just for parents

BCIT students find success

A BCIT education is more than attending classes, completing assignments and taking exams.

It’s an experience that mixes practical applied learning and collaboration with others that ensures graduates thrive in the real world. A BCIT education helps students develop more than just the skills they need for work; it prepares them to be successful in every aspect of life.

BCIT is a leader in delivering applied learning. Students learn theory, then put it into practice.

They work with advanced equipment in shops, labs, studios and even woodlots to understand what they’re learning and how it’s applied in the real world.

Working in small groups, students apply their classroom learning in the real-world, by completing projects or practicums in industry, giving students practical experience in their field of choice, and the opportunity to hone their project management and interpersonal skills.

We share this information with you because we know you love your child, but probably don’t want them living at home forever. If an empty nest is your goal, a BCIT education for your child will get you there. 

Graduate employment

Our reputation is built on the ability of our graduates to contribute in the workplace from day one. We boast that you won’t hear a BCIT grad say, ‘but it’s my first day’. It’s true and employers know it; that’s why many prefer to hire BCIT grads.

Through economic ups and downs, BCIT graduates are successful in finding employment related to their training. Over the past 3 years, 85% of grads found high quality employment shortly after graduating and a full 95% of BCIT grads were satisfied with the education they received from BCIT.

Interested in learning more about the labour market experience of BCIT graduates? A series of reports with employment placement data for each BCIT program is available through our Institutional Planning and Analysis Office. 

What you can expect from BCIT

Still not sure it’s right for your child? A little sceptical we can deliver on what we promise? Here are some details on what your child will experience while a student at BCIT:

Small classes - BCIT’s "set" system places students in groups of 16 to 24 that attend all their classes together for a term or year. Smaller classes mean more attention from our instructors and a curriculum that involves collaboration and participation.

Theoretical foundation – students spend half of their time in the classroom learning the theories that support practice in their chosen field.

Practical skill development – students complete projects at BCIT using advanced equipment in shops and labs. Most students also complete a project or practicum with a company in industry.

Learning from experts - BCIT faculty are industry experienced. They bring years of relevant, practical experience to the classroom. More importantly, BCIT instructors know their students by name, care about their education and take a personal interest in their success.

Life skills – BCIT programs are demanding and require students to work effectively with others to complete projects and assignments which develops team work, communication and time management skills.

Hard work – students can expect to spend 25 to 35 hours a week in class or working on applied projects. Most BCIT students will tell you the workload is heavy, but they will also tell you it’s worth it.