Collegial studies Secondary studies lead to collegial studies, the first level of higher education. Whatever their choice, students must take some general education courses which are common to both programs. University studies University studies constitute the second level of higher education. The duration of study can vary according to the discipline or level. As highly autonomous bodies, universities can determine their own courses of study, their teaching and research programs, their own admission and registration requirements and award their own diplomas.
Doctoral studies lead to a Ph.D. degree after three years of study.
Qu bec's various universities, research institutes and higher learning centres are located in Montr al, Qu bec City and Sherbrooke. These organizations include public schools, from pre-school to secondary school inclusively, along with vocational training and continuing education centres. The school boards are administered by a council of commissioners, elected through universal suffrage for a four-year mandate, and parents, elected for one year. They are responsible for organizing and providing quality educational services that efficiently meet the educational needs of young people, adults and local organizations, particularly businesses. They must also adapt educational services to meet the needs of handicapped students or students with learning or adjustment difficulties.