A career college diploma is one of the faster routes into work for newcomers to Calgary, because the programs are short, hands-on and built around a named job rather than a broad degree. The practical draws for new immigrants are job training tied to placement, student aid that permanent residents can apply for, small classes, evening and weekend scheduling, and instructors already connected to local employers.
This guide covers those benefits, the health care roles newcomers most often train for at ABES College, the programs that lead to them, and who qualifies for Alberta student aid.
Here are just a few of the many advantages of a career college education for immigrants in Calgary.
1. Job Training and Placement for Immigrants
Career college programs provide hands-on training in specific fields, which can help Canadian newcomers gain the practical skills and experience needed to succeed in their chosen careers. Many career colleges also have strong partnerships with employers in Calgary, which can lead to job opportunities for future graduates.
2. Financial Support for Immigrants
Permanent residents of Canada are eligible to apply for student aid through Student Aid Alberta, as long as they meet the other eligibility requirements. Student Aid Alberta provides financial assistance to eligible students to help them pay for their educational expenses and living expenses while they study. This can be especially important for immigrants who may face additional financial challenges such as the cost of immigration and settling in a new country.
To be eligible for student aid in Alberta, a permanent resident must provide proof of their status, such as a copy of their Permanent Resident Card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence, have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN), and be a resident of Alberta.
The Government of Alberta offers financial assistance to new Canadians and permanent residents through Alberta Student Aid.
To be eligible for loans and grants from Alberta Student Aid, a student must either be a:
- Canadian citizen, or
- permanent resident of Canada, or
- protected person, as defined in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada).
In addition, applicants must have a valid Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN) or a temporary SIN if they are a documented protected person.
3. Career-Specific Education
A career college education offers immigrants the opportunity to obtain career-specific knowledge. These programs are designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of their chosen field, preparing them to hit the ground running in their new role. This can be especially helpful for immigrants who may have already gained experience in a certain field in their home country but need to adapt to Canadian standards and regulations.
4. Smaller Class Sizes
Many career college programs have smaller class sizes than traditional colleges and universities. This allows for a more personalized educational experience, with greater opportunity for one-on-one interaction with instructors. For immigrants who are still adjusting to the Canadian education system or language, this can be a valuable benefit.
5. Flexibility
Many career college programs offer flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend classes, as well as online courses. This can be particularly helpful for immigrants with family obligations or work schedules that make traditional college schedules difficult to manage. Additionally, flexible scheduling can allow immigrants to continue working while pursuing their education, which can help reduce financial stress.
6. Networking Opportunities
Career college programs often offer networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with professionals in their field of study. This can be especially beneficial for immigrants who may not have an established professional network in Canada. By networking with industry professionals, immigrants can gain valuable insights into their field of study and potentially secure job opportunities.
Why health care is a common first career for newcomers
The Canadian healthcare industry is one of the largest industries in the country and is continuously expanding. With an aging population and an increasing demand for healthcare services, the industry requires more healthcare professionals than ever before. As a result, the healthcare industry in Canada offers a wide range of well-paying job opportunities for immigrants and new residents.
Health care roles newcomers train for in Calgary
As a newcomer to Canada, your needs for a career are somewhat unique. You’ll want to focus on a job that will be fulfilling, but you also need to choose a profession that has a high demand. It’d be even better if you didn’t have to spend much time in school to get started.
So, what are the best jobs for newcomers in Canada? Many are in the medical field, which often combines high pay with a sense of purpose in the community.
In Canada, there are plenty of job opportunities available for immigrants. While doctors and nurses are always needed, other healthcare jobs are also in high demand and can be obtained quickly, with less education and experience required.
Medical Laboratory Assistant
When it comes to high-paying jobs in Canada for immigrants, medical laboratory assistant roles are an excellent option for science lovers. The median wage for workers in this profession is $27/hour. However, those who work hard and apply themselves could make up to $71/hour, an incredible wage even considering the high costs of living in Canada.
Medical laboratory assistant work is especially appealing to those with scientific interests. For example, you would help perform tests such as electrocardiographs and be involved in infection control or quality control.
Pharmacy Assistant
Becoming a pharmacy assistant is an ideal career path for those who like to interact with people and perform independent tasks. You’ll help patients, work alongside pharmacists, and spend your time compounding and formulating medications for patients. In addition, this career has an above-average employment outlook, making it a great option for newcomers to develop long-term stability.
Dental Office Administration
Ideal careers for new Canadians should have short diploma programs. And luckily, a dental office administration program can deliver. At ABES College, our program for this position takes only six months of in-person or virtual schooling. While you can take the program throughout the day, evenings and weekend times are also available. This flexibility makes it a great option for newcomers to Canada who need to work or care for children while attending school.
At ABES College, our friendly team of professionals can help you determine whether these careers are right for you as a new Canadian.
Medical Device Reprocessing Technician
If you prefer to learn medical terminology rather than interact with patients, a career in sterilizing and processing medical devices is an option to consider. In terms of employment opportunities for new Canadians, this one should be less intimidating for those who would rather work on their own, doing things like high-temperature sterilization and inventory control.
Health Care Aide
Providing people with basic dignity and essential care is important. If you’re driven to help others, a career as a health care aide may be the right fit for you. You’d be feeding, bathing, and providing basic care for patients in a hospital, long-term care facility or hospice. With a median salary of $21 an hour, a career as a health care aide is a great place for newcomers to Canada to start.
Community Support Worker
As a newcomer to Canada yourself, you’ll have a good understanding of how foreign workers may struggle. By working as a Community Support Worker in Immigrations and Settlement, you can use your direct experience to help other newcomers have a smooth transition into Canada. You can even provide interpretation services for clients in their own language if you also speak that language. In addition, you’ll teach newcomers the skills they need to have a successful life in Canada, just like you.
ABES College programs that lead to these roles
Newcomers in Canada can take advantage of various programs that prepare them for a career in the healthcare industry. For example, ABES College offers several diploma programs in healthcare that are designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers. These programs include:
- Medical Laboratory Assistant Program
- Unit Clerk + Medical Office Assistant Diploma
- Medical Device Reprocessing (Sterile Processing) Program
- Dental Office Administration Diploma
- Addiction and Disability Community Support Worker Diploma
- Pharmacy Assistant Diploma
- Health Care Aide Diploma
It is essential to note that some healthcare jobs may require additional certification, licensing, or registration, depending on the profession and the province or territory.
Related reading
- Financial assistance options for ABES College students
- Career colleges compared with universities in Alberta
- Choosing a health care career in Calgary
Talk to an advisor about starting your career in Calgary
ABES College trains students for health care and community service programs at ABES College in Calgary. An ABES College advisor can go through entrance requirements, upcoming intakes and funding options with you.
