Business - Trades
This fully online Ontario College Diploma completion program is an innovative initiative providing tradespersons who possess their Certificate of Qualification within their trade with the opportunity to develop business-related skills necessary to plan and manage a business.
- Designed for tradespersons to acquire the business skills to launch their craft as a small business
- Benefit from supportive and experienced facilitators who are active in their industry
- Courses are built with flexibility in mind and can be accessed anytime and from anywhere
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Availability varies by course. Click here to view availability for courses in this program.
Schedule
Given the part-time delivery of this program, there is not a standard schedule for all learners.
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?
Graduates of this program may find employment opportunities in numerous areas. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy, locally and internationally. Graduates are well positioned to start their own trades-related business, to manage a small to medium-sized trades-related business, or use their newly developed skills and knowledge to improve their existing business. Employment may also exist in both the private and public sectors where strong leadership, management and entrepreneurship skills and the ability to adapt to change are highly desired. Those currently involved in a family-related business would be well positioned to lead or manage such enterprises.
To qualify for this certificate, you must complete the program within six years....(read more)
Overview
This fully online Ontario College Diploma completion program is an innovative initiative providing tradespersons who possess their Certificate of Qualification within their trade with the opportunity to develop business-related skills necessary to plan and manage a business. Small businesses continue to show growth in today's economy providing tradespeople possessing a combination of trade and business knowledge opportunities in this expanding area. The personal development in these areas is achieved through the cultivation of business competencies in preparation for roles in the areas of leadership, entrepreneurship and management. This innovative program recognizes the prior learning and practical experience of qualified tradespersons and reflects core business curriculum informing trades business management including the basics of finance, marketing, operations and human resources as well as legal, ethical and planning considerations. Laddering opportunities exist for those possessing College Certificates in Trades Management, Trades Leadership or Trades Entrepreneurship.
Graduates of this program may find employment opportunities in numerous areas. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy, locally and internationally. Graduates are well positioned to start their own trades-related business, to manage a small to medium-sized trades-related business, or use their newly developed skills and knowledge to improve their existing business. Employment may also exist in both the private and public sectors where strong leadership, management and entrepreneurship skills and the ability to adapt to change are highly desired. Those currently involved in a family-related business would be well positioned to lead or manage such enterprises.
To qualify for this certificate, you must complete the program within six years.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Possess good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Have an entrepreneurial spirit and are comfortable with risk.
- Are hardworking and motivated to take actions.
- Are confident in an online learning environment.
- Appreciate having tangible results from their work.
Courses
Read this before applying:
This program has been suspended and is no longer accepting new students. Current students may continue to register for courses as they become available. Please check back regularly for course offerings.
Online  |
| Course Number |
Hours | Course Name | Fall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Series: 01 | |||
| ENL1813 | 42.0 | Communications ICommunications I Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students develop stronger grammar and business writing skills to become effective business communicators. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| MAT1510 | 28.0 | Trade Math Calculations ITrade Math Calculations I In the field of plumbing, people us basic math skills on a daily basis. An emphasis is placed on the student's ability to use and comprehend core basic math skills to solve trade-related calculations, such as offsets, travel, pipe sizing, system dimensions and heat calculations using whole numbers, fractions, decimals, powers and square roots. Unit conversions are completed within and between Imperial, U.S Customary and Metric System of Measurements. Latent heat and specific heat capacity calculations are completed. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| MGT2396 | 56.0 | Occupational Health and Safety | |
| SSC0070 | 42.0 | Success StrategiesSuccess Strategies An in-depth and accurate knowledge of self is an important aspect in personal and career success. Students identify internal and external factors that influence their success including their self-esteem and self-concept. Combining this self-knowledge with theoretical models of identity, students explore practical, realistic and relevant strategies to enhance the success of their academic, personal and career goals. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| General Education Elective: choose 1 | |||
| AST2000 | 42.0 | Introduction to Astronomy | |
| COR1737 | 42.0 | Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental Illnesses | |
| DSN2100 | 45.0 | Design Thinking | |
