Helping Canadians get back to work.

Maritime Business College

800 Sackville Dr. , Lower Sackville NS

Possible funding to those who qualify*

  • Nova Scotia Student Loan
  • Loans
  • Grants
  • Bursaries
  • Scholarships

Programs

Programs offered at each campus may vary, so be sure to check other campus offerings for the course you are most interested in.

Creative Arts, Interactive, Sound Programs

  • 2D/3D Animation and Digital Art diploma program taught by industry specialists

    If you’re creative and love to dabble in today’s digital technology, then you’re destined for a career as a digital animator. In just 24 months, you’ll earn a diploma in 2D/3D Animation and Digital Art*. Come away with a knock-out portfolio and demo reel that will showcase your talents to potential employers. Train to develop digital animation for video games, animated films, and visual effects. Our animation program will develop a strong foundation in digital animation, including concept development, storyboard creation, animation development and rendering, and final post-production. You get hands-on training by experts that have flourished in the industry. Learn the essential skills you need to become a sought-after animator yourself, including 3D Animation—Modelling—Lighting—Texture—Rigging—Rendering—Compositing—Life Drawing—Character Design—Layout Design—Game Design—Level Design—Game Environment Design—Storyboarding. You’ll also get valuable training on how to forge a career in this exciting industry!

    ANIMATION PROGRAM

    Key courses include
    • Foundation of Art and Design
    • Illustration & Layout Design
    • Classical Animation Studies
    • Life Drawing
    • Game Production Studies
    • 3D Art & Design
    • 3D Animation
    • And more!

    CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

    A Diploma in 2D/3D Animation and Digital Art will prepare you for the following jobs:
    • 3D Modeler
    • 3D Texture Artist
    • 2D/3D Animator
    • Lighting Artist
    • Concept & Layout Artist
    • Storyboard & Pre-visualization Artist
    • Rigging Artist
    • VFX Compositor
    • And more!
  • Interior Decorating Diploma

    If you have a passion for decorating and are looking for a career that utilizes your creativity, style and personality, a career in Interior Decorating could be an excellent fit for you. Professional Interior Decorators create and implement decorating plans for homes, offices, shops and other professional spaces. As a professional in this business, you might advise clients on colour schemes, layouts, lighting, furniture, floor coverings, paint, wallpaper and more. Our Interior Decorating program provides comprehensive training in residential and commercial interior decorating and space planning. We provide a strong foundation in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces, as well as project management and business practices. Students will be trained in construction plan drafting, space planning, visual communications, and the elements of design. This is a ‘hands-on’ course where our talented, experienced instructors mentor students throughout the program. Topics include:
    • The Design Process
    • Introduction to Auto CAD
    • Google Sketch U
    • 20-20 Software for Kitchen and BathDesign
    • Photoshop
    • Human Factors and Universal Design and Accessibility inBathroom Design
    • Perspective Rendering
    • Colour Theory and Design Application
    • Lighting Theory and Lighting Design Planning

    Meet The Instructor

    SHARON CAMERON-CHARLTON INSTRUCTOR, INTERIOR DECORATING PROGRAM

    Sharon Cameron-Charlton graduated in 1992 from Mount Saint Vincent University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics. She majored in Faculty Planning and Design and Textiles. With over 25 years of experience in Interior Decorating and Space Planning, her work encompasses all aspects of the profession, including residential, commercial, hospitality, health care and retail. This includes a wide range of experience in the practice of design project implementation and management. Sharon began her profession within the various interior decorating and design firms, working on designing interiors for residential homes, restaurants, offices and retail establishments. As a practicing Interior Decorator, her portfolio includes The Designers Showcase Home for the Kids Help Phone, The United Way Dream Home and other real estate development model homes. Taking her career to the next level, Sharon established her own company, Cameron-Charlton Interiors, which specializes in residential and commercial design. While maintaining her interior decorating consulting practice, Sharon has been instructing Interior Decorating for over ten years. Sharon held the position of president of the Nova Scotia Interior Decorators Association for four years and continues to be associated with Interior Decor Resources Canada, Decorators and Designers Association of Canada and Nova Scotia Interior Decorators Association. Sharon supports industry connections and promotes continuous learning and constant upskilling of past graduates and industry members. She maintains her current knowledge of the profession through numerous continuing education courses, seminars and industry trade shows. Sharon has completed training in business planning and development with Centre for Entrepreneurial Education and Development and advanced training courses specializing in Adult Education. Sharon takes pride in her work at Maritime Business College and the many accomplishments of her students.

