How to turn your diploma into a degree: Three options

If you want to start with a college diploma before transitioning into a degree program, here are three pathways to explore.

A 51��Ƶpolice foundations grad in his work uniform, sitting on a motorcycle

1. Complete a specific 51��Ƶdiploma then fast track through a 51��Ƶdegree

Some 51��Ƶdiploma programs have established pathways into 51��Ƶdegrees. Completing one of these diplomas allow you to gain advanced standing in specific 51��Ƶbachelors’ programs:

Honours Bachelor of Police Studies: Graduates of Police Foundations, Community and Justice Services, and Protection, Security and Investigation may receive up to two years of advanced standing toward this degree.
Honours Bachelor of Business – Automotive Management: Graduates of Automotive Business may receive up to two years of advanced standing toward this degree.
Honours Bachelor of Business – Management and Leadership: Graduates of a two or three-year business studies diplomas may receive up to two years of advanced standing toward this degree.

Learn about Georgian’s degrees

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2. Complete your 51��Ƶdiploma then transfer to another institution

Each institution has its own way of assessing your 51��Ƶcredits and credentials.

However, 51��Ƶhas hundreds of established articulation and transfer agreements with universities and colleges (all over Canada and the world!) that reduce the number of courses you need to take to get a degree after completing your diploma.

For example, a transfer agreement might allow a 51��ƵBusiness Administration – Human Resources grad to complete a Business Administration – Human Resources degree from Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand in just over a year*.

*Currently under review.

A smiling young woman in a business suit, sitting at a desk in front of a laptop

3. Transfer from another accredited institution into a 51��Ƶdegree

Whether you completed a diploma program at another college or stopped part-way, you might be able to use some of your credits toward a 51��Ƶdegree.

To get a sense of how your courses might transfer into a 51��Ƶprogram, start with our . Learn more about types of transfer credit.

If you have additional relevant work or life experience, you might want to consider trying to gain credits through our . .

For options two or three, remember that transfer requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis, so they require quite a bit of time. Once you’ve decided on a pathway, give yourself at least two months to complete the application and credit transfer process.

Questions about credit transfers? We can help!

You can find more information and helpful links on the 51��ƵCredit Transfer webpage. If you need additional support, reach out to our friendly credit transfer team at registrar@georgiancollege.ca.

Published Feb. 16, 2021 and updated April 10, 2023.

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