Plumbing

Good plumbers are always in demand. Every home and building relies on a plumber to pipe fresh water in—and pipe waste water out. This is a good career for a hardworking person who likes to solve problems. You’ll receive training in the installation and repair of water distribution and waste disposal systems as well as hot water heating systems. All tasks are taught according to plumbing code and trade.

• This program is a first step towards Journeyperson Certification in the Plumber trade. To work in this trade, certification is compulsory through Nova Scotia’s Department of Labour and Workforce Development. Graduates of this program are eligible for transfer credit upon registration in the Provincial Apprenticeship Program.


• In just one year, this program will give you a solid education in plumbing and a foot inside many different areas of work – from the manufacturing industry and institutional maintenance to the service industry, sales and plumber apprentice.

• Graduates may find employment in many areas of the Plumbing field such as the construction industry, manufacturing industry, service industry, maintenance and repair, construction estimating, and plumbing supply sales.


• Learn more about labour market information - visit Career Options.

• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.

• This program is available for part-time study through a combination of courses delivered in-class at Akerley Campus and online. No additional campus locations are available for the part-time offering. Learn more about the combined in-class/online part-time offering »


• If you choose a part-time study option, you must still apply to the program and meet all the admission requirements. Once accepted, you will be referred to a Registrar at one of our campuses to discuss your learning plan and schedule.


• Tuition for part-time study option is calculated on a per course basis and is paid at the beginning of each semester.

• Those who are chemically sensitive should note that chemicals (petroleum products) and lubricants are commonly used in the Plumbing trade.


• Red Seal – Plumber is a designated trade that qualifies for the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program. The Red Seal allows qualified tradespersons to practice the trade in any province or territory in Canada where the trade is designated without having to write further examinations.


• Registered apprentices can apply for the NSCC Journeyperson Diploma. This diploma recognizes your apprentice training, and the completion of NSCC’s employability skills and portfolio requirements.


• You’re expected to develop a portfolio of your work as part of this program of study. A portfolio is a powerful and convincing way to demonstrate your achievements to future employers over and above a standard résumé.


• The School of Trades and Technology has specific requirements for health and safety practices and procedures for all shops and labs. Students practice 5S+S quality system throughout the entire program and wear specified personal protective equipment when training in designated shops or labs.


• Students are required to maintain a work record book or journal.


• Safety apparel, such as hard hats and safety boots, is mandatory at most industrial or construction training workplaces. Workplaces may also require you to wear additional personal protective equipment.