The Enhanced Carpentry Foundation Program is a 32-week program in which students earn credit for Carpentry Levels 1 and 2 technical training. Theoretical and practical instruction is provided through a variety of projects including stairs, concrete forms, framed floors, walls and roofs, finishing work and rigging/hoisting. Students will spend approximately seventy percent of their time in practical skill development by participating in the building of a construction project from start to lock-up stage.
Individuals who successfully complete the Enhanced Carpentry Foundation program will receive 450 work-based hours towards the completion of their Carpentry Apprenticeship.
A February reading week is included in this program (exact dates will vary).
The information on this program page is a summary of the official Program Information and Completion Guide approved by NLC’s Education Council, effective September 2026. (Current Program Information and Completion Guide)
Career Prospects
There are excellent opportunities for carpenters in both local and regional industries. They can be employed by construction companies, contractors or as part of the maintenance departments of factories, plants and other industries. Carpenters can also be self-employed.
Details
Intakes
| Location | Starting | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dawson Creek | September | Cohort |
Length
960 hours; approximately 32 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 3,417.60 | $ 118.18 | $ 511.24 | $ 4,047.02 |
International Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees | International Medical Insurance | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 13,372.80 | $ 174.42 | $ 557.24 | $ 289.80* | $ 14,394.26 |
*Per four months
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Admission Requirements
Complete one of A, B, or C:
A. English and Math
English Requirement
One of the following:
- BC Language Arts 10 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- BC Language Arts 11 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- BC Language Arts 12 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- ENGL 030 or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
- IELTS score of 5.5 overall with no band less than 5.0 or equivalent English placement test and score.
Math Requirement
One of the following:
- BC Math 10 with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent
- BC Math 11 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
- BC Math 12 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
- MATH 030 or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
B. ESTR 037
Complete:
- ESTR 037 – Essential Skills for Trades – Intermediate Level with a minimum final grade of 67%.
C. POWER
Complete:
- People Obtaining Workplace Employment Requirements (POWER) program
Post-Admission Requirements
One month prior to the start of the program, students will be required to provide proof of the following certifications*:
- Intermediate First Aid
- Industrial Worker Fall Protection
* All certificates must be valid for the duration of the program. Failure to provide proof may result in immediate dismissal from the program.
Important Notes
- The program is eligible for Canada Student Loans. Visit Student Aid BC to apply for financial assistance online. Note that dual credit students are not eligible for Student Aid.
- Students must provide personal protective equipment (personal safety clothing, coveralls, CSA approved steel toed boots, hard hat, gloves, goggles, and ear protection). A complete list of tools and equipment will be provided upon acceptance into the program. Students are required to have a computer (laptop or other mobile device) with minimum computer requirements.
- The program is affiliated with SkilledTradesBC and School District 59, 60, 81, and 87.
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 |
All of:
- CARP 150 – Enhanced Carpenter Foundation Level 1 (600 contact hours)
- CARP 250 – Enhanced Carpenter Foundation Level 2 (360 contact hours)
Credential
Certificate in Enhanced Carpentry Foundation