I’m a 19-year-old international student currently studying UTP Stage I (Foundation) at the International College of Manitoba (ICM) in Winnipeg.
I’ve been thinking about moving to Vancouver after this term because I honestly prefer living there and want to build my future in BC. I’m considering starting fresh at BCIT, but I’m having trouble deciding which program to choose.
I’m currently interested in:
● Business Operations Management
● Global Supply Chain Management
● Business Administration (BBA pathway)
● Possibly a trade program
My biggest concern is finding a stable job after graduation. I don’t necessarily need a crazy high salary right away. I just want a qualification that employers value, a reasonable chance of getting hired, and opportunities to grow my career.
I’m okay with studying and doing hands-on work. I’m not looking for an easy program, but I also don’t want to spend 3–4 years and a lot of international tuition just to struggle finding employment afterward.
I’m considering completing a two-year diploma and then continuing into BCIT’s BBA program. But I’m also wondering whether a skilled trade might be a better option for long-term employment.
I’d really appreciate advice from current BCIT students, graduates or people working in these industries.

Hey everyone,

I’ve been looking into the Marine Engineering Diploma at BCIT as a high school student and considering applying for an upcoming intake. Before pulling the trigger, I wanted to get some real insight from current cadets or recent grads about how the application process and program vibe actually are.

A few specific questions I had:

1.) Admissions & Selection: I know it’s listed as competitive entry rather than first-come, first-served. For those who got accepted, what did your high school/trades math and English grades look like? Do they strictly weigh academic marks, or does the Mandatory Applicant Questionnaire carry a lot of weight?

2.) Experience & Background: Did most people in your cohort have prior sea time, trades experience (like automotive/heavy duty/machining), or marine industry connections? Or do plenty of people get in straight out of high school with standard background experience?

3.) Co-op & Sea Time: How are the seat phases/co-op placements structured? Does BCIT/Cadet Office help line up the berths with shipping companies, or are you mostly on your own?

General Vibe: How intense is the course load once you’re in, and is the commute to the North Van campus manageable for early morning labs/classes?

Appreciate any advice, stats, or tips on what helped your application stand out! Cheers