This 2 Year Diploma program is offered in an accelerated 45 week format. Students will develop the knowledge and skills to work with brick, cement block on contemporary structures, as well develop the knowledge, skills and techniques to restore brick and stone buildings. The course work is a balance of academic study of masonry and development of hands on skills in the shops.

For more information, see our detailed Masonry - Heritage & Traditional brochure.

Masonry Field WorkProject - Mississippi Textile Museum

Is this the right program for you? Answers to FAQ's and a lot more.....

Success is our priority and your success starts with choosing a program that suits your interests, aspirations and aptitudes. To this end, we would like to give you some additional information that will help you make a more informed decision.

What exactly is the Heritage Masonry program all about?
This is a diploma program offered over a 45 week period. Students will demonstrate knowledge, through in-shop projects as they master the requisite trowel skills. Typical projects include items such as: brick veneer, reinforced masonry, stone walling, stone carving, fireplace construction, cladding and man made stone applications.

The program also focuses on the principles of architectural conservation, the history of building technology, drafting and recording, the Ontario Building Code, structural analysis of masonry, mathematics, and communication skills.

Is the program all “hands-on”?
Despite this common misconception for trades training courses, this program has a balance of theory and practical courses. Lectures, note-taking, math, communications skills, drafting, research and report writing, and oral presentations comprise a significant part of the program. The “hands-on” activities are designed to provide students with an opportunity to put the “theory” into practice. Successful students spend as much time on their practical projects as completing assignments for their theory-based courses.

Is there a lot of homework?
Yes. Students will have approximately 30 hours of classes a week. This includes practical and theory courses. To be successful, a typical student will need to spend approximately 4 hours a day on homework. Quizzes, tests, term papers, group projects and final exams are part of the evaluation scheme for most courses.

Do I need to have previous masonry experience?
No, this program is designed to introduce you to all of the aspects of masonry. No doubt, it helps to have some basic construction skills, but, more important is your motivation to learn this craft. This motivation coupled with a solid foundation in math and communication skills will go a long way toward your success.

Masonry is physically demanding. Do I have to be in good shape to take this program?
Once you join the work force you will be on your feet all day, lifting and moving heavy material, climbing scaffolding, sweeping and shoveling - plain and simple masonry can be hard work. As such, it helps to be in shape. However, experience has shown us that, given a strong commitment to the program, students soon learn to adapt and develop a level of physical fitness required to be successful.

I’m not sure if a career in masonry and taking this program is what I really want.
This is a challenging 48 week diploma program that is geared to the student who is committed to a career in the intellectually and physically demanding masonry industry. Masonry construction requires strong math and communication skills; a sound understanding of building science; an ability to research products and materials; competence with a variety of software applications; the technical expertise to layout, cut, and assemble components; a passion for doing your best, attention to detail and a patience and understanding to do things right…. the first time.

Make no mistake, this program requires hard work, determination and commitment.

Masonry is a challenging and rewarding career and we believe there is no better way to start out, than through taking this program. I would like to help you make the right choice. Should you require more information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

John Scott, Co-ordinator

Masonry – Heritage and Traditional

e-mail: scottj@algonquincollege.com
(613) 267-2859 ext. 5628