Skilled Trades Techniques: Carpentry (St. Andrews) at NBCC - New Brunswick Community College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-14

Program overview

Program Overview

Are you interested in a career in Trades, but uncertain which field is the best fit for you? The Skilled Trades Techniques program provides you with the opportunity to explore a variety of trades prior to committing to one specific trade. In the first year, examine four different trade areas such as carpentry, electrical, plumbing, welding, truck and transport, and marine diesel mechanics. You’ll also acquire general skills such as safety, rigging and hoisting, tools and equipment, communication skills, mathematics, and blueprint reading, which are applicable to any trades position.

In the second year, you’ll specialize in the specific trade of your choosing and gain in-depth skills in this area. You’ll be on your way to a full-time career as a tradesperson in your given field. There is a focus on practical hands-on learning in our shops throughout the program and a work placement during the second year. Trades people are in high demand throughout New Brunswick with many of our students having job offers even before graduation.

Program Structure

The Skilled Trades Techniques program is designed to be completed within two academic years of full-time study. The program structure includes:

Year 1: Exploration of various trades including carpentry, electrical, plumbing, welding, truck and transport, and marine diesel mechanics.
Year 2: Specialization in a specific trade of your choice, with options available at the St. Andrews campus including Carpentry, Electrical: Construction, Electrical: Industrial, Welding, or Marine Diesel Mechanics.
Hands-on learning experiences in workshops and a work placement during the second year.

This program emphasizes practical skills and knowledge, preparing students for a successful career in the trades. Students will also develop essential skills such as safety practices, communication, and blueprint reading, which are vital in any trades position.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on learning in workshops to develop practical skills.
Work placement during the second year to gain real-world experience.
Exploration of multiple trades in the first year to help students find their best fit.
Focus on safety, rigging, and hoisting practices throughout the program.
Access to modern tools and equipment relevant to the trades.

Career Options

Graduates of the Skilled Trades Techniques program can pursue various career paths in the trades sector. Here are some potential job options:

Carpenter: Specializes in constructing, installing, and repairing structures and fixtures made of wood and other materials.
Electrician: Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Plumber: Responsible for installing and repairing piping systems, fixtures, and appliances related to water and gas supply.
Welder: Joins metal parts together using various welding techniques and ensures structural integrity.
Heavy Equipment Technician: Maintains and repairs heavy machinery used in construction, mining, and other industries.

These career options highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to choose a path that aligns with their interests and skills in the trades.

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

Visit NBCC - New Brunswick Community College official website

Last updated on 2025-07-14

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For students interested in the Skilled Trades Techniques: Carpentry program at St. Andrews, the following Academic Requirements apply:

International Students:

Documents must be officially translated into English.
Minimum credentials required are indicated; however, higher education may also be considered.
Proof of language of instruction and grading scale would be helpful and may speed up the evaluation process.
Transcripts must show:
- Last year of Grammar or Literature credit.
- Last year of Math credit obtained.
- Last two years of sciences if required for your profile of consideration.
- Postsecondary credentials may be required for some programs.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For students from Vietnam specifically:

Credential: High School Diploma.
Required Documents:
- Transcript of marks from last two years of Secondary School.
- Proof of successful completion.
Special Notes: None.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

We want our students to be well-positioned for success and be able to participate in all NBCC educational activities. Therefore, all international and Permanent Resident applicants to NBCC must demonstrate adequate academic English proficiency.

NBCC will request evidence of English proficiency on a recognized linguistic test or successful completion of a recognized pathway program from one of our English language training partners. NBCC will only accept tests that were taken within the last 2 years. An applicant may be exempt if:

the applicant's first language is English; or,
a minimum of three (3) years of secondary education has been successfully completed in English within the last 2 years; or,
a minimum of one (1) year of successful completion in a recognized post-secondary institution has been in English within the last 2 years.

Successful completion of English 122 or 121, or equivalency to NB high school curriculum, with a minimum mark of 70% (non-modified curriculum) can be submitted to satisfy NBCC’s English proficiency requirement.

The following English proficiency tests can be submitted to NBCC for admission consideration:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Academic test only
- Minimum score of 6.0 with no subject test score less than 5.5
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- Minimum score of 80 with no subject test less than 18 (iBT Test)
Duolingo English Test
- Minimum score of 100 out of 160 with no subject test score less than 90
Cambridge English
- Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) - Overall Cambridge English Scale score of 169
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
- Minimum score of 60
The Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTEST)
- Minimum score of 4.5 with no subtest less than 4.0
PTE Pearson Test of English (Academic)
- Minimum score of 65 with no subject test less than 60

If you do not meet the English language requirements for admission to NBCC programs, you can apply directly to one of our English language training partners for a pathway program.

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!