Northern Lakes College

Founded in 1970 as Alberta Vocational College, Northern Lakes College (NLC) serves the needs of rural communities throughout north-central Alberta. NLC provides opportunities to students who want flexible learning options, allowing them to balance work, school and family. Programs and services are available through supported distance learning, a flexible learning option for students who wish (or need) to obtain a certificate or diploma without moving away from home. 

The school offers foundational programming including literacy and numeracy and career preparations programs, as well as post-secondary certificates and diplomas in a range of health sciences, human service, business, administrative and technology studies, resource technology and journeyman certificates in a number of trades. A new pre-employment pipe trades program prepares students to write the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training theory and practical exams. There are also various upskilling and reskilling options and the college collaborates with university partners to provide degree-
completion opportunities. Dual-credit programming allows high school students to experience college programs while earning both high school and post-secondary credits. Mobile training labs offer students practical trade-related experiences in their home communities. NLC’s continuing education provides professional accreditation and certificate programs. NLC has residences at its Slave Lake and Stony Point (Wabasca) campuses. 

Quick facts

School size:
Mid-sized

Tuition:
Diploma $2,100-$8,600
Certificate $2,100-$7,100

Residence offerings:
Yes

Popular programs

Early Learning and Child Care Certificate/Diploma
Practical Nursing Diploma
Social Work Diploma

Cool options

Integrated Fire and EMS (Primary Care Paramedic): This certificate program combines firefighter training with the college’s primary care paramedic program. Students gain experience as on-call members of an active Regional Fire Service. 
Community-Based Bachelor of Education: This collaborative program with the University of Calgary allows students to earn their bachelor of education degree while studying in their home community and has flexible part-time study options.Health Care
Aide Employed Student Tutored Education Program (eSTEP): Delivered online, non-certified health-care aides receive training and certification. Students get 320 hours of additional work experience in a clinical setting.