| ENL0010 | 42.0 | Science FictionScience Fiction Science fiction addresses key concerns that are not restricted to the imaginative worlds depicted in fiction; rather, science fiction uses alien settings, strange worlds, alternate timelines, or virtual environments as a way of exploring contemporary issues. Over the course of exploring the various issues contained in these fictions, the various movements of science fiction will be explored to provide a broader sense of the genre's development from its earliest to its most current forms; in addition, terminology will be introduced so, by the end of the course, students will have a broader understanding of science fiction's historical and thematic terrain. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| ENL1798 | 42.0 | Contemporary Canadian Issues | |
| ENV0002 | 42.0 | Environmental Citizenship | |
| ENV5004 | 42.0 | Waste-Free Ontario | |
| FAM1003 | 40.0 | Psychology of Learning | |
| GED0021 | 42.0 | Disability in Arts: Portrayals and Identity | |
| GED0022 | 42.0 | Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-Being | |
| GED2200 | 42.0 | Free Speech and the Challenge of Social Media | |
| GED5007 | 42.0 | Transatlantic Slavery and Its Abolition | |
| GED5010 | 42.0 | The Fungus Among Us | |
| GED5301 | 42.0 | On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid) | |
| GED7105 | 42.0 | Professionalism and Ethics | |
| GEO0012 | 42.0 | Foreign Landscapes and Their Inhabitants | |
| MGT2346 | 42.0 | Introduction to E-Business | |
| PSI1702 | 42.0 | Government of Canada | |
| PSY0001 | 45.0 | Co-Dependency as an AddictionCo-Dependency as an Addiction This online course provides an overview of how individuals can become addicted to others and relationships. It will examine the personalities of abusers and those who are abused. How individuals with complimentary personality disorders unite and form bonds will be examined. Object Relations Theory and how women and men are unconsciously drawn to abusive partners because of personality disorders caused by childhood abuse or neglect will be the focal point of this course. Students will learn how individuals with co-dependent personalities can become capable of breaking free from the cycle many get caught in. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| PSY0007 | 42.0 | Cults and TerrorismCults and Terrorism In this course, students will explore the historical evolution and social impact of cults and terrorist groups. Students will learn ways to identify and define cults. Using discussions and active learning approaches, students will examine what motivates cults and terrorist groups with a specific lens towards violent activity. The impact of media and globalization will also be discussed. Students will advance their social and cultural understanding and gain awareness of cults in contemporary society. Students in this course will discuss the validity of historical evidence and research historical interpretations of events using relevant and recent sources. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| PSY0010 | 42.0 | Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsCriminal Psychology - Psychopathic Minds What makes a psychopath tick? Are they born that way, or are they products of society? Are serial killers really possessed with evil, or do they know exactly what they are doing? In this course, students will study how and why some individuals become criminals and why some actually become killers. You will study what is known about serial killers, stalkers, rapists and criminals. Also, the latest techniques used in criminal profiling and questioning will be examined. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| PSY0014 | 42.0 | Learning, Thinking and Problem Solving | |
| PSY1754 | 42.0 | Selected Topics in Psychology | |
| SCI2200 | 42.0 | Dynamic Dna: You Are Not Alone | |
| SSC5012 | 42.0 | Anti-Racism, Discrimination and Equity | |
| Series: 02 | |||
| COM1520 | 42.0 | Inter-Professional Trades CommunicationInter-Professional Trades Communication Successful interaction between individuals relies on effective communication skills. Communication with and perspective of other trades promotes success in the construction industry. Students discover relevant knowledge to support interaction with other tradespeople. Common trade interactions include carpentry, HVAC, welding, electrical, architecture, civil engineering and other trades. Students also develop job search and preparation skill such as resume writing, cover letter creation and interviewing techniques. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| ENL2003 | 42.0 | Communications II for TechniciansCommunications II for Technicians Communicating effectively in the workplace is a key component of career advancement and essential skills development. The ability to read, understand, reframe and deliver technical information to varied audiences is critical in a competitive marketplace. Students are exposed to a variety of common communication challenges related to working in their field of study. To meet these challenges, students are required to do basic research and data gathering, to summarize and reframe written, oral and visual information and to present their findings to a defined audience in an appropriate medium or media. Pre-requisites: ENL1813T There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| MAT1520 | 28.0 | Trade Math Calculations IITrade Math Calculations II Possessing the ability to solve trade-related problems using math is essential in the workplace. An emphasis is placed on the student's ability to use and comprehend core basic math skills to solve trade-related calculations, such as solving for the area and volume of various shapes including tanks and cylinders. Through theory and class-based assignments, students also learn to calculate percentages, discounts and solve ratio and proportion problems. Pre-requisites: MAT1510 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| MAT1610 | 45.0 | Standard Work PracticesStandard Work Practices Understanding and applying standard work practices can improve the safety and efficiency of the journeyperson's job. Students develop a variety of practical and professional skills, such as taking measurements, making calculations and estimates, interpreting data, problem solving and critical thinking. Through mentorship, hands-on experience and observation, students develop the ability to apply standard techniques and procedures used in their respective fields. