Heritage College is one of 48 cégeps (collèges d'enseignement général et professionnel) in the province of Quebec. Each one of these colleges is an independent public corporation, governed by the provisions of the General and Vocational Colleges Act.

The academic year is the period between July 1 and June 30. It consists of the Fall semester (which begins in late August) and the Winter semester (which begins in January). Each semester is made up of at least 82 days, including the examination period. To qualify for full-time student status, you must take at least 180 hours of instruction in a semester.

Pre-university programs comprise four semesters (two years); career programs comprise six semesters (three years).

Heritage College is also a member of Cégep international who's mission is to support the development and implementation of international educational initiatives.