Graduate Certificate - Career Development Professional (0869) at Conestoga College - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-06-04

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Career Development Professional Graduate Certificate program at Conestoga is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in the evolving field of career development. This program prepares graduates to enter various roles within the career development sector, focusing on providing essential information, advice, and guidance related to career exploration, skill acquisition, job search, and maintenance. With the workforce landscape continuously changing, this program is ideal for those looking to advance their careers or gain formal training in this vital area.

Program Structure

The Career Development Professional Graduate Certificate program spans a length of 1 year, divided into two academic terms. The program is delivered entirely online, offering both asynchronous and synchronous learning options to accommodate various schedules. This flexibility allows students to balance their studies with other commitments effectively.

Key features of the program structure include:

Online delivery for flexible learning.
Two academic terms to complete the program.
Preparation for the Certified Career Development Practitioner (CCDP) examination.
Options for part-time study available.

Featured Experiences

The Career Development Professional program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and practical application:

Training in 16 key competencies essential for career development.
Opportunities for networking with industry professionals.
Access to resources and support for job coaching and professional development.
Preparation for obtaining the National Career Development Practitioner designation.

Career Options

Graduates of the Career Development Professional program can pursue various career paths in Canada, including:

Employment Advisor: Provides guidance to individuals seeking employment, helping them navigate job markets and improve their job search strategies.
Career Resource Specialist: Assists clients in accessing career resources and tools, facilitating their career exploration and development.
Job Developer: Works to connect job seekers with potential employers, often focusing on specific industries or sectors.
Career Counsellor: Offers personalized advice and support to individuals regarding their career choices and professional growth.
Career Management Professional: Helps clients manage their careers over time, providing strategies for career advancement and transitions.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Conestoga College official website

Last updated on 2025-06-04

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Graduate Certificate - Career Development Professional program at Conestoga College, applicants must meet the following Academic Requirements:

An Ontario College Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Degree, or equivalent, or a minimum of 5 (five) years of full-time work experience within the past ten years in roles such as an employment counsellor, career advisor, or human resources professional.
Submission of a current resume.
A two to three-page double-spaced letter of application that outlines your career goals and explains how your education and experience have prepared you for entry into the program. The letter should also include verifiable details of any volunteer experience. Applicants should address the following questions in their letter:
- Why are you interested in this program?
- Why are you a strong candidate for this program?
- What personal and/or life experiences have influenced your decision to develop your skills and knowledge in the field of career development?
- What are your long-term career goals?

For international students, if your transcripts are from outside of Canada, you will need to obtain a document for general evaluation. You can use an approved provider of credential evaluation services such as ICAS or WES, or you can request a credential evaluation through the college. Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Preference will be given to candidates who have:

Post-secondary subjects in human development, psychology, and/or sociology.
Previous paid or voluntary experience in a related field such as career/employment counselling, human resources, and/or life skills coaching.

We encourage all students to apply as soon as possible to ensure a smooth admission process. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Graduate Certificate - Career Development Professional (0869) program at Conestoga College, you must provide proof of English proficiency in one of the following ways:

IELTS Academic: 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0)
TOEFL: 88 (Effective January 2024, no individual skill less than 22)

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-06

Program overview

Intake	Status	Open date to apply	Deadline to apply	Campus
May 2026	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
July 2026	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
August 2026	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available