Aboriginal student handbook - Aboriginal Access & Student Services
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Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm
www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266
aboriginal student handbook
Aboriginal Access & Student Services
table of contents
Welcome to Okanagan College....................................... 3
President’s Welcome......................................................... 3
Director of Student Services.......................................... 4
Aboriginal Access & Services Coordinator................ 4
Why Okanagan College?.................................................... 5
Four Great Regions, Four Great Choices..................... 6
Central Okanagan Region............................................... 6
South Okanagan/Similkameen Region...................... 6
Shuswap/Revelstoke Region......................................... 7
North Okanagan Region................................................. 7
Departments at a Glance.................................................... 8
Aboriginal Access and Student Services.................... 9
Coordinator........................................................................... 9
Mentors................................................................................... 9
Peer Mentors.......................................................................10
Aboriginal Student Centres...........................................10
Financial Aid & Awards for Aboriginals.....................10
Okanagan College Student Services..........................11
Academic Advising...........................................................11
Athletics & Recreation.....................................................11
Campus Health & Wellness............................................12
Counselling Services........................................................12
Disability Services.............................................................12
Financial Aid & Awards....................................................13
Cooperative Education, Graduate & Student
Employment...................................................................13
Learning Centres...............................................................14
Okanagan College Library.............................................14
Security.................................................................................14
Local Bands & Community Support............................15
Applying to Okanagan College.....................................16
Aboriginal Applicants......................................................16
Aboriginal Admissions....................................................16
Academic Admission Requirements..........................15
How to Apply......................................................................16
When to Apply....................................................................17
Transcripts............................................................................17
Important Information......................................................18
Financing Your Education..............................................18
Health & Dental Coverage ............................................18
Student Housing...............................................................19
Tuition....................................................................................19
Useful Websites..................................................................20
2 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266
president’s welcome
Welcome to As a part of our commitment to enhancing the
Okanagan College! participation of the ever-increasing number of our
We acknowledge and Aboriginal learners, we also provide Aboriginal
express gratitude student support services at each of our campuses. The
towards the people Aboriginal support service staff is an integral part of the
of the Okanagan and student services department. We encourage you to seek
Shuswap Nations within out the Aboriginal support service employee at your
whose traditional local campus.
territories we operate.
We hope the result of our commitment is that your
Our commitment to experience here is rewarding. Most of all, we hope that
Aboriginal learners when you graduate, you feel that Okanagan College has
and to serving the met or exceeded all of your personal and educational
Aboriginal community expectations.
figures prominently
in our College’s key Thank you for choosing Okanagan College.
directions. Aboriginal
learners are an integral Jim Hamilton
and important part President, Okanagan College
of our Okanagan
College community. We believe that respect for, and
partnerships with, the First Nation communities in our
region are critical to our success as we pursue our goal
of educating, training and supporting our students to
excel in the workplace, to succeed in further education
and to become lifelong learners.
We will strive to enhance your educational experience
while you study here, and we will take every
opportunity to listen and learn from you to make the
College a more inclusive and welcoming environment.
Okanagan College offers a variety of programming for
every stage of your life and educational experience.
Our advantages are many: small class sizes, regional
campuses, accessible admission requirements,
affordable tuition, a generous financial aid program, and
our student success centers.
Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm 3
services & coordination
Director of Student Services Aboriginal Access & Services
Coordinator
It is with great pleasure that
I welcome you to Okanagan way’
College located within the
We have made, and will
traditional territories of the
continue to make, a
Okanagan and Shuswap
meaningful commitment to
Nations for which we are very
enhancing the participation
grateful. As you will soon find
of Aboriginal learners as
out, Okanagan College is an
Okanagan College continues
institution with lofty goals.
Russ Winslade to grow. One of our key James Coble
We strive to meet the needs
directions is: Partnering with
of all students with an explicit
aboriginal communities to increase Aboriginal success
commitment to ensuring the success of our Aboriginal
and participation. This is clearly indicative of the
learners. We provide support services that cater to
importance Okanagan College places on our Aboriginal
the needs of all our students. We offer many forms of
learners and the Aboriginal communities that we serve.
support including:
• Aboriginal student services Although there have been numerous changes in
• educational advising our institution’s designation and mandate over
• counselling the past 20 years, a concerted effort from current
• disability services senior administration has resulted in an increase in
• financial aid and award services programs and services for Aboriginal learners and
• learning and success centres the establishment and maintenance of meaningful
• student, grad and co-op employment services partnerships with the Aboriginal communities we serve.
• alumni services
In addition, as Okanagan College is a multi-campus
• campus health services
institution serving the Okanagan and Shuswap regions,
Everyone needs a helping hand once in a while. there is a need to ensure that equitable services,
I encourage you to seek the support you need. programs and standards are provided for each campus.
All services are voluntary, free and in most cases This suggests the need to ensure that Aboriginal
confidential. Our job is to help you meet your support services are themselves provided equitably
educational/career goals. across campuses. The staff of Aboriginal Access and
Student Services are here to provide you with a
On behalf of the Student Services Department we are welcoming and comfortable environment.
pleased that you have chosen to attend Okanagan
College and look forward to working with you. I look forward to meeting you while you are here.
