Why You Should Choose Durham College for Your Apprenticeship Training

By Durham College Modified on July 30, 2025
Tags : Academics | Skilled Trades

Durham College provides the in-school training portion for 11 different trades! Check out what DC has to offer.

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Why You Should Choose Durham College for Your Apprenticeship Training

Durham College provides the in-school training portion of the skilled trades programs listed below. You must maintain excellent attendance, a minimum mark of 70 per cent in each subject and a minimum overall grade point average of 3.0 or higher in order to successfully complete your program.

Earning your Certificate of Qualification

At the completion of your apprenticeship (all levels), you will be qualified to write the Certificate of Qualification exam. Successful completion of the exam means that you will be certified in your chosen occupation.

Red Seal endorsement

If you complete your training or are a certified journeyperson, you will be able to obtain Red Seal endorsement on your certificates of qualification and apprenticeship by successfully completing an Interprovincial Standards Examination. The Red Seal allows qualified tradespersons to practice their trade in any province or territory in Canada where that trade is designated without having to write further examinations.

Ontario College Certificate

Students in select Apprenticeship programs who successfully complete all the in-class training at Durham College will receive an Ontario College Certificate credential. Recognized by Ontario's 24 colleges and beyond, an OCC can expand your options for post-secondary studies in the future and streamline your pathway to a diploma.

Apprenticeship programs at Durham College

Here are the apprenticeship categories at Durham College:

  • Automotive Service Technician*
  • Cook
  • Child Developent Practitioner
  • Electrician - Construction and Maintenance*
  • Industrial Electrician*
  • Elevating Devices Mechanic
  • Industrial Mechanic Millwright*
  • Hoisting Engineer: Mobile Crane Operator
  • Plumber*
  • Steamfitter*
  • Welder*

*Red Seal trades

Benefits of apprenticeship training

Not sure about apprenticeship? It can be a great choice, especially for students who don't love the idea of a full-time desk job.

  • Challenging and satisfying work
  • Earning while learning
  • Efficient method of preparing and educating individuals interested in the skilled trades
  • Potentially qualifying for a training allowance or Employment Insurance benefits while attending school

Choose Durham College

Here are just a few reasons to choose Durham College for your trades education.

  • Easy access from Hwy. 401
  • Experienced, trade-certified professors
  • Extensive lab and shop facilities
  • Proven track record with industry
  • State-of-the-art Skills Training Centre

Help with financing: Apprenticeship grants

Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) financial help is available for apprentices. To check eligibility, application processes and deadline dates, please visit: the Skilled Trades Ontario website.

Students pursuing a Red Seal trade may also be eligible for grants from the federal government!

FAQs

How do I become an apprentice?

  • You will need to find an employer who will hire and train you first.
  • If you wish to attend school at Durham College, contact your designated Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) Employment Training Consultant (ETC) to register your apprenticeship Training Agreement. To contact the correct ETC, call the Employment Ontario Hotline at 1-800-387-5656.
  • MLTSD Apprenticeship Training Agreement must be signed by you, your employer, and your ETC.
  • After signing, you must make an application to Skilled Trades Ontario and pay the membership fee. For more information, see Skilled Trades Ontario.
  • You will need to receive an Offer of Classroom Training from the MLTSD, directing you to contact Durham College to pay and reserve your spot.
  • Need help? Contact your local apprenticeship office, or explore Skilled Trades Ontario's website.

How do I register at Durham College?
For more information on how to become a registered apprentice, please contact your local apprenticeship office, or check out Skilled Trades Ontario online.

When is the next intake for my apprenticeship level?
Intakes begin at various times throughout the year and offers are sent several months before classes begin. Contact your Employment Training Consultant (ETC) about receiving an offer. CDP apprentices who have applied through the CDP process will receive an email directly from Durham College about next intake dates (durhamcollege.ca/ppl/cdp).

Do seats fill up fast?
They often fill up fast due to limited space. Seats are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend that you contact Durham College as soon as you receive your Offer of Classroom Training.


Request to register at Durham College

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