Seaweed Production and Processing
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Statement of completion |
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Domestic applicants only |
The Seaweed Production and Processing program offers a comprehensive introduction to an emerging and sustainable industry. Coastal BC is known for its diverse seaweed species, which hold great potential as an underutilized food source. This program addresses the growing interest in seaweed production, highlighting its importance for sustainable food systems and its role in BC's Blue Economy.
This is a non-credit program offered through the Faculty of Trades and Technology.
This program is funded by the Province of British Columbia.
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Overview
Unlock the hidden potential of seaweed in food, cosmetics and biofuels. This program, taught by industry professionals, gives you a broad overview of the seaweed industry.
You'll learn:
- biology
- site operations
- ethical business practices
- economic impacts and more
After this program you'll be ready to enter the workforce with a solid understanding of the seaweed industry.
Requirements and courses
Course requirements
*Students must register in all courses in the program
Admission Requirements
Applicants must be at least 16 years old.
Schedule
The program runs from Aug. 18 - Nov. 7, 2025.
Applied learning
This is a self-paced online learning program with one-week of in-community applied learning. One evening each week, from 7-8:30pm, you'll participate in a live discussion with your peers. You can expect to dedicate approximately 20 hours each week to completing course materials.
Careers
Employment may include harvesting and processing kelp, packaging seaweed products and kelp seeding on a farm.
Costs
This program is fully funded by the Province of British Columbia. The costs of travel and accommodation to the in-community sessions are your responsibility.Please contact us for more information.
How to apply
- Apply for the program
- To register for this program fill out and submit the digital form. After we've received your registration form, you’ll receive an email from NIC with your next steps. Be sure to add @nic.bc.ca to your safe sender list.
- Attend an online information session
- Find an information session that works with your schedule and RSVP to attend.
Applicants from the following communities will receive priority admission:
- Ahousat
- Alert Bay
- Bamfield
- Bella Bella
- Gold River
- Kyuquot
- Port Alberni
- Port Alice
- Port Hardy
- Port McNeill
- Sointula
- Tahsis
- Tofino
- Ucluelet
- Zeballos
"It was a lot of interesting information in a short period of time, and well worth juggling my full-time job. The instructors were extremely knowledgeable and easy to learn from. "
Tara Giguere - Seaweed Production and Processing alum
"Training was eye opening and hands on experience that deepened my understanding of the seaweed industry. Learning from knowledgeable instructors and collaborating with a passionate group of students made the program both engaging and inspiring."
Cara Rogers - Seaweed Production and Processing alum