includes over 700 hours of supervised field placements, providing you with direct experience in social service and health organizations, where you’ll build real skills and make a meaningful impact.

Social Work

York University

Undergraduate

This program was developed for university graduates who are social work practitioners or who want to pursue a career in social work. You will be exposed to contemporary and socially relevant issues that address the many techniques and approaches used by social work professions as well as partake in a practicum experience that places you in real social work environments.

Note: We offer 2 streams of entry into the program. BSW Post-Degree Entry stream admits students who have completed a 3-year honours undergraduate degree.

Translation

York University – Glendon Campus

Undergraduate

Accelerated BA/iBA in Professional Translation

In addition to a direct-entry option, Glendon offers an accelerated BA program in Translation for applicants who already hold an undergraduate degree.

The program can be completed in 2 to 3 years, and most translation courses are offered in the evening to accommodate learners who also choose to work while studying. An entrance examination is required. Apply using OUAC code YGR.

Urban and Regional Planning

Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University)

Undergraduate

2-Year Post-Baccalaureate
2-Year Degree Completion
Accredited by the Professional Standards Board (PSB) for the Planning Profession in Canada
Recognized as an accredited Planning program by Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) and Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI)

Urban and regional planners use concepts from economics, social justice, urban design and ecology. They propose strategies to develop and enhance regional, urban, suburban and rural communities.

The Urban and Regional Planning degree program at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is focused on studio-based teaching where you’ll develop applied policy, research and communication skills. You’ll gain real-life experiences through client-based studios and field research projects. In addition to an optional co-op, you'll have options to participate in placement or internship electives. You may also choose to pursue an international exchange program.

Upon graduation, you’ll understand communities’ needs, structures and rules as they relate to the environmental and equitable use of land and resources. You’ll be ready to advise on planning decisions related to social, economic, environmental, cultural, land development and transportation issues.