4 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266
why okanagan college?
Perhaps the question should be: More than
Why not Okanagan College? books:
When you need
Learning and Teaching First: a break from
There are few places to go where the class sizes your studies,
are small, which greatly increases opportunities for why not get
personalized attention, and that’s what you’ll find here. involved with
We are a learning organization first and foremost. the intramural
program, visit
Award-Winning Instruction: one of our
Our instructors and professors have the knowledge and weight rooms
experience to ensure that you leave here with the skills or join one
you need to excel in the workplace and to facilitate of the intercollegiate athletic teams. Barbecues and
lifelong learning. Our quality of instruction is reflected student led events are common throughout the year for
in the numerous awards received by our students and you to meet other students and relax. You’ll meet new
faculty alike. friends from around the world and there are numerous
opportunities to explore different cultures that will
Results: make your college experience one you’ll remember
If you’re like most students, you want a job when you’re forever.
done. Okanagan College has above average graduate
employment rates that are reflective of our teaching Get Connected:
and program quality. If connectivity is your thing we have leading edge
equipment for all students. Use one of the many
Student Support: computers in the labs, library, Welcome Centre, or
To ensure that you have the funds you need to finish Aboriginal Student Centre. If you have your own laptop,
your program of choice, we have affordable tuition rates we offer wireless access to the internet throughout each
and a generous student financial aid program. There campus building. If you’re really in need of a computer,
are plenty of other resources here to help you achieve check out the library and inquire about borrowing a
your goals. Book an appointment with a course advisor, laptop for a day, week, a month or even the semester.
counsellor, disability coordinator, campus health nurse,
or drop by the Aboriginal Student Centre and Learning Come and see for yourself what Okanagan College can
Centre to see how we can enhance your experiences do for you. You’ll learn very quickly that we are a college
while you’re here. We pride ourselves on the level of of choices…the sky’s the limit!
support that we provide.
Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm 5
four great regions, four great choices
We offer programming in four distinct regions with four South Okanagan Similkameen Region - Penticton:
major centres of operation: Kelowna, Penticton, Salmon
Arm and Vernon. Penticton is an Okanagan Nation word that means
“a place to live forever”. Ideally located in the South
Central Okanagan Region - Kelowna: Okanagan, Penticton is a city known for its beautiful
surroundings and breath-taking lakes. Penticton has it
Kelowna is a small city that offers great weather, scenic all, whether you like skiing, snowboarding, golfing, going
mountains, pristine lakes, abundant gardens, orchards to the beach or checking out historic downtown, it is an
and vineyards, sandy beaches, and superb amenities. ideal spot for any new or continuing student. You can
The Kelowna campus is the only campus that has a enroll in first and second year university transfer arts
student residence. It is a perfect place to stay if you and science courses, business administration programs,
live out of the region. Inquire early as the rooms fill adult upgrading, literacy programs, practical nursing,
up fast. The Kelowna campus is the largest of all the some trades programs and a number of continuing
campuses and is undergoing major renovations to studies certificate programs including the viticulture
improve student life by providing more classrooms, a program, wine sales and wine tasting courses.
larger library and increased space for students to relax.
Kelowna offers miles of beautiful parkland, and several
sandy beaches which provide wonderful opportunities
for students including boating, swimming, water-skiing,
windsurfing, and fishing. During the winter months Oliver Centre
students can explore our snow-capped mountains Box 1799
and pine filled forests which are a haven for skiers and 9315-350 Avenue
snowboarders alike. The KLO campus and Penno Road Oliver, BC V0H 1T0
centre have a little bit of everything, and are ideal for 250.498.6264
any student looking for a fantastic place to
study and further their education. Penticton Campus
583 Duncan Avenue West
ARMSTRONG
Penticton, BC V2A 8E1
KLO Campus 250.492.4305
1000 KLO Road
Kelowna, BC V1Y 4X8 Penticton Downtown
250.762.5445 Campus
LAKE COUNTRY 247 Martin Street
Kelowna Trades Centre Penticton, BC V2A 5K2
WESTBANK
188 Penno Road 250.492.4305
Kelowna, BC V1X 6S2
250.762.5445 Summerland Centre
CAMPUSES & OTHER
FACILITIES
PEACHLAND
Box 1224
CENTRES
Downtown Centre (ABT) PRINCETON 13211 Henry Avenue
1405 St. Paul Street Summerland, BC VOH 1Z0
HEDLEY
Kelowna, BC V1Y 2E4 250.494.1300
250.762.5445 OLIVER
KEREMEOS
OSOYOOS
6 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266
in the southern bc interior
Shuswap Revelstoke Region - Salmon Arm: North Okanagan Region - Vernon:
Salmon Arm is located in the heart of British Columbia’s Vernon is located in the beautiful North Okanagan
famous Shuswap region, named for the clear waters region. It has a rich cultural history and is a four
of Shuswap lake. The town, which boasts a mild, season playground. Silver Star Mountain Resort is a
yet distinct four season climate and an active and mere 25 minutes away with skiing and snowboarding
vibrant arts community, is nestled on the south in the winter and world famous mountain biking in
shores of Shuswap Lake. The campus is surrounded the summer. The Vernon Campus (also known as the
by outstanding natural beauty, clean waterways and Kalamalka Campus) is situated in one of the most
many provincial parks making it a fun place for students breathtaking settings for any post-secondary institution.
