Empower your practice with this six-course online certificate designed for career development professionals.

Each self-paced course strengthens your core competencies in client service, career theory, decision-making, job search support, transitions, and specialized populations. Purchase individually or as a full package

Description

Fundamentals of Career Practice is an online training program designed to help career development professionals acquire and strengthen relevant skills and build competencies in accordance with the national competency framework. A microcredential will be earned at the successful completion of each module, leading to the awarding of a Certificate upon completion of all six modules. 

Whether you’re new to the field or an experienced professional, this program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering foundational theories, modern practices, and specialized skills. Participants will deepen their understanding of career development, enhance existing skills, and acquire new strategies to better support clients. The self-directed program includes knowledge checks, assessments, reflection activities and case studies to ensure learning and practical application.  

Topics include Career Development Theories, Supporting Career Searches, Career Decision-Making, Career Transitions, Career Development for Military Members and Veterans, and Diversity & Inclusion.

Competencies to be Developed (Competencies based on National Competency Profile for Career Development Professionals)

• Professional Responsibility (1.1) – Deliver services within scope of practice 
• Ethics and Regulations (2.2) – Follow ethical decision-making process 
• Diversity and Inclusion (4.1) – Respect diversity and inclusion 
• Professional Development (6.1) – Engage in lifelong learning 
• Professional Development (6.2) – Engage in lifelong learning 
• Communication (8.1) – Use active listening skills 
• Digital Literacy (9) – Leverage current and emerging technologie
• Foundational Knowledge and Applied Theories (10) – Develop foundational knowledge of field of practice 
• Foundational Knowledge and Applied Theories (10.1) – Understand career development theories and models 
• Foundational Knowledge and Applied Theories (10.2) – Apply career development theories and models 
• Service Delivery Process (11.3) – Help client develop goals and action plans 
• Awareness of Diverse Worldviews (13) – Develop tailored approaches for client populations 
• Career Resources (14.1) – Maintain and deliver career resources 
• Career Resources (14.2) – Maintain current knowledge of labour market 
• Career Resources (14.3) – Use assessment tools and approaches 
• Client Search Strategies (15) – Use tailored approaches to prepare client for learning and employment 
• Client Work Search Strategies (15.1) – Work with clients to develop résumés 

Learning Opportunity

By completing the full Fundamentals of Career Practice Certificate, you will:

1. Analyze and compare foundational and contemporary career development theories to understand their evolution, application, and relevance to diverse client needs in a changing world of work.
2. Equip clients with the tools, strategies, and confidence to navigate the modern job market by integrating job search techniques, personal branding, current technology trends, and holistic wellness practices to support successful career transitions.
3. Apply structured and client-centred approaches to support individuals in making informed, values-based career decisions using decision-making models, self-assessment tools, and goal-setting strategies.
4. Demonstrate the ability to support individuals through diverse career transitions by applying transition frameworks, recognizing the emotional and practical impacts of change, and integrating ethical decision-making practices in client interactions.
5. Effectively support Canadian Armed Forces members and veterans by understanding military culture, the unique challenges of military-to-civilian transitions, and tailored support practices.

Course Structure

• Self-paced learning
• Each course includes modules, knowledge checks, and interactive case-based activities
• Total estimated time: Approximately 33.5 hours for all six courses
• Participants can earn microcredentials for individual courses or the full certificate upon completion

Courses Included:

1. Career Development Theories – 6 hours
2. Supporting Career Searches – 6 hours
3. Career Decision Making – 4 hours
4. Career Transitions – 4 hours
5. Career Development for Military Members and Veterans – 5.5 hours
6. Foundations of Belonging in the Workplace - 8 hours

Fundamentals of Career Practice Certificate

Each course is available for individual purchase, offering flexibility to match your learning goals. Complete all six to earn the full certificate and build a well-rounded foundation in inclusive, client-focused career development.

Completion of this learning plan will award you a Certificate Level NSCDA Microcredential to recognize your achievement.

Ready to take the next step?
Select individual courses or purchase this complete certificate package to unlock the bonus 10% discount