Mature students make up a sizable portion of our community here at Durham College (DC), and they’re as unique as the life experiences that have brought them to our campus.
DC is committed to providing mature students with everything they need to achieve academic success and launch their new careers with confidence.
“When you're coming out of high school, school can be more exploratory and light hearted. But when you have a family to support, or you have to take time off work, it’s a heavy decision,” said Melinda Kelly, Senior Student Recruitment Officer. “It’s important to show mature students how we’re going to get them to their goals and their final career destination. We want to arm them with the information they need to make the right decision.”
Whether you’re returning to school after a gap year or preparing to re-enter the workforce after raising a family, you need unique support as you prepare for your post-secondary journey. With that in mind, we’ve launched a series of Mature Student Webinars designed specifically to give you the information you need about returning to school, paying for your education, overcoming challenges to excel in your studies, and much more.
These virtual sessions are held every other Wednesday, from 6 to 7 p.m. and are hosted by members of our Student Recruitment team. To register, visit our Mature Student website and check the calendar for the next scheduled session; we’ll rotate them, so don’t worry if you miss one. Attend all six, and you’ll learn the following lessons; and lots more!
How to choose your future career
You can’t begin your journey until you know your destination. Together, we’ll figure out how to align your education with your career goals. By sharing effective research strategies and career planning resources, we’ll get you pointed in the right direction.
Members of our recruitment team will be on hand to answer your questions, and you can also schedule a one-on-one appointment with them to learn more about the program that interests you and map your next steps with confidence.
How to finance your education
We’ll walk you through the financial aid process and help you find the best option for funding your education. DC has $5 million in scholarships, bursaries and awards available, with many of them specifically tailored to mature students. In addition, we’ll cover OSAP, external scholarships and employer-sponsored funding opportunities.
We’ll also share practical tips for managing your finances while in school.
How DC will support you
No matter how long you’ve been out of school, you can succeed in your post-secondary studies, and we’re here to help.
You’ll learn all about our extensive support services, from peer tutoring, academic support and advising to health and wellness. Workshops are available on a variety of topics, from essay writing to nutrition.
By making sure your experience is flexible and accessible, you’ll be able to focus on your studies and achieving your goals in and out of the classroom.
How to overcome unique challenges
School can feel overwhelming, especially if you haven’t been a student for a while. We’ll address a number of the challenges mature students face, including time management and shoring up your academic confidence.
Whether you need help juggling family, work, and school or need some tips for getting back into student mode, our experts will give you actionable strategies and resources to help you succeed.
How to find a program that fits your schedule
Life is busy, and our flexible learning options are designed to reflect that. We’ll help you find the program that works for you, whether it’s in-person, hybrid or fully online.
Whichever program you enroll in, you’ll have our support in making the most of it. From DC’s online learning platforms and modules to academic supports available for remote learners, you’ll learn to excel in any study format.
How to get credit for your prior learning and life experience
Your previous education or work experience could give you credit toward your program at DC! We’ll explain how to transfer credits and leverage the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process to fast-track your education.
You’ll learn what types of credits are eligible for transfer and how to submit documentation, as well as examples of skills and knowledge that qualify for PLAR.
To learn more about how DC can help you fulfill your goals and register for one of the upcoming webinars, visit our Mature Student website. Have questions? Email us at recruitment@durhamcollege.ca or call 905.721.3126.
App Store
Google Play
