Diplomas

What is a DEC?

DEC is the acronym for “Diploma of College Studies” in French

There are 2 types of programs that can lead to a DEC:

1. Pre-university programs: Two years in length for a total of four semesters, these programs prepare students for university studies
2. Technical training programs: Three years in length for a total of six sessions, these programs allow students to directly access the work place

Content

All pre-university or technical programs leading to a DEC have the following courses:

1. General education courses common to all programs:
   • Three language and literature courses in the language of instruction for a total of 7 ⅓ units
   • One second language course of 2 units
   • Two philosophy or humanities courses for a total of 4⅓ units
   • Three physical education courses for a total of 3 units
2. General education courses specific to the program:
   • One language and literature course in the language of instruction for a total of 2 units
   • One second language course of 2 units
   • One philosophy or humanities course for a total of 2 units
3. Complementary general education courses:

   2 courses for a total of 4 units in one of the following fields that are not covered in the specific program:

   • Humanities
   • Science and Technology
   • Modern Languages
   • Math and Computer Science
   • Arts and Aesthetics
4. Training specific to the program:
   • 28 to 32 units from pre-university courses
   • 45 to 65 units in technical training courses

N. B. One unit = 45 hours of learning activities (theoretical courses, lab work and assignments)

Graduation Requirements

In order to obtain a DEC, the student must achieve the following objectives:

General education units:

• Four language and literature courses (9 ⅓ units)
• Three philosophy or humanities (6 ⅓ units)
• Two second language courses (4 units)
• Three physical education courses (3 units)
• Two complementary courses (4 units)

Program-specific units:

Pre-university courses (from 28 to 32 units) or technical courses (from 45 to 65 units).

Over and above these course requirements, a student must pass the ministerial examination in language and literature as well as the comprehensive assessment specific to each program.

To find out the admission criteria for a DEC program, click here.

What is an AEC?

AEC is the acronym for “Attestation of College Studies” in French.

AEC programs are part of continuing education and are destined primarily for adults who wish to add value to their skill set or reorient their career. Based on DEC program curricula, AEC programs do not have general education courses like French, English or Philosophy. AEC’s are generally more flexible than DEC or DEP programs. Often offered during the evening , flexible class times allow students to maintain their professional endeavors and study at the same time.

With an acquired skills recognition system, program coordinators can give academic credit to a student’s prior professional experience. AEC programs can last anywhere between two and six semesters.

To find out the admission criteria for an AEC program, click here.

What is a DEP?

DEP is the acronym for “Diploma of Vocational Studies” in French.

A DEP program can last anywhere from 600 to 1800 hours and prepares students to train in a profession to directly enter the job market.

To find out the admission criteria for a DEP program, click here.