Overview
You can use Academic Upgrading courses to help meet prerequisites for other college courses and programs, or to obtain a BC Adult Graduation Diploma (formerly known as an Adult Dogwood).
CNC offers Academic Upgrading (Adult Basic Education) courses in a variety of subjects, including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- College and University Experience
- Computer Studies
- English
- Mathematics
- Physics
Delivery Options
Classroom learning
Learn face to face with peers at one of our CNC campuses. You will learn in a safe and accommodating group environment.
Intake Options
If you missed the registration date, don’t worry! CNC offers continuous enrollment for some academic upgrading classes in Mackenzie, Fort St. James and Quesnel. Today is an awesome day to start learning. Check with Academic Advising at your campus to see if you can get started today.
Academic Upgrading Courses
You can use Academic Upgrading courses as prerequisites to other college courses, or to obtain Adult Basic Education (ABE) certificates - Fundamental, Intermediate, or Advanced. You can also use them to gain a BC Adult Graduation Diploma (formerly known as an Adult Dogwood).
Academic Upgrading: Fundamental Level
Academic Upgrading: Intermediate Level
Academic Upgrading: Advanced Level
Academic Upgrading: Provincial Level
Locations & Dates
CNC programs have varying lengths and start dates to meet your needs, and are offered across multiple campuses where possible. Don’t see the campus you’re looking for? Check back with us soon as this page is updated throughout the school year.
| START DATE |
CAMPUS |
DELIVERY |
LENGTH |
| Fall 2025 |
Prince George |
In Class |
Varies |
| Fall 2025 |
Burns Lake |
In Class |
Varies |
| Fall 2025 |
Fort St. James |
In Class |
Varies |
| Fall 2025 |
Mackenzie |
In Class |
Varies |
| Fall 2025 |
Vanderhoof |
In Class |
Varies |
| Fall 2025 |
Quesnel |
In Class |
Varies |
| Spring 2026 |
Prince George |
In Class |
Varies |
| Spring 2026 |
Burns Lake |
In Class |
Varies |
| Spring 2026 |
Fort St. James |
In Class |
Varies |
| Spring 2026 |
Mackenzie |
In Class |
Varies |
| Spring 2026 |
Quesnel |
In Class |
Varies |
| Spring 2026 |
Vanderhoof |
In Class |
Varies |
Entry Requirements
To enter the Academic Upgrading program, you must be at least 18 years old.
To enroll in Academic Upgrading courses, you can:
- Bring a high school transcript for review. The transcript assists with evaluating what course prerequisites you already have and determines your education plan. You can make an appointment with a CNC advisor or regional Academic Upgrading contact person to discuss your options. Or
- If you do not have the course prerequisites, you are required to take the Academic Upgrading placement assessment. This allows you to be placed at the appropriate course level and assists with determining your educational plan. To get an application form for the Academic Upgrading program and to sign up for the placement, contact CNC Office of the Registrar, or a regional Academic Upgrading contact person. Or
- You may have other options if you do not meet the Academic Upgrading admission requirement. We encourage you to meet with a CNC advisor or regional Academic Upgrading contact person.
Open admission
Any program of study that does not have a selective admission process or fixed capacity and is on a “first qualified, first admitted” basis.
Invest in your future
BC Adult Education is Tuition-Free*.
Please note the following fees.
- Development Fee — Please note that development fees vary based on number of courses taken up to a maximum of $20.80.
- Extensions — Should the time limit be exceeded and the student is granted an extension, additional student union and CFS fees will be assessed ($10.72 and $2.19 per month).
- *Student Fees — Academic Upgrading students must pay student fees. These are not included in the estimate.
Grants
There are grants available for the Academic Upgrading program. Find out if you are eligible for the Adult Upgrading Grant.
Paying for college
We're here to help. You can apply for scholarships and bursaries through CNC. We can also help you find loans and other funding. Visit Financial aid to find out how.