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PTIRU-Approved · B.C.
Online Courses & Programs in BC
Edison College support students whereever they are! — from our Downtown Victoria campus to every corner of British Columbia, Canada. Our Asynchronous Learning provides flexible online and distance learning for all. Our online courses and diploma programs may be completed anytime, anywhere, part-time or full-time.
20+
Online Courses & Programs
PTIRU
Approved Programs
StudentAid B.C.
Support for Eligible Students
Victoria, B.C.
Downtown Campus
Is online learning a right choice?
Whether online or distance study is the right choice depends on how you learn and what your week already looks like, not on which format sounds more convenient. It tends to suit students who are working, managing family responsibilities, or living outside Victoria and who can stay on top of deadlines without an instructor checking in at a fixed class time. It generally requires a reliable computer and internet connection, a workspace with fewer interruptions, and the discipline to keep pace with coursework independently.
Why B.C. Students Choose Edison College?
Choosing an online college in B.C. comes down to three things: recognition, flexibility, and support. Here's how Edison College delivers all three for students studying by distance learning across the province.
✓PTIRU-Approved Programs
Edison College's diploma programs are approved by B.C.'s Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) the provincial body that oversees private career training in British Columbia.
✓StudentAid B.C. Eligibility
StudentAid B.C. support is available for eligible students, alongside flexible financing options. An admissions advisor can walk you through funding for your program.
✓Asynchronous Learning
Access recorded lectures and course materials anytime. Move through content at your own pace, revisit lessons whenever you need, fit learning around work and life, and no fixed class times required.
✓Career-Focused, Job-Ready Training
Every diploma is built around practical, employer-relevant skills with career prep, resume support, and program lengths measured in weeks, not years.
How Online Learning Works
Flexible Study Formats Built Around Your Life in B.C.
01
Study Anywhere in BC (Online)
Study at the convience of your desk. Join our asynchronous online learning courses.
02
Continue Working
No need to quit your job to further your education. Study full-time or part-time.
03
Get Ahead in Career
Our diploma programs will help you take the next step in your career.
Getting Started
Admission Requirements for BC Students
Requirements vary slightly by program, but most Edison College diplomas ask for:
- High school graduation or equivalent, or mature student status (19 years or older before your program starts)
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g. minimum Grade 10 English, IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL, CELPIP, or Duolingo — accepted scores vary by program)
- Program-specific requirements where applicable (e.g. a math requirement for technology programs)
Not sure whether you qualify? Book a free call with an admissions advisor — they'll review your options program by program.
Edison College Courses & Programs
Meet Industry Standards | Career Focused with Practicum Placements | Includes Professional Career Development
Business Programs
Gain the knowledge and practical skills to succeed in today's dynamic business world.
Health Care Programs
Prepare for a rewarding career helping others with hands-on training and real-world experience.
Technology Programs
Build in-demand tech skills and stay ahead in our fast-evolving digital landscape.
Our Top Programs
Community Support Worker: Addictions & Mental Health Specialization
▦ 25 Weeks / 600 Hours
Learn More
What Our Students Say
Student Recommendations of Edison College
"Graduating from this program as a Mental Health and Addiction Community Support Worker has been a truly impactful experience. The education I received provided me with both the knowledge and practical skills needed to support individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges in a meaningful and compassionate way.
The instructors were supportive, knowledgeable, and brought real-world experience into the classroom, which made the learning feel relevant and applicable. I especially valued the focus on trauma-informed care, cultural awareness, and building genuine connections with clients.
This program helped me grow not only professionally but personally. I left feeling confident, prepared, and motivated to make a difference in my community. I’m grateful for the foundation it gave me and would recommend it to anyone looking to pursue a career in mental health and addiction support
"
"I had a great experience completing my Therapeutic Recreation Activity Assistant program at Edison College. The course was practical, easy to follow, and really helped me feel prepared to work in the field. I would definitely recommend it to others."