Technology, Networking Programs

  • 2D/3D Animation and Digital Art diploma program taught by industry specialists

    If you’re creative and love to dabble in today’s digital technology, then you’re destined for a career as a digital animator. In just 24 months, you’ll earn a diploma in 2D/3D Animation and Digital Art*. Come away with a knock-out portfolio and demo reel that will showcase your talents to potential employers. Train to develop digital animation for video games, animated films, and visual effects. Our animation program will develop a strong foundation in digital animation, including concept development, storyboard creation, animation development and rendering, and final post-production. You get hands-on training by experts that have flourished in the industry. Learn the essential skills you need to become a sought-after animator yourself, including 3D Animation—Modelling—Lighting—Texture—Rigging—Rendering—Compositing—Life Drawing—Character Design—Layout Design—Game Design—Level Design—Game Environment Design—Storyboarding. You’ll also get valuable training on how to forge a career in this exciting industry!

    ANIMATION PROGRAM

    Key courses include
    • Foundation of Art and Design
    • Illustration & Layout Design
    • Classical Animation Studies
    • Life Drawing
    • Game Production Studies
    • 3D Art & Design
    • 3D Animation
    • And more!

    CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

    A Diploma in 2D/3D Animation and Digital Art will prepare you for the following jobs:
    • 3D Modeler
    • 3D Texture Artist
    • 2D/3D Animator
    • Lighting Artist
    • Concept & Layout Artist
    • Storyboard & Pre-visualization Artist
    • Rigging Artist
    • VFX Compositor
    • And more!
  • A systems administrator, or SysAdmin, is a person who is responsible for the upkeep, configuration and reliable operation of computer systems, networks and high functioning computers, such as servers. The systems administrator seeks to ensure that the uptime, performance, resources and security of the computers he or she manages meet the needs of the users, without exceeding the budget. To meet these needs, a systems administrator may acquire, install, or upgrade computer components and software; automate routine tasks; troubleshoot; train and/or supervise staff; and provide technical support.

    Train to be an expert problem solver

    Perhaps the most important skill for a systems administrator is problem solving—frequently under various sorts of constraints and stress. The SysAdmin is on call when a computer system goes down or malfunctions, and must be able to quickly and correctly diagnose what is wrong and how best to fix it. They may also need to have teamwork and communication skills; as well as being able to install and configure hardware and software. Systems administrators are not software engineers or developers. It is not usually within their duties to design or write new application software. However, SysAdmins must understand the behavior of software in order to deploy it and to troubleshoot problems, and generally know several programming languages used for scripting or automation of routine tasks.

    Career Opportunities

    Since networks are an important part of business, network and computer systems administrators are needed as firms invest more in new technologies. Systems administrators are needed to help organizations use technology to communicate with consumers, clients, and fellow employees. The need for information security will also drive the need for network and computer systems administrators.

Business, Accounting, Marketing Programs

  • If you love a job with a clear process, have a knack for numbers, and pay great attention to detail, take accounting courses to become a valued Bookkeeper or Accounting Clerk.

    There are many jobs in bookkeeping, which is the first and most fundamental part of accounting. Bookkeepers primarily post invoices for accounts payable and accounts receivable. However, they are also involved in payroll administration, bank deposits, payments, and bank reconciliations. Bookkeepers often track purchase orders and prepare financial statements. Records management and filing are also an essential part of accounting.

    If you are adept with computers, you will excel in accounting. Advances in hardware and software have greatly enhanced the ability of accounting staff to manage the accounting process.

    Take our Accounting Specialist Diploma and become a Bookkeeper or Accounting Clerk in just 13 months!

    Consider our long history in Accounting Courses

    The college first taught accounting courses when it opened in 1899, and the founder himself was a C.A. Our program carries on this long tradition and helps meet the demand for people who can create and interpret the financial data for day-to-day decision making.

