Certificate

Heavy Equipment Techniques

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Heavy Equipment Techniques
Summary

You will learn to service, troubleshoot, and repair heavy vehicles and industrial equipment used in construction, mining, and agriculture. Through hands-on training in our shops, you will build the mechanical and electrical skills employers need right away.

Career outcomes

  • Heavy Equipment Technician
  • Mobile Equipment Mechanic
  • Service Manager
  • Parts Specialist
  • Fleet Maintenance Coordinator
  • Workshop Foreman

Admission requirements

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
  • Grade 11 Chemistry and Grade 12 Physics are recommended but not mandatory.
  • You must be at least 16 years old to enter the shops.

Tuition

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,620 per year, plus $1,125 in annual ancillary fees.

Courses

What you will learn

This program gives you the practical skills to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair heavy vehicles and industrial equipment. You will spend most of your time in the Tamarack Building shops, where you will work on real machinery used in construction, mining, forestry, and agriculture. You will learn to diagnose engine problems, service hydraulic systems, and replace worn parts. You will also develop the technical writing and communication skills needed to document repairs and explain your work to supervisors and clients.

How the program runs

The program runs full-time over two terms in a single academic year. Classes and shop sessions take place at our Benchlands Campus, which houses the Tamarack Building and its heavy equipment bays. You will attend lectures, complete practical lab assignments, and work on team projects. The schedule is Monday to Friday during regular business hours. Because the program is intensive and hands-on, you should plan to attend every session. You will graduate with an Ontario College Certificate and a portfolio of completed repairs.

Admission

To join the program, you need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or you must qualify as a mature student (19 or older by the start of classes). While Grade 11 Chemistry and Grade 12 Physics are recommended to help you succeed, they are not mandatory. You must be at least 16 years old to enter the shops and work with machinery. All students must pass a criminal reference check and a drug screening before beginning shop sessions. If you need help meeting the academic prerequisites, you can take upgrading courses through our Academic Upgrading centre before you apply.

Tuition and fees

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,620 per year. You will also pay $1,125 in annual ancillary fees for student services, campus access, and materials. These fees cover your shop safety orientation, lab access, and use of testing equipment. If you need help covering the cost, visit the Student Financial Aid office or contact us at 519-555-0173. You can also explore entrance scholarships and bursaries that do not require a separate application.

After you graduate

Graduates are ready to work immediately in repair shops, depots, and field service roles. Employers in construction, mining, material handling, landscaping, and agriculture hire our graduates as heavy equipment technicians, mobile equipment mechanics, and workshop foremen. Some graduates move into parts sales, fleet maintenance coordination, or service management. The program also prepares you for apprenticeship registration in the Skilled Trades, allowing you to earn pay while you work toward your journeyperson certification.

How to apply

Domestic applicants apply through the provincial college application service. You can start your application anytime, but we encourage you to apply early for the September intake. International applicants should use the polytechnic's own application form. Once you receive an offer, you will upload your documents and confirm your enrolment in myWrenford. For questions about the application process, contact the Admissions office at 519-555-0171 or visit the How to apply page.

Electrical Techniques

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Electrical Techniques
Summary

Electrical Techniques is a one-year certificate program designed to give you the practical skills and safety knowledge needed to work in residential and light commercial electrical environments. You will spend time in the Tamarack Building shops learning to read blueprints, install wiring, and work with conduit and circuit protection devices. The program covers the fundamentals of electrical theory, motor control, and safety standards. You will graduate ready to support licensed electricians or apply for apprenticeship registration with the provincial regulatory body.

Career outcomes

  • Electrical helper
  • Residential wiring technician
  • Light commercial electrical installer
  • Maintenance electrician assistant
  • Electrical sales representative
  • Apprentice electrician

Admission requirements

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
  • Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%
  • Grade 12 Math (C or U), minimum 60%
  • Proof of English proficiency for international applicants
  • Meet the shop access age requirement of 16 years old

Tuition

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,620 per year, plus $1,125 in annual ancillary fees.

Courses

What you will learn

In this program, you will build a strong foundation in electrical systems used in homes and small commercial buildings. You will learn how to read technical drawings and blueprints, measure and cut materials, and install wiring and protective devices safely. Hands-on labs in the Tamarack Building shops let you practice bending conduit, setting up circuits, and testing systems with industry-standard tools. You will also study electrical theory, motor control basics, and the safety regulations that keep workers and buildings protected. Communication and design courses help you explain technical information clearly and present your work professionally.

