Le Cégep de Jonquière — célèbre pour son programme ATM.
1. Cégep de Jonquière at a glance
Cégep de Jonquière — public, French-language, founded in 1967 as part of the Parent reform that created the CEGEP network. ~3,000 students full-time.
Main campus on Boulevard du Royaume, near downtown Jonquière.
Particularly known for its Arts and Media Technology (ATM) program — one of the most prestigious in Quebec in journalism, radio and television.
This specialty draws students from across Quebec and even from abroad.
2. ATM — Arts and Media Technology
ATM is unique in Quebec — the only CEGEP offering this training at the technical level.
Programs:
- Journalists
- Radio hosts
- TV editors
- Production technicians
- Podcasters and digital content creators
Professional facilities:
- Multi-camera TV studios
- Functional newsroom
- CKRS radio station — broadcasts actually on-air
- High-end editing suites
Professional placement: rate often above 95%. Many graduates are hired before finishing their studies.
3. Other flagship programs
Programs appreciated beyond ATM:
- Business Administration — prepares for SMB management roles
- Computer Science — trains programmers and support technicians
- Natural Sciences — prepares for university (health sciences, engineering)
- Chemical Engineering — feeds regional plants (Rio Tinto, etc.)
- Early Childhood Education — trains CPE and daycare educators
The Production and Broadcast Centre (CPD), linked to ATM, gives access to internships in real media — often the trigger for a career.
4. Student life
Student life is vibrant thanks to the media specialization:
- ATM office — permanent workshop open to students
- CKRS radio station — broadcasts for real, produced by students
- Student paper — real content
- General Students' Association: welcome, parties, rights advocacy
Housing and services:
- Several private student residences within walking distance of campus
- Personalized integration for international students: pairing, admin support, cultural adaptation workshops
- Sports centre: gym, courts, weight room free for students enrolled
5. Costs and international students
Costs by student category:
- Quebec students: free — only ancillary fees ~$200/session
- Out-of-Quebec Canadian students: ~$2,500/session
- International students: $8,000-$12,000/year depending on program — ATM is at the higher end
Cost of living in Jonquière:
- Studio: $600-$800/month
- Restaurant meals: $15-$25
- Significantly lower than Montréal
International support:
- International office: CAQ, study permits, housing, integration
- Cégep Foundation: excellence scholarships
- Perspective Québec scholarships for some priority programs (~$9,000 per session)
The cost of living in Jonquière is significantly lower than Montréal — an important advantage for international students. The international office supports CAQ, study permits, housing and integration.
| Student category | Annual fees (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Quebec student | ~$400 (ancillary fees) | CEGEP free |
| Out-of-Quebec Canadian | ~$5,000 | ~$2,500/session |
| International student | $8,000-$12,000 | ATM at higher end |
| Perspective Québec scholarship | -$9,000/session | Priority programs |
| Studio in Jonquière | $600-$800/month | Lower than Montréal |
| Restaurant meal | $15-$25 | Average price |
6. Frequently asked questions
The most common questions on Cégep de Jonquière: required French level, ATM access for international students, and job placement after graduation.
What French level do I really need for ATM?
ATM is one of the most demanding programs French-wise.
Expect Level 9-10 (C1 CEFR) minimum — you will:
- Write news
- Conduct interviews
- Host radio shows
- Produce video content entirely in French
The Quebec accents, expressions and cultural references are part of the curriculum.
International students often take Tremplin DEC first to upgrade their level.
Don't underestimate the gap between « I understand French » and « I can write a news broadcast in French ».
Can international students enroll in ATM?
Yes, but with conditions:
- High demand, limited seats — you compete with Quebec residents
- Admission test and portfolio are the main filters — not nationality
- Higher international fees
- International office helps with CAQ and study permits
If you're not admitted directly: the Tremplin DEC + ATM path is the alternative — extends your studies by one year but increases your chances.
What are the job prospects after ATM?
Excellent — among the best of any CEGEP technical program.
- Placement rate: consistently above 95%
- Typical employers: Radio-Canada, TVA, Noovo, Cogeco, Bell Media, regional stations, podcasts/digital media
Many internships convert directly to jobs.
Geographic mobility is essential — most major broadcasters are in Montréal, with smaller markets in Québec, Sherbrooke, Trois-Rivières, and Saguenay.
Starting salary: $35,000-$50,000 first year. $60,000+ after 3-5 years.
7. See also
To go further on studies in Jonquière:
- Read the Quebec school system to understand the steps from pre-school to CEGEP.
- See first steps in Jonquière for francization and municipal services.
- Prepare your start with finding housing in Jonquière to aim for a student apartment near campus.
8. Official sources
Author's Note: For journalism or audiovisual production, ATM is one of the best choices in francophone Canada.
