Business and Information Technology Liberal Studies Hospitality and Horticultural Science Science and Engineering Technology Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Social and Community Services Media, Art and Design Business and Information Technology The Faculty of Business and Information Technology at Durham College offers a diverse array of programs designed to ignite students passion for business, technology, and creative industries — and we’re excited to support dual credit students in discovering these pathways early! From hands-on courses like Make-Up & Corrective Techniques offered through programs such as Cosmetic Techniques & Management, to entrepreneurship-focused classes like Starting a Business and skills-based courses like Manicure and Nail Tech, there’s something for every interest and career goal. Dual credit students can also explore foundational business studies, accounting, and even programming through courses tied to full-time academic options such as Accounting – Business, Entrepreneurship and Small Business, Computer Programming, and many more innovative programs within the Faculty. To help you experience life on campus and get a taste of what these programs are really like, Durham College also hosts two Durham Aesthetics Workshop Days as part of our Activities & Forums series. These events give students the chance to step into professional labs — like our cosmetics lab — and explore careers in esthetics, wellness, spa management, and related fields firsthand. It’s a fantastic way for students to immerse themselves in the college environment, connect with instructors, and see where their interests might lead. If you’re excited to join these workshops or want to learn more about how dual credit can help your students transition into the Faculty of Business and IT, reach out to your Dual Credit board lead. Liberal Studies The Faculty of Liberal Studies at Durham College plays a key role in supporting dual credit students who are exploring postsecondary pathways, building academic confidence, and earning credits that can transfer into future college programs. Liberal Studies dual credit courses are designed to strengthen critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and academic skills that support success across all areas of study. Many dual credit offerings align with General Arts and Science (GAS) pathways, allowing students to begin earning credits that may later apply toward GAS certificates or diplomas. GAS programming is often used as a stepping-stone into diploma or degree programs, helping students clarify career goals while lightening future course loads where applicable. Durham College also maintains strong transfer pathways with institutions such as Ontario Tech University, Trent University, and other Canadian universities, making Liberal Studies an excellent foundation for students considering further academic study. Liberal Studies courses also connect directly to General Education (GNED) requirements found in most Durham College diploma and advanced diploma programs. GNEDs expose students to broader themes — including Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology — helping students develop a well-rounded perspective valued by employers and postsecondary institutions alike. For dual credit students, selecting a Liberal Studies course can be a strategic choice: it builds transferable academic skills, supports multiple postsecondary pathways, and introduces college-level expectations in a supportive learning environment. Interested in these dual credit opportunities? Connect with your Dual Credit board lead to learn more about available courses and pathways. COMM 1100 vs. COMM 1715 – Key Differences and Program Alignment Both COMM 1100 and COMM 1715 are college-level communications courses at Durham College; however, they are not interchangeable and are required by different programs. COMM 1100 – Communication Foundations COMM 1100 is the standard communications course required by the majority of Durham College diploma and certificate programs. It is designed to support a wide range of applied and career-focused postsecondary pathways. COMM 1715 – Academic Writing: Stand Out in the Write Way COMM 1715 is a more specialized communications course with a strong focus on grammar, sentence structure, and accuracy in written communication. Students develop foundational academic writing skills, with an emphasis on clarity, correctness, and formal written conventions. This course is currently required only for the following programs: Dental Office Administration (DOFA) Dental Reception and Administration (DRA) Pre-Health Science (PHS) Important Planning Note for High Schools Because COMM 1100 is accepted by most Durham College programs, it is generally the recommended choice for students who are undecided or exploring multiple postsecondary options. General Arts and Science (GAS) Programs at Durham College General Arts and Science (GAS) programs are flexible, exploratory pathways designed for students who are still deciding on a specific academic or career route or who want to strengthen foundational academic skills before entering a diploma or degree program. GAS programs help students build confidence in critical thinking, communication, academic study habits, and post-secondary expectations — while earning credits that may transfer into future programs. GAS options include: General Arts and Science – General Certificate: A broad, two-semester program where students choose electives from a variety of subjects while reinforcing essential academic skills. Many credits may transfer into other Durham College programs. Transfer-Focused Streams: Pathways tailored for students planning to continue into university programs through partner agreements, such as Ontario Tech (e.g., Liberal Arts, Forensic Psychology, Science & Engineering Preparation) or Trent University (e.g., Bachelor of Arts or Science transfer). Eligible graduates may receive advanced standing in select degree programs. Throughout