How the program runs

Electrical Techniques is a full-time program delivered over two terms at the Benchlands Campus. Classes and labs run Monday through Friday during the day. You will spend roughly half your time in the classroom and half in the shops or labs. The schedule is designed to match industry shifts, so you will practice tasks under realistic conditions. The program starts in September and January each year. You will work alongside instructors who have years of field experience and bring current trade knowledge into the classroom. There is no co-op placement in this certificate program, but the hands-on shop hours count toward your practical training.

Admission

To enter Electrical Techniques, you need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, or you must meet mature student status. You must have completed Grade 12 English and Grade 12 Math, both at a minimum grade of 60%. If you are an international applicant, you will also need to provide proof of English proficiency. Because the program involves working with live equipment and heavy tools, you must be at least 16 years old to enter the shops. Under-18 students will need a signed consent form from a parent or guardian. All applicants apply through the provincial college application service for full-time intake, or register directly through Continuing Education if you prefer part-time study.

Tuition and fees

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,620 per year. This covers both terms of instruction and shop access. You will also pay $1,125 in annual ancillary fees for student services, campus facilities, and technology access. These fees are separate from tuition and are billed each term. If you need financial help, contact Student Financial Aid to see what grants, loans, or payment plans you qualify for. The college does not charge an application fee to submit your application. Scholarships and bursaries are available for students who meet the eligibility criteria.

After you graduate

Graduates of Electrical Techniques are prepared to enter the workforce as electrical helpers or to begin an apprenticeship with the provincial regulatory body. You will have the practical skills to assist licensed electricians on residential and light commercial jobs, work in maintenance departments, or enter roles in electrical sales and service. The program also gives you the credits needed to transfer into related diploma or degree programs if you choose to continue your education. Many employers recognize the Wrenford Polytechnic credential and hire directly from the program.

How to apply

Ready to get started? You can begin your application online through the Apply page. Domestic full-time applicants should apply through the provincial college application service and submit documents before the equal consideration date of March 1, 2027. International applicants use the polytechnic's own application form. If you need help with the process, visit the Admissions page or call the admissions office at 519-555-0171. You can also book a campus tour to see the Tamarack Building shops and meet faculty before you decide.

Carpentry & Renovation Techniques

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Carpentry & Renovation Techniques
Summary

This full-time certificate prepares you for a hands-on career in residential carpentry and renovation. Over two terms at our Benchlands Campus, you will study framing, blueprint reading, building codes, interior finishing and project management. You will work in our workshops and complete practical projects that mirror real job sites.

Career outcomes

  • Residential carpenter
  • Renovation coordinator
  • Custom home builder
  • Site supervisor
  • Finish carpenter
  • Project estimator

Admission requirements

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
  • Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%.
  • Grade 12 Mathematics (C or U), minimum 60%.
  • Proof of English proficiency for international applicants.
  • Tuition

    Domestic tuition is $3,620 per year for the 2026–27 academic year. Ancillary fees are an additional $1,125 per year.

    Courses

    What you will learn

    You will build the practical skills that residential employers expect on day one. Classes blend classroom theory with shop work in the Tamarack Building. You will read blueprints, measure and cut materials, frame walls, install doors and windows, and apply interior finishes. The program covers building codes, construction materials, and renovation safety. You will also learn how to communicate clearly with clients and manage small renovation projects from start to finish. You will work with standard framing lumber, drywall, insulation, and finish trim. Instructors guide you through safe tool use, layout techniques, and quality control checks. By the end of the term, you will have completed a full interior finish project that mirrors a real renovation scope.

    How the program runs

    This program runs full-time over two terms at the Benchlands Campus. Classes and shop sessions begin in September or January. You will spend most of your day in the workshops, labs and classrooms. The schedule is designed so you can focus on hands-on learning without taking on a second job. All required tools and materials are provided during scheduled shop periods. You will complete practical assessments in each course to show you can safely and correctly use carpentry tools and equipment. Field trips to active construction sites are scheduled during the term to give you a view of daily site operations.

    Admission

    To join this program you must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or an equivalent qualification. Mature students who are 19 or older before classes start may also apply. You need a Grade 12 English course (C or U) with at least 60%, and a Grade 12 Mathematics course (C or U) with at least 60%. International applicants must submit proof of English proficiency. All applicants are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. You do not need to pay an application fee to submit your documents. If you lack one of the required courses, you can upgrade through our Academic Upgrading centre or take a recognized equivalency test.

