You will learn how to install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The program covers water supply, drainage, venting, and hydronic heating systems. You will read blueprints, work with pipes and fittings, and follow provincial plumbing codes.
Career outcomes
- Plumber
- Pipefitter
- Steamfitter
- Plumbing Inspector
- Heating System Installer
- Maintenance Plumber
Admission requirements
- Registered as an apprentice with the provincial apprenticeship authority.
- High school diploma or equivalent, with recommended Grade 11 or 12 Math, Physics, and Chemistry or Biology.
- Pass a criminal reference check and drug screening before beginning shop sessions.
Tuition
Tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $1,190 per level, plus ancillary fees.
Courses
- CARP 1900 Plumbing Systems Overview
- CARP 2380 Pipe Fitting Fundamentals
- CARP 2920 Drainage and Venting
- PLMB 1130 Plumbing Systems Fundamentals
- PLMB 2370 Plumbing Code Compliance
- PLMB 2910 Pipe Fitting Systems
- PLMB 2980 Drainage and Venting
What you will learn
As a plumber, you plan, install, and service piping systems that carry water, waste, gases, and hot liquids. You will work in the Tamarack Building shops and classrooms to build hands-on skills alongside classroom theory. You will learn to read blueprints, locate fixture positions, and cut openings for pipe runs. You will practice soldering, brazing, and rigging procedures. You will also study plumbing codes, water pipe sizing, drainage and venting requirements, and hydronic heating systems. Safety is a core part of every session, and you will complete workplace hazard identification and material safety data sheet training.
How the program runs
This program is delivered full-time at our Benchlands Campus. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. You will attend in-school training for eight to ten weeks per level. You will complete four levels of technical training. Between levels, you will return to your employer to complete on-the-job hours. The program uses applied learning, so you will spend most of your time in the shops practising real-world tasks. You must pass a criminal reference check and a drug screening before you begin shop sessions. If you have a medical or physical condition that affects shop work, contact Accessibility Services to arrange an interview with our rehabilitation specialist before classes start.
Admission
You must be registered as an active apprentice with the provincial apprenticeship authority to enrol in this program. We recommend high school completion, including Grade 11 or 12 Math, Physics, and Chemistry or Biology. You can also take the Piping Foundation program to build a solid base of knowledge before starting. International applicants are not eligible for apprenticeship training. You must consult the Apprenticeship Training Schedule to find available intake dates. Registration opens through the provincial application service or directly with our Registrar's office. You will need to pay a commitment fee when you register.
Tuition and fees
Tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $1,190 per level, plus ancillary fees. You are responsible for your own tools, personal protective equipment, and coveralls. The Campus Store sells required coveralls and uniform authorisation vouchers. You can use our tuition estimator to calculate total costs for your program. Financial support is available through provincial employment insurance and personal support payments for apprentices. Contact Student Financial Aid for details on income support and payment plans.
After you graduate
Upon completing all four levels of in-school training, you will be eligible to write the interprovincial exam. Passing the exam earns you a Certificate of Qualification with a Red Seal endorsement, which allows you to work anywhere in Canada without additional training. You may also choose to specialise in areas like medical gas systems, water conditioners, or chilled water systems. Graduates find work with construction contractors, plumbing repair shops, industrial facilities, or they may start their own business. The program also prepares you for business competencies if you wish to earn a Blue Seal Achievement after completing approved study hours.
How to apply
Apply through the provincial college application service to request training dates. You can also visit our How to apply page for step-by-step instructions. If you need help with registration or funding, contact the Registrar's office at 519-555-0172 or visit the Student Services office in Hollis Hall. You can also book a campus tour to see the Tamarack Building shops and classrooms before you enrol.