Career Planning

You understand yourself, your skills, and your abilities.

You know how to find work that fits your interests

and your chosen job market.

You understand the hiring process and you are prepared

for the interview.

You have strong references from past employers.

You showcase your bio and past work using a portfolio website.

- This is a four-week micro course with free multi-media learning resources.

- Learn at your own pace. Try not to rush as stress can block learning and retention.*

- Aim for 10 hours of study per week.

- Two hours every other weeknight and two hours on Sat. or Sun. is ideal.

- MWFSS -

*Source: NPJ -:Science of Learning

Applying for work is more complex and highly automated today. Here's how this course can help you.

Validation

This course will help you navigate today's career planning and job hunting journey in a profound way and within four weeks of part-time study. There are many different job markets across Canada seeking new hires for many different opportunities. Building your own career pathway and setting career goals will make you a job-ready candidate.

The Government of Canada has created a multi-channel web service thanks to the Canada Job Bank. Under the leadership of Employment and Social Development and the Canada Employment Insurance Commission, the Job Bank makes it easier for Canadians to find work and plan their careers, and easier for employers to recruit and hire across the country.

The Province of BC, along with other provincial provinces, publishes an annual Labour Market Report. This year's report, released July 26, 2025, noted "there will be almost one million job openings in B.C. over the next decade, approximately two-thirds due to retirements and one-third due to economic growth." The 2025 report holds valuable information on which sectors dominate along with the top ten job opportunities listed in order of openings.

With a greater understanding of yourself, clarity on attainable career goals, and the ability to conduct labour market research, you'll gain insights on the job market that can reinforce or change your goals. You'll learn how to build a polished resume and cover letter, how to prepare for resume scanning and screening automations, and develop your own interview strategy so you remain cool and impressive. This course might even inspire you to make a pitch for an unadvertised job. We'll show you how to do that, too.

This is a free, open micro course. All resources are yours to keep. No strings attached.

What you will learn

This course will prepare you for the new, fundamental components that lead to success in finding work and building a promising career. You will figure out if you are living in a community with relevant opportunities that fit your skills and education. You will learn how to explore the job market for the best opportunities. This course will also prepare you for the job interview, how to map out a line of questioning and how to present your story in a compelling and confident manner. You will also -

Learn about yourself and the best job markets for the work you want to pursue.
Learn where to find the work you want or explore remote opportunities.
Learn how to write a resume that complies with automated screening systems.
Learn how to prepare for the interview and the reference check.

Other key take-aways

1. Understanding you through self-awareness and self-reflection.

2. How to develop a career plan.

3. How to study job markets, locations and the cost of living.

4. Preparing your resume, cover letters, interview notes and references.

5. How to pitch for an unadvertised job.

Free and open resources

Be the Boss of Your Career: A Complete Guide for Students + Grads, published by Algonquin College Co-op + Career Centre, January 2025.

Infographic poster on each step within The Job Hunting Process, along with various handouts, slide decks, videos, and links to job boards and other helpful websites.