    Tuition and fees

    Domestic tuition is $3,620 per year for the 2026–27 academic year. Ancillary fees are an additional $1,125 per year. These fees cover library access, campus security, IT services and student association activities. Payment plans are available through Student Financial Aid. If you are an international student, your tuition rate is higher. Visit the Tuition & Fees page for the exact international rate and payment deadlines. You must pay your tuition before classes start to secure your seat.

    After you graduate

    Graduates are ready to work on residential construction sites, custom home builds and renovation crews. Employers hire our graduates as carpenters, finishers, renovation coordinators and site supervisors. Many alumni use this certificate as a stepping stone to apprenticeship levels in Carpentry or General Carpenter. You can also continue your studies with our General Carpenter (Apprenticeship) program. Co-op & Career Services in the Student Union Building can help you find your first job or connect with local contractors.

    How to apply

    Apply through the provincial college application service for domestic full-time admission. Part-time and continuing education students register directly through the college. International applicants use the Wrenford Polytechnic application form. Upload your transcripts and identification documents through myWrenford. Deadlines depend on your intake term. Visit How to apply for detailed dates and required documents.

    Personal Support Worker

    Academic Department
    Editorial Section
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    Program Types
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    Personal Support Worker
    Summary

    This one-year certificate equips you with the practical skills and compassionate care techniques needed to support individuals in their daily lives. You will learn how to assist clients with personal care, mobility, and health management while working in settings like long-term care homes, hospitals, and clients' private residences. The program combines classroom learning with hands-on practice to build your confidence and readiness for the workforce.

    Career outcomes

    • Personal Support Worker
    • Resident Care Attendant
    • Home Support Worker
    • Health Care Aide
    • Client Service Attendant

    Admission requirements

    • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
    • You must be comfortable working with diverse populations and able to pass a criminal record check and health screening as required by placement sites.

    Tuition

    Domestic tuition is $3,480 for the year (two terms), plus $1,125 in annual ancillary fees.

    Courses

    What you will learn

    You will study the fundamentals of person-centred care, learning how to assist with daily living activities, mobility, and basic health monitoring. The curriculum covers communication strategies, safety protocols, and infection control so you can work confidently in any care environment. You will also explore the psychological and social factors that affect clients' well-being, preparing you to provide respectful, holistic support. Through simulated labs and supervised practice, you will develop the practical skills needed to assist clients with personal care, medication reminders, and mobility safely.

    How the program runs

    The Personal Support Worker program is delivered full-time across both the Benchlands and Mercer Street campuses. Classes run three days a week, with the remaining time dedicated to labs, simulated practice, and supervised field placements. You will have access to the simulation centre in Corvid Hall for hands-on skill development before you begin your practicum. The program starts in September, January, and May, and you can complete it in one year by taking two terms of courses.

    Admission

    Admission is based on the completion of an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status. There is no application fee to submit your application to Wrenford Polytechnic. You will need to provide proof of immunizations and pass a criminal record check prior to starting your field placements. We encourage all applicants to attend an information session to learn more about the program requirements and career paths.

    Tuition and fees

    Domestic tuition is $3,480 for the year. Ancillary fees total $1,125 per year and cover services like the library, tutoring, and student association. You can pay your fees through the student portal or set up a payment plan. International students pay a different rate and should review the international student admission page for details.

    After you graduate

    Graduates are ready to work immediately in long-term care homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and private homes. Many employers hire our students for full-time positions before they even finish their final term. The program also provides a strong foundation if you decide to continue your education in nursing or allied health programs later on.

    How to apply

    Domestic applicants apply through the provincial college application service. Part-time and Continuing Education students register directly. To start your application, visit the How to apply page. You can also book a campus tour to see the facilities and meet faculty members.

    General Arts & Science

    Academic Department
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    Program Types
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    General Arts & Science
    Summary

    The General Arts & Science certificate gives you a strong foundation in writing, critical thinking and mathematics. You will explore media literacy, research methods and contemporary Canadian society. This program prepares you for transfer to a degree program or for roles that require clear communication and analytical skills.

    Career outcomes

    • Academic tutor
    • Research assistant
    • Administrative coordinator
    • Communications officer
    • Policy analyst

    Admission requirements

    • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
    • Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%
    • Mature students (19 or older by the start of classes) are considered on a case-by-case basis

    Tuition

    Domestic tuition is $3,480 per year for 2026–27. Ancillary fees are $1,125 per year and are charged separately.

