Great Plains College
Swift Current, Canada
Great Plains College
Swift Current, Canada
Founded
1973
Institution Type
Public College
Total Students
900+
Campuses
3 Main + 3 Centres
About Great Plains College
About Great Plains College
Great Plains College is a public regional college at the leading edge of Saskatchewan's regional college system. Located in southwest and west-central Saskatchewan, the college is focused on meeting the needs of learners, employers, and communities across the region through accessible, career-oriented education.
The college offers post-secondary certificate, diploma, and degree programs as well as university courses, safety training, Adult Basic Education, and English language training. With decentralized campuses in Swift Current, Kindersley, and Warman, plus program centres in Biggar, Maple Creek, and Martensville, students can access quality education close to home.
Great Plains College was the first regional college in Saskatchewan to introduce a health and dental plan for its students and is recognized for having one of the strongest scholarship programs in Canada. As a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), the college welcomes international students and offers pathways to Post-Graduation Work Permits.
Key Milestones
- 1973: Originally established as Cypress Hills Regional College, providing post-secondary education to southwest Saskatchewan communities.
- 2008: Cypress Hills Regional College and Prairie West Regional College merged to form Great Plains College.
- 2006: Began awarding scholarships through a dedicated program that has since distributed over CAD 1 million to students.
- 2023: Expanded international student programming through the Saskatchewan Colleges Partnership with North West and Suncrest College.
Academic Programs and Structure
Academic Programs and Structure
Great Plains College offers approximately 18 post-secondary certificate, diploma, degree, and graduate degree programs across a range of career-focused fields. The college also partners with the University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina to deliver university-level courses and transfer programs.
Business and Administration
Programs in business equip students with practical skills in management, administration, and entrepreneurship. Graduates are prepared for careers in office administration, management, and community economic development.
- Business Certificate
- Business Diploma in Management
- Administrative Assistant Certificate
Health and Human Services
Health programs train students for in-demand roles in nursing, continuing care, and early childhood development. Many programs include clinical placements with community partners across Saskatchewan.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Practical Nursing
- Continuing Care Assistant Certificate
Trades and Industrial Training
Trades programs provide hands-on training in welding, heavy equipment operation, electrical work, and power engineering. Students learn through a combination of classroom instruction and real-world field projects.
- Production Line Welding
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Electrician
Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
The agricultural science program prepares students for careers in Saskatchewan's vital agriculture sector. Students gain knowledge in crop science, soil management, and modern agricultural technology.
- Agricultural Science Certificate
- First-Year University Agriculture Transfer
- Safety, Health and Environmental Management Diploma
Safety and Power Engineering
These programs address the growing demand for safety professionals and power engineers in Saskatchewan's industrial and energy sectors. Graduates are prepared for certification and immediate employment.
- Fourth Class Power Engineering
- Third Class Power Engineering
- Certificate in Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental Systems
Community and Social Services
Programs in community services prepare students for meaningful careers working with children, youth, and families. The college partners with universities to offer degree pathways in social work and education.
- Early Childhood Education Diploma
- Youth Care Worker Diploma
- Master of Business Administration in Community Economic Development
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Certificate and Diploma Programs
- EducationHigh school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12 completion)
- English ProficiencyIELTS Academic 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5), or equivalent TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo score
- Application FeeCAD 140 (non-refundable)
- DocumentsTranscripts, passport copy, language assessment results
- Age RequirementMust be 18 years or older at program start
Graduate and Degree Programs
- EducationRecognized undergraduate degree or equivalent credential
- English ProficiencyIELTS Academic 6.5 overall or equivalent (varies by program)
- Application FeeContact the college for current graduate application fees
- DocumentsOfficial transcripts, resume, references, and statement of intent
- Work ExperienceMBA program may require relevant professional experience
Most programs begin in September. Apply early as many programs have limited seats and fill quickly.
Select programs offer a January start. Check the college website for availability.
Apply before April 30 to be considered for entrance scholarships of up to CAD 3,000.
International students should submit their study permit application at least three months before classes begin.
Tuition and Scholarships
Tuition and Scholarships
Great Plains College offers affordable tuition compared to many Canadian institutions, particularly for students in smaller Saskatchewan communities. Tuition and fees vary by program and are due on the first day of classes. The college does not offer payment plans.
| Fee Category | Domestic Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (per year, certificate/diploma) | Contact college for current rates | CAD 13,000 - 17,000 |
| Student Fees | Included in tuition schedule | Included in tuition schedule |
| Health and Dental Plan | Included | Included |
| Application Fee | Contact college | CAD 140 |
| Total | Contact college for current domestic tuition schedule | CAD 13,000 - 17,000 per year (varies by program) |
Entrance Scholarships
Great Plains College offers entrance scholarships of up to CAD 3,000 for students applying to eligible programs such as the Agricultural Science Certificate. The college has awarded over CAD 1 million in scholarships since 2006.
