Non-registered programs exempted under the Act and Regulations

Many colleges offer training that does not lead directly to employment (personal development, speed reading etc.). These programs are non-occupational in nature and the schools offering them are not required to be registered under the Private Career Colleges Regulation Act.

However, since schools registered under the Act may also offer programs that are not required to be registered, potential students should ensure that it is clearly specified in any contract that the program is registered, (non-registered programs are not scrutinized by the Department of Advanced Education)

Examples of programs that are not registered by the Department of Advanced Education include the following:

• secondary school subjects or other preparatory courses that may require completion prior to acceptance into formal training for an occupation or career;
• programs that focus on personal or professional development;
• programs that are considered recreational in nature;
• programs that provide students with partial credit towards the requirements designated by certain associations or other regulatory bodies for entry into technical or professional occupations.

Please check with the Department if you are not sure if a program should be registered.