    Courses

    What you will learn

    In this program, you will develop the core skills that employers and universities look for. You will learn how to write clearly, think critically and analyse information. You will study how media shapes public opinion and how to conduct research using ethical methods. You will also build your confidence in mathematics and statistics, which are useful in many fields. Through a mix of lectures, group projects and practical assignments, you will graduate ready to tackle complex problems.

    How the program runs

    The General Arts & Science certificate is a full-time program that runs for one year, covering two terms. You can start in September or January. Classes are held at both the Benchlands Campus and the Mercer Street Campus, so you may attend sessions at either location depending on your schedule. There is no co-op work term built into this certificate, but you can choose optional volunteer or research projects to gain experience.

    Admission

    To apply, you need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an equivalent qualification. You must have completed Grade 12 English at the C or U level with a minimum grade of 60%. If you are 19 or older by the start of classes, you may apply as a mature student. International students must provide proof of English proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent study. Domestic applicants submit their applications through the provincial college application service. There is no application fee.

    Tuition and fees

    Tuition for domestic students is $3,480 per year. You will also pay ancillary fees of $1,125 per year, which cover services like the library, student association and IT support. These fees are charged separately from tuition. If you need to pay over time, you can request a tuition payment plan through Student Financial Aid. International students should check the international tuition rates on the Tuition & Fees page.

    After you graduate

    Graduates of the General Arts & Science certificate often continue their education at a university or college. Many students use this certificate to meet the entrance requirements for a bachelor's degree in arts, business or science. You can also apply for transfer credit at other institutions to shorten your time to a degree. Some graduates enter the workforce directly in administrative, research or communications roles that value strong writing and analytical abilities.

    How to apply

    Ready to start? Visit the How to apply page to see the full checklist of documents you need. You can also book a campus tour or attend an Open House to meet faculty and current students. If you have questions about your qualifications or the application process, contact Admissions at 519-555-0171.

    Pre-Health Sciences

    Academic Department
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    Program Types
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    Pre-Health Sciences
    Summary

    The Pre-Health Sciences certificate prepares you for entry into competitive health programs at Wrenford Polytechnic and other colleges. You will complete essential courses in mathematics, chemistry, physics and health communication. The program is delivered full-time over two terms on the Benchlands Campus.

    Career outcomes

    • Practical Nursing student
    • Medical Laboratory Technology student
    • Pharmacy Technician student
    • Occupational Therapist & Physiotherapist Assistant student
    • Fitness & Health Promotion student
    • Pre-University student

    Admission requirements

    • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
    • Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%
    • Grade 12 Mathematics (C or U), minimum 60%
    • Mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes)

    Tuition

    Tuition is $3,480 for the 2026–27 academic year.

    Courses

    What you will learn

    This program gives you the exact science and math credits that health programs require for admission. You will build a strong foundation in calculus, biostatistics, chemistry, physics and thermodynamics. You will also learn how to communicate clearly in health settings and explore topics that support your own health and wellness. The courses are designed to match the first-year requirements of Wrenford Polytechnic health diplomas and certificates.

    You will work in labs and classrooms on the Benchlands Campus. The schedule is set for full-time study, so you can focus on your coursework and prepare your application materials at the same time. You will leave with a complete set of first-year credits and a clear path toward your chosen health career.

    How the program runs

    The certificate runs for one academic year, divided into two terms. Classes are delivered full-time on the Benchlands Campus. You will take eight courses across the fall and winter terms. The program starts in September or January, so you can choose the intake that fits your schedule. All courses are taught by faculty from the School of Computing & Academic Studies and the School of Health Sciences, giving you direct access to instructors who know health program requirements.

    Admission

    To join the Pre-Health Sciences program, you must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an equivalent credential. You need Grade 12 English (C or U) with a minimum grade of 60%, and Grade 12 Mathematics (C or U) with a minimum grade of 60%. If you are 19 or older by the start of classes, you can apply as a mature student. International students must meet the English proficiency requirements or submit an equivalent test score. All applicants apply through the provincial college application service, or directly on the polytechnic's form if you are studying from outside Canada.

    Tuition and fees

    Tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,480. This covers the full certificate program. You will also pay annual ancillary fees of $1,125, which support campus services like the library, IT help desk and student association. There is no application fee to submit your application. If you need help with costs, visit Student Financial Aid to learn about grants, loans and payment plans. You can also apply for fee waivers if you meet the eligibility criteria.

