<p>This program leads to a Red Seal certification. Visit our <a href="/go/plan/trades">Trades page</a>.</p>

The Career Awareness certificate allows you to explore employment options and gain practical experience in community-based work settings. Your training needs are met through a program that includes community awareness, generic work skills, specific skill training, career exploration, and work practicum placements. Orientation and introduction to basic job readiness skills and career exploration is complemented by industry tours. Classroom learning components alternate with work practicum placements suited to your strengths and abilities. Intended for adults with cognitive disabilities.

Career Awareness (ASE) Certificate

Vancouver Community College

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1. Two screening interviews:

    - First is with the Community and Career Education (CACE) Student Services Assistant for students with disabilities to determine the applicant's suitability for the program;
    - Second is with the Career Awareness faculty member (if the applicant is successful in the first interview)

2. The following criteria/checklist is used at interviews to determine eligibility*:
 
    - Diagnosis or history that reflects a difficulty with learning (documentation of disability or prior assessments may be required)
    - Comfort and tolerance of an alternative learning environment designed for students with diverse learning needs
    - Evidence of having the motivation to work without ongoing direct supervision (as supported by previous reports or assessments)
    - Ability to commute independently to the college and workplace
    - Ability to manage own medication
    - Free from conditions that will significantly impair learning such as uncontrolled seizures, or severe behavioural or emotional problems
    - Appropriate personal hygiene and ability to independently attend to personal care needs
 
Note: Applicants may be asked to sign a release of information so that documentation can be provided to faculty to support the application.

Academic Admission Requirement

1. Some practicum placements may require completion of a Criminal Record Check (CRC) prior to the practicum placement with children and/or vulnerable adults. Consult with the department at the start of your program to determine whether or not a CRC will be required.
2. This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
3. Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encourages to connect with VCC's Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC's Indigenous Enrolment policy and services.
4. If you are missing any prerequisites, VCC offers academic upgrading, English as a Second Language courses, and university transfer options. 

Admission Advice

Applications should be submitted as early as possible. Qualified applicants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
 
International students may refer to the VCC International page for details on admission deadlines. 

Vancouver Community College

Career Awareness (ASE) Certificate

Overview

Work experience

Curious where your education can lead you? Have a dream job and unsure how to get there?