Carpenters build and repair a vast array of structures made of wood, wood-substitutes and other materials. Many work for construction companies, contractors and maintenance departments while others are self-employed. Carpenter is a nationally designated trade under the Interprovincial Red Seal program. Carpenters assemble and erect forms for concrete, wood and metal frame construction and use plans and instruments to prepare for excavating and shoring. On smaller projects, they direct concrete placement, and install exterior and interior finish materials such as siding, doors, windows and cabinets. Levels 1 – 3 reflect harmonized curriculum.
If a student currently works as a Carpenter and has an employer who will provide on- the-job training, s/he is eligible to enroll in apprenticeship training. An apprenticeship is a three-party agreement between the apprentice, the employer, and SkilledTradesBC.
Students receive training according to the provincial apprenticeship curriculum, as established by SkilledTradesBC, pertinent to the apprenticeship level in which the student is enrolled. Upon successful completion of all four levels and appropriate time in the trade, the student may be eligible to write the Inter-Provincial exam as a Carpenter.
The information on this program page is a summary of the official Program Information and Completion Guide approved by NLC’s Education Council.
Career Prospects
Opportunities exist in the local and regional industry for Carpenters. Above average salaries are offered, as well as, excellent working environments.
Details
Intakes
| Location | Level | Starting | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dawson Creek | 1 | April 2026 | Cohort |
| Dawson Creek | 2 | October 2026 | Cohort |
| Dawson Creek | 3 | January 2026 | Cohort |
| Dawson Creek | 4 | March 2026 | Cohort |
Length
Level 1 is 210 hours; approximately 7 weeks long.
Level 2 is 210 hours; approximately 7 weeks long.
Level 3 is 210 hours; approximately 7 weeks long.
Level 4 is 210 hours; approximately 7 weeks long.
Estimated Program Fees
Program fee type: Trades/Apprenticeship
Costs indicated are estimates for a full-time course load.
Book, instruments, supplies, uniforms/clothing and third-party fees are additional.
Domestic Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $ 747.60 | $ 68.72 | $ 132.64 | $ 948.86 |
| Level 2 | $ 747.60 | $ 68.72 | $ 132.64 | $ 948.86 |
| Level 3 | $ 747.60 | $ 68.72 | $ 132.64 | $ 948.86 |
| Level 4 | $ 747.60 | $ 68.72 | $ 132.64 | $ 948.86 |
International Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees | International Medical Insurance | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $ 2,925.30 | $ 73.71 | $ 140.45 | $ 289.80* | $ 3,429.26 |
| Level 2 | $ 2,925.30 | $ 73.71 | $ 140.45 | $ 289.80* | $ 3,429.26 |
| Level 3 | $ 2,925.30 | $ 73.71 | $ 140.45 | $ 289.80* | $ 3,429.26 |
| Level 4 | $ 2,925.30 | $ 73.71 | $ 140.45 | $ 289.80* | $ 3,429.26 |
*Per four months
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Admission Requirements
Level 1: Registered Apprentice with SkilledTradesBC or proof of successful completion of related Foundation Trades Training program.
Level 2: Successful completion of Level 1 Apprenticeship Technical Training or successful challenge of the SkilledTradesBC Level 1 Placement Exam
Level 3: Successful completion of Level 2 Apprenticeship Technical Training or successful challenge of the SkilledTradesBC Level 2 Placement Exam
Level 4: Successful completion of Level 3 Apprenticeship Technical Training or successful challenge of the SkilledTradesBC Level 3 Placement Exam
Important Notes
- The program is not eligible for Canada Student Loans.
- Students must provide personal protective equipment (footwear having CSA safety-toe protection and CSA safety glasses with clear lenses). Students are required to have a computer (laptop or other mobile device) with minimum computer requirements.
- The program is affiliated with SkilledTradesBC.
Program Requirements
| Residency Requirement | 100% of each level must be completed at Northern Lights College or by approval of the Dean |
|---|---|
| Minimum Grade Requirements | 70% minimum in all courses |
| Gap Training | Students may be required to attend and complete gap training when transitioning from Classic to Harmonized levels |
Levels:
- CARA 150 – Carpenter Apprenticeship Level 1 (210 contact hours)
- CARA 250 – Carpenter Apprenticeship Level 2 (210 contact hours)
- CARA 350 – Carpenter Apprenticeship Level 3 (210 contact hours)
- CARA 450 – Carpenter Apprenticeship Level 4 (210 contact hours)
Gap training options:
- CARA 190 – Carpenter Apprenticeship Level 2 Gap Training (30 contact hours)
- CARA 390 – Carpenter Apprenticeship Level 3 Gap Training (17 contact hours)
Note:
In addition, students may be required to attend and complete Gap Training when transitioning from Classic to Harmonized levels.
Credential
Training results are reported to SkilledTradesBC