Carpentry Certificate - Accelerated

Overview

If you’re someone who gets along well with others, has good hand-eye coordination, values quality and job safety and are comfortable with heights, this program is for you.  These are a few strengths you will need to succeed in this line of work.

Designed to equip students with a comprehensive skill set tailored to the in-demand trade of Carpenter, this program is for individuals who enjoy hands-on work in building and construction, focusing on mastering wood construction techniques, adhering to building codes and problem-solving.

Work terms are a critical component that bridges the gap between theoretical and project-based learning into practical application in the workplace.

Accelerated program delivery

• Classes take place during afternoons, evenings, and weekends. Students can expect longer days than regular, full-time study programs.
• Classes continue throughout the summer.
• You must be prepared to attend classes on campus.
• Students are required to attend mandatory trade and safety orientations.

Work experience

• Field experience is a mandatory credit course, providing the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills outside the classroom.
  • Opportunities are typically unpaid and last approximately 5 weeks.
• Transportation, accommodations and other costs related to work experience courses are your responsibility.
• For more information, visit work experience opportunities.

Choose NSCC

• You benefit from our expert faculty who bring years of experience to the classroom and strong industry connections.
• You learn the latest practices and technologies that employers require. The program is designed with the input of industry leaders to ensure you get current and relevant skills.
• You experience practical, hands-on learning.
• This program places a high importance on providing you with skills and knowledge to work safely in industry. To prepare for employment, you participate in certified safety and awareness courses.

Other info

• Many employers in this industry require a current, official criminal record check as part of the hiring process. A conviction on your criminal record may impact your ability to secure employment.

March 2025

Campus	Full time/part time	Delivery	Availability
Ivany Campus Dartmouth	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements. Weekdays/Evenings/Weekends	Seats available

Admission requirements

• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.
  • International students – High school diploma equivalency and English language requirements vary by country. View document and language requirements by country

Program requirements

• Portfolio development – As part of your studies at NSCC, you develop a portfolio of your work; the portfolio captures your achievements and profiles your skills to employers.

Tuition

Tuition amounts are for the 2024-25 academic year. Program costs and fees (textbooks, supplies, etc.) are additional.

Tuition, fees and program costs

In addition to annual tuition, there are program costs (books, tools, etc.) and student fees for College services, health and dental plans, your student association and parking.

View detailed program fees page(s). Please note that amounts on these pages are meant for planning purposes only. They don't represent final amounts owing.

• Carpentry Certificate - Accelerated

Career options

• As the demand increases for construction trades, so does the demand for qualified carpenters. Graduates help fill the demand for qualified carpenters in the new housing and commercial construction market. Other opportunities exist in the renovation industry.
• Learn more about labour market information. View career options

Future study options

• Students who complete the program are eligible for advanced standing in the Carpentry Diploma program.
• Graduates may register as an apprentice with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA) once employed. Apprenticeship is an optional but beneficial journey  combining on-the-job learning and technical training.
• Red Seal Endorsement - Individuals who complete an apprenticeship program are eligible to write the inter-provincial exam. A Red Seal allows certified tradespersons to practise the trade in any province or territory in Canada where the trade is designated.