COLLEGE OF NEW CALEDONIA
10 Programs Starting in the New Year That Are Sure to Fast-Track Your Future

New year, new you? If you've been thinking about a career change, upgrading your skills, or finally taking the leap into college, 2026 is your moment. 

We've rounded up 10 exciting programs kicking off this January and February, each one designed to fast-track you toward your goals in two years or less. Whether you're dreaming of a career change, upgrading your skills, or finally taking the leap into college life, there's something here for you.  

Bonus: Keep reading and you'll find a code at the end to waive your application fee! 

Here's your ultimate cheat sheet to what you can study (and where) in 2026: 

1. Medical Laboratory Technology  
Prince George 
2-years 
Love science but don't want to spend four years in school? In just two years, you can be earning $80,000+ annually as a Medical Lab Technologist (WorkBC). WorkBC lists it as one of BC's top high-opportunity careers. 

2. Welding Foundation 
Quesnel | Mackenzie 
6 months or less 
If sparks fly when you think about working with your hands (literally), this six-month program is your launch pad. Start a high-demand career as a welder, then carry on to an apprenticeship and Red Seal certification. 

3. Carpenter Foundation  
Quesnel 
6 months or less 
Time to build something new- like your future. With over 11,800 job openings projected in BC by 2034, carpentry is as steady as it gets (WorkBC). This 6-month program is your first nail in the toolbox. 

4. Industrial Mechanic (Millwright)  
Quesnel 
6 months or less 
Machines make the world go round, but who keeps them running? That could be you. Millwrights in BC earn $83,000+ annually, and CNC's 6-month foundation program sets you on the path to apprenticeship (WorkBC). 

5. Trades Discovery (High School Sampler)  
Vanderhoof | Quesnel 
6 months or less 
Still in high school but want to test-drive a trade? Vanderhoof and Quesnel teens (or anyone who has completed grade 9) can earn high school credits while trying out real-world trades skills. It's like shop class, but with future-you in mind. 

6. Pipe Trades 
Prince George 
6 months or less 
If you're looking for high demand + high earnings, pipe trades are it. Plumbers and pipefitters earn over $84,000 annually in BC, with 3,200+ job openings expected by 2034 (WorkBC). Level up your skills at CNC in 2026. 

7. Associate of Science (General & Biology)  
Prince George 
2 years 
Get your start in science with CNC's Associate of Science Diploma. Whether you're into biology or the general sciences, you'll get quality education and affordable tuition to prep you for university. 

8. Academic Upgrading 
All Campuses 
Length Varies 
Maybe your next step starts with finishing your Dogwood or upgrading a few courses. Good news: CNC's Academic Upgrading is tuition-free for domestic learners. One step today unlocks big doors tomorrow. 

9. Associate of Arts  
Prince George 
2 years 
Still figuring out what you want to be when you "grow up"? (Same, honestly.) An Associate of Arts Diploma opens endless pathways in humanities and social sciences. Start here, transfer later. The world's your oyster. 

10. Criminology  
Prince George 
2 years 
Calling all future detectives, justice-seekers, and true-crime binge-watchers. This Criminology Diploma gives you a strong foundation in law, social sciences, and criminal justice, and it's taught by instructors with real-world experience. 

So what's your plan for the new year? 

If you've been thinking about beginning your next chapter or know someone who's ready to kick start their future this January, now is the time. For those who made it to the end, here's the bonus: application fees are waived for January 2026 with the code MYCNC2026. 

Learn more at cnc.bc.ca/start2026.