The 5 Best Colleges in Calgary That Prepared Us for the Real World
Picking the right college shapes your entire career path. Calgary’s job market is booming, so it’s a solid place to build your skills whether you’re chasing a promotion or starting fresh.
You need practical training and instructors who’ll actually support your goals.
Plus, if you’ve got little ones to plan around, finding the best preschools or elementary schools helps you focus on your classes without distractions.
To make your school search easier, I looked for the best college in Calgary to help you take that next step. Here are my top picks.
How much does college cost in Calgary?
In Calgary, college tuition costs anywhere from $7,700 to over $45,000 per year on average, depending heavily on whether you’re a domestic or international student and the type of institution you attend.
| Institution and Student Type | Average Annual Tuition (CAD) |
| College (Domestic) | ~$9,750 |
| College (International) | ~$26,560 |
| Technical Institute (Domestic) | ~$11,100 |
| Technical Institute (International) | ~$18,750 |
| University (Domestic) | $7,700 – $11,780 |
| University (International) | $26,000 – $45,200+ |
1. Sundance College
Website: https://sundancecollege.com/provinces/alberta/calgary/
Address: G-128 28 Street SE
Contact: (403) 455-9010 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sundance College offers a modular learning format where you tackle one course at a time instead of juggling multiple subjects. It’s a focused approach that cuts down on exam stress and helps complex concepts stick.
A close friend enrolled in their business administration track and loved that the half-day schedule let her keep her part-time job.
You’ll also get hands-on support from their employment team, covering everything from mock interviews to practicum placements.
Plus, their accelerated diplomas help you enter the workforce in under 16 months.
However, you’ll need to make up your mind quickly after starting classes. Their tuition-free trial only lasts through the first week, and you won’t get your registration fee back if you withdraw.
On top of that, specific healthcare tracks are strictly campus-based, so you can’t complete those diplomas online.
Great Experience with SCMP Program at Sundance College
I had a great experience at Sundance College as an SCMP Graduate. The lecturers were knowledgeable, supportive, and made learning practical and engaging. The program provided valuable knowledge and practical skills in supply chain management, procurement, logistics, and warehousing. I also really appreciated the Employment Services team for their excellent support with my resume, cover letter, and interview preparation. Their guidance and encouragement gave me confidence throughout my job search. I highly recommend Sundance College to anyone looking to build a career in supply chain management.
- ajara samba | Google Reviews
Fantastic MOA Program and Excellent Support
I had a fantastic experience while studying MOA at Sundance college. The course followed the syllabus perfectly and the learning objectives were clear from day one. The assignments aligned well with the lectures and truly tested my understanding of the concepts. I appreciate all my instructors especially Instructor Nas Shelbayeh; he is an excellent and an outstanding instructor who fosters a welcoming and encouraging learning environment, he is very patient and responds promptly to solve any challenges students might be having in any course. Personally he has come through for me many times and I am grateful.
- Agnes Mordi | Google Reviews
2. Glenbow College
Website: https://glenbowcollege.ca/
Address: Suite 100, 940 6th Ave SW
Contact: (403) 489-9964 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Glenbow College builds free industry certifications right into their diploma programs, giving you an edge when you’re applying for jobs. The school is led by veteran educators, so lessons stay grounded in practical workplace skills.
I toured their campus recently and noticed how tight-knit their small class cohorts are. You aren’t just sitting in a lecture hall either, since every program requires hands-on practicum hours.
Plus, students get access to recognized global partners like the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute.
However, you should keep in mind that the student grievance policy doesn’t allow anonymous complaints. That rule might make some students hesitant to raise concerns with administration.
On top of that, specialized diplomas like Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) require extra out-of-pocket practicum fees.
Excellent Learning Experience at Glenbow College
My experience has been excellent. The instructors are committed, especially those in my English course, Krisztina and Eli. Likewise, the coordination of the institute is great; everyone forms an excellent team of professionals willing to help you advance in any program you choose. If you want to continue your learning, Glenbow College is the right place.
- Yoselyn | Google Reviews
Grateful for Dedicated Teachers and Inspiring Community
I am sincerely grateful to the “Glenbow College” team for the opportunity to study, for their support and dedication. They created an atmosphere of interaction and trust between students and teachers.
I am especially grateful to teacher Maryna for the knowledge and skills she generously shared. Thank you for your professionalism, understanding and individual approach to each student.
It was one of the best periods of my life, because I gained knowledge and many friends, which is priceless….
- Olga Ros | Google Reviews
3. Heritage College
Website: https://heritage-college.ca/
Address: Unit 22, 3250 Sunridge Way NE
Contact: (403) 230-8179 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Heritage College guarantees a practical work placement for every student, making the transition into a new career much smoother. You can choose between in-person classes or online study, depending on what works best for your schedule.
