Program innovation for changing labour market needs
NSCC is responding to the evolving needs of learners, communities and industry through academic innovation in an effort to reimagine how education is accessed and experienced.
Innovative and responsive programming
Labour market needs are changing at an accelerated pace, which is why the College continuously reviews the mix of approximately 130 programs to ensure new and emerging needs are being met. As part of this effort, the College has increased offerings in priority sectors like health and trades. In 2024-25, NSCC added 260 trades seats and continued to support an additional 180 health seats. In response to the growing need for skilled workers in Nova Scotia’s wind sector, NSCC announced a new Wind Turbine Technician program that will launch in fall 2026. The first of its kind in Nova Scotia, the program will equip graduates with the skills needed to support the Province’s goal of generating 50% of its electricity from wind energy by 2030.
Improving access to programming
Access to education continues to expand through flexible programming and innovative delivery methods. Initiatives supporting this growth, include the launch of the mobile learning centre, which is currently hosting the accelerated Electrical Construction and Industrial program at Digby Learning Centre. The GIS Remote Sensing program has transitioned fully online, while part-time offerings have been added to the Nonprofit Leadership and Behavioural Interventions programs, enhancing flexibility for learners. Additionally, following a successful pilot, on-site learning for the Continuing Care program has continued in partnership with private long-term care provider, Shannex.
Pathways to accelerate entry to labour market
Shorter credential pathways continue to be developed in high-demand fields like healthcare, trades and technology, helping learners enter the workforce more quickly. Accelerated programs now include Carpentry, Electrical Construction and Industrial, Building Systems Technician (HVAC&R) and Continuing Care. A new Teacher’s Assistant certificate was launched as a customized work-and-learn pilot for 60 students in partnership with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. Microcredentials like Strategic Resilience for First Responders and Health Care Simulation Technician continue to be added, responding directly to industry needs.
Curriculum renewal for productivity
All Creative Industries programs have integrated outcomes focused on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool and understanding the ethics, legislation and profession-specific implications of AI. Similar work is also underway in Access and Engineering programs and will begin in the 2025-26 academic year for Technology programs. The School of Health and Human Services is reviewing specific programs through an inclusive language and equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility lens. Additionally, the School of Health and Human Services continues to explore the use of simulation to replicate real-world situations, allowing learners to practice skills, make decisions and gain experience in a safe, controlled setting.
Trades training, close to home
Madison had long been interested in the Electrical Construction and Industrial program, but the distance from her home in Meteghan made it difficult to pursue. When the program was offered at the Digby Learning Centre through a mobile trades trailer and in an accelerated format that would get her into the workforce faster, she jumped at the opportunity, excited to access the training she had been waiting for, close to home.
“I knew I wanted to go back to school and study a trade, but I wasn’t sure what would be the best to pursue. When I saw they were offering the Electrical Construction and Industrial accelerated program close by, I was sold.”
- Madison
new trades seats in 2024-25
learners in the new Teacher’s Assistant certificate program