York University's School of Continuing Studies (SCS) is addressing critical workforce needs with the launch of four programs designed to equip learners with skills for an evolving job market.
Developed in collaboration with leading industry experts, these new programs target skills gaps in digital construction management, cyber security and clinical research.
SCS will introduce these innovative programs this fall, along with an expansion of its transformative Integrated Year One initiative that facilitates improvement of English language skills.
"When we established the school in 2015, our goal was to develop a new model for continuing professional education that addressed critical skills gaps by connecting industry with the classroom, theory with real-world application and functional expertise with transferable skills," says Christine Brooks-Cappadocia, assistant vice-president of continuing studies at York University.
The announcement of these new industry-aligned programs reflects SCS's commitment to empowering learners and innovating continuing education - and coincides with the school's 10-year anniversary. This milestone, celebrated at a special event on April 24, marks a decade of growth from its initial offering of two programs to more than 40 professional and language programs, including several first-to-market.
"We set out to build a school - but we built so much more," says Brooks-Cappadocia. "What we ended up building was a community with connections that have created remarkable success for our students, instructors, our University and the Canadian labour market."
SCS continues to create pathways to meaningful careers by bridging skills gaps and equipping both new graduates and adult learners with practical, in-demand expertise, she says.
During the April 24 celebration, industry leaders, instructors and academic experts spoke on the school's role in advancing accessible, future-focused education, reinforcing the significance of the new Fall 2025 programs.
The new programs include:
- Post-Graduate Certificate in Digital Construction Management
Students will gain hands-on training in artificial intelligence-powered workflow automation, 3D modelling and building information modelling (BIM), preparing them for high-demand roles such as a construction manager, project coordinator or estimator. This program addresses Canada's critical need for construction professionals equipped with emerging technologies and project management skills to support productivity and sustainability - particularly in response to the country's housing challenges.
- Advanced Post-Graduate Certificate in Cyber Operations and Ethical Hacking
As the school's first full-time, two-year program, learners will develop practical defensive and offensive cybersecurity skills through hands-on projects that mirror real-world scenarios. Developed in collaboration with industry professionals, this program helps fill the surging demand for cybersecurity experts in Canada's growing digital economy.
- Post-Graduate Certificate in Clinical Trials
Students will gain experience observing live clinical trials while developing critical data analysis skills, preparing them for diverse roles in clinical research. This program strengthens Canada's leadership in clinical trials and addresses the need for professionals skilled in healthcare data management.
- Certificate in Penetration Testing
Delivered part-time, this program offers practical education in ethical hacking, vulnerability assessment and exploit development. Students will acquire skills that translate directly into the workplace, addressing the rising demand for cybersecurity specialists capable of identifying and mitigating digital security risks.
Expanding the Integrated Year One Program
The Integrated Year One Program is a model for inclusive academic pathways at York University. Initially launched in partnership with the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS), the program allows international students with IELTS (English proficiency) scores between 5.5 and 6.0 (or equivalent) to begin undergraduate studies while advancing their academic English skills.
Following strong outcomes - measured through improved student performance, higher engagement and increased retention - the program is expanding to include the Faculty of Science and the Faculty of Environmental & Urban Change.
This growth underscores York's commitment to reducing barriers to education, ensuring more international students have access to a supportive, integrated entry into their academic journeys, says Brooks-Cappadocia. By aligning language development with degree progress, the Integrated Year One Program sets students up for long-term success in both their studies and future careers.
"Ten years later, our vision has expanded to address our employer partners' full range of talent recruitment, retention and renewal goals. The school's ability to connect the needs of the employer community with educational best practices has the power to transform the Canadian workforce," says Brooks-Cappadocia.
The school will continue to evolve, with a focus on becoming a full-cycle solution for organizations ready to build their workforce. Through its growing suite of B2B (business-to-business) solutions, it aims to connect employers with job-ready talent, upskill existing teams and support talent retention. Several new full-time and part-time programs are in development and will be announced later this year.
To mark its 10-year milestone, York University alumni are invited to take advantage of an exclusive $300 tuition discount on programs offered by SCS. This special offer includes newly introduced programs designed to help professionals build in-demand skills, take the next step in their careers and invest in continued growth.
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
