Career Training Programs Starting Soon
Launch your new career with programs starting soon. Get trained and job-ready in healthcare, education, or office administration at Island Career Academy.
Your Career Timeline
Enroll, train, graduate, and start your new career
Enroll
Apply and start your training with clear goals
Learn
Build skills with hands-on training and practicum experience
Graduate
Graduate and start job searching in peak hiring season
Work
Start your new career with confidence and skills
Career Training Programs
Choose your career path and get started
Healthcare
The CCA program trains you to support elderly and disabled individuals in long-term care, home care, and hospital settings. The 25-week program includes 204 hands-on practicum hours with real patients. Free tuition and books are available for qualifying applicants funded through Nova Scotia government agreements - one of the most accessible pathways into a healthcare career in Cape Breton.
25 weeks
Complete in ~6 months
Education
The ECE diploma program prepares you to work with children from birth to age 12 in licensed childcare centres, preschools, and school-age programs across Nova Scotia. At 46 weeks with 600 practicum hours, it is one of the most hands-on education programs available in Cape Breton. A $5,000 bursary is available for qualifying students, and graduates are in strong demand province-wide.
46 weeks
Complete in ~11 months
Healthcare Office
Medical Office Administrators keep healthcare clinics running. You will learn medical billing, electronic health records, patient scheduling, and clinical office procedures - skills that translate directly into employment at doctor's offices, physiotherapy clinics, hospitals, and specialty care centres. The 41-week program in Sydney, NS includes a practicum placement at a real healthcare facility.
41 weeks
Complete in ~10 months
Education
Teacher Assistants work alongside classroom teachers to support students with diverse learning needs in Nova Scotia public schools. The 36-week program at Island Career Academy includes a Nova Scotia school practicum, putting you directly into a real classroom before you graduate. Ninety-six percent of ICA Teacher Assistant graduates secure employment within three months of finishing - making it one of the highest-placement programs in the college.
36 weeks
Complete in ~9 months
Funding and Financial Support
Most students are surprised by how much financial help is available. Here is what you can access before you pay a dollar out of pocket.
Qualifying CCA applicants pay zero tuition and zero for books through funding agreements between Island Career Academy and the Nova Scotia government. This is not a loan - there is nothing to pay back. Eligibility is based on residency, employment status, and program suitability. Contact admissions to confirm whether you qualify.
A $5,000 bursary is available for qualifying Early Childhood Education students, reducing the net cost of the program significantly. The bursary is not a loan and does not need to be repaid. Combined with Nova Scotia Student Assistance, many ECE students cover the majority of their program costs before classes start.
Most full-time students at Island Career Academy are eligible to apply for Nova Scotia Student Assistance (NSSA), which provides a combination of grants and low-interest loans to cover tuition, books, and living costs. NSSA is available for Medical Office, Teacher Assistant, ECE, Paralegal, Massage Therapy, and CRW programs.
If you are currently receiving Employment Insurance (EI) or have recently been laid off, you may be eligible for the Canada-Nova Scotia Labour Market Development Agreement, which can cover your tuition entirely. Speak with an ICA admissions advisor - we work with Employment Nova Scotia on a regular basis and can help you navigate the application.
Not sure which funding applies to you? Our admissions advisors help students find support every day.
Why Choose Island Career Academy?
With flexible start dates and multiple intakes throughout the year, you can begin your career training when it works best for you.
Align with employer hiring cycles. Graduate in time for summer opportunities and fall position starts, especially in education and healthcare.
Start with others who share your career goals. Build lasting professional relationships with motivated classmates.
Take advantage of bursaries, free tuition options, and other financial support programs to make your career training affordable.
Gain practical experience through hands-on learning and real-world practicum placements. Graduate with the skills employers are looking for.
Career training is a smart investment in your future. Build skills that lead to stable, rewarding employment and long-term financial growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about our programs
Ready to Start Your New Career?
Take the first step today. Programs are starting soon and spots fill up fast.