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| MGT1610 | 45.0 | Productivity SystemsProductivity Systems Tradespersons use diverse productivity systems in order to work smarter, not harder. Students apply strategies such as prioritizing, planning, scheduling and reviewing work to achieve efficiencies on the job site and in the workplace. Through mentorship, hands-on experience and individual experimentation, students also examine various tools and technologies, such as checklists, databases, software and mobile applications, that can be used to improve productivity. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| WKT1610 | 255.0 | Work TermWork Term Gaining trades-specific work experience is an invaluable way to develop abilities and knowledge while also networking with professionals within an industry. Students secure and complete an approved cooperative work term, and submit a written report which documents the location of employment, the performed duties and achieved outcomes. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| Series: 03 | |||
| MGT2050 | 42.0 | Ethical and Legal Issues in the Trades | |
| MKT2020 | 42.0 | Marketing a Trades Business | |
| FIN2010 | 42.0 | Financial Processes in the Trades | |
| MGT2381 | 42.0 | Human Resources Management | |
| MGT2060 | 45.0 | Operating a Trades Business | |
| General Education Elective: choose 1 | |||
| AST2000 | 42.0 | Introduction to Astronomy | |
| COR1737 | 42.0 | Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental Illnesses | |
| DSN2100 | 45.0 | Design Thinking | |
| ENL0010 | 42.0 | Science FictionScience Fiction Science fiction addresses key concerns that are not restricted to the imaginative worlds depicted in fiction; rather, science fiction uses alien settings, strange worlds, alternate timelines, or virtual environments as a way of exploring contemporary issues. Over the course of exploring the various issues contained in these fictions, the various movements of science fiction will be explored to provide a broader sense of the genre's development from its earliest to its most current forms; in addition, terminology will be introduced so, by the end of the course, students will have a broader understanding of science fiction's historical and thematic terrain. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| ENL1798 | 42.0 | Contemporary Canadian Issues | |
| ENV0002 | 42.0 | Environmental Citizenship | |
| ENV5004 | 42.0 | Waste-Free Ontario | |
| FAM1003 | 40.0 | Psychology of Learning | |
| GED0021 | 42.0 | Disability in Arts: Portrayals and Identity | |
| GED0022 | 42.0 | Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-Being | |
| GED2200 | 42.0 | Free Speech and the Challenge of Social Media | |
| GED5007 | 42.0 | Transatlantic Slavery and Its Abolition | |
| GED5010 | 42.0 | The Fungus Among Us | |
| GED5301 | 42.0 | On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid) | |
| GED7105 | 42.0 | Professionalism and Ethics | |
| GEO0012 | 42.0 | Foreign Landscapes and Their Inhabitants | |
| MGT2346 | 42.0 | Introduction to E-Business | |
| PSI1702 | 42.0 | Government of Canada | |
| PSY0001 | 42.0 | Co-Dependency as an AddictionCo-Dependency as an Addiction This online course provides an overview of how individuals can become addicted to others and relationships. It will examine the personalities of abusers and those who are abused. How individuals with complimentary personality disorders unite and form bonds will be examined. Object Relations Theory and how women and men are unconsciously drawn to abusive partners because of personality disorders caused by childhood abuse or neglect will be the focal point of this course. Students will learn how individuals with co-dependent personalities can become capable of breaking free from the cycle many get caught in. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| PSY0007 | 42.0 | Cults and TerrorismCults and Terrorism In this course, students will explore the historical evolution and social impact of cults and terrorist groups. Students will learn ways to identify and define cults. Using discussions and active learning approaches, students will examine what motivates cults and terrorist groups with a specific lens towards violent activity. The impact of media and globalization will also be discussed. Students will advance their social and cultural understanding and gain awareness of cults in contemporary society. Students in this course will discuss the validity of historical evidence and research historical interpretations of events using relevant and recent sources. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| PSY0010 | 42.0 | Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsCriminal Psychology - Psychopathic Minds What makes a psychopath tick? Are they born that way, or are they products of society? Are serial killers really possessed with evil, or do they know exactly what they are doing? In this course, students will study how and why some individuals become criminals and why some actually become killers. You will study what is known about serial killers, stalkers, rapists and criminals. Also, the latest techniques used in criminal profiling and questioning will be examined. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| PSY0014 | 42.0 | Learning, Thinking and Problem Solving | |
| PSY1754 | 42.0 | Selected Topics in Psychology | |
| SCI2200 | 42.0 | Dynamic Dna: You Are Not Alone | |
| SSC5012 | 42.0 | Racism and Discrimination | |
| Series: 04 | |||
| BUS2020 | 42.0 | Business Planning for Tradespersons | |
