Mission & Community Focus
NorQuest College is a public, community-focused institution located in Edmonton, Alberta, founded in 1965. It began as Alberta Vocational College, created to provide upskilling opportunities to underemployed Albertans. Today, it offers a broad spectrum of programs with a mission to deliver accessible, career-relevant education in a highly inclusive and supportive environment. 

Programs & Learning Options
NorQuest offers over 60 programs including diplomas, certificates, academic upgrading, and English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) courses. Students can take classes full‑time, part‑time, online, or through a mixed modality.  Its areas of strength include health (practical nursing, health support), business, community studies, and technology. 

International & Cultural Diversity
The college is very international: more than half of its student population was born outside Canada, and students from 152 different countries study there. NorQuest emphasizes cultural inclusion and multilingualism — over 72 languages are spoken on campus. Its International Student Services provides support for settlement, immigration advising, orientation, and connects students with community resources. 

Research & Community Impact
Although a community college, NorQuest is notable for its research: it ranks 25th among Canada’s top 50 research colleges. Its applied research priorities include equity, inclusion, social innovation, and health innovation — often partnering with local industries, government, and community organizations to address real-world challenges.

Student Life & Support
Students at NorQuest benefit from small class sizes, hands-on learning, and a student-first culture. There are extensive supports: free tutoring, health and wellness services, career counselling, and cultural support. The college also emphasizes belonging, with programs for Indigenous learners, newcomers, and first-language learners, making it a vibrant multicultural community.