Personal Development

Columbia’s founder, Dr. Tom Snell, was so frustrated with his education that he dropped out of high school. He soon realized that if he wanted to achieve any meaningful purpose in life he had to return to school.

His previous frustration with education fueled his passion to create a learner-centered environment based on leading-edge research from around the world.

Dr. Snell’s relentless commitment to excellence has created a unique college of dedicated faculty and staff whose students are achieving amazing results.

Since 1986, we’ve supported over 40,000 adult learners in achieving their career goals and shaping their best futures. Our students thrive in a stimulating, student-centered environment that is focused on providing quality education that employers value.

We’re designed to be both flexible and responsive to the educational and training needs of business, government, and individual community members at a regional, national, and international level.

Columbia responds to identified learning needs in the form of programs, courses, workshops, products, and professional services. We provide innovative, flexible, and alternative educational programs, products, and services to all sectors of society in a caring, positive, and success-oriented atmosphere.

Our classes are delivered inperson, online, and in blended environments – forging a path to success that is tailored to each student’s unique needs. Columbia has the reputation of being a leader in its field: we are one of 19 Canadian institutions recognized for exemplary adult educational programs and innovative practices by the Secretary of State (Government of Canada).