to attend. If you’re looking for small class sizes and It overlooks Kalamalka lake with 180 degree views of
friendly staff you’ll feel right at home on the Salmon the valley. The campus offers a wide variety of post-
Arm campus. Come to Salmon Arm to train for a new secondary courses that can lead into an even wider
career, work toward journeyperson status in a trades variety of educational and employment opportunities.
area, study for a university degree, learn English as a The choices are many: upgrading, training in the health
second language, or seek professional and personal sector, writing and publishing, university courses in arts
development. The Salmon Arm campus is close to and sciences, aircraft maintenance engineering; pre-
several First Nations communities, making it a great apprenticeship programs, all levels of business related
place to go to school for all students. training including a Bachelor’ s Degree in Business
Administration and a variety of certificate programs in
Salmon Arm Campus our diverse and vibrant continuing studies sector.
Box 189
2552 Trans Canada Hwy. NE Kalamalka Campus
Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4N3 7000 College Way
250.832.2126 Vernon, BC V1B 2N5
Toll Free: 1.888.831.0341 250.545.7291
1.800.289.8993
Salmon Arm Trades Centre
5450 48th Avenue Vernon Aerospace Campus
Salmon Arm Industrial Park 6225 Okanagan Landing Road
Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4P9 Vernon, BC V1H 1M5
250.832.2126 250.5445.7291
Revelstoke Centre Vernon Trades Centre
Bag 4500 102 – 3201 30th Street
1401 – 1st Street West Vernon, BC V1T 9G9
Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0 250.545.7291
250.837.4235
Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm 7
departments at a glance
Business University Studies Arts
• Business Administration • Anthropology
• Office Administration • Communications
• Commercial Aviation • Criminal & Social Justice
• Economics
Engineering Technology • English
• Civil Engineering Technology • Geography
• Electronic Engineering Technology • History
• Mechanical Engineering Technology • Modern Languages
• Network & Telecommunications • Philosophy
Engineering Technology • Political Science
• Water Quality & Environmental • Psychology
Engineering Technology • Sociology & Women’s Studies
Health & Social Development University Studies Science
• Certified Dental Assistant • Biology
• Early Childhood Education • Chemistry
• Home Support/Resident Care Attendant • Computer Science
• Human Service Work • Earth & Environmental Science
• Practical Nursing • Mathematics & Statistics
• Therapist Assistant • Physics & Astronomy
International Education Foundational Programs
• English as a Second Language • Adult Academic & Career Preparation
• Adult Special Education
Trades & Apprenticeship • English as a Second Language
• Aerospace
• Automotive Collision Repair Continuing Studies
• Construction Trades • Business
• Culinary Arts • Computers & Technology
• Electrical Training • Employment & Professional
• Heavy Duty/Commercial Transport Mechanics • First Aid & Safety
• Motor Vehicle Trades • Health
• Plumbing • Horticulture
• RV Service Technician • Languages & Communication
• Trades Technology Teacher Education • Leisure Studies
• Welding
Distance Education
• University Studies
• Business Administration
• Adult & Academic Career Preparation
• English as a Second Language
• Plus Several Certificate Programs
For more information about any of these programs refer to the online version of the Okanagan College calendar at
www.okanagan.bc.ca/calendar
8 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266
access & services
Aboriginal Access & Student Services
The Aboriginal Access and Services Department
supports Aboriginal learners interested in applying to
and studying at Okanagan College. We are an integral
component of the Student Services Department. As a
part of Okanagan College’s commitment to enhancing
the participation of Aboriginal learners, the College
provides Aboriginal support services at each of the
four campuses. We strive to enhance your educational
experience by providing you with culturally relevant
support.
Coordinator:
The role of the coordinator is multifaceted and
generally involves coordinating the development
and implementation of culturally specific student
services including those initiatives designed to increase
access, consulting with various departments on
program development, and building relationships with
Aboriginal learners. Much of this work also involves
community consultation.
Mentors:
The role of the Aboriginal mentor is to assist in
providing educational support to, and act as a primary
resource for, Aboriginal students at each campus.
They assist:
Aboriginal students
• in accessing information about College programs,
courses and support services,
• in navigating the post-secondary education system,
• in advocacy work,
• in accessing services available from local service
providers
Aboriginal communities
• in the organization of events at the College for
prospective Aboriginal students,
• as contacts with Aboriginal bands regarding
individual students and their transition
to the College.
Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm 9
more support
Peer Mentors:
Peer mentors are students hired by Okanagan College
to provide individual help in solving school related
problems and to refer students to other student services
as the need arises. This provides increased exposure to
Aboriginal role models for all students. It also provides
an opportunity for Aboriginal learners to offset the cost
of post-secondary education thereby increasing the
probability of retention and completion.