    Fundamental accounting and sound financial management are critical to the success of all companies. Accurate and timely information is vital to making good decisions in an organization. All levels of accounting jobs are committed to providing reports that guide managers in an organization.

    Career Opportunities

    Every business requires core bookkeeping services and responsible financial management, so there are many jobs in this industry. Graduates of this program find employment as bookkeepers, accounting clerks, payroll clerks, and auditing clerks. Most work directly as staff in a company, but many people opt to set up their own home-based bookkeeping services after gaining experience in the field. Some go on to continue their accounting education.

  • Business Administration and Marketing Diploma

    The Business Administration & Marketing Diploma program is made up of three semesters. Each semester has a particular focus. Students may begin the program in either the Business Semester, or the Administration Semester, but must complete the Administration Semester before starting the Marketing Semester. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to apply prior learning to the Business Technologies course, whereby their existing knowledge and skills in office technologies are assessed through a test. Depending on their scores, students may be completely or partially exempt from this course.
    • Business Essentials
    • Business Communications
    • The Business Office
    • Organizational Behaviour
    • Human Relations
    • Professional Development
    • Keyboarding
    • Occupational Health & Safety
    • Business Technologies
    • Business Math
    • Business Accounting
    • Records Management
    • Payroll & Taxation
    • Project Management Basics
    • Marketing Fundamentals
    • Sales & Client Services
    • Social Media & Public Relations
    • Entrepreneurship & Business Planning
    • On The Job Training
  • Medical & Dental Office Administration

    Our Medical and dental office administration diploma program employs a variety of techniques to ensure that students thrive in a stimulating environment. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, our Instructors use field trips, guest speakers, industry videos, team projects, online interaction, case studies, role-playing, and mock simulations. Courses include

    • Basic Math
    • Business Communications
    • Introduction to Canadian Healthcare/Business Law
    • Computerized Accounting
    • Dental Office Systems & Procedures
    • Dental Software
    • Dental Terminology
    • Medical Office Systems & Procedures
    • Medical Software
    • Medical Terminology
    • Medical Transcription
    • Principles of Accounting
    • Professional Development
    • Spreadsheet Applications
    • Word Processing
    • Microsoft Outlook
    • Keyboarding
    • Practicum

     

Human & Social Services, CSW Programs

  • Maritime Business College’s Community Support Worker diploma program** prepares students to work in multiple capacities to administer, implement and deliver a variety of social assistance services to clients who are dealing with mental health, economic, disability, addictions, employment and personal and/or social challenges. This program combines theoretical foundations, current and emerging perspectives, and hands-on learning, including community outreach and volunteerism and On The Job Training, workshops, case studies and scenarios, to provide students with the knowledge, skills and perspectives required to work effectively in the helping profession.

    It’s more than a career; it’s an emotional calling

    There is a great deal of joy and satisfaction from seeing your clients develop and flourish. You help provide a richer quality of life for individuals d and their families. You are a champion of true change!

    Key Courses Include:

    • Principles of Sociology
    • Abuse and Trauma
    • Human Growth & Development
    • Community Engagement
    • Group & Family Dynamics
    • Mental Health Awareness
    • Fundamentals of Psychology
    • Concurrent Disorders & Addiction
    • Self Care & Life Skills
    • Brain Injury & Recovery
    • Physical & Intellectual Disabilities
    • Residential Care
    • Pervasive Developmental Disorders
    • Power, Identity & Privilege
    • Meal Planning & Preparation
    • Community Homes
    • Behaviour Support Strategies
    • Counselling Skills
    • Professional Ethics
    • Professional Development
    • Business Technologies
    • Employability Skills Workshops & Certifications
    • On The Job Training

    Graduates are prepared for employment as community service workers in government, community-based agencies, health care or educational facilities providing services to individuals with mental, emotional, learning and/or physical disabilities. This is not a job for paper pushers…it is a fulfilling, hands-on career with a great deal of personal interaction. Trained community support workers are highly committed to their career choice, which in turn reduces turnover and burnout in the industry. Both employers and clients can trust employees with comprehensive training

  • Rewarding Career Opportunities

    If you’re an understanding, non–judgmental individual interested in working with people and helping others, you could be well-suited to a career as a trained counsellor. Our counselling diploma program prepare you to work as a counsellor in addictions, mental health, victims of abuse, at-risk youth and many more. Meet the requirements to enter into private practice or become a certified counsellor.

