Overview
- 38-week certificate program, including three weeks of work integrated learning in industry
- Laptop required (view Computer/Laptop Requirements)
- Offered at Notre Dame Campus, Winnipeg
- September entry date
- Credit transfer opportunities: This is not an apprenticeship program, but may provide apprenticeship credit transfer opportunities
- International applicants contact RRC Polytech's International Education Office at intled@rrc.ca or 204-632-2143 for information on this program and space availability
Description
This hands-on certificate program provides you with the knowledge and skills required for an entry level position within the cabinet making industry. You learn by doing and building competence in a wide variety of tasks required by employers in the cabinetmaking and woodworking field.
This program will focus on shop safety, reading blueprints and creating shop drawings, performing trade related calculations, estimating project time and materials, identifying and selecting building materials, fabrication of common woodworking projects, and operating woodworking tools and machinery.
The three terms are strategically designed to gradually advance student learning. In Term 1, you will focus on building knowledge and skills while working independently. Term 2 will introduce you to working on projects as part of a group while you advance your skills and includes an opportunity for a three-week field experience in industry, providing you with real experience in a work environment. Finally, Term 3 has been designed to mimic industry, as you will work as a team and apply your learning in the creation, finishing, and installation of a large-scale project.
Information sessions are occasionally offered to provide information about the Cabinetry certificate program and careers related to cabinetry and woodworking. Information about these sessions can be found by visiting
Future Student Events or contacting the program using the details provided in Contact Information (link to section in catalogue).
Admission Requirements
Your Academic History
If your academic history includes any of the following, please visit
My Education for important information: post-secondary studies at an institution other than Red River College Polytechnic; Modified (M), English as an Additional Language (E), or GED high school courses; or home schooling; international secondary (high school) studies.
The college requires transcripts verifying your complete academic history including any public or private high school, college, university, or technical institute you have attended.
DOCUMENT SUBMISSION
Upload Through Your Future Student Account
- Scan your document(s) and save the file. Ensure you keep your original documents as the College may request to see them at any time.
- Go to apply.rrc.ca and log in.
- Click on your application, then Supplemental Items & Documents.
If you do not have a Future Student Account or require assistance, please contact our Student Service Centre at 204-632-2327.
Internationally Educated Applicants - visit www.rrc.ca/credentials for credential assessment information.
Submission of required documentation indicating proof of completion of admission requirements is due within 15 days of applying unless otherwise noted in the program's admission requirements.
However, if you apply within 6 weeks of the program start date, admission requirements are due within 5 days of applying.
Regular Admission Requirements
- Grade 12
- Submit proof of graduation from or enrolment in Grade 12, including one credit in each of the following:
- Grade 12 English (40S)
- Grade 12 Math (40S)
- If you provide proof of enrolment at time of application, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter
- If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so. See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information.
and
- English Language Requirements (ELRs)
- Answer this question to determine if you meet this program’s ELRs:
Have I successfully completed 3 years of full-time high school (secondary) education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country where English was the language of instruction? - If YES, you meet English language requirements. Apply and then submit your transcripts* for review
or - If NO, submit proof of meeting an ELRs option. If you choose the English language assessment option, review this program's approved assessments and required levels.
or - If you completed all of your education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country in English but you did not graduate high school, submit your transcripts* for review.
- * If your transcripts are from the USA or an ELR exempt country, we will assess an International Credentials Assessment Fee to be paid before your transcripts will be reviewed.
Mature Student Admission Requirements
If you are 19 years of age or older and have been out of high school for a minimum of one year at time of application, and you do not meet the regular admission requirements, you may apply under the Mature Student admission requirements.
- Grade 12 Courses
- High school graduation is not required, but you must have successfully completed or be enrolled in one credit in each of the following courses:
- Grade 12 English (40S)
- Grade 12 Math (40S)
- If you provide proof of enrolment at time of application, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter
- If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so. See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information.
and
- Meet Regular Admission Requirement 2
English Language Assessments
The College reserves the right to modify this information without notice or prejudice.
ASSESSMENT RESULTS MUST BE DATED NO MORE THAN TWO YEARS PRIOR TO YOUR APPLICATION DATE!
| English Language Assessment | Minimum Required Levels |
|---|
| L - Listening, S - Speaking, R - Reading, W - Writing | L | S | R | W |
|---|
| AEPUCE
(Academic English Program of University and College Entrance )
Requirement: Submission of a parchment (certificate) indicating successful completion of the AEPUCE program, including language levels achieved if available. | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 |
| CAEL and CAEL Online
(Canadian Academic English Language)
| 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 |
| CLB (LINC)
(Canadian Language Benchmark - Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada)
Canadian Citizens: LINC programs are not available. | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 |
Duolingo
(Duolingo English Test)
* MINIMUM OVERAL SCORE OF 115 REQUIRED.