Aboriginal Student Centres:
Okanagan College provides gathering spaces for
Aboriginal learners. Of the four Okanagan College
campuses, we have three designated Aboriginal
gathering places in Penticton, Kelowna, and Vernon. The
college is currently building another centre in Salmon
Arm. Construction is to be completed by the end of the
2008/09 academic year. The gathering places, adorned
with Aboriginal art, offer students opportunities to work
on computers, print off essays and homework, have
coffee, store and reheat lunches, sit and relax on sofas
and chairs, or talk with mentors and peer mentors.
Financial Aid & Awards for Aboriginals:
Okanagan College is committed to helping Aboriginal
students offset the costs associated with going to
school. The college offers three bursaries for Aboriginal
students:
• Okanagan College Aboriginal Students Bursary
• Okanagan College – Okanagan Nation Students
Bursary
• Okanagan College – Shuswap Nation Students
Bursary
Visit the Aboriginal Student Centre nearest you to find
out more about all the financial aid opportunities at
Okanagan College.
10 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266the college student services
The division of Student Services offers a wide range of support and developmental services that are designed to help
you succeed in your chosen field of study.
Academic Advising Recreation Facilities
Academic advising services can assist you with program The Kelowna campus recreation facilities include a
information, requirements and Okanagan College fitness facility (offering cardio and basic weight training
course prerequisite information. To access Okanagan equipment), outdoor basketball court and tennis courts.
College academic advising, schedule an appointment The fitness facility is located at the east end of the
or visit our website at www.okanagan.bc.ca which A building (adjacent to Continuing Studies). All
contains academic advising information, Okanagan Okanagan College students with a current Okanagan
College program links, helpful links to Okanagan College student ID card are welcome to use the South
College information and services, the Post-Secondary Kelowna campus fitness facility at no additional cost.
Application Service, BC’s Online Transfer Guide, and
much more. You can also use resources at the Welcome Kelowna fitness facilities information is available at
Centre, which include college and university calendars, the Kelowna Recreation Facilities website at www.
directories, and web access. Make an appointment with okanagan.bc.ca. You will find many special discount
an academic advisor to learn more about courses and offers from ski hills to kayak rentals, once you show your
programs offered at Okanagan College. student ID.
Campus Recreation
Campus Life provides opportunities for students to
participate in intercollegiate athletics, recreation and
cultural events. Life-long wellness is promoted through
a variety of fun fitness activities appealing to a wide
range of interests.
Recreation
Recreational activities at all campuses are administered
in consultation with their student associations and
campus deans. In Kelowna, Student Services offers
a wide range of activities and programs. Student
coordinators and volunteers in consultation with the
department, organize and help monitor fun-filled
activities catering to a wide range of interests. Special
events may include slo-pitch, bowling, bocce, curling,
golf and mountain biking.
Intramurals/recreational activities such as badminton,
basketball, indoor soccer, volleyball and other games/
activities may be offered. Instructional programs
may include aerobics, tai chi, circuit/weight training
orientation, yoga and martial arts. Campus recreation
also helps provide students with opportunities and
discounts for activities off campus such as Canucks and
Rockets ice hockey games, skiing, snow boarding and
swimming.
Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm 11health & wellness
Campus Health & Wellness: Academic Success Counselling:
The mission of Campus Health as a health promotion Counsellors provide instruction on a variety of topics
and prevention service is to promote the optimal including study skills, time and stress management,
health of students and the campus community. note taking, reading, exam writing, and other aspects
Services include student drop-in, health education, of student success. These services are available through
health assessment, referrals, management of illness, class presentations, group workshops or individual
crisis intervention, and healthy campus development. appointments.
Services are available at no charge for all Okanagan
College students. Wellness Centres are located at Programs and services are inclusive and sensitive to all
Kalamalka campus (Vernon), Penticton campus, Salmon dimensions of diversity.
Arm campus, and in the Student Services Building &
Skaha Residence (Kelowna campus) from September Disability Services:
to April. Students from all Okanagan College campuses The purpose of Disability Services is to provide equal
are welcome to phone or drop-in for prompt and access to educational opportunities for students
confidential health care. Campus Health assists students with disabilities at Okanagan College. Students are
to make informed decisions about their health and encouraged to meet with service coordinators as early
lifestyles, and works in partnership with students as possible and will be asked to provide documentation
and staff on campus to maintain a healthy campus of their disability.
environment.