Their interest-free monthly payment plans are a great relief if you want to avoid student loan debt. After you finish classes, you’ll get complimentary resume reviews and professional headshots for your portfolio.
Plus, several accelerated certificate programs wrap up in as little as four months.
Just watch out for extra exam fees if you struggle on test day. While your first exam rewrite is free, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for any retakes after that.
Also, some online courses bill in US dollars, so your final tuition can fluctuate with the exchange rate.
Welcoming Environment and Practical Career Training
The learning environment is welcoming, and the instructors explain the material clearly and give students the support they need to succeed. I also appreciate the practical training and the opportunity to gain experience that can be useful in the workplace.
I would definitely recommend Heritage College to anyone who is looking for a supportive college and wants to develop practical skills for their career. Thank you to all the instructors and staff for their support and encouragement!
- Dinu Senu | Google Reviews
Valuable Pharmacy Assistant Education and Guidance
I am pleased to share that I have recently completed the Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Program at Heritage College. I am grateful for the valuable education and support I received throughout this experience. I would like to thank my instructors, Humna Ansari, Fadyaa, Shabana Ali, and Sarah Hampton, for their guidance and encouragement. Their effective teaching methods made complex medical terminology accessible, even for those not from a medical background.
- Simranjeet Kaur | Google Reviews
4. Reeves College – Calgary South
Website: https://reevescollege.ca/campuses/calgary-south
Address: #9, 6624 Centre Street
Contact: 1 (800) 269-7095
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Reeves College brings over six decades of vocational training experience to Calgary, specializing in practical healthcare and business programs. Their instructors are working professionals, so you’re learning directly from people who know the field.
I spoke with a recent graduate who loved that monthly intake dates let her start classes without waiting for a traditional semester. The curriculum focuses on applied capstone projects, so you’ll build an impressive portfolio before you even graduate.
You’ll also get help from financial advisors who walk you through student loan applications.
However, this South campus offers a smaller program lineup compared to their downtown hub. If you’re looking for art design or legal administration, you’ll have to travel across town.
Also, their post-graduate job search assistance ends after six months, meaning you’ll need to lock down employment quickly.
Inspirational First Post-Secondary Experience in Canada
It is my first time to do secondary post in Canada and I am very satisfied and happy with my first experienced. I had an excellent professor Mr. Amir Sheikh who taught as SSS course that motivated me to pursue my dreams. My professor and my classmates are very helpful and kind. I would highly recommend REEVES COLLEGE and having such great Professor like Mr. Amir will guide you to become successful
- Esmo Estif Cleaning Services | Google Reviews
Utmost Support and Guidance at Reeves College
In my time at Reeves College, I have received nothing but utmost support for the step I have taken. I am greatful for all the staff that have supported my journey here so far, especially Arshwinder Kaur, who has guided me and connected me with all the other lovely staff that helped me through the application process. In my first week here, my course instructor, Carol, has been very supportive of my learning and has always provided support whenever I needed it. Overall, I am more than satisfied with my experience here
- Sarwat Rizvi | Google Reviews
5. ABM College – Calgary Campus
Website: https://abmcollege.com/calgary
Address: #200, 112 28 St SE
Contact: (403) 719-4300 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Saturday, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
ABM College skips traditional semester delays by offering monthly starts, so you can jump into coursework right away. Their curriculum focuses heavily on high-demand career fields, letting you earn an accredited diploma in a year or less.
Healthcare and technology students train inside specialized campus labs, ensuring you gain confidence on modern equipment before entering the workforce.
You’ll also benefit from lifetime career counseling, meaning you can return for resume touch-ups whenever you need them.
Plus, their straightforward admissions process makes applying fast and simple.
The main drawback is that schedule flexibility isn’t available for every program. Many diploma tracks use rigid daytime timetables, so you won’t always find evening or weekend slots.
You should also know that securing your preferred practicum placement often requires lots of proactive self-advocacy and independent outreach.
Rewarding Experience and Supportive Learning Environment
I had a very and rewarding experience studying at ABM college. The college provides a supportive learning environment, helpful staff and practical programs that educate and prepare students for real world careers. From enrollment to coursework, the overall process was organized and student focused.
- Vincent chijioke Okpara | Google Reviews
Well-Structured Cybersecurity Program with Great Tutors
I just finished my Cybersecurity course at ABM College, and I could not be happier with my experience! The program is well-structured, practical, and truly prepares you for the industry. A huge thank you to my tutor, Mandeep Kaur. Her incredible support, deep knowledge, and dedication made a massive difference in my learning journey. She always took the time to ensure we understood the concepts and felt confident. If you are looking to launch a career in cybersecurity, I highly recommend ABM College!”, and hopefully, have Mandeep Kaur as your tutor.
- Kayode Onanuga | Google Reviews