Running Start Program
Start University Before You Finish High School
What if you could:
- Take your first university-level course in Grade 11 and 12
- Experience learning on a real college campus
- Build confidence and a clear path to what comes next
Running Start at Columbia College gives you a flexible, low-risk way to begin your university journey early.
WHAT IS RUNNING START?
You complete your BC Dogwood Diploma while using elective space to take university-level courses. These courses are dual credit, meaning:
- They count toward your high school graduation
- They become university credits that you carry forward toward your future degree
The program is open to students in Grades 10–12 and is offered through in-person classes. Our team will help you choose the courses that best match your interests and academic goals, ensuring you stay on track for both high school graduation and future university success.
AN INTENTIONAL TIMELINE TO UNIVERSITY
Through Columbia’s trimester system and Running Start pathway, students can:
- Complete Grades 10–12 in as little as 2 years
- Meet the requirements to graduate with a BC Dogwood Diploma
- Earn up to 21 transferable university credits before graduation
That’s nearly a full year of university - already completed!
Is this right for you?
Running Start may be a strong fit if you are:
- Curious and motivated to challenge yourself academically
- Thinking ahead about university and your future direction
- Interested in experiencing a more independent learning environment
- Looking for a flexible way to get ahead without leaving your school
Sample Program
Why Running Start?
Compare Tuition Fees: High School + 1st Year University
Where This Leads
Running Start is more than a single course, it’s a starting point.
From here, you can:
- Continue into Columbia’s University Transfer or Associate Degree programs
- Get a head start at your chosen university by transferring your credits.
90% acceptance rate to Canadian Universities
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Contact us today!
Questions?
Our admissions team is ready to assist you at every step of the way!
Email: admissions@columbiacollege.ca
Phone: +1 604 683 8360
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Let’s Get Started!
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