Noncompulsory, preprimary (preschool) education that lasts one year is offered to 5-year-olds in every province and territory except Prince Edward Island, where kindergarten for 5-year-olds is part of basic education and is compulsory. This level encourages children's physical, intellectual, social and emotional development.
Elementary education lasts six to eight years and is normally the first level of compulsory schooling. Students can enter grade 1 at age 6, and the transition point from elementary to secondary school varies within and between jurisdictions. Curriculum at this level emphasizes the basic subjects of language, mathematics, social studies, science and introductory arts. All jurisdictions also offer instruction in the second official language, i.e., English as a second language to students within French-speaking Quebec, and French as a second language to students in other jurisdictions.
After six to eight years of compulsory elementary education, students enter secondary education, which covers the final four to six years of compulsory education. Almost 98% of elementary students go on to the secondary level. Secondary programs include vocational training opportunities as well as academic opportunities. Vocational courses are typically offered during the last two years of secondary schooling, while the first two years are typically devoted to core compulsory subjects. The last two years entail more specialized programs of study in order to prepare students for the job market or to enter a postsecondary college, university or institution.
After successful completion of secondary school, students are eligible to apply to a college or university if they so choose. Canadian higher education is a constitutional responsibility of the provinces and territories, and post-secondary education is available at both public and private institutions. Most Canadian universities offer a complete range of programs, while others are more specialized and have developed areas of excellence. Bachelor's degrees require three or four years of study, depending on the type of program and the province/territory. Master's degrees require one or two additional years of study, and doctoral degrees usually require three years of study after a master's degree. There is no national accrediting body in Canada for evaluating universities or programs.