Georgian College, a top public college in Central Ontario, provides career-driven education that prepares students for success in Canada’s job market. With over 130 programs and a network of 110,000+ graduates, the college offers valuable industry connections and high graduate employment rates. Our guide, Georgian College in Ontario | Study in Canada, explores why this institution is a great choice for international students.
An Overview of Georgian College
Main Campus
Georgian College’s main campus is in Barrie, a growing city just one hour from Toronto. Not only is this location safe and welcoming, but it is also part of a tourist region called Simcoe County, widely known as the Four Seasons Playground because it offers year-round outdoor activities. For instance, in the warmer months, visitors can enjoy beaches, hiking, and biking trails. Meanwhile, during winter, the area transforms with excellent ski resorts, snow fishing, and vibrant festivals.
Additionally, Barrie offers a high quality of life and affordable living, making it a great choice for students. Most importantly, its proximity to Toronto provides students with greater access to a larger job market after graduation.
Ontario’s Leading College for Job Placement
Georgian College ranks among Ontario’s top colleges for graduate employment, with 90.3% of students securing jobs within six months of graduation. The college partners with over 6,200 employers, ensuring students gain hands-on experience and build strong professional connections.
Top Employers Hiring Georgian College Graduates:
Honda, Blackberry, Magna, Alectra, Innovative Automation, BestBuy, Pratt & Whitney, Stelco, Prodomax, BMO, local government, and more.
Hands-On Learning & Practical Training
Committed to work-integrated learning, Georgian College ensures every program includes practical training. 100% of programs emphasize practical, hands-on learning, through paid co-op placements, field placements and internships.
- Co-op Placements – Gain paid work experience while studying.
- Internships & Field Placements – Build real-world experience before graduation.
- Research & Innovation Projects – Work on industry challenges with faculty and businesses.
- In-Demand Programs with PGWP Eligibility – Healthcare, STEM, trades, education, and business specialties.
This hands-on approach helps students graduate job-ready, making them competitive candidates in Canada’s workforce.
High-Demand Programs at Georgian College
Georgian College offers over 130 programs, including certificates, diplomas, degrees, and graduate certificates. Some of the most in-demand programs include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Gain expertise in machine learning, automation, and data analysis to solve real-world challenges. With these skills, students develop AI-driven solutions that drive innovation across industries. - Biotechnology
Build a strong foundation in molecular biology, cellular biology, chemistry, and physiology while working in high-tech labs. These skills prepare you for careers in pharmaceuticals, research, and healthcare. - Cybersecurity
Gain practical experience through technical visits, expert-led training, and internships. Graduates learn how to protect digital information and prevent cyber threats. - Occupational Therapy & Physiotherapy Assistant
Become a dual-trained clinician with hands-on healthcare experience. With internships helping students develop essential skills for working in rehabilitation and patient care. - Game Design & Simulation
Master 2D and 3D game design tools used in the entertainment industry and learn to create immersive simulations for various platforms, including VR and AR. - Practical Nursing
Gain real-world experience through clinical placements while training for a fulfilling healthcare career. Learn to assess patients, administer medications, and assist registered nurses (RNs) and physicians.
On-Campus Health & Wellness Clinics
In fact, the college has its own health and wellness clinics, where students gain supervised experience while actively providing services to the local community. These clinics offer services at a reduced cost with flexible evening hours and include:
- Acupuncture
- Oral Health Services
- Massage Therapy
- Spa & Esthetics Treatments
- Hair Studio Services
- Communication Disorders Clinic
What better way to learn than by gaining hands-on experience while also giving back to the community at the same time?
Scholarships for International Students
Georgian College makes education affordable by offering scholarships and financial aid to students. These opportunities help lower tuition costs, making the college a budget-friendly choice for international students.
- $2,000 Entrance Scholarships – Applications are open for Spring and Fall 2025, as well as Winter 2026.
- Over $1 Million in Scholarships – More than 825 scholarships awarded each year.
- Free Enrollment – The application fee is waived for high-demand programs.
For more details on scholarships, contact a UniApplyNow representative who can assist with the latest information.
Student Testimonial: Student to Employee
Debora Da Silva, pictured below, is a Brazilian graduate of the Business Diploma program and is now a professor of English Language Studies at Georgian College.
Q: How did you become a professor at the college?
A: I did an internship at college, which was part of my course. I worked as an intern in the Domestic Student Recruitment department, and then in the Student Services department, eventually as a Sexual Violence and Consent Peer Educator. It was during this last experience that I met someone very special who recommended me to the Academic English team.
Q: How do you like living in Barrie?
A: I love Barrie. I came here with my husband and daughter. The city has a lot to offer. We love outdoor activities, so there are lots of trails, lake beaches, parks. It has all the offerings that a big city would have, a variety of supermarkets, banks, pharmacies, cinemas, schools, public transportation that goes to Toronto. The city has many festivals, in short, it is great for those who enjoy a quieter lifestyle but still want to have access to lots of entertainment options. In short, it is a wonderful place to live.
Q: How was your experience as a student?
A: What surprised me was the intensity of the program. It was two years of a looooooot of studying. Group and individual work, tests. Sometimes it seemed like a lot of content in a short amount of time. But the support from the teachers was incredible. I never imagined it could be like this. Initially, I expected strict teachers who didn’t care about their students, but I was lucky enough to have classes with teachers who cared about my performance and gave me all the support I needed to pass. I made the Dean’s List in 3 of the 4 semesters. So, the experience was great, very intense, but very personally enriching.
Why Study at Georgian College?
Here’s a recap of the key points and important factors to consider if you’re thinking about studying at Georgian College:
- Top Employment Rate – 90.3% of graduates secure jobs within six months, thanks to partnerships with 6,200+ employers.
- Work-Integrated Learning – Every program includes hands-on training, internships, or co-op placements for real-world experience.
- Prime Location – The main campus in Barrie is just an hour from Toronto, with easy public transportation access.
- High Quality of Life – Study in a scenic region known as the Four Seasons Playground, offering year-round outdoor activities.
- Student Housing Options – Choose from affordable on-campus and off-campus residences for a comfortable living experience.
- Diverse Study Options – Choose from certificates, diplomas, degrees, and graduate certificates in high-demand fields.
- Generous Scholarships – Over $1 million in financial aid, including $2,000 entrance awards for eligible students in 2025 and January 2026.
- Industry Connections – Many programs offer paid co-op internships with top employers like Honda, Alectra, Magna, and Pratt & Whitney.
How to Apply to Georgian College:
Applications are now open for Spring & Fall 2025 & Winter 2026!
- Choose Your Program – Select a certificate, diploma, or degree program.
- Submit Required Documents – Provide academic transcripts, English test scores, and passport details.
- Receive Your Offer Letter – Get an official admission confirmation from Georgian College.
- Apply for Your Study Permit – Use your acceptance letter to apply for a study visa.
Need Help with University Admission? UniApplyNow assists students in finding the right university programs, visa support, and admission guidance for studying in Canada and the U.S.
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Want to read more? Choosing the Right University as an International Student.