Advance Registration:
Counselling Services: Students with disabilities may be eligible for advance
To support student success, Okanagan College offers registration. This allows students to make early
free confidential counselling services in the following arrangements for the required support. Please refer
areas: to the section on Academic Regulations for more
detailed information about this process at
Personal Counselling: www.okanagan.bc.ca/calendar
Professional counsellors work with enrolled students
to address a wide range of problems that interfere Disability Services offers assistance in registration,
with their ability to meet academic and personal instructor liaison, physical access, student aides,
goals. Some of the common concerns that arise are: captioning, visual language interpreting, technical aides
anxiety, depression, relationships, anger management, and adaptive equipment, large print and taped books,
self-esteem, conflict resolution and diversity issues. learning assistance, referral to Okanagan College and
Counsellors also assist with referrals to community community resources, and accommodated exams (e.g.,
resources when appropriate. extended time). Students are responsible for informing
their instructors and Disability Services about their
Career Counselling: test accommodation needs as soon as classes begin
Counsellors meet with students to help them choose in any given semester. Students should determine, in
a career path that fits their interests, personality, consultation with instructors, if Disability Services will
aptitudes and personal values. Services are provided be required to invigilate any tests or exams during the
through supported self-directed searches, individual semester. If this is the case, Disability Services should be
appointments and group workshops. Depending on informed of exam dates and times as soon as possible.
counsellor availability, career services may also be Disability Services requires 10 working days’ notice in
offered to prospective students. advance of any tests that need to be invigilated.
12 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266financial aid & co-op
Okanagan College is committed to providing reasonable • Okanagan College Aboriginal Students Bursary
access and classroom accommodation as resources • Okanagan College - Okanagan Nation Students
permit. It is the student’s responsibility to request Bursary
services and provide appropriate documentation that • Okanagan College – Shuswap Nation Students
verifies disability. Without documentation, Disability Bursary
Services does not have adequate information to make • Okanagan College Emergency Funding
appropriate service decisions.
Donor Awards: funded by individuals, organizations,
Students are encouraged to declare their disability on corporations, etc., through the Okanagan College
the Okanagan College application form and contact Foundation
their local Disability Services office when they apply
for admission to Okanagan College. Services related to Government Student Assistance Programs:
sign language interpretation, taped books and adaptive • Adult Basic Education Assistance Program (grant)
equipment require at least three months’ advance • B.C. Student Assistance Program (BCSAP) (student
notice of service request. loans, grants etc.)
• Canada Study Grants for high-need part-time
Financial Aid & Awards: students
This office provides information and assistance to • Part-time Canada Student Loan
students on sources of student aid (loans and grants) • Irving K. Barber Scholarship Program
and awards, applying for government and institutional • Nurses Education Bursary
funds, appealing government student aid decisions, • BC Health Care Scholarship Fund
planning and budgeting for training, and educational
costs. Co-operative Education, Graduate
The cost of attending Okanagan College should be & Student Employment:
considered by all students. Students who are uncertain This on-campus service is offered on a year round basis
of their financial situation are urged to contact the Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Services include,
Financial Aid and Awards Office in Kelowna for student employment at Okanagan College, co-operative
information well in advance of registration (at least work term employment, job postings for summer
three months). Call toll free 1-800-767-5492. employment, part-time and graduate employment,
liaison with employers, on-campus and off-campus
Awards (Scholarships and Bursaries) Administered recruiting by employers, employment advising, labour
by Okanagan College: market information, and job search advice.
Detailed award descriptions, application forms and
deadlines for the following awards are available on the
Okanagan College Financial Aid and Awards website.
Okanagan College Funded Awards:
• Okanagan College President’s Entrance Scholarships
• Okanagan College Tuition Entrance Scholarships
for regional secondary school graduates, for AACP/
ESL students proceeding to post-secondary study,
and for mature students
• Okanagan College Academic Achievement
Scholarships
• Okanagan College Tuition Bursary
Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm 13learning centres, library & security
Learning Centres journals, electronic full-text resources and other
What are Learning Centres? Learning Centres help materials selected to support the programs and courses
students in their academic studies at Okanagan College at Okanagan College. Through the library website,
by providing assistance beyond their regular class users can also find articles, statistics, and government
time. The Centres offer one-to-one and small group documents. Interlibrary loan services provide Okanagan
learning assistance in reading, writing, mathematics, College students, faculty, and staff with access to
science, critical thinking, computer skills, and learning materials not held by the library. Online renewals,
strategies. Our goal is to help students become effective, requests and holds, and phone renewals are provided.
independent learners. Study space, Internet workstations, photocopiers,
microfilm/fiche reader-printers, and equipment for
Whom do we help? Any student enrolled at Okanagan viewing media are provided in each campus library.
College may use our services. There is no fee. What kind
of help is provided? Experienced reference staff are available to help
students and faculty individually. Librarians provide
• Writing skills - all levels group instruction in the use of print and electronic
• Essay and research skills information sources. Instruction in research skills is
• Grammar provided at all levels from introductory to advanced.
• Punctuation For distance education students registered in an
• Reading comprehension Okanagan College credit course, library service is
• Study skills available by e-mail or phone. Material is mailed free of
• Math - all levels charge.
• Calculator skills
The Okanagan College ID card is also a library card
• Sciences - all levels, all subjects
and is used to borrow library materials. It needs to be
• Basic computer skills
presented at the library circulation desk to make library
• Video tapes & print material available for
transactions.
independent study
• Math diagnostic exams
Security
Where are the Learning Centres? The Learning Centres The co-operation and involvement of students and
are located at five campus locations: employees is crucial to the security and safety at
• Kelowna every Okanagan College campus. Okanagan College
• Vernon encourages all college community members to be
• Penticton fully aware of the safety issues on campus, and to take
• Salmon Arm action to prevent and report illegal and inappropriate
• Revelstoke activities. Personal awareness and the application of
personal safety practices are the foundation of a safe
campus community.