    Modular Training

    Maritime Business College uses a modular system of training for its counselling courses. In modular programs, theoretical and practical issues are closely integrated, and learning outcomes are clearly defined.

    Practical Hands-on Training

    At Maritime Business College, we employ a variety of techniques for our counselling courses to ensure that students thrive in a stimulating environment. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, our Instructors employ field trips, guest speakers, industry videos, team projects, online interaction, case studies, role playing, and mock simulations.

     

Healthcare, Wellness, Pharma Programs

  • The objective of the Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) program is to prepare students to deliver appropriate short and long-term care assistance and support services. Through the use of classroom, laboratory, and supervised field placements in a variety of care settings, the program helps to develop the skills necessary to deliver appropriate, timely, and respectful client-focused care. This program trains support workers for home care, long term care and hospitals. Take our Continuing Care Assistant courses and be job-ready in just ten months!

    Growing needs

    The Continuing Care sector is one of the fastest-growing fields in health care. Our population is ageing (Statistics Canada reports that our 65+ population grew 11% from 2006 to 2011, and will continue to grow), and Nova Scotia has more seniors per capita than the national average (16.6%, compared with a national percentage of 14.8%). There continues to be a strong demand for nursing homes, although more care is being shifted to individuals in their homes. Employment opportunities include Home Support Workers, Personal Care Workers in long term care facilities and Care Team Assistants in hospitals.

    Provincial Certification

    The CCA program is a provincial standardized program required as an entry-to-practice standard for designated care settings under the jurisdiction of the Department of Health. Upon completion of the CCA program, you will write a provincial certification exam to receive the CCA designation.

    Continuing Care Assistant courses

    At Maritime Business College, we ensure that students learn in a stimulating environment. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, our students receive hands-on training using industry-standard equipment and practical simulations. You will learn in an environment that simulates care in facilities and home, and get practical on-the-job experience.

Legal, Policing Programs

  • Maritime Business College provides expert training in proper law enforcement. We are specialists in both non-violent intervention skills and physical control and restraint techniques. We begin by educating you on the foundations of the Canadian justice system, and then we develop the mental and physical skills necessary to succeed in security and law enforcement. At Maritime Business College, we realize today’s students need as many options as possible. That’s why we created this unique program that recognizes both the similarities and distinct differences between the related fields of Corrections, Security and Law Enforcement. As a student in this program, you’ll have the opportunity to train hands-on for three distinct law enforcement careers: Corrections, Security and Law Enforcement. Training in more than one specification allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore your career options and widen your career search.

    Hands-on Training

    At Maritime Business College, we know that the best way to learn a profession is hands-on. That’s why we train you in a real work environment. During your practicum, you’ll work in a real Corrections, Security or Law Enforcement setting and gain first–hand, practical knowledge and experience in your new career field. You’ll feel confident when you enter the professional world with work experience already on your resume. Some graduates are even hired directly from their work practicum.

    Certifications

    Training aids and certifications are what separates our CLE course from other diploma programs. Graduates from our program will leave school with certifications in:
    • First Aid Level C/AED
    • International Critical Incident Stress Management (ICISF)
    • Verbal Crisis Intervention
    • Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
    • Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NVCI
    • Threat Pattern Recognition(TPR)/Use of Force
    • Incident Command System Level 100
    • Qualification: Firearms Acquisition/Weapons Range Training: Handguns
    • Occupational Health and Safety
  • Exciting Career Opportunities

    Paralegals play an important role in today’s justice system. Professional Paralegals, sometimes called Legal Assistants or Legal Secretaries, work closely with lawyers, prosecutors and public defenders and serve as valued members of a legal team. Individuals in this profession work under the supervision of an attorney and, though Paralegals cannot provide legal advice, they do provide vital assistance to trial and case preparation. If you’re a detail-oriented, organized individual interested in the intriguing field of law, then a paralegal diploma program may be a good fit for you.

