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College Misconceptions

Critical thinking skills taught in Ontario high schools are being put into action as students objectively evaluate which postsecondary path is the right one. Is college or university the best direction, personally and professionally?

Learn more below about misconceptions that many hear about college, and learn why Sault College could be your best choice for your career path.

Myths About College

student at desk working on electrical training in classroom lab setting
College graduates do not earn high-paying salaries.
student and instructor standing and working with equipment in the machine shop
A college diploma is not prestigious enough and is not as highly recognized by employers.
hairstyling student standing behind client seated while trimming hair with scissors in salon
A postsecondary education won't pay off.
seating areas on floor with two floors of new study rooms beside
Colleges don't offer degrees.

Why College?

  • Lower tuition fees
  • Now offering degrees
  • Offering diplomas, certificates, and post-graduate certificates
  • Earn both a diploma and a degree through our pathways with partnering universities
  • College graduates get hired more1*
  • Better connected to industry through employer connections
  • College graduates are loved by employers2*
  • Postsecondary graduate debt is lower**
  • More focused on a career path through programming and placements
     

*Sourced from a 2015 survey by George Brown College of over 800 employers in the Greater Toronto Area.
1Employers expressed that college graduates were hired more often than university graduates in the last two years (75% vs. 68%)
254% of employers said they believe colleges offer more relevant work experience through field placements, internships or co-op, compared to universities (54% vs. 11%)
**Find details within each area of study in our Deep Dive

Click here for a Deep Dive into your career with our areas of study

 

 

 

Hard data is breaking down old myths and reveals advantages of a college education.

 

Consider a career in the skilled trades where you are in demand 

Graduates of Sault College’s electrician, millwright and some other skilled trades programs earn starting salaries ranging from $60,000 to $80,00 in their first year, with the potential for additional overtime income. Receive   quality programming from  knowledgeable faculty, and exceptional student support services to be successful in your career.

A college diploma can open doors to lucrative careers that would not be available to high school graduates, or if they are, your investment in a college education will see you earning more over the years.

 

90% of Sault College students secure employment in the field they graduated in.
90% of Sault College students secure employment in the field they graduated in.

Further education

Approximately 60% of Sault College students have been out of high school for some time which  may include individuals looking for a new opportunity or career path as well as university graduates furthering their education.

Diplomas as well as graduate certificates are a great option for postsecondary graduates to continue their career-specific education complete with relevant and hands-on coursework and training to help them find employment in their field.


 


 

Enhancing Our College

Our campus enhancements coupled with innovations in learning show we are never idle. Here, we believe that change benefits the experience of our students — and students are kinda important to us.  See how our campus continues to be revitalized and amazing!

seating area in newly renovated library showing two students looking at a book together and one using their laptop
Relax and Concentrate in Our Renovated Library
Completed in spring 2022, our library has been given a refreshed look that focuses on a student’s needs. From comfortable furniture, desks, study rooms, art-inspired sound-proof panels and an aesthetic for the design books, our library will help you concentrate and relax.
rendering of the soon to be School of Engineering currently being built
Future Home of the School of Engineering
Our Engineering Technology students will have access to an 8,000 sq. ft. learning environment with specialized, state-of-the-art equipment, labs and study spaces to expand experiential learning opportunities, while supporting the Bachelor of Engineering – Mechatronics program.
Student and instructor in mechatronics lab with multiple robot arms
New Robotics and Engineering Lab
Gain knowledge, expertise, and professional skills related to robotic applications and automation used in various sectors of industry. Learn in this world-class lab equipped with the latest robotics equipment installed in a simulated manufacturing environment.
Students walking on a dock carrying a kayak
Waterfront Adventure Centre
You won’t find another city space like this. Students can schedule use of watercraft such as canoes, kayaks and standup paddleboards or book a court time for tennis, beach volleyball or pickleball, at no charge with a valid Sault College student card. Grab a drink and snack from the beautiful on-site café.

Centre for Health Sciences

Announced in winter 2022, Sault College is planning to  build a  Centre for Health Sciences, to be dedicated to nursing programs, fitness and health promotion, health informatics and personal support worker.  Expanding our health programming is a major part of our strategic plan,” said president Ron Common. 

The new centre will allow us to increase the number of nurses trained, expand the offering for our practical nursing bridging to BScN  program, as well as the training of nurses educated in other countries to meet Canadian standards.

We'll focus on the technology that goes into the building, while consulting partners, including Sault Area Hospital and Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and long-term care homes.