There are no minimum required levels for L,S,R,W.
Only Duolingo English Test scores that have been verified through the Duolingo English Test Portal will be accepted. | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| IELTS - Academic
(International English Language Testing System)
Please Note: 3 year expiry date for Nursing Program Applicants | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.0 |
| LSI
(Language Studies International)
| 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| PTE - Academic Online Assessment
(Pearson Test of English)
| 58 | 58 | 58 | 50 |
| Password Skills
(An in person English Language Assessment hosted by RRC Polytech)
This in-person, computer-based test is composed of four test modules: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The test takes 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete and is conducted in two parts. The first part assesses reading, listening, and writing, and the second part assesses speaking in a separate room.
Password Skills is hosted by the RRC Polytech Testing and Assessment Centre: E440, Manitou a bi Bii Daziigae building, on the fourth floor.
If you wish to do Password Skills remotely (not in-person), Password Skills Plus can be taken online. RRC Polytech does not offer Password Skills Plus, but we do accept the results for entry into program.
| 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.0 |
| Password Skills Plus
(Password Skills Plus is an online assessment that can be taken instead of Password Skills. )
| 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 6.0 |
| TOEFL-iBT
(Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet Based Test)
To meet the needs of students who are unable to take the TOEFL iBT® test at a test center due to public health concerns, ETS is temporarily offering the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition test in selected areas. | 20 | 20 | 19 | 21 |
Who Should Enrol?
The Cabinetry and Woodworking - Certificate program may be right for you if you enjoy working with wood, are good with your hands and are physically capable. Successful tradespeople in this industry are typically those who are creative, have an eye for detail, communicate well, complete calculations accurately, and use drawings and blueprints effectively.
In this industry you may require flexibility and a driver's license as your work tasks may include you being in the shop or on the job site with or without supervision. You also may require a certain amount of tolerance with wood dust because of the nature of the materials we work with.
Locations, Dates and Fees
Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)
| Location |
Start Date |
Apply Link |
| Notre Dame Campus |
Aug 25, 2025 |
Apply Now |
Costs (estimates only; subject to change)
1No textbooks required. Includes an estimated cost for the purchase of a laptop. A calculator and writing materials are required.
2All students must provide their own CSA approved steel toe footwear. Students also require CSA approved safety glasses (non-tinted only, all others will not be allowed) or prescription safety glasses that provide protection.
Students may apply for financial assistance through the Manitoba Student Aid program.
For general information on applying please call 204-945-6321 or 1-800-204-1685,
or visit their website at www.manitobastudentaid.ca,
which also includes an online application. For detailed information, please visit
one of the RRC Polytech Student Service Centres
or call 204-632-2327. Applicants requiring financial assistance should complete their student loan
applications well in advance of the class start date.
Program Outline
Please click here for the Program Outline.
Courses and Descriptions
(Click the course name to view the description of the course)
In addition to Transfer of Credit from a recognized post secondary institution,
other RPL processes are available for
RPL courses.
Click here for more information.
For courses with no
RPL, please check
www.rrc.ca/rpl for additional contact information.
COMM-1173Communication StrategiesRPL
More InformationEveryone communicates, but are they doing it well? Communicative competence takes practice and self-awareness. In this foundational course, students will learn through discovery and project-based activities to practice approaching situations critically and collaboratively. By developing their communication skills, students will improve their interpersonal ability, intercultural competence, and digital fluency to prepare for success in the workplace and beyond. The strategies students will gain in this course will be useful throughout their program and in their chosen industry.
COMM-2172Communication for the WorkplaceRPL
More InformationThis foundational course focuses on essential communication skills for entering and advancing in industry. Students will develop skills for effective resumes, cover letters, and job interviews that are tailored to the specific needs of prospective employers. Additionally, students will enhance their interpersonal skills and digital fluency while applying speaking, writing, and collaboration techniques crucial for job searching, adapting to new roles, and achieving long-term career goals. Students will also develop strategies for continuous learning to remain competitive in an ever-changing job market.
