Planning on going back to school? Here are resources to back you up

Original image  by jarmoluk.  CC0

Your decision to go back to school is a step in the right direction. Whether it be a bridging program, postgraduate studies, or training courses to hone your skills, it is a decision that you will not regret. In the competitive Canadian job market, upgrading your skills and knowledge continuously helps you stay marketable and promotable. It can even be a way to expand your network, gain a new understanding of your field, or explore new interests.

In the competitive Canadian job market, upgrading your skills and knowledge continuously helps you stay marketable and promotable.

The good news is that there are many support programs in Manitoba related to education and training, especially for newcomers to the province. Whether you are still looking for work or are already employed, these programs will encourage you to explore the many opportunities to train or study.

The following are links and resources that will lead you to information about support programs, various courses, institutions of higher learning, and other related topics to help you in your journey to continuing education:

Funding programs:

Having enough finances could be one of your main concerns. If you’re going back to college or university, school advisors can inform you about scholarships, grants, and other supports. For those starting their certification and licensure journey, their respective professional associations would have the right information and guidance. The following are just some examples of financial support programs in Manitoba:

• SEED Manitoba Recognition Counts project – This program offers financial counselling and an opportunity to avail of a loan of up to $10,000 to help with the costs of having your qualifications recognized in Manitoba. To know more about the SEED project, watch this video:

Recognition Counts – Supporting our newcomers
 

• Financing education and training (Manitoba Government). – Learn about 10 programs that provide support for education and training to boost your career.
• Employment Manitoba has programs that provide assistance for better employment opportunities. Learn about Skills Development Assistance, the Professional Immigration Pilot Project, Trade Up to your Future, or Apprenticeship Assistance and see which program is appropriate for you.
• CanLearn.ca – Information on Continuing Education and options for paying for school.
• Manitoba Nurses Union Continuing Education funds.

Bridging programs:

• Don’t rely on hearsay from family or friends. Stay up-to-date with the developments on all matters regarding licensing and professional regulations for internationally-educated professionals by visiting the Office of the Manitoba Fairness Commissioner.
• There are supports and services for those interested in a career in the trades in Manitoba. Go to Apprenticeship Manitoba to learn about your options for funding, or earn while you learn.

Skills enhancement:

• Manitoba Start has various occupation-specific workshops and skills trainings such as refreshers on computer skills, Toastmasters Club (public speaking), or First Aid/CPR training.
• Workplace Education Manitoba’s WEST Centres and Essential Skills Manitoba, Inc. offer essential skills assessments, help in creating your personal essential skills learning plan, and provide learning opportunities for career/educational development.
• Success Skills Centre offers practicums, bridging programs, and skills training.
• For language courses, go to the article: Want to get ahead in the Canadian workplace? Be a lifelong learner! or Language training programs in Manitoba

Inspiration:

• Read the experiences of newcomers who have successfully achieved their licensure from our Qualifications Recognition section.
• Learn about soft skills and how these relate to being employable in Canada.

 
Article updated September 13, 2021.