With a history dating back to 1963, Okanagan College has been embedded in the social, cultural and economic fabric of the region for over a half-century. The institution provides post-secondary education and training to the Okanagan, Shuswap and Similkameen regions and has a strong reputation for excellence in learning and teaching through its wide range of academic, career, continuing education, developmental, trades and vocational programs.
The College’s catchment area extends from Osoyoos and Princeton in the south and west to Mica Creek and Revelstoke in the north, covering an area of 37,750 km2 and serving a population of nearly 400,000 people. Each year, approximately 16,000 individual students attend Okanagan College in programs spanning an array of areas such as Arts, Science, Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Health and Social Development, Adult Upgrading and in niche areas such as Viticulture, Animation and Sustainable Construction Management Technology. Also offering vocational training, Okanagan College is the second largest trades training institution in B.C.
The latest chapter in Okanagan College’s history began in 2005, when Okanagan University College evolved into two separate institutions: Okanagan College and UBC Okanagan. Okanagan College has since grown significantly, with rapid expansion in almost all program areas.
Known for its easily identifiable red logo, the College’s brand has taken a firm hold in the business and social fabric of the region. Many have attributed this to the College’s focus on partnerships and outreach, while meeting student, community and employer needs. With an annual operating budget of over $125 million and more than 1,000 employees, OC is a significant contributor to the regional economy.