    Paralegal Courses Modular Training

    Our Paralegal program uses a modular system of training. In modular programs, theoretical and practical issues are closely integrated, and learning outcomes are clearly defined.  

Veterinary, Animal Services Programs

  • Take our Veterinary Assistant diploma program at Maritime Business College and complete your Veterinary Assistant Diploma in just 13 months! If you love animals, this is a perfect career for you. While many Veterinary Assistants are actively involved in office administration, their key responsibility is the compassionate care of animals. Veterinary Assistants support veterinarians and technicians in their daily tasks by cleaning and maintaining equipment, feeding, exercising and grooming patients, preparing and sanitizing surgery suites, and restraining and handling patients. They are also actively involved in clerical and administrative work, including customer reception, records management, and scheduling appointments.

    Be a support worker for animal care

    Veterinary support is a field for compassionate and capable animal lovers. Your main job is to ensure a comfortable, safe and sanitary work environment. Supporting veterinarians in providing comfort to pet owners may be one of the most important aspects of the job. It assures them that your clinic is committed to giving their pet the best possible treatment.

    Career Opportunities

    Veterinary assistants work mainly in clinics and hospitals, helping technicians treat the injuries and illnesses of animals. You can choose to work in small private practices or large veterinary hospitals. However, there are also many jobs available in pet daycares, boarding facilities, farms, kennels, shelters, pet stores, animal rehabilitation centres, and zoos.
  • Make a career out of your love for animals

    Earn your Veterinary Technology diploma and pursue your passion for animal care. The Maritime Business College Veterinary Technology Diploma Program is the first and only one of its kind in Halifax! If you love animals and are looking for a professional career that will be both personally and professionally rewarding, you owe it to yourself to explore your potential in animal care. Become a veterinary technician to have a positive impact on the health and well being of animals. Graduates from this program are trained to work in a variety of animal care settings under the supervision of a Veterinarian. They are trained to help with physical assessments, collect samples and perform laboratory tests, prepare animals and operating rooms for surgery, monitor anesthesia during surgeries, administer vaccines and medications, provide post-operative care, and maintain a high standard of cleanliness and maintenance. Administrative tasks include filling veterinary prescriptions, maintaining inventories of animal care supplies, scheduling operating rooms, preparing invoices, and maintaining records. This is an exciting, comprehensive program that will prepare you for a rewarding career in the growing field of animal care!

    Career Opportunities

    Our Veterinary Technician diploma program will give you the skills and knowledge you need to pursue a career in veterinary practices, health science schools, hospitals, research institutes, the food industry, wildlife services, zoological parks, government agencies, and industry sales. The pet care industry is strong and accounts for many jobs in the industry.

Lower Sackville Campus

Why choose Maritime Business College?
The MBC Advantage

Founded in 1899, Maritime Business College (Lower Sackville & Halifax Career College) has provided advanced career training to thousands of students in Nova Scotia. The Instructors at Maritime Business College are trained and experienced experts in the industry. Insightful classroom instruction is complemented by practical training.

Ready for the job market.

MBC graduates are also prepped for the job market. In addition to the core skills that are relevant to their program, students are taught the essential skills of how to market themselves, and how to succeed in the workplace.

Graduate in just 13 months or less!*

Students in most programs attend classes for 13 consecutive months to complete this program. During this period, students have a winter break, spring break, summer break, and are off on statutory holidays.

Take a Diploma Program at Maritime Business College, and receive your Diploma in just 13 months!

* This does not include the Veterinary Technology Program, which is 24 months in length.

Testimonials

“My experience at Maritime Business College filled in the knowledge gaps I needed to launch my business. The instructors went above and beyond in helping to make it happen.”
Davan Skelhorn, Natural Harmonics, Small Business Development graduate, January 2012

“What a great year! I learned so much on both an academic level and personal level.
Thank you so much!”
Monique Reade, Paralegal Graduate

“I’d probably be flippin’ burgers somewhere if it wasn’t for all of you and your patience and incredible understanding! I absolutely love my job!”
Beth Collins


*All student funding, whether made available privately or through various government branches, is only approved to those who qualify, by the original source of funding. There are many criteria that each candidate must meet to be approved. Schools can only inform you of what may be available.