You must have heard of vocational courses. But what are these and why are they becoming so popular? Vocational courses are shorter skill-oriented programs that are a fantastic way to gain practical knowledge and jumpstart your career quickly.
When I deep dived into these courses, I found many study abroad destinations, like Canada, offer numerous such training-intensive courses and are an ideal destination to take vocational training.
I feel these short, career-focused programs help you gain specialized skills and make you competent to become a part of the job market.
Read more to explore the best vocational courses in Canada that can boost your career prospects.
Diploma in Hospitality - Hotel and Restaurant Operations (Co-op)
Diploma in Culinary Management
Ontario College Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts Management
Ontario College Diploma in Culinary Management
Toronto School of Management
Centennial College
George Brown College
Georgian College
Seneca College
Management and Entrepreneurship Courses
Entrepreneurship Management
Business - Management and Entrepreneurship (Co-op and Non Co-op Version)
Business - Entrepreneurship and management
Ontario College Graduate Certificate in Global Business Management
Toronto School of Management
Fanshawe College
Centennial College
George Brown College
Georgian College
Source: Canadian universities & colleges websites
Some more information about the top five vocational programs in Canada is given below:
Healthcare Programs
Students with a strong desire to pursue healthcare professions and address the medical needs of their communities may consider these vocational programs in Canada. Courses include massage therapy, nursing, pharmacy, medical technician, medical office assistant, pharmacy technician training and emergency medical technician. Additionally, there are courses on nutrition, fitness, and chiropractic training as well.
Architectural Technician
Technicians have a crucial job in this sector, collaborating with architects and engineers to plan and implement varied commercial and residential projects. Canada is home to numerous colleges offering vocational courses in the field.
Horticulture Technology
Many Canadian institutions offer vocational programs in agriculture and related fields, such as horticulture technology. These courses often include field trips and interactions with local businesses in these categories.
Industrial Electrician
This course is available at numerous educational institutions. The program topics such as conduits, safety, single and three-phase theories, wiring, fitting and tubing, blueprints, security systems and fire alarms, heating systems, etc. Students may also register for an apprenticeship with the Canadian Department of Education afterwards if they are eligible.
One can pursue diploma courses in Hospitality and Tourism Management, Global Hospitality Operations Management, Hospitality and Tourism Operations Management, and more to upskill themselves in the latest knowledge and tools used in the sector.
Management and Entrepreneurship Courses
Business management and entrepreneurship are very popular courses as they help aspirants secure managerial positions or start their own enterprise. Canada offers certificate and diploma programs in these vocational fields.
Top Colleges for Vocational Courses in Canada
Here are top four colleges for vocational courses in Canadaare as follows:
Top Colleges
Vocational Courses
Duration
Fee
NorQuest College
Accounting Technician
2 or 3 terms
$20,030.35
Health Care Aide
2 or 3 terms
$190,98.25
Upskilling For Data Analytics and Business Intelligence for Autistic Individuals
16 weeks
$150
Flight Attendant
8 weeks
-
Insurance Professional
6 months
$3750
Fanshawe College
3D animation and Character Design
30 weeks
$16,955.12
Advanced Care Paramedic
48 weeks
$14,484.76
Advanced Law Enforcement
30 weeks
$5315.18
Agri-Business Management
36 weeks
$16,031.30
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (Co-op)
45 weeks
$25,272.27
Collège LaSalle
3D Animation for Television and Cinema
18 months
CAD 26191 ($19,074)
International Commerce Import - Export
12 months
CAD 11,632 ($8471)
AI and Machine Learning
18 months
CAD 35,685 ($25,989)
Graphic Design
16 to 24 months
0
Media Strategies and Advertising
18 months
CAD 26,314 ($19,164)
Coast Mountain College
Community, Crime and Social Justice (CCSJ)
1 year
$17,328.10
Business Administration Certificate
1 year
$15,375.60
Office Career Essentials
15 weeks
$9078.15
Education Assistant
1 year
$17,160.18
Applied Earth and Environmental Studies
1 year
$17,328.10
Source: Official University Websites
Eligibility Guidelines for Vocational courses in Canada
Getting admission into vocational programs in Canada is different from applying for regular degree courses. Students will not require any minimum academic score or GMAT/GRE scores for admission in most cases. However, they will require English language proficiency test scores. Accepted tests include:
IELTS- Students will be evaluated on a 0-9 score band.
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment Test)- Students will be evaluated on a 10-90 score band.
