Carpentry Diploma

Overview

This program is perfect for those who want to elevate their carpentry skills and move beyond the basics of carpentry. The profession offers a rewarding career path for those who enjoy hands-on work and problem-solving. You will participate in construction safety and the use of shop equipment for building science, floor and wall framing, exterior finishing and much more. 

You experience practical, hands-on learning 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.

Comprehensive studies in energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, business skills and entrepreneurship are integral components of this program, which is designed to meet the needs of employers looking for carpenters with a solid base across a wide range of applications. Work terms are a critical component that bridges the gap between theoretical and project-based learning into practical application in the workplace.

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.

Work experience

• Field experience is a mandatory credit course, providing you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills outside of the classroom.
  • Opportunities are typically unpaid and last approximately 5 weeks.
• This program is eligible for a cooperative education (co-op) credit course between year one and two.
  • Co-op provides an opportunity for paid, full-time employment in a field related to your program.
  • Co-op takes place in third term between year one and two and must be a minimum of 12 weeks and 420 hours.
  • Our co-op program follows Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL) guidelines.
• Transportation, accommodations and other costs related to work experience are your responsibility.
• For more information, visit work experience opportunities.

Study options

• A Carpentry Certificate program is available for part-time study.

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.
• 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 courses.
• Health and safety regulations require use of an approved respirator when exposed to airborne hazards during your learning. You'll be fit tested for a respirator and to ensure a proper fit, facial hair that impedes with the fit is not allowed.

Availability

Seats at Burridge Campus and Cumberland Campus are available for domestic applicants only. International applicants will be waitlisted.

September 2026

Campus	Full time/part time	Delivery	Availability
Burridge Campus Yarmouth	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Seats available
Cumberland Campus Springhill	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Seats available
Ivany Campus Dartmouth	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Waitlist This program location has a multi-year waitlist. Contact Admissions for more information.
Kingstec Campus Kentville	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Waitlist
Pictou Campus Stellarton	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Waitlist
Strait Area Campus Port Hawkesbury	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Waitlist
Sydney Waterfront Campus Sydney	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Waitlist

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
• Applicants must complete a mandatory orientation survey once accepted.

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 2025-26 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 – Diploma - Year 1
• Carpentry – Diploma - Year 2

Career options

• As the demand increases for construction trades, so does the demand for qualified carpenters. Graduates help fill the demand 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

• Graduates may register as an apprentice with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency once employed. Apprenticeship is an optional but beneficial journey that combines on-the-job learning with technical training.
• Red Seal Endorsement – Individuals who complete an apprenticeship program are eligible to write their inter-provincial exam. A Red Seal allows certified tradespersons to practice the trade in any province or territory in Canada, where the trade is designated.
  • Learn more about the Carpenter Trade
• Continue your studies at university – This program includes courses that count towards a university degree. Learn more about having a diploma count towards a university degree