3.3 Training and Upgrading: Issues to Consider
In order to work in some healthcare occupations, you may need training or additional courses to upgrade your skills. These courses are available through community colleges, universities, sector-specific groups, and private training institutions.
The IMD Resources section of this website will give you a look at which occupations require additional training or certification and which ones do not.
The Course Materials section of this website contains an Excel document that lists various training and education programs available in Toronto, Hamilton and Ottawa. You can access any of the noted schools through hyperlink. The instructions for accessing these resources are provided on the opening page of the Excel document.
Depending upon your time and financial circumstances, you might explore several options:
- Full or part-time study
- Distance learning
- On the Job
- On the Job with supplemental training
If you are considering embarking upon a course of training, it is wise to do some research before you select an educational institute or program of study.
In order to be registered as a private vocational school with the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, an institute’s courses must be approved and be of a certain duration. After a period of operation, a private college may apply to become eligible for OSAP registration. The Ontario Student Assistance Program provides loans and grants to eligible students depending upon their personal circumstances. Loans must be re-paid within an agreed period of time.
To find out if a school or college is the right one for you, there are several questions you must ask:
- Is the training recognized by employers?
- How well does the training meet the needs of industry?
- Does the training provide certification?
- Does the training school have a cooperative education program?
- What percentage of graduates find employment that is appropriate to the training?
- What cancellation policies does the institute have in place?
- What policies and refunding systems do they have in place if you are not satisfied with the training?
To ensure that you are getting the best possible education, ask potential schools to provide you with employer contacts who will vouch for their training. Some schools will offer names and contact information of graduates – these are not always objective
Exercise: Find out the following information:
- What courses are available in the career of your interest?
- Which education and training providers in your area offer these courses?
- How is the course delivered?
- How long is the course?
- What type of work can this learning pathway lead to?
 Continue to: 2.4: Professional Associations and Colleges >>
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