GAS programs, students also receive individualized academic advising and support to help choose courses strategically for future academic goals. Completion of a GAS certificate can make the transition to further study smoother and more successful by providing a solid foundation in post-secondary skills and knowledge. Hospitality and Horticultural Science The Faculty of Hospitality and Horticultural Science at Durham College offers hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that allow dual credit students to explore careers rooted in food, tourism, sustainability, and the natural environment. Through engaging dual credit courses such as Vegetable Propagation, Global Cuisine, and Tourism and Hospitality, students gain practical skills while developing an understanding of the industries that shape local and global communities. These dual credit offerings connect directly to future pathways within the Faculty, including programs in culinary management, hospitality and tourism management, and horticulture and food production. Students are introduced to industry-relevant concepts such as sustainable growing practices, food preparation techniques from around the world, customer service excellence, and the operational side of hospitality and tourism. By participating in Hospitality and Horticultural Science dual credit courses, students can explore career options, build transferable skills, and experience college-level learning in applied, real-world settings. Students interested in these opportunities are encouraged to connect with their Dual Credit board lead to learn more about available courses and pathways. Media Art and Design The Media Art and Design programs at Durham College offer dual credit students an exciting opportunity to explore creativity, storytelling, and digital production in a region at the heart of Ontario’s media industry. Through a wide range of hands-on courses — including Drawing I (Observational), Photography and Illustration, Design Tools, Typography, Composition and Design, and Observation and Perception — students build strong foundational skills in visual communication and creative thinking. Dual credit students can also explore dynamic digital and media-focused courses such as Foundations of Visual Motion, Video Capture and Editing, Motion Graphics, Vector and Pixel Art, Stop-Motion Storytelling, Post-Production for Digital Media, 3D Modelling and Rendering, Photography for Integrated Media, and Introduction to Broadcast Technologies. Together, these courses introduce students to the tools, techniques, and workflows used across film, television, animation, graphic design, and digital media industries. Located within close proximity to Toronto, Durham Region, and the Greater Toronto Area, Durham College sits in one of Canada’s busiest hubs for film, television, and digital content production. Students benefit from exposure to industries that support careers in film and television production, animation and visual effects, graphic and motion design, broadcast media, photography, digital content creation, and interactive media. By participating in Media Art and Design dual credit courses, students gain early exposure to college-level creative programs, develop industry-relevant skills, and explore future career pathways in one of Canada’s fastest-growing creative sectors. Interested in Media Art and Design dual credit opportunities? Connect with your Dual Credit board lead to learn more about available courses and pathways. Science and Engineering Technology The Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology at Durham College offers dual credit students the opportunity to explore applied science, technology, and engineering pathways through hands-on coursework. Dual credit offerings such as Environmental Science, Manufacturing Sciences, Mathematics for Civil Engineering, and Physical Science introduce students to the foundational concepts that support a wide range of technical and engineering careers. These courses connect directly to future postsecondary pathways in areas such as engineering technology, manufacturing and industrial systems, environmental and sustainability studies, construction and civil engineering, and applied sciences. Students gain early exposure to college-level math, scientific reasoning, and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in STEM-focused diploma and advanced diploma programs. By participating in Science and Engineering Technology dual credit courses, students build confidence in technical learning environments, strengthen their analytical skills, and explore career pathways that support innovation, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship. Interested in these dual credit opportunities? Connect with your Dual Credit board lead to learn more about available courses and pathways. By participating in Media Art and Design dual credit courses, students gain early exposure to college-level creative programs, develop industry-relevant skills, and explore future career pathways in one of Canada’s fastest-growing creative sectors. Interested in Media Art and Design dual credit opportunities? Connect with your Dual Credit board lead to learn more about available courses and pathways. Skilled Trades The Skilled Trades programs at Durham College provide dual credit students with hands-on, career-focused learning opportunities that introduce them to in-demand trades and technical careers. Through a broad range of dual credit courses, students gain practical experience and industry-relevant knowledge in automotive and mechanical fields. Students can also explore core trade areas such as Automotive, Electrical, Plumbing, Welding, Carpentry, Wood-Framed Construction, Sheet Metal Fabrication, Mechanical Systems, and Hoisting, along with essential training in hand tools and workplace safety. These courses mirror the real-world environments of skilled trades programs and help students develop technical skills, safety awareness, and problem-solving