Okanagan College Library
The Okanagan College Library serves four separate
campuses with one collection, and daily deliveries
among the library campuses during academic terms.
Access to the library collection is through the online
catalogue. This catalogue can be accessed in the
library or from any computer. It can also be accessed
at home. The library collection includes approximately
180,000 books, videos, government documents,
14 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266local bands & community support
College Region Penticton Indian Band Ki Low Na Friendship Society
First Nation Communities RR#2, S-80, C-19, 442 Leon Avenue,
Penticton, BC, V2A 6J7 Kelowna, BC V1Y 6J3
Adams Lake Indian Band Tel: (250) 493-0048 Phone: (250) 763-4905
PO Box 588, Fax: (250) 493-2882 Fax: (250) 861-5514
Chase BC, VOE 1M0 www.pib.ca www.kfs.bc.ca
Phone: (250) 679-8841
Fax: (250) 679-8813 Spallumcheen Indian Band Métis Heritage and Cultural
PO Box 460 Council
Little Shuswap Indian Band Enderby, BC V0E 1V0 259 Wade Ave West
Box 1100, Tel: (250) 838-6496 Penticton, BC, V2A 1T9
Chase, BC, V0E 1M0 Fax (250) 838-2131 Phone: (250) 492-0759
Phone: (250) 679-3203 www.spallumcheen.org
Fax: (250) 679-4422 Ooknakane Friendship Centre
www.littleshuswaplake.com Upper Similkameen Indian Band 508 Main St.
PO Box 310, Penticton, BC V2A 5C7
Lower Similkameen Indian Band Keremeos, BC V0X 1N0 Phone: (250) 490-3504
PO Box 100, Tel: (250) 499-2221 Fax: (250) 490-0891
Keremeos, BC V0X IN0 Fax: (250) 499-5117 www.friendshipcentre.ca
Tel: (250) 499-5528
Fax: (250) 499-5538 Westbank First Nation Vernon District Métis Association
www.lsib.org #301–515 Hwy. 97S, #114-15401 Kal Rd
Kelowna, BC V1Z 3J2 Vernon, BC, V1B 1Z3
Neskonlith Indian Band Tel: (250) 769-4999 Phone: (250) 542-9037
743 Chief Neskonlith Drive Fax: (250) 769-4377
Po Box 608 www.wfn.ca Salmon Arm Métis Association
Chase BC, V0E 1M0 471 2nd St. SE
Phone: 250-679-3295 College Region Salmon Arm, BC, V1E 4H3
Fax: 250-679-5306 Community Support Phone: (250) 832-7012
www.neskonlithband.com
First Nations Friendship Center Okanagan Training and
Okanagan Indian Band 2902 29th AVE. Development Council
12420 Westside Rd., Vernon B.C. V1T 1Y7 Program Manager
Vernon, BC V1T 7Z3 PH: (250)542-1247 Phone: (250) 769-1977
Tel: (250) 542-4328 Fax: (250) 542-3707 Fax: (250) 769-1866
Fax: (250) 542-4990
www.okanagan.org Kelowna Métis Association
202-2949 Pandosy St.
Osoyoos Indian Band Kelowna, BC, V1Y 1W1
RR#3, S-25, C-1, Oliver, BC V0H 1T0 Phone: (250) 860-0950
Tel: (250) 498-3444 Fax: (250) 860-0976
Fax: (250) 498-6577
www.oib.ca
Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm 15applying to okanagan college
Aboriginal Applicants Qualified Aboriginal students who apply beyond the
We encourage all Aboriginal learners to self-identify time limit or who apply within the time limit but after
their ancestry. Voluntarily disclosing your Aboriginal the predetermined number of reserved seats for a
ancestry, either on your application for admission or given program have been filled, will be admitted in
in person to one of our Aboriginal Access and Services accordance with the general admission policies of the
staff, is a means of creating a more inclusive and College, subject to the availability of space.
supportive environment for all our Aboriginal learners.
Think of it as a process of coming together rather than Academic Admission Requirements
singling out. It gives us the ability to make students Please refer to the online calendar for individual
aware of the support services that we offer as well program listings for detailed requirements. In addition
as to ensure that Aboriginal students are adequately to specific academic requirements all applicants must:
represented at Okanagan College. It provides us with
information regarding our success and progress as an • submit proof of having satisfied all admission
institution serving the needs of Aboriginal Peoples. requirements of the program to which admission is
sought or,
An Aboriginal is defined as an Indigenous person of • submit proof of enrollment in a course or program
Métis, Inuit, and/or First Nations (status and non-status) of studies which, if successfully completed by
descent. June 30, will satisfy all admission requirements for a
program starting in September, or
Aboriginal Admissions • for programs with a start date other than
The College is committed to enhancing the September, submit proof of enrollment in a course
participation rate of Aboriginal peoples in post- or program of studies which, if successfully
secondary education to a level which is representative completed by the date specified by the Admissions
of the Aboriginal population of the region served by Office, will satisfy all admission requirements to the
the College. It will strive to increase and maintain its program.