PTE (Pearson Test of English)- This is another popular test of English language proficiency that is accepted in Canada.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)- The score band for TOEFL is between 0-120. Candidates have four sections to cover, namely Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing.
Document Required for Vocational Courses in Canada
The below mentioned documents represent some commonly asked documents you must submit if you wish to study a vocational program at a Canadian higher education institution. While the specifications may differ per the course and institute you choose, here is a general idea of the documents you should keep ready.
Notarized mark sheets and certificate of Secondary School (Class 10)
Notarized mark sheet of Senior Secondary School (Class 12) or equivalent (+2 certificate)
Notarized mark sheets and diploma from vocational training (if applicable, for applicants who completed only up to Class 10)
Proof of English proficiency (if applicable, depending on university requirements)
Passport or identification document
Any additional documents specified by the university or program, such as letters of recommendation or personal statements
Application Process to Study Vocational Courses in Canada
Applying for vocational courses in Canada is simple:
Visit the OAS website and click on ‘Register’ to start the application process.
Input your email address and create a password to create your account.
Confirm your registration by clicking on the verification link sent to your email.
Provide personal details including citizenship, residence, full name, date of birth, and high school information.
Enter details of any colleges or universities attended, if applicable.
Input your current address, contact information, and emergency contact details.
Specify if you are applying through an agent and disclose previous applications or transfers from other Canadian schools.
Select your method of proving English proficiency, such as TOEFL, IELTS, PTEA scores, or opt for the EAP program.
Choose your preferred vocational courses using dropdown menus.
Upload necessary documents, including your passport page.
Select and complete your payment method (credit card or bank wire transfer).
Review and agree to the application terms before submitting.
Job Prospects After Studying Vocational Courses in Canada
After completing vocational courses in Canada, graduates can explore a wide array of career opportunities across different industries. Here are some key points to consider about job prospects:
Industry-Specific Skills: Vocational programs focus on imparting practical skills tailored to specific industries such as healthcare, culinary arts, technical trades, creative industries, and therapeutic roles.
Immediate Employability: Graduates are equipped with certifications and hands-on experience that make them immediately employable upon graduation.
Career Diversity: Opportunities include roles as healthcare assistants, HVAC technicians, junior chefs, film producers, and recreational therapists, among others.
Specialization and Growth: Many vocational fields offer opportunities for specialization and career advancement based on individual interests and goals.
Practical Experience: Programs often include internships or apprenticeships, providing valuable real-world experience and networking opportunities within the industry.
Industry Demand: Vocational training aligns closely with current industry needs, ensuring graduates possess skills in high demand by employers.
Final Thoughts
Vocational courses in Canada empower international students with practical skills and industry certifications, paving the way for dynamic career opportunities in a welcoming and forward-thinking environment. With the right information on available courses and associated job prospects, one can stay ahead of the curve and envision a promising future ahead.
Most vocational courses are not free in Canada, but some colleges, like Toulon Vocational College of Toronto, provide free vocational training in Canada for international students.
How much does vocational training cost in Canada?
The cost of vocational training in Canada can range from $150 to $25,272.
How long is vocational training in Canada?
The duration of vocational training in Canada ranges from 8 weeks to 24 months.
Which vocational course is best in Canada?
Some of the best vocational courses in Canada are Health Care Aide, Business Administration Certificate Course and AI and Machine Learning.
What is a +2 vocational course?
A +2 vocational course refers to vocational training typically undertaken after completing secondary education (class 12), preparing students for specific careers or trades.
What is a vocational exam?
Vocational tests typically assess academic ability, personality traits, achievement levels, vocational aptitude, interests, and intelligence.
What is a vocational certificate in Canada?
A vocational certificate in Canada is a credential that validates specific job-related skills acquired in vocational training programs.
Which course is best after 12th vocational?
Vocational courses related to electrical techniques in Canada are one of the best options after 12.
What is the difference between vocational training and diploma?
Vocational training focuses on specific skills needed for a particular job or trade, often through hands-on learning and apprenticeships. A diploma, on the other hand, is a formal document awarded upon completion of an academic program, indicating a broader range of knowledge and skills in a particular field.
Can I get a job after a vocational course?
Yes, you can get a job after a vocational course in Canada. The job profile includes Healthcare assistant, HVAC technician, Junior chef, Film producer, Recreational therapist and more.
What is the highest paid vocation?
Some of the highest-paid jobs after vocational training are Healthcare Assistant, with $23.42 per hour and HVAC technician, with $32.44 per hour.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.
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