Overview
Whether you're a recent high school graduate or you've been out of school for a few years, Academic and Career Connections (ACC) program provides the academic upgrading and credits you need to get into a post-secondary program - including other NSCC certificate or diploma programs
You develop a deeper understanding of yourself and gain the confidence to pursue a career that truly aligns with your unique skills, strengths, talents and personal traits.
You choose from a range of courses that help you upgrade your math, physics, chemistry, biology and/or communication (English) credits while you evaluate hundreds of career possibilities. With each course, instructors work with you to provide a challenging and rewarding learning experience.
If you're looking to take two or fewer courses, Adult Learning Program – Academic Upgrading may be an option for you.
Study options
This program has multiple intakes throughout the year with flexible options to study:
- Full time - Certificate program
- Part time - Pre-requisite courses (as needed)
- If you apply for the part-time study option, you must meet all the admission requirements.
- Once admitted, you’re referred to a campus for course selection. Some courses are available online.
- The time to complete the program through part-time study varies and depends on the schedule you choose and the number of courses you complete each term.
- Online (for specific courses)
Other info
- Course selection: As a second step to the admissions and enrolment process, we help you determine your next steps and provide you with details on the course selection process and registration.
- You can take all the necessary courses to obtain a certificate or just a few specific courses, depending on your educational goals.
January 2027
September 2027
Admission requirements
- High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.
Tuition
Tuition amounts are for the 2026-27 academic year. Program costs and fees (textbooks, supplies, etc.) are additional.
Tuition (Domestic):
$1,555
Tuition (International):
$13,505
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.
Tuition for part-time study is calculated on a per-course basis and is paid at the beginning of each term.
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.
Courses may include
These are some of the courses offered in this program. It is not a complete list and courses are subject to change in advance of the academic year.
Recognizing prior learning / transfer credits
If you have previous learning (course, employment, etc...) that's relevant to your program, you may be able to apply to earn credit. Not all programs are eligible. Learn about our recognizing prior learning (RPL) process.
SAFE 1000 - Introduction to WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems)
This course offers learners basic overview of WHMIS principles and establishes a solid foundation to support workplace-specific training on the safe storage and handling of controlled/hazardous products. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive basic WHMIS certification.
SAFE 1001 - Introduction to NS OH&S Act
This course offers an introduction to the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Act of Nova Scotia, which is required by any person employed in a Nova Scotia workplace. This is a generic, introductory course that provides basic knowledge of the Act and is considered to be the basis from which more specific training can be given.
Academic Career Connections Elective Course Requirement. Students must take 8 credits from a prescribed list of courses.
In addition to their prescribed electives, learners will complete 24 credits (360 hours) of open elective credit that are consistent with the goals outlined in their portfolios.