Aboriginal student population to a level reflective of this
ratio. The College, in collaboration with faculties and How to Apply
departments, will annually set aside a predetermined Use the on-line application form at www.okanagan.
number of places specifically for Aboriginal students, bc.ca. If you are unable to submit an application online,
the number being commensurate with student interest, Okanagan College will accept paper applications with
available teaching and learning support resources. the $30 non-refundable application fee. While on-
While the number may vary from program to program, line submission of your application greatly expedites
it will not normally exceed six percent of the intake the processing of the application, how you submit
capacity for any given program in a particular year. your application is not a factor in determining your
admissibility.
Pursuant to College policy, qualified Aboriginal
applicants will have access to the predetermined In-person Applications
number of reserved places specific to each program You may visit any of the campuses or regional centres
during the period from November, (first allowable of Okanagan College to submit your application.
application submission date) to March 15 (or the Assistance is available to help you use the on-line
last day applications are being accepted) each application process.
year for programs commencing the immediate
following September and up to eight weeks before
commencement of classes for multiple intake programs.
Any remaining, unused reserved space will revert to the
general application pool.
16 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266getting responses
Number of Applications Permitted Response Time
You may apply to one or more programs in any Okanagan College will strive to respond to your
given semester or program term. Each application application within ten (10) business days. However,
must be submitted on a separate application form. during busy times of the year please allow for up to
The application fee must be submitted with the first twenty (20) business days for a response.
application. It is not required for the second application.
If you are admitted to more than one program, you will Distance Education
be required to accept only one offer of admission. Distance Education courses begin in September,
November, January, March and May. Distance
Campus of Study Education students who plan to attend on-campus in a
Okanagan College is a multi-campus institution, and subsequent semester, must re-apply for admission.
many programs are offered at more than one campus.
However, not all programs are offered at all campuses. Transcripts
Each program application will allow you to indicate As an applicant, you are required to ensure that official
your first and second choice of attendance with respect sealed transcripts are submitted for all institutions
to the campuses offering the program. As programs attended other than Okanagan College. These
fill, you may be offered admission to a program at a transcripts must have been issued within the past six
campus where there is space even though you have not months. Current or past Okanagan University College
identified that campus as a choice on the application students are not required to submit Okanagan College
form. transcripts. Applicants submitting out-of-province
post-secondary transcripts will be required to submit
When to Apply a $30 transcript evaluation fee.
Different programs have specific dates or deadlines by
which applications must be received. As an applicant,
you are responsible for making yourself aware of
application dates and deadlines, and for ensuring that
your application is received by Okanagan College on
time. Please be aware that for programs with selective
academic admission you must submit your application
by the date indicated to ensure that you are considered
for the first round of admission offers. For applications
received after that date, offers of admission will
only be issued when space is available. Application
submission and deadline dates are published on the
Okanagan College website at www.okanagan.bc.ca, in
the Okanagan College Calendar, and are available as
an insert in the application. Some certificate programs
have multiple start dates throughout the year.
Secondary School Student Applicants (Regular
Applicants) currently enrolled in secondary school are
urged to apply as early as possible.
Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm 17important info
Financing Your Education Student Loans
If you are of Aboriginal descent, there are several Students who are uncertain of their financial situation
avenues that you can explore to help offset the costs are urged to contact the Financial Aid & Awards office
associated with going to school. at the Kelowna campus for information well in advance
of registration (at least three months in advance). They
Band Sponsorship can provide information and assistance on applying
First Nation bands may be able to sponsor their band for government based funding via StudentAid BC.
members to attend school. It depends on a number of StudentAid BC helps eligible students with the cost of
factors, and eligibility is determined by band policy. their post-secondary education through loans, grants,
Contact the person responsible for education at your bursaries, scholarships and special programs. It also has
local band office to see if they can help you. programs for borrowers who need help repaying their
loans.