    After you graduate

    Graduates of the Pre-Health Sciences certificate are prepared to enter competitive health programs. Many students continue to the Practical Nursing, Medical Laboratory Technology, Pharmacy Technician, Occupational Therapist & Physiotherapist Assistant, or Fitness & Health Promotion programs. The certificate also serves as a strong step for students who want to transfer to university health sciences or complete academic upgrading. Your completed credits are recorded on your Wrenford Polytechnic transcript, and you will receive an Ontario College Certificate upon successful completion.

    How to apply

    Ready to start? Visit the Apply page to begin your application. You will upload your transcripts and any required supporting documents. If you are a domestic student, you can also apply through the provincial college application service. International applicants should use the polytechnic's own application form. Need more information? Contact Admissions at 519-555-0171, or visit the Admissions FAQ page for common questions about deadlines, documents and next steps.

    Pre-Technology Foundations

    Academic Department
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    Pre-Technology Foundations
    Summary

    This certificate prepares you for advanced study in engineering technology, applied engineering, or the skilled trades. You will complete eight courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and professional ethics across two full-time terms. The program is designed to give you the academic confidence and practical lab skills needed to succeed in your chosen diploma or degree program.

    Career outcomes

    • Engineering technology student
    • Skilled trades apprentice
    • Technical program candidate
    • Laboratory assistant
    • Technical communication student
    • Academic upgrading student

    Admission requirements

    • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
    • Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%.
    • Grade 12 math (C or U), minimum 60%.
    • Grade 11 Chemistry (C or U) and Grade 12 Physics (C or U) are recommended to prepare for the program's science courses.

    Tuition

    Domestic tuition is $3,480 per year for the 2026–27 academic year, plus $1,125 in annual ancillary fees.

    Courses

    What you will learn

    Pre-Technology Foundations is designed to give you a strong start in applied science and engineering. You will build a solid understanding of technical mathematics, classical mechanics, waves and optics, electric circuits, and general chemistry. Alongside the hard sciences, you will take courses in business ethics and digital information literacy so you can communicate clearly and work responsibly in a professional environment. The program mixes classroom theory with hands-on lab work, giving you the confidence to tackle more advanced coursework in your chosen field.

    How the program runs

    This full-time program runs for one year across two terms. Classes are held at the Benchlands Campus, where you will use the labs in the Escarpment Building and the Tamarack Building for practical experiments. You can begin in either September or January. Because the program is delivered full-time, you will attend classes Monday through Friday during standard business hours. The curriculum is tightly structured, so you will register in four courses each term to stay on track for graduation.

    Admission

    Admission to this program follows the standard requirements for Ontario colleges. You must hold an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an equivalent credential, or meet the criteria for mature student status, which means you will be 19 or older by the start of classes. For the science and math courses in this program, the provincial college admission rules require a minimum grade of 60% in Grade 12 English (C or U) and Grade 12 math (C or U). While not mandatory for entry, having completed Grade 11 Chemistry and Grade 12 Physics will help you succeed in the laboratory components. If you do not meet the direct entry requirements, consider taking the Pre-Health Sciences certificate or upgrading your grades through Continuing Education.

    Tuition and fees

    Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,480. This covers the full year of instruction across two terms. You will also pay ancillary fees of $1,125 per year, which fund campus services like the library, tutoring centre, and student association. International students pay a different rate; check the Tuition & Fees page for the exact international figure. If you need to spread out your payments, you can set up a payment plan through Student Financial Aid. The Fall 2026 tuition payment is due August 3, 2026, and the Winter 2027 payment is due December 7, 2026.

    After you graduate

    Graduates of Pre-Technology Foundations typically transfer into diploma, advanced diploma, or degree programs in engineering technology, applied engineering, or the skilled trades. The certificate counts toward advanced standing in several School of Energy & Applied Engineering and School of Construction & the Environment programs. If you prefer to enter the workforce first, the digital literacy and ethics training prepares you for technical roles where you will work with engineers, architects, or laboratory scientists. You can also use the certificate to meet the academic prerequisites for apprenticeship in-school training.

    How to apply

    Domestic students apply through the provincial college application service. There is no application fee to submit an application to Wrenford Polytechnic. You will need to upload your transcripts and proof of English and math grades through your applicant account. International applicants must use the polytechnic's own application form and submit proof of English proficiency. Once accepted, you will receive your offer and instructions to enroll in courses. Visit the How to apply page for a step-by-step guide, or contact the Admissions office if you have questions about your eligibility.