Proficiency in Academic College English (Certificate)
Applications available
Fall 2025: Apply Now!
Winter 2026: Apply Now!
Summer 2026: Apply Now!
On Education Planner BC select the program "Academic College English Proficiency Certificate (ELLA) - English Language Learning and Acquisition"
Overview
The Academic College English Program (ACE) is designed to improve your speaking, listening and writing skills to prepare you for college- and university-level classes.
If you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or refugee the program is tuition-free.
In addition to helping you improve your English as a second language (ESL), the program focuses on developing research and critical thinking skills vital to post-secondary success. Once you successfully complete three of the four Level 3 classes, you will meet the English language proficiency requirements for courses at Douglas College. Our ACE program is offered both full- and part-time for those with busy schedules.
Admissions Requirements
Applicants must meet the admission requirements listed below:
- General College Admission Requirements (excluding Language Proficiency Requirement)
- An ELLA assessment to determine appropriate course levels
Cost
Calculate your tuition and see the approximate cost of taking your program at Douglas College with the tuition & fee estimator. See costs broken down into categories including tuition fees, textbooks, student activity fees, U-Pass and more.
For more information, refer to the tuition fee charts.
Program Requirements
Graduation Requirements For Students Completing By Summer 2023:
- Successful completion of 12 credits
- Minimum Grade: “MAS”
- 75% (9 credits) of all coursework must be completed at Douglas College
- Time limit to complete program graduation requirements: four (4) years
Graduation Requirements For Students Completing After Summer 2023:
- Successful completion of 12 credits
- Minimum Grade: “MAS”
- 50% (6 credits) of all coursework must be completed at Douglas College
- Graduate in Good Academic Standing (See Academic Performance Policy)
- Time limit to complete program graduation requirements: four (4) years
Course Requirements:
| Course Number | Course Title | Credits |
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Discussing Global Issues for English Language Learners |
3.00 |
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Understanding Global Issues for English Language Learners |
3.00 |
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Writing about Global Issues for English Language Learners |
3.00 |
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Advancing Academic Accuracy for English Language Learners |
3.00 |
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Total Credits |
12.00 |
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Program Guidelines
Program Guidelines for previous years are viewable by selecting the version desired. If you took this program and do not see a listing for the starting semester / year of the program, consider the previous version as the applicable version.
Career Pathways
This program will prepare you for further education and enhance your current skill set. Develop your academic experience, your understanding of the English language, and apply your new knowledge to your future education or career.