FIEL-4002Field Experience
More InformationThis course is an off-campus three-week placement that situates students in a highly authentic workplace environment where they engage with industry professionals. This will give the students a broader perspective on the work environment before they complete the program. Students will have the opportunity to build on their prior theoretical learning and applied skills while advancing professional abilities that are relevant for successful employment within the trade. Field experience will diversify the student’s portfolio, giving them a competitive edge as a successful job applicant in the industry.
Prerequisites:
MATH-1197Math for Construction Trades
More Information(No description available at this time)
PROJ-1013Project Development
More InformationThis course begins with reading and interpreting drawings and specifications by reviewing, extracting, calculating, and estimating information from drawings. Students will progress to sketching and manual drafting by creating a plan view of a specific project using industry standards. Building off the plan view students will evolve to Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and create a working set of shop drawings. Creating cut lists, using optimization programs as well as an overview of the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) software are some of the typical software used in the industry and will aid in the completion of the project development course.
SAFE-1028WHMIS
More InformationThe Workplace Hazardous Materials System (WHMIS) is a system for ensuring that important information about hazardous products is communicated where products are used, stored and handled. This course provides Information necessary to understand and interpret information about hazardous products, including pictograms (symbols), labels and Safety Data Sheets.
SAFE-1036Trade Safety and Orientation
More InformationIn this course, the student will get an introduction to the college, program and how it relates to industry and apprenticeship. Students will tour the labs and equipment, classrooms, college facilities and review the college learning management system and its many capabilities. By observing safety standards such as PPE, Safe Work Procedures, and Toolbox Talks, we will be creating a safety culture to prepare the students for work in various Construction Trades as well as prepare them for the workforce.
SEMR-9209General Safety Training
More InformationThis General Safety Training (GST) teaches basic general safety content to arm students with the core information necessary for them to protect themselves in workplaces on all descriptions. Although some examples may consider Manitoba legislation, this course has been developed by occupational safety and health professionals using generic information that is not provincially specific.
WOOD-1029Woodworking and Hand Tools
More InformationThis course is an introduction to the knowledge of wood and the many of its practical uses of tools and materials used in woodworking. Students will survey wood species, grain direction, defects, moisture content and wood processing. By studying tools, using wood dimensioning systems, reading linear measurements, laying out and using cutting techniques and working within strict timelines, the student will develop skills in tool identification and use. This course also introduces students to material selection and optimization, time management, tool care and maintenance as well as various fasteners used in the trade.
Prerequisites:
WOOD-1030Woodworking and CNC Technologies
More InformationThis course is an introduction to Computer Numerical Control (CNC) woodworking machine technology and how it relates to manufacturing. Discussions will include what CNC machines are, what they can do, and the requirements needed to have one in a facility. Students will learn to apply software applications such as AutoCAD and Biesseworks to perform machine operations and select the correct tooling requirements. A CNC project will include creating and operating the machine to run flat pack programs that are used in industry.
Prerequisites:
WOOD-1033Woodworking Trends
More InformationIn this course, students will be exposed to the latest trends in woodworking. Students will have the opportunity to learn current techniques that will enhance their applied skill set. The exploration of these trends will inspire creativity and provide students with the confidence to try new things. Upon completion of the course, students can carry these skills forward whether as a personal interest or in their chosen profession.
Prerequisites:
WOOD-1034Wood Finishing
More InformationSelecting the right type of finish enhances a wood project and highlights the quality of work and materials. This course will introduce students to the finishing process by presenting concepts on safety, surface preparation, wood finishing products, conventional wood finishing techniques and spray equipment. Traditional and modern methods of finishing will be compared, and students will learn the importance of considering factors such as aesthetics, durability, and compatibility when selecting finishes. Students will get hands-on experience with the wood finish process flow by finishing the project they created in a previous course.
Prerequisites:
WOOD-1036Shipping and Installation
More InformationAll products need to arrive on site in undamaged condition to ensure the project will not be delayed. In this course, students will learn how to organize, package, and load products so they are ready to be shipped to the jobsite. Once the products are on site, students will learn unpacking and installation procedures using the appropriate tools and lifting techniques to install the products. Once installed, students will make final adjustments and necessary touch-ups allowing for a professional fit and finish.
Prerequisites:
WOOD-2008Woodworking and Power Equipment
More InformationIn this course, students will continue to develop and hone their skills in woodworking with the introduction of portable power tools and machines. The student will review manuals and safe work procedures and the various features of the tools and equipment. The student will learn set-up procedures and how to calibrate machinery including tooling changes. Students will build on their skills by manufacturing projects using various building materials, adhesives, hardware, and techniques to show competency and understanding of the process and the safe use of the tools and equipment.
