Langara College
Langara College stands as one of British Columbia's premier public colleges, recognized for academic excellence and successful student transfer to universities across the province and beyond. Founded in 1970 as an extension of Vancouver Community College and established as an independent institution in 1994, Langara has built a distinguished reputation as a primary pathway to university education while also offering career-focused programs and continuing education. The college's mission emphasizes student success, academic quality, and community engagement. Langara prides itself on being the number one sending institution to the province's three major research universities: the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and the University of Victoria. This transfer success reflects the quality of instruction and academic preparation students receive at Langara. With approximately 23,000 students enrolled in credit programs and continuing studies, Langara serves a diverse population representing over 100 countries. The college maintains a strong commitment to accessibility, providing educational opportunities for students at various stages of their academic and professional journeys. International education has become a significant component of Langara's programming, bringing global perspectives to the campus community. Langara's compact 55-acre campus in South Vancouver provides a focused learning environment with modern facilities and intimate class sizes. The college has earned particular recognition for programs in nursing, recreation studies, and liberal arts transfer preparation. As an institution focused primarily on undergraduate education, Langara channels its resources into teaching excellence and student support, creating an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
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- Type
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- Retention Rate
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- Tuition (In-State)
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- Tuition (Int'l)
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Student Life & Environment
Student life at Langara blends commuter college practicality with genuine campus community. Most students live off-campus throughout Metro Vancouver and commute by transit, with the 49th Avenue bus route and proximity to the Canada Line making access relatively convenient. The student union operates a pub, lounge spaces, and activities programming that create gathering points between classes. Clubs and organizations cover interests from cultural associations representing Vancouver's diversity to athletic and recreational groups. Varsity athletics compete at the collegiate level in basketball, soccer, golf, and other sports, with the Falcons teams providing school spirit without the intensity of university athletics. The campus includes a gymnasium, fitness facilities, and outdoor recreation options. Student services address practical needs including counseling, health resources, and career guidance. The diverse student body includes recent high school graduates, mature students returning to education, and international students from dozens of countries. This mix creates a different atmosphere than traditional universities, with students at various life stages sharing classroom experiences. Coffee shops and food services on campus provide informal meeting spaces where connections form. The college maintains a safe and welcoming environment, with staff attentive to student needs and challenges.
Location & Surroundings
Langara's campus sits in South Vancouver, a residential area with tree-lined streets and single-family homes surrounding the institutional buildings. The neighborhood offers everyday amenities including restaurants, grocery stores, and services within walking distance. Vancouver itself is consistently ranked among the world's most livable cities, with a mild climate, stunning natural setting between mountains and ocean, and cultural diversity reflecting immigration from around the Pacific Rim. The weather is famously rainy from October through March, though temperatures rarely drop far below freezing. Summers bring glorious weather for exploring beaches, mountains, and parks. Housing costs in Vancouver are notoriously high, making the lower tuition at Langara compared to universities even more valuable for budget-conscious students. Transit connections from campus reach downtown Vancouver in about 25 minutes, with the Canada Line rapid transit accessible by bus. Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the North Shore mountains provide world-class recreation within easy reach. Skiing at Whistler, Grouse Mountain, or other resorts is possible as a day trip. The city's culinary scene reflects its diversity, with excellent options for Asian cuisines, seafood, and international dining. Vancouver's tech industry has grown substantially, providing employment opportunities for graduates in relevant fields.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at Langara costs significantly less than BC universities, making the transfer pathway financially attractive for many students. Domestic students pay roughly $3,000 to $4,000 per semester depending on course load, while international students pay considerably more at around $10,000 per semester. Living costs in Vancouver are substantial regardless of where you study, with rent consuming large portions of student budgets. Financial aid options include government student loans, bursaries for demonstrated need, and scholarships for academic achievement. Many students work part-time while studying, with campus employment and off-campus jobs in retail and hospitality common. Career outcomes differ by program and pathway. Transfer students continuing to universities ultimately hold bachelor's degrees with the employment prospects those confer. Career program graduates in fields like nursing, technology, and business find strong job markets in Metro Vancouver. The college maintains employer relationships and provides career services including job postings, resume help, and interview preparation. Alumni have entered diverse careers, with some returning to Langara later for additional training as careers evolve. The investment of time and money at Langara tends to pay off for students who complete their intended programs, whether that means transferring to university or entering the workforce directly after graduation.
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