- Amount: Up to CAD 3,000
- Eligibility: New students entering eligible certificate and diploma programs
- Deadline: April 30 for fall intake consideration
International Student Award
The International Student Award supports international students enrolled in select diploma programs including Business Diploma in Management, Early Childhood Education, Hotel and Restaurant Management, and Youth Care Worker.
- Amount: CAD 2,000 per award
- Number of Awards: Five awards per academic year
- Eligibility: International students entering second year of an eligible diploma program
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Great Plains College operates three main campuses in Swift Current, Kindersley, and Warman, along with program centres in Biggar, Maple Creek, and Martensville. The Swift Current campus, located at 129 2nd Ave NE, serves as the primary hub and offers modern classrooms, labs, and student services in a welcoming prairie setting.
The main campus in Swift Current features modern classrooms, trades workshops, simulation labs, and student support services.
State-of-the-art trades facilities provide hands-on training in welding, heavy equipment operation, and power engineering.
Small class sizes and modern learning environments ensure students receive personalized attention and quality instruction.
Housing and Student Services
Housing Options
Great Plains College does not operate on-campus residences. Students are assisted with finding affordable off-campus housing in Swift Current and surrounding communities.
- Off-campus rental assistance through student services
- Affordable cost of living in Swift Current compared to major cities
- Homestay options available for international students
Student Support Services
The college provides comprehensive support services including academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, and employment resources to help students succeed.
- Academic tutoring and advising
- Career planning and employment services
- Health and dental plan for all enrolled students
Student Life at Great Plains College
Student Life at Great Plains College
Student life at Great Plains College is centered around a supportive, community-focused experience. With small class sizes and personalized attention, students quickly build meaningful connections with classmates and faculty in a welcoming prairie environment.
Swift Current, Saskatchewan
Swift Current, Saskatchewan
Life in Swift Current
Swift Current is a vibrant city of approximately 17,990 people and serves as the main urban centre of southwest Saskatchewan. With a low cost of living, friendly community atmosphere, and easy access to outdoor recreation, it is an ideal setting for students seeking a focused and affordable study experience in Canada.
Arts and Entertainment
Enjoy live performances at the Lyric Theatre and Little Theatre, gaming at Living Sky Casino, and cultural events throughout the year.
Sports and Recreation
Cheer on the WHL's Swift Current Broncos or the Swift Current 57's baseball team. The city offers numerous indoor and outdoor fitness facilities.
Annual Festivals
Don't miss Frontier Days, the Long Day's Night Music Festival, and the Windscape Kite Festival — signature events that bring the community together.
Affordable Living
Swift Current offers significantly lower living costs compared to major Canadian cities, making it easier for students to manage expenses while studying.
Career Outcomes and Alumni
Career Outcomes and Alumni
Key Employment Sectors and Partners
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
Great Plains College is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI Number 0214383061827). The college provides official letters of acceptance required for Canadian study permit applications and recommends applying at least three months before classes begin.
International students who do not meet English proficiency requirements can access English as an Additional Language (EAL) courses to prepare for academic studies at the college.
Graduates of eligible programs can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Recognition and Standing
Recognition and Standing
Great Plains College is a regional college rather than a research university, and as such is not typically ranked in major global university ranking systems such as QS or Times Higher Education. The college is recognized for its strong scholarship programs and high student satisfaction and employment outcomes within Saskatchewan's regional college system.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Trades and Vocational Training | Saskatchewan Regional Colleges | Leading provider in southwest Saskatchewan |
| Scholarship Programs | Colleges and Institutes Canada | Among the strongest in Canada |
| Graduate Employment | College Graduate Outcomes | 90% employment within one year |
| Student Experience | Student Satisfaction Survey | 96% recommendation rate |
Features
Offers certificates and diplomas in trades, health sciences, business, social services, and technology.\nProvides university transfer courses in partnership with University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina.\nFlexible online learning options and microcredentials through Ed2Go.\nOffers adult basic education and high school upgrading (Adult 10 and Grade 12)\nMultiple campuses across western Saskatchewan to serve rural and urban communities.\nPrograms emphasize practical skills and career readiness, often with safety and industry-standard training included.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - April
Location
129 2 Ave NE, Swift Current, SK S9H 2C7, Canada
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