Prerequisites:
WOOD-3003Woodworking Applications 1
More InformationIn this course, students will further enhance their skills and abilities in everything they have learned up till this point. Keeping the emphasis on safety and housekeeping, students will be expected to develop drawings, cut lists, estimate material usage, select material, use correct tooling, select proper tools and equipment, and complete the assigned project within specified timelines to industry standards. After successfully completing this course students will become more competent with less supervision needed in a woodworking shop.
Prerequisites:
WOOD-4002Wood Industrial Machinery
More InformationIn this course, students will continue to build upon skills developed during term one. Students will be introduced to specialized machinery that allows for more efficiency in the manufacturing industry. These machines save time and money but tend to come with a high price tag, use a large shop footprint, are more complex than typical machines, and require specific training. Students will be required to do machine setups, tooling changes, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, create components, review, and modify Standard Operating Procedures (SOP),
Prerequisites:
WOOD-5003Woodworking Applications 2
More InformationWorking in a shop includes working as a team. Students will work on a team project such as a set of cabinets for a kitchen, an office, or a walk-in closet. Skills developed in previous courses will further be enhanced by building various size casework components like upper and lower cabinet assemblies, end gables and doors, various hardware accessories, countertops, millwork, and filler pieces. The group must work together and be organized, efficient, on task, and must focus to complete the project on time.
Prerequisites:
CO-OP/Practicum Information
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is included in the Cabinetry & Woodworking - Certificate program to support personal and professional growth and enhance the education and job-readiness of future graduates.
Near the end of term 2 students will participate in a three-week field experience within the workplace of an approved industry partner. Students will have the opportunity to demonstrate their newly acquired safety, technical, communication and professional skills to industry, and learn how to be productive on the job.
To be eligible, students must complete all program courses leading up to the WIL course and have a 2.0 GPA.
Computer/Laptop Requirements
Online learning is a critical component of course delivery in all Red River College Polytechnic programs. The Cabinetry and Woodworking – Certificate program requires students to supply their own laptop. This program will require a
Type B: Power device, please refer to
Computer Requirements for Students : RRC Polytech for further information.
Additional Considerations:
- MacOS is not compatible with some drafting software used in this program; Macs are not recommended.
- Chromebooks, iPads and other similar tablet-style devices are not recommended as they do not offer enough capability to support all program and learning requirements.
- Students are responsible for their own device maintenance and repairs (operating system and hardware).
- RRC Polytech will provide on-campus network connectivity and will provide support for software licensed by the College.
- Microsoft Office 365 (including Word, Excel and PowerPoint) is provided by RRC Polytech at no additional cost to students.
Devices must be ready to use on the first day of classes (or orientation) and students should be familiar with the basic operation of their machine. Electronic resources, software and applications will be introduced in the first few days of the term and will be in use during classes almost immediately.
Students do not have to buy from a specific vendor or manufacturer; they are free to find the best device that meets or exceeds the minimum specifications for their program.
Please note that any anticipated costs are not included in Books and Supplies estimates.
Transfer Credit Opportunities
You may be eligible for transfer credits based on previous studies at RRC Polytech or another recognized post-secondary institution. Please see www.rrc.ca/transfercredit for transfer credit requirements and the procedure to request credit.Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which documents and compares an individual's prior learning gained from prior education, work and life experiences and personal study to the learning outcomes in College courses/programs. For more information, please visit www.rrc.ca/rpl.
Graduation Requirements
Graduation requirements are as follows:
- A minimum grade of D (60%) in each course
- A minimum program GPA of 2.0
- Successful completion of Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
To receive accreditation in level one apprenticeship for cabinet making, the requirements are as follows:
- Successful program completion with a minimum program GPA of 3.0
Employment Potential
Graduates may find work across Canada in a variety of positions:
Machine Operator, Installer, Finishing, Custom Cabinetmaker, Repair Technician, CNC Operator/Programmer, Finish Carpenter, Level 1 Apprentice, Furniture Builder, Assembler, Specialist in a related field, Self-employed.
Academic Advising Service
Our academic advising service can provide information about our full-time programs, explain program admission requirements, and help you select the right program to meet your career and academic goals. We can also connect you with helpful people, resources, and supports.