abilities. Skilled Trades dual credit courses connect directly to postsecondary pathways in apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and college diploma programs, supporting careers in construction, manufacturing, automotive service, electrical and mechanical trades, and industrial maintenance. By participating in these courses, students can explore multiple trade options, build confidence in applied learning settings, and make informed decisions about future training and employment. Students interested in Skilled Trades dual credit opportunities are encouraged to connect with their Dual Credit board lead to learn more about available courses and pathways. Social and Community Services The Faculty of Social and Community Services at Durham College offers dual credit students the opportunity to explore careers centered on supporting individuals, families, and communities. Through a wide range of dual credit courses — including Child Development, Introduction to Child and Youth Care, Developmental Psychology, Principles of Psychology, Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), and Developmental Disabilities studies — students gain foundational knowledge in human development, behaviour, and support services. Students can also explore courses in Health and Wellness, Lifestyle Management, Group Dynamics, Ethics, and Health & Well-Being, as well as justice- and safety-focused subjects such as Canadian Law and Courts, Interviewing and Investigations, and Fire Detection and Alarm Systems. Together, these courses introduce students to the multidisciplinary nature of social and community services and the real-world contexts in which professionals work. Social and Community Services dual credit courses connect directly to future pathways in child and youth care, early childhood education, social service work, behavioural science, developmental services, health promotion, and community justice programs. By participating in these courses, students develop strong communication skills, ethical awareness, and a deeper understanding of the social systems that support well-being. Students interested in Social and Community Services dual credit opportunities are encouraged to connect with their Dual Credit board lead to learn more about available courses and postsecondary pathways. PSI Program Overview Do you want a career in law enforcement but are not sure whether that means being a Canada Border Services officer, special constable, correctional officer, by-law officer or police officer? Join our program to learn about each of these career paths through a diverse curriculum taught by industry professionals and discover which career best suits your interests. Our program delivers security officer training and law enforcement courses that prepare graduates for roles within the protection, security, and investigation sectors. Students benefit from hands-on emergency management exercises, professional security guard course instruction, and field placement opportunities that simulate real-world scenarios. With industry-experienced faculty and state-of-the-art training facilities, graduates are equipped with the qualifications necessary to pursue various career paths related to emergency management and law enforcement. Law Clerk (LWCL) Program Description: Law Clerks play an essential role in supporting the delivery of legal services in Canada. They work in law firms, insurance companies, banks, courts, and government agencies, under the supervision of lawyers and other licensed professionals. Law clerks conduct legal research, manage client files and deadlines, draft and process legal documentation, and use current technologies to manage information. The Law Clerk program focuses on building the legal, technical, professional, and analytical skills needed for graduates to succeed in the legal field where law clerks are in high demand. Program Description – Honours Bachelor of Paralegal Degree There is an emerging demand for paralegals in Canada and Ontario as rising populations have a need for affordable legal representation and access to the justice system. Students in this program: Develop critical thinking skills and learn to analyze complex legal issues, evaluate evidence, and create strategic arguments to advocate for the rights and interests of different client groups to be prepared for diverse client advocacy. Gain a deeper understanding of the unique legal challenges faced by various marginalized communities and build a strong cultural competency lens to support diverse populations such as immigrants, refugees, Indigenous peoples, women, and LGBTQ+ clients. Explore key legal frameworks and historical case law that have shaped Canadian and international legal systems and gain a comprehensive understanding of legal and judicial aspects, including historical debates, constitutional law, and special topics. Gain hands-on experience in a mandatory 14-week, 420-hour experiential field placement where they apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world legal settings such as law firms, legal clinics, or government agencies. Program Description – Paralegal Diploma Accredited by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) Durham College’s paralegal training program qualifies graduates to apply to write the LSO’s licensing examination to become a licensed paralegal. Unique to Ontario, the paralegal profession was established to provide affordable legal representation and access to the justice system in prescribed areas of law before many courts and tribunals in the province. Durham College’s paralegal training will prepare you to pass this qualifying exam and enter this important field of work. Students in the paralegal program participate in a 240-hour field placement with a licensed paralegal or lawyer, in a government, court or law firm setting to gain practical, hands-on experience and the opportunity to apply the theories and concepts learned in the classroom.
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