| LDS2010 | 45.0 | Leadership in OrganizationsLeadership in Organizations Management is a dynamic discipline full of rewards and challenges. Students preparing for a management position need to understand the board dimensions that such a position will encompass. This introductory course is intended to better prepare the business student for the significant changes that are taking place while managing an organization in the 21st Century. This course will focus on the basic four-function approach of being a manager also incorporating the various aspects of organization theory. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| MGT2040 | 45.0 | Change ManagementChange Management In the complex business world in which we all live and work, change seems to happen at the speed of light. Being able to effectively manage that change while executing strategic change initiatives can help propel a company forward or contribute to its demise. In order to be effective managers need an understanding of change management. This course examines change in organizations and the role and impact managers have in that change. Being an effective change agent through Appreciative Inquiry (AI) will also be analyzed in this course. AI is a widely recognized process for engaging people in change management. Students will analyze different change management initiatives and apply change management theory and techniques available to plan and manage their own change initiative. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| MGT5164 | 42.0 | Introduction to Project Management | |
| BUS2010 | 45.0 | Emerging Trends and Innovation in Trades | |
| General Education Elective: choose 1 | |||
| AST2000 | 42.0 | Introduction to Astronomy | |
| COR1737 | 42.0 | Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental Illnesses | |
| DSN2100 | 45.0 | Design Thinking | |
| ENL0010 | 42.0 | Science FictionScience Fiction Science fiction addresses key concerns that are not restricted to the imaginative worlds depicted in fiction; rather, science fiction uses alien settings, strange worlds, alternate timelines, or virtual environments as a way of exploring contemporary issues. Over the course of exploring the various issues contained in these fictions, the various movements of science fiction will be explored to provide a broader sense of the genre's development from its earliest to its most current forms; in addition, terminology will be introduced so, by the end of the course, students will have a broader understanding of science fiction's historical and thematic terrain. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| ENL1798 | 42.0 | Contemporary Canadian Issues | |
| ENV0002 | 42.0 | Environmental Citizenship | |
| ENV5004 | 42.0 | Waste-Free Ontario | |
| FAM1003 | 40.0 | Psychology of Learning | |
| GED0021 | 42.0 | Disability in Arts: Portrayals and Identity | |
| GED0022 | 42.0 | Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-Being | |
| GED2200 | 42.0 | Free Speech and the Challenge of Social Media | |
| GED5007 | 42.0 | Transatlantic Slavery and Its Abolition | |
| GED5010 | 42.0 | The Fungus Among Us | |
| GED5301 | 42.0 | On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid) | |
| GED7105 | 42.0 | Professionalism and Ethics | |
| GEO0012 | 42.0 | Foreign Landscapes and Their Inhabitants | |
| MGT2346 | 42.0 | Introduction to E-Business | |
| PSI1702 | 42.0 | Government of Canada | |
| PSY0001 | 42.0 | Co-Dependency as an AddictionCo-Dependency as an Addiction This online course provides an overview of how individuals can become addicted to others and relationships. It will examine the personalities of abusers and those who are abused. How individuals with complimentary personality disorders unite and form bonds will be examined. Object Relations Theory and how women and men are unconsciously drawn to abusive partners because of personality disorders caused by childhood abuse or neglect will be the focal point of this course. Students will learn how individuals with co-dependent personalities can become capable of breaking free from the cycle many get caught in. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| PSY0007 | 42.0 | Cults and TerrorismCults and Terrorism In this course, students will explore the historical evolution and social impact of cults and terrorist groups. Students will learn ways to identify and define cults. Using discussions and active learning approaches, students will examine what motivates cults and terrorist groups with a specific lens towards violent activity. The impact of media and globalization will also be discussed. Students will advance their social and cultural understanding and gain awareness of cults in contemporary society. Students in this course will discuss the validity of historical evidence and research historical interpretations of events using relevant and recent sources. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| PSY0010 | 42.0 | Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsCriminal Psychology - Psychopathic Minds What makes a psychopath tick? Are they born that way, or are they products of society? Are serial killers really possessed with evil, or do they know exactly what they are doing? In this course, students will study how and why some individuals become criminals and why some actually become killers. You will study what is known about serial killers, stalkers, rapists and criminals. Also, the latest techniques used in criminal profiling and questioning will be examined. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| PSY0014 | 42.0 | Learning, Thinking and Problem Solving | |
| PSY1754 | 42.0 | Selected Topics in Psychology | |
| SCI2200 | 42.0 | Dynamic Dna: You Are Not Alone | |
| SSC5012 | 42.0 | Racism and Discrimination | |
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates of this program may elect self-employment as a small business owner or find employment in the trades-related fields as business managers, maintenance and trades managers as well as trades supervisors.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The successful completion of this program will enable the graduate to:
- Identify and discuss the impact of global issues on an organization's business opportunities by using an environmental scan.