Métis Nation Members
Métis Nation citizens may be eligible for sponsorship Student Employment Program
from the Métis Nation. Like band sponsorship, there are Okanagan College offers its students the opportunity
several factors that influence whether or not you are to work on campus part-time through the Student
eligible for funding. Contact your local Métis Associaton Employment Program administered by the Student,
for further details regarding potential funding. Graduate and Co-op Employment Centre. Please visit
their website for eligibility requirements and a current
Aboriginal Human Resource Development Strategy listing of student employment opportunities:
The Aboriginal Human Resources Development Strategy www.okanagan.bc.ca/administration/students/coop.html
(AHRDS) may be an option to assist you in finding a job
or upgrade your skills. The AHRDS may be your most Cooperative Education Program
direct access to training, upgrading your skills, or finding Classroom instruction by itself cannot always provide
a job. All Aboriginal people, regardless of status or students with the knowledge they need to ensure
location, may access its programs and services. To find a successful career. Additional knowledge must be
out more about the AHRDS, please contact your local acquired through experience and hands-on
friendship centre, Métis association or band office. involvement in the working environment where
students can apply the knowledge gained in the
Aboriginal Awards classroom to real-life situations. Co-op addresses this
In addition to the awards that Okanagan College offers educational need by providing alternate periods of
to Aboriginal learners, there are literally hundreds of academic study and paid work terms. Please visit the
external awards in the form of bursaries or scholarships Student, Grad and Co-op Employment Centre website
that are available to Aboriginal students. For more for more information on the Co-op Program:
information about accessing information on these www.okanagan.bc.ca/administration/students/coop.html
awards, contact the nearest Okanagan College
Aboriginal Access and Services employee at your local
campus or visit the Aboriginal Access and Services
webpage at www.okanagan.bc.ca/aboriginal
18 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266more info
Health & Dental Coverage Student Housing
Several health-care services are not covered by the
provincial Medical Services Plan (MSP). If you happen KLO Campus Residence
to require a service that isn’t covered by MSP or by an For students attending the Kelowna campus, the Skaha
equivalent health care plan, you may have to pay for a Residences may be the place for you. They offer a variety
service that you had not anticipated or budgeted for. of accommodations at affordable prices. All rooms are
To help pay for various health services the Okanagan furnished with a bed, desk, chair, lamp, closet and Shaw
College Students’ Union (OCSU) has a plan that a high-speed Internet access. Inquire and apply early
majority of students are automatically enrolled in because space is limited.
upon becoming an Okanagan College student. The For more information you can call 250.862.5423
costs associated with the coverage this plan affords are or email: housing_klo@okanagan.bc.ca.
charged automatically as a part of the ancilliary fees that
you pay to become an Okanagan College student. Only Off-Campus Housing
those students in Adult Basic Education, Co-op students, For those of you who would prefer to live off campus
and students in programs that are shorter than 12 or may be attending the Penticton, Vernon or Salmon
weeks in length are not covered. For more information Arm campuses you may want to check out the following
on the OCSU plan, refer to the OCSU website at www. resources for available accommodation. Via these links
ocsu.ca. There is a deadline to opt-out of the health and you can access hundreds of rental listings throughout
dental coverage offered by the OCSU. For this deadline the Okanagan College region.
and other important dates to be aware of please refer to
the following website: www.okanagan.bc.ca/calendar/ • BC’s Affordable Housing Listings
important-dates.html at www.bchousing.org
• Homes 4 Students
Aboriginal students who are sponsored by their at www.homes4students.ca
bands may opt out of the OCSU plan. Often times, • Kelowna Daily Courier Classifieds
these students are covered by the Non-Insured Health • Vernon Morning Star Classifieds
Benefits (NIHB) Program of Health Canada’s First Nations • Penticton Herald Classifieds
and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB). Students who are • Salmon Arm Observer Classifieds
covered by the NIHB program are those who meet the • Kelowna Capital News Classifieds
following criteria: • Okanagan Métis and Aboriginal Housing Society
• identified as a resident of Canada and one of the call 250.763.7747
following:
• a registered Indian according to the Indian Act Occasionally, rental availability notices are posted on
• an Innu member of one of the two Innu bulletin boards throughout each campus, including
communities in Labrador (Davis Inlet and notice boards found in Aboriginal Student Centres.
Sheshatshiu)
• an Inuk recognized by one of the Inuit Land Claim Tuition
organizations Tuition fees depend on the number of courses taken,
As such, many bands prefer not to pay the OCSU the program and other factors. For more information
coverage because the Aboriginal students they on the estimated cost of a program, please refer to the
sponsor may already be covered by the NIHB program. following link: http://www.okanagan.bc.ca/tuition
Please get in touch with your band and/or education The estimates are approximate, based on a full-time
coordinator to determine if you should opt out of program of study and subject to change.
the OCSU health plan. Once you have decided to opt
out, contact your regional student union office or an
Aboriginal Access and Services employee to obtain the
appropriate opting out forms.
Kelowna • Penticton • Vernon • Salmon Arm 19useful websites
About Okanagan College:
http://www.okanagan.bc.ca/about.html
Okanagan College Programs and Courses:
www.okanagan.bc.ca/courses.html
Okanagan College Departments:
www.okanagan.bc.ca/departments.html
Okanagan College Student Services:
www.okanagan.bc.ca/administration/students.html
Okanagan College Online Calendar:
www.okanagan.bc.ca/calendar/
Okanagan College Library:
www.okanagan.bc.ca/administration/students/library.html
BC Transfer Guide:
www.bctransferguide.ca
En’owkin Centre:
www.enowkincentre.ca
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada:
www.ainc-inac.gc.ca
Ministry of Advanced Education – Aboriginal Education:
www.aved.gov.bc.ca/aboriginal
Ministry of Health – Aboriginal Health
www.healthservices.gov.bc.ca/aboriginal/index.html
Okanagan Nation Alliance:
www.syilx.org
Shuswap Nation Tribal Council:
www.shuswapnation.org
2 www.okanagan.bc.ca • 250.762.5445 • 1.877.755.2266 Printed in Canada
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