★★★★★
Kavita - Health Care Assistant
★★★★★
Katia Peterson - Therapeutic Recreation Activity Assistant
"My experience at Edison College Canada has been very rewarding. The Community Support Worker program, especially the Mental Health and Addiction specialization, has helped me build confidence and real-world skills to support vulnerable individuals in my community. I feel more prepared for my future career."
★★★★★
Khushi - Health Care Aide
"Edison College made it incredibly easy to apply! Chandra walked me through all the steps and was very friendly. The Therapeutic Recreation Assistant program offered a lot of information and prepared me for my practicum and a future I can look forward to and get excited about!"
"I am enjoying the new instructor he's fantastic but the lectures and slides are far to long for me he does his best but I feel this could be improved but the courses are amazing I have learned something new everyday"
"Our new instructor is phenomenal. Complete 360 of the last. I am so pleased. His personality brings smiles throughout the day and the delivery of information is insightful and informative. I find myself looking forward to going to class again. The only thing that I find a bit hard to get used to is being in class right until 1030. As both past instructors would allow us to take the last 2 hours or so to complete projects and watch the films off line. As it is a bit intrusive when watching a film or documentary while still signed in with people speaking up throughout to ask questions. Other than that. I am very happy with this transition."
"Yes. I would be happy to. So far the instructors were very clear and excellent. The lectures were easy, professional and the program is amazing."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Edison College's online courses recognized in British Columbia?
Yes. Edison College operates from its Downtown Victoria campus and offers PTIRU-approved diploma programs. The Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) oversees private career training in British Columbia.
Can B.C. residents use StudentAid B.C. for online programs?
StudentAid B.C. support is available for eligible students. Speak with an admissions advisor to confirm your eligibility and explore flexible financing options, including the $1,700 Completion Award.
Do I need to live in B.C. to enroll in an online program?
No. Edison College's online diploma programs are open to students across Canada. Live sessions are scheduled in Pacific Time from our Victoria, B.C. campus.
What is the difference between Distance and In-Class/Distance delivery?
Distance programs are delivered fully online. In-Class/Distance programs let you choose between studying online from anywhere in Canada or attending in person at the Downtown Victoria campus — the curriculum and outcomes are the same.
How do I apply to an online program from British Columbia?
You can apply online in minutes. Most diploma programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, or mature student status (19+), plus proof of English proficiency.
What is asynchronous learning?
Asynchronous learning means completing coursework, lectures, readings, and assignments on your own schedule rather than logging in for a fixed class time. You still have deadlines and required work, but you choose when — during the day, in the evening, or on weekends — as long as you meet them. It's different from synchronous learning, where students and an instructor meet at the same time, whether in person or online.
Where can I study online in Canada?
Edison College Canada is a private career college based in Victoria, British Columbia, regulated by the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU). A number of Edison programs are offered with a distance or online delivery option, which means students located anywhere in Canada can complete coursework without relocating to Victoria.
Where can I study online in B.C.?
Edison College Canada's main campus is in Victoria, British Columbia. Students living anywhere in B.C. — not just Victoria — can complete a number of Edison programs through distance or online delivery, and some students combine online coursework with an in-person component in Victoria where a program requires it (for example, a practicum or lab session).
B.C. residents studying an eligible program may also be able to apply for StudentAid BC funding. Edison College Canada is listed as a StudentAid BC designated institution; eligibility depends on the specific student and program, so confirm current eligibility directly with StudentAid BC and Edison admissions.
For exact delivery format, in-person requirements, and current intake dates, check the relevant program page or speak with an Edison admissions advisor.
Can I study cybersecurity online in BC?
Yes. Edison's Cybersecurity Diploma is available in-class at the Victoria campus or by distance delivery for students anywhere in B.C. and Canada. See cybersecurity courses in BC to compare both formats.
Ready to Study Online in B.C.?
Get the full program brochure with tuition, schedules, and funding options — or speak with an admissions advisor today. Seats are limited.