- Apply principles of corporate sustainability, corporate social responsibility and ethics to support an organization's business initiatives.
- Use current concepts/systems and technologies to support an organization's business initiatives.
- Apply basic research skills to support business decision making.
- Support the planning, implementation and monitoring of projects.
- Perform work in compliance with relevant statutes, regulations and business practices.
- Explain the role of the human resource function and its impact on an organization.
- Use accounting and financial principles to support the operations of an organization.
- Describe and apply marketing and sales concepts used to support the operations of an organization.
- Outline principles of supply chain management and operations management.
- Outline and assess the components of a business plan.
- Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance in the business field.
- Perform trade-related practices to industry standards.
- Respond to the evolving market needs by developing innovative or modified products, concepts, goods and services.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
2025/2026 Academic Year
Fees are subject to change.
Fees for part-time programs are charged on a course-by-course basis and are published on each individual course page. For questions related to fees, please call the Registrar's Office at 613-727-0002.
Graduation Fee:
Once you have completed all the courses in the program, it is the responsibility of the student to complete a credential application (https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/certificationgraduating/). A graduation fee is charged when the application is submitted. After your credential application has been approved, you will be invited to Convocation.
Additional program related expenses include:
Books and supplies cost approximately $250 per level on average. For more information visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials/students/.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program).
Program Eligibility
- Ontario College of Trades Certificate of Qualification or equivalent credential.
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
Application Information
BUSINESS - TRADES
Program Code 1828X07PAO
This program requires an application process. Proof of an Ontario College of Trades Certificate of Qualification, or an equivalent credential is required to be submitted along with the application form.
Application to this part-time program must be submitted via our online application form available at: https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/part-time-graduate-certificate-application-form/.
Prior to starting your application, please ensure that you have consulted the program admission requirements and have all the supporting documentation in a digital format ready to be uploaded.
Applications submitted in a paper format or via email will not be accepted and incomplete applications will not be processed.
Applications will typically be processed within 2-3 weeks but can take longer during peak times and start of academic terms. Applicants are encouraged to apply at least 4-6 weeks prior to start of term.
Additional Information
Program Resources
This completion program is specifically designed for qualified tradespersons where the knowledge and skills gained through apprenticeship/journeyperson training provides the basis for advanced standing into the program. For this reason, this completion program is only open to qualified tradespersons.
Graduates from the Trades Entrepreneurship, Trades Management or Trades Leadership College Certificates will receive credit for six courses and may also receive advanced standings based on previous learning and/or experience. While transfer credit and PLAR is possible, a 25% residency requirement is necessary for all Algonquin College credentials.
International students wishing to study online should visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/international for information related to International online students and for International fees information prior to registering. Please note that AC Online programs do not qualify international students for new study permits or study permit extensions.
PRIOR LEARNING AND RECOGNITION (PLAR):
Students who wish to apply for PLAR need to demonstrate competency at a post-secondary level in all of the course learning requirements. Evidence of learning achievements for PLAR candidates may include a comprehensive challenge examination and/or completion of a portfolio.
AC Online ACADEMIC PLANNER:
The Academic Planner provides registered part-time students the ability to declare into a program of study. The Academic Planner outlines successfully completed courses to date, as well as courses that need to be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. It is, therefore, essential that all part-time students declare to their program of study, allowing administrators to plan course offerings. The tool is available on ACSIS, located under 'Part-time Students' on the left-hand toolbar.
PROGRAM PROGRESSION:
As per policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements when students are admitted to a program, they are assigned to the Program of Study that aligns with their start date. If a student takes a break for two or more consecutive terms the Program of Study is reset to align with the current version (when studies are resumed).
Contact
Future Students
For additional information, please contact our Customer Service Representative team at online@algonquincollege.com and they will direct you to the best person to answer your specific questions.
Current Students
For additional information, please reference the AC Online Circle of Care.