Established in 1936 Columbia College stands proudly before you. It’s a testament to educational ambition. Initially offering high school completion programs Columbia College expanded rapidly. By 1965 university transfer courses were added. The 1970s saw the introduction of an English as a Second Language program. This was crucial for the growing number of international students.
Columbia College’s journey is one of constant evolution. It moved from downtown Vancouver to Burnaby in 1985. A move near the Metrotown Centre. The college’s programs expanded significantly. Business and engineering programs were significantly broadened. This period cemented Columbia College’s reputation. It became Canada’s premier university preparatory school for international students.
In 1997 the college returned to downtown Vancouver. It shared a new facility with the British Columbia Institute of Technology. Improved science labs and classrooms were created. Expanded library facilities and a refurbished Tutorial Centre improved the learning environment.
A significant milestone came in 2004. Columbia College became the first private institution in British Columbia to award Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees. Enrollment soared. The college adapted by employing a Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor. This provided invaluable support to students navigating immigration processes.
The early 2010s saw a dramatic increase in global student enrollment. While maintaining recruitment from East Asia the college welcomed a surge of students from South Asia the Middle East and West Africa. A new five-storey building opened in 2013 on Terminal Avenue. This modern Main Campus boasts state-of-the-art science labs a library and student lounges.
Columbia College’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its refugee bursary program initiated in 2016. These bursaries enable refugee students to pursue high school or associate degrees. A North Campus opened in 2017 offering English for Academic Purposes and high school programs. Students benefit from access to both campuses facilities.
The college also demonstrated resilience during the 2020 pandemic. It implemented student assistance programs. These allowed students to complete their coursework through distance education. Columbia College today serves approximately 2100 students representing 61 countries. A vibrant hub of learning and community engagement.