Home > Future Students > Opportunities > Advanced Standing

Advanced Standing Towards a University of Guelph Degree

Your associate diploma may give you advanced standing to complete a University of Guelph degree.

Earn credits towards a University of Guelph Degree
2 years at Ridgetown Campus plus approx. 3 years at Guelph Campus = Honours Degree

Associate diploma graduates may apply to University of Guelph degree programs
Students must have a cumulative average of 70% or higher
Contact the University of Guelph’s Registrar’s Office for more specific degree requirements

"The learning opportunities I had while I was a student at Ridgetown were incredible. I really enjoyed my experience, starting in the Veterinary Office Administration program and then being a student in the Veterinary Technology program. I really enjoy learning, and continuing my studies at the Guelph campus has been great so far!"

Alicia Scott
FE Madill SS, Wingham, ON
Veterinary Medical Office Administration Certificate, Class of 2007
Associate Diploma in Veterinary Technology, Class of 2009
B. Comm. (AgBus.) Candidate, Class of 2012

Completing a two-year academic program provides a great practical base for many students who develop a further interest in learning while completing an associate diploma or certificate. Many graduates will be given advanced standing (transfer credits, depending on what program they apply to) when applying to programs of similar areas of study.

Many Ridgetown students decide to continue their studies and give credit to their Ridgetown experience as the motivator for this decision. These students will continue learning by applying to programs of interest such as; another diploma program, or an applied or undergraduate degree, or a specialized certificate, or an industry training opportunity.

"The small campus at Ridgetown made it easy to get to know lots of my classmates and instructors, it was the perfect fit for what I was looking for. I’ve enjoyed my time at Ridgetown so much that I even decided to stay for the summer, where I found a job assisting with agricultural research projects. I’m excited to continue my studies at the Guelph campus to complete an agricultural science degree."

Sokhany Dosvanna
Iona Catholic Secondary School, Mississauga, ON
Associate Diploma in Agriculture, Class of 2011
B. Sc. (Agr.), Candidate, Class of 2014

The benefits of a one or two year program as a stepping stone to further learning include:

Gaining up to date practical knowledge in your area of interest
Finding an area of study that you want to learn more about
Making industry contacts in your area of study
Developing your personal leadership style and study skills
Developing more confidence to attend larger academic institutions
Developing your next academic and career goal(s)