Housing Construction Fundamentals

Overview

This 8-week program provides you with the introductory skills and knowledge needed to secure entry-level employment as a worker in housing construction. In hands-on, practical courses, you learn to safely use a variety of tools and equipment found in residential construction environments. A strong focus on safety and understanding site operations ensures you’re ready to contribute upon hire in the construction sector. 

You graduate with an understanding of the expectations for employers and ready to:

• Work safely on a construction site
• Work and communicate effectively as part of a construction team
• Use and care for basic hand and portable power tools safely
• Use ladders and scaffolding safely
• Measure accurately using metric and imperial systems
• Identify, handle and store construction materials

Explore a day in the life of a student

Catch up with Melanie as she takes advantage of a fully-funded program to change her career. Read Melanie's #DayInTheLife blog

Work experience

• This program requires you to complete two weeks of work integrated learning, where you apply your skills and knowledge in a real work setting.

Choose NSCC

• You benefit from our expert faculty who bring years of experience to the classroom and strong industry connections.
• You learn the latest practices, tools and equipment that employers require. The program is designed with the input of industry leaders to ensure you get current and relevant skills.
• You experience practical, hands-on learning.
• 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 safety awareness courses.

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.
• Our student supports and services will help you get the most out of your experiences while learning with us. We have support staff to guide you.
• In addition to the program being fully funded, there are student support funds available to support your success, including a monthly stipend, urgent aid, and disability support funds.

January 2024

Campus	Full time/part time	Delivery	Availability
Shelburne Campus Shelburne	Full time	In person Delivered in-person. Some courses may have online elements.	Seats available

Admission requirements

• Applicants must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents or have been granted refugee status in Canada ages 18+.

Career options

• Graduates will find employment as construction trades helpers and labourers with construction companies.

Future study options

• Continue your studies and add to your skills at NSCC. Completing this program qualifies you for:
  • Carpentry – Certificate
  • Carpentry – Diploma
  • Cabinetmaking
  • Construction Management Technology
• Graduates may register as an apprentice with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA) 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 the inter-provincial exam. A Red Seal allows certified tradespeople to practice the trade in any province or territory in Canada where the trade is designated.