What are private career colleges?

Private career colleges are independent businesses that have been approved by the government to offer certificates or diplomas.

Who attends private career colleges?

Private career colleges are a good option for youth looking to get specific job skills, like web development or flight training, to join the workforce.

They can also benefit those who are already in the work force by advancing the skills they already have.

What kinds of programs do they offer?

You can get trained in a variety of fields, including:

  • Applied arts

  • Business

  • Flight training

  • Health services

  • Human services

  • Information technology/electronics

  • Services

  • Trades

Make sure that the private career college you’re applying to is approved by the government. Registered schools are governed by the Private Career Colleges Act and must have refund policies and qualified instructors, so students are protected.

You can find a list of registered private career colleges on the Government of Ontario’s website.

Why should I apply?

Post-secondary schools can be expensive, so it’s important to find an institution that’s well suited to your needs. The benefits to private career colleges are:

  • Small class sizes

  • Flexible learning schedules

  • Enrolment at many different times during the year

  • Compressed programs that deliver training over a short time

What should I learn?

Doing some research on what jobs are in demand can help you make an informed decision about what program to choose. Some jobs you should consider are:

  • Skilled trade worker, including machinists, welders and assemblers

  • Office Manages and Administrative Assistant

  • Tourism and Hospitality Worker

  • HR Recruiter

  • Information Security Analyst

  • Mental Health and Social Services Professional

  • Pilot or Flying Instructor