Career Pathways Certificate Program

The Career Pathways Certificate is a program for individuals who require additional education supports or have had limited opportunities for continued education and who want to attend college and explore career pathways and goals.

This is a limited enrolment, low-cost program that is well suited for those who have a developmental disability, intellectual disability, or other learning challenges.

• One year, three semesters, leading to a Certificate of Completion
• Courses cover: workplace professionalism, résumé writing and interviews, workplace safety, etc. and a field placement
• Explore work in your field of choice
• Only program of its kind in northern Ontario
• Inclusion, community involvement, vocational skill building and academic abilities are all cornerstones of the program
• Graduates gain confidence, relevant skills, and empowerment, which they carry daily on their journey, wherever opportunity takes them
• Passport provincial funding may cover the cost of this program for students. Get more information at passportfunding.ca

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) (or) Certificate of Education, Achievement (or) Accomplishment (or) Mature Student Status.
• Resident of Ontario
• Eligible to work in Ontario
• 18 years of age or older
• Geared to new graduates with Certificate of Achievement of local Ontario Secondary Schools and adults with developmental disabilities who want to transition to an employment opportunity

The Career Pathways Certificate program responds to community advocacy for post-secondary education that includes career exploration and field placements for those who might otherwise experience barriers to post-secondary education and/or meeting employment goals.

The focus of this program is “with us, not for us,” and the curriculum is developed in consultation with adults with developmental disabilities and community agencies (like local school boards, community agencies, and other supports and services that support people with developmental disabilities).

Each student will receive personalized supports and mentoring as required and desired.

All students will also have an opportunity to connect weekly with classmates and receive tutoring in partnership with the Developmental Services Worker Program.

This program includes:

• Employment readiness: Learn how to search for a job, write a résumé, prepare for an interview, etc.
• Skills for the workplace: Learn simple computer skills, how to manage your stress at work, how to dress for success, how to connect with your work team, etc.
• Communication and life skills: Learn how to communicate to potential customers and employers, including on the phone and through technology. Learn how to advocate for yourself and request workplace accommodations, and more
• Placement seminar: Learn how to prepare for a work field placement, set goals, obtain required industry certifications (WHMIS, etc.)
• Field placement: Obtain intensive hands-on practical experience within a community organization