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Learn a New Skill Quickly with Our Top Picks for Online Short Courses in Vancouver

best-online-short-courses-vancouver
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Have you thought about adding mastering a new skill to your 2024 resolutions? Or maybe there’s a skill you’ve always wanted to learn but haven’t found the time for? 

Life can get pretty busy, but don’t let that stop you from pursuing your learning goals! In Vancouver, tons of amazing online short courses can easily fit into your packed schedule. 

Whether you’re interested in learning the basics of coding or perfecting that sourdough recipe, there’s something out there for everyone. I’ve found some great options, and I’ll share them with you below so you can kickstart your learning journey this year!

How much do online short courses cost in Vancouver?


There are a variety of free courses available, particularly from public institutions. Many introductory or basic courses are priced between C$20 and C$50.
In-depth courses, particularly those offered by universities or private institutions, usually range from C$50 to C$100. Advanced or specialized courses, especially those leading to professional certifications, can cost more than C$100.

How We Chose

Credibility: It’s important to have a reputable institution or platform offering the course. I’m looking for established universities, colleges, or recognized online learning platforms with a track record of quality education.
Alignment with Goals: Whether it’s acquiring a new skill for work, exploring a personal interest, or brushing up on existing knowledge, the course content should effectively help me achieve that.
Schedule: The beauty of online courses lies in their flexibility. I prioritize courses that offer asynchronous learning or recordings, allowing me to learn at my own pace and fit the coursework around my existing schedule.
Instructor Expertise: I will seek out courses taught by industry professionals or academics with demonstrated expertise in the subject matter, as their insights and practical knowledge can enhance the online learning experience.

1. Communication Course – MacEwan University of Continuing Studies

macewan-university-of-continuing-studies
TestInfo
WEBSITEhttps://www.macewan.ca/academics/faculties-schools/school-of-continuing-education/
ADDRESS11110 104 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 1M9, Canada
SOCIAL MEDIAhttps://www.facebook.com/MacEwanUniversity/
CONTACT DETAILS+17804974301

I recently explored MacEwan University’s School of Continuing Studies and am seeking a 6-month communication course to sharpen my professional skills. 

What interested me most was their focus on communication within a business context. The curriculum of this course covers the following topics: Business Planning, Evaluation of Solutions, Life Cycle Management, Project Management, and Business Analysis. 

The certificate programs that combine communication with project management or business analysis are well-suited for someone looking to improve communication in the workplace.

My initial goal was a more general communication course on public speaking or interpersonal communication. However, MacEwan didn’t offer that as a standalone option. 

Additionally, the information on delivery format was lacking. The website mostly highlighted classroom-based delivery for these programs.

If you want to develop communication skills specifically for a business environment and can attend classroom sessions, then these certificate programs could be worth considering. 

However, if you seek a more general communication course or require flexible learning options, you might need to explore other providers.

Pros

  • Quality Instruction and Course Content
  • Improves Communication Skills in a Business Context
  • Schedule Flexibility

Cons

  • Limited Scope
  • Potential Time Commitment for at Least 6 Months
  • Lack of Specific Communication Skills Focus

2. Human Resource Management Certificate – York University

york-university
TestInfo
WEBSITEhttps://www.yorku.ca/
ADDRESS4700 Keele St, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
SOCIAL MEDIAhttps://www.facebook.com/yorkuniversity/
CONTACT DETAILS+14167362100

The Human Resource Management Certificate curriculum covered a wide range of human relations (HR) topics, such as Labour Relations, Recruitment, Finance, and Organizational Behavior, giving me a strong foundation in HR fundamentals. 

The program’s association with York University and approval from the Human Resources Professionals Association of Ontario gave me confidence in its quality and relevance. 

The flexibility of evening and online classes allowed me to balance my studies with my professional commitments. While there are online options, some in-person sessions may take place in Toronto, which could be a limitation for those elsewhere.

However, it’s important to note that admission to the program is competitive, and a bachelor’s degree is required for entry. 

Overall, the York University HRM Certificate program is a reputable choice for individuals new to HR or those seeking a general understanding of the field. 

However, it may be worth exploring other programs for those with specific HR experience and a need for specialized training.

