Sustainable Design & Construction Management Technology Diploma

• Growing, purpose-driven industry focused on sustainability and innovation
• Reduces long-term operating and maintenance costs
• Creates healthier, more resilient and comfortable buildings
• Supports low-carbon, energy and resource-efficient building practices
• Extends the life and performance of existing buildings through a whole-building approach to retrofits

Develop advanced expertise in high-performance construction, project delivery, digital workflows and leadership to manage building projects from start to finish.

Skills you’ll learn

• Advanced project management and delivery methods
• Construction coordination and field supervision
• Sustainable building systems and low-carbon mechanical systems
• Energy-efficient design and whole building retrofits
• Virtual Design in Construction (VDC) and digital integration
• Embodied Carbon Analysis
• Leadership, collaboration and stakeholder communication

Tools you'll learn

• Advanced BIM/VDC software (e.g. Revit, Insight, Forma)
• Estimating, scheduling and project management platforms
• Energy Modeling Software (e.g. HOT2000, Volta SNAP)
• Digital collaboration platforms and VDC modeling
• Embodied emission software (e.g. BEAM, MCE2, Insight Carbon Analysis)

• Nationally accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC)
• Eligible for Architectural, Building and Construction - Technologist designation

Salary range

• Entry to mid-level: CAD $70,000 – $90,000
• With experience: CAD $90,000 – $120,000+

Roles

• Construction manager
• Project planner/coordinator
• Sustainable construction consultant
• Field supervisor
• Estimator
• Sustainable construction consultant
• Energy advisor

Work-related experience

• Industry-driven capstone projects
• Hands-on workshops
• Collaborative site work
• Practical assignments
• Practicums/Job shadow(s)

Pathways in:

• Direct ladder from Sustainable Construction Management Certificate
• Certificate holders, trades/technical background, prior post-secondary experience

Pathways out: advanced study in construction management, engineering or architecture programs

Canerector Foundation Awards

This award is worth $5,500 for Certificate and $8,000 for Diploma students, don't delay.

Domestic students with confirmed seats in Sustainable Building Technology programs, Construction, Manufacturing, Motor Vehicle, Aerospace and Manufacturing Trades Foundation or Diploma classes are eligible to apply.

Applications for the Canerector Foundation Award are open.

Application criteria

1. Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person / refugee
2. Entrance Scholarships will be awarded on stable enrollment to students:
   • Entering an eligible full-time eligible Sustainable Building Technology program (Sustainable Construction Management Certificate or Sustainable Design & Construction Management Technology Diploma) or Skilled Trades Program at any campus of Okanagan College
   • Demonstrating evidence of volunteerism, coaching, mentorship, or co-curricula activity in the last 5 years
   • Committing to maintaining a 75% average and participating in mentorship activities.
3. Scholars maintaining a 75% average and participating in at least two mentorship activities will be eligible for a completion scholarship, with an additional mid-point award for Diploma students.

Highstreet Entrance Bursaries

Thirteen (13) entrance bursaries are available - valued at $6,500 each!

Up to 4 bursaries are High School Entrance, designated for those who have graduated from a BC Secondary school in the last 18 months.

Students must be entering a construction trade: Carpenter, Carpenter-Joiner, Electrician, Plumbing & Piping, Refrigeration & AC Mechanic, Sheet Metal Worker, Welder Foundation/Pre-Apprenticeship or the Sustainable Building Technology programs.

Applications for the Highstreet Entrance Bursary are open.

Application criteria

1. Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person;
2. Entering an eligible foundation construction trades program at any campus of Okanagan College;
3. Registered full-time (60% course load or 40% course load for students with a permanent, persistent or prolonged disability);
4. Preference will be given to a student who has completed a Trades Gateway program or a Camp OC Trades program;
5. Selection of Award recipients will be based on financial need;
6. Up to four bursaries will be reserved for applicants who have graduated from a BC Secondary school in the last 18 months, with a preference to schools in the Okanagan College region.

What if I don't meet the Math requirements?

Not to worry - there are several options available. If you're a mature student (out of high school for 12 months or more), you may be eligible for an exemption following a discussion with the department chair. We'll review your work experience and educational background to determine if a Math requirement waiver is appropriate. We're happy to connect with you directly to explore the best path forward - reducing barriers while setting you up for success.

Can I complete the program fully online?

Yes, with a one-week in-person session in Penticton at the start of each year.

How long does the program take?

2 years full-time; part-time options available.

Are there prerequisites?

High school diploma or equivalent; prior technical experience is helpful; Sustainable Construction Management Certificate holders can ladder in.

Can I work while studying?

Yes, online flexibility allows part-time work; in-person sessions are one week per year.

What jobs can I get after graduation?

Construction manager, project planner/coordinator, sustainable construction consultant, field supervisor, estimator, sustainable construction consultant, energy advisor.

Is the diploma nationally recognized?

Yes, accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC).

Can I continue my studies afterward?

Yes, pathways into engineering, architecture or advanced construction management programs are available.

Is this program eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

Yes. This program is eligible for a PGWP as long as you meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements, including full-time study, in-person delivery in Canada and graduation from a PGWP-eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI).

PGWP eligibility is determined by IRCC PGWP eligibility requirements. Students are responsible for confirming their individual eligibility before applying.

Delivery method: Blended (online and in-person). Offered primarily online and in the evenings to accommodate working professionals.

Includes: 22 courses over two years (including the capstone project), plus 1 in-person Fall residency each year at the Penticton campus. Visit our Penticton Campus Housing page for information about on-campus accommodation.

Duration: 2 years

• Semester 1 and 3: September - December (Fall)
• Semester 2 and 4: January - April (Winter)

Typical program schedule

Year 1 - Semester 1 (Fall)

Year 1 - Semester 2 (Winter)

Year 2 - Semester 1 (Fall)

Year 2 - Semester 2 (Winter)

Delivery method: International students are registered primarily in in-person classes, as outlined in the program schedule below.

Includes: 22 courses over two years, including 13 in-person courses. Visit our Penticton Campus Housing page for information about on-campus accommodation.

Duration: 2 years

• Semester 1 and 3: September - December (Fall)
• Semester 2 and 4: January - April (Winter)

Typical program schedule

Year 1 - Semester 1 (Fall)

Year 1 - Semester 2 (Winter)

Year 2 - Semester 1 (Fall)

Year 2 - Semester 2 (Winter)