Pros

  • Credibility and Industry Recognition
  • Comprehensive Curriculum
  • Industry-Aligned Content

Cons

  • Limited Specialization
  • Bachelor’s Degree Requirement
  • Limited Geographical Reach

3. Global Logistics Management & Professional Communication – MacEwan School of Continuing Studies

macewan-university-of-continuing-studies
TestInfo
WEBSITEhttps://www.macewan.ca/academics/faculties-schools/school-of-continuing-education/
ADDRESS11110 104 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 1M9, Canada
SOCIAL MEDIAhttps://www.facebook.com/MacEwanUniversity/
CONTACT DETAILS+17804974301

MacEwan’s Global Logistics Management & Professional Communication program offers a credible and industry-aligned curriculum. This program has been incredibly valuable for me as an international student. 

MacEwan University in Canada has a strong reputation for providing quality education. The program is aligned with Supply Chain Canada (SCC) competencies, which are highly regarded in the industry. 

One of the things I appreciate about this program is its focus on international students. It combines logistics knowledge with communication skills tailored to the Canadian business context, which has benefited me greatly.

It tackles the technical aspects and the ability to navigate communication within Canadian companies. The potential for advanced standing toward the Supply Chain Management Professional designation was an exciting bonus.

The curriculum covers a broad range of essential topics, from Infrastructure of Logistics to International Trade and Communication Skills, providing a comprehensive foundation. This was particularly helpful for someone new to the field like me.

While this course is slightly longer than the other six—to seven-month classes, it’s in demand. It allows students to understand the logistics procedures worldwide.

The requirement of a post-secondary diploma/degree with industry experience might be a barrier for some. While it ensures a certain level of qualification, it could exclude those with transferable skills looking to transition into logistics.

If you’re a recent graduate with some logistics experience looking to enter the Canadian supply chain field, this program could be a great option, especially if you can manage a potentially demanding schedule.

Pros

  • Industry-Aligned Curriculum
  • Targeted for International Students
  • Career Advancement Potential

Cons

  • Longer Program
  • Stricter Entry Requirements
  • Limited Geographical Focus

4. Software Engineering – The University of British Columbia

the-university-of-british-columbia
TestInfo
WEBSITEhttps://www.ubc.ca/
ADDRESS Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
SOCIAL MEDIAhttps://www.facebook.com/universityofbc
CONTACT DETAILS+16048222211

I recently enrolled in the “Software Engineering” course at the University of British Columbia. The university’s reputable name and strong track record for excellence assured me of its quality. 

The course honed in on core software engineering concepts, making it ideal for someone like me with basic computer knowledge but no prior experience in software engineering.

The curriculum covered everything I needed to grasp the fundamentals, including software system functions, testing and design processes, and even building a basic system. The practical component of building something solidified the concepts for me. 

The course’s 42-day duration was a major plus, as it felt manageable even with my busy schedule. However, given that it’s a condensed program, the workload can sometimes be intense.

The course title, “Software Engineering – Introduction,” is perfectly tailored for beginners. It’s an excellent choice if you’re new to software development or seeking a foundational understanding of software engineering practices. 

If you have minimal computer experience, it could serve as a great jumpstart, but some foundational computer literacy might be helpful. However, if you aim to delve deeper into specific software engineering areas, this introductory course might not fit you best.

Pros

  • Beginner-Friendly
  • Strong Alumni Network
  • Shorter Time Commitment

Cons

  • Potential for High Workload
  • Basic Computer Knowledge Required
  • Limited Focus on Building

5. Business Administration – York University School of Continuing Studies

york-university-school-of-continuing-studies
TestInfo
WEBSITEhttps://continue.yorku.ca/
ADDRESS68 The Pond Road, 4700 Keele St, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
SOCIAL MEDIAhttps://www.facebook.com/yorku.continue
CONTACT DETAILS+14167365616

Looking to solidify my business skills and transition into a more management-oriented role, I enrolled in York University’s School of Continuing Studies Business Administration certificate program. 

One of the main reasons I chose York University was its strong reputation. Having “York” on my certificate carries some weight, and the program’s wide-ranging curriculum gave me a solid grounding in key business areas.

The program covers everything from marketing and accounting to project management and business communication, which was exactly what I was looking for. It offered me a comprehensive understanding of business administration.

I really appreciated the “accelerated delivery” method, which was great for someone like me with a busy schedule. However, I admit that the eight-month duration was a time commitment, requiring dedication and time management skills.

In the end, York University’s Business Administration certificate program provided a strong foundation in business administration. Still, its lengthy duration and lack of deep specialization might not suit everyone.

Pros

  • Broad Business Foundation
  • Potential Career Transition
  • Team-Based Instruction

Cons

  • Limited Scope for Specialization
  • Bachelor’s Degree Requirement
  • Eight-Month Time Commitment

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