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.

Upon completion of this program, you’ll be prepared to contribute to sustainable economic development in coastal communities, leveraging the untapped potential of seaweed in various industries, including food, cosmetics and biofuels.

Program runs from Jan. 6 - Mar. 7, 2025

Enter the course code SWPP.CMPL and course name Seaweed Production and Processing on your application form.

This program is funded by the Province of British Columbia.

 
 This program is currently not available to international applicants.
Where: Campbell River
Starts: January 6, 2025

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The program webpages contain extensive information about curriculum, admission, highlights, costs and schedule. Please email your question here if you cannot find what you are looking for on the program page. Be sure to note your program of interest in the subject line. Alternatively, you can make an appointment to meet with an advisor through the online booking system.


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Bob Haugen, NIC Continuing Education manager, contract and training services

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Program Requirements

*Students must register in all courses in the program

 

SWP-010: Introduction to Seaweed
This micro-credential course offers an overview of seaweeds, focusing on their biology, ecological importance and various practical applications.

SWP-015: Seaweed Product and Site Planning
This micro-credential course encompasses theoretical and applied learning inclusive of species and specifications and site specifications based on location and scale of production.

SWP-020: Seaweed Production, Environmental, and Regulatory Requirements
This micro-credential course explores environmental considerations and requirements for sea and land-based production and cultivation versus wild-grow ecosystems.

SWP-025: Seaweed Site Operations and Management
This micro-credential course includes site set-up and operational specifications and requirements for infrastructure operations.

SWP-030: Seaweed Grow-Out and Traditional Practices
This micro-credential course focuses on species specific to British Columbia complemented by insight into grow-out operations and found in other regions of Canada and globally.

SWP-035: Seaweed Harvesting, Processing, and Packaging
The micro-credential course is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage the entire post-harvest process of seaweed production.

SWP-040: Seaweed Business Practices and Commercialization
This micro-credential course encompasses fundamentals of establishing a business from structure to developing a marketing plan.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must be at least 16 years old.

Seaweed Production and Processing Program

Located at the Campbell River Campus, all courses will be blended. This will require face-to-face class time, lab time, and field trips, as well as self-study via the online learning platform to complete readings, assignments, etc.

Students will engage with industry professionals and subject matter experts to become familiar with a broad overview of the Seaweed Industry. This includes biology, site operations, economic impacts, and ethical business practices. Students will be prepared to enter the workforce with a holistic understanding of the Seaweed Industry. For further details on learning outcomes, refer to the program outline.

Career Opportunities

Employment may include harvesting and processing kelp, packaging seaweed products, and kelp seeding on a farm.

What are the learning outcomes for this program?
Students will engage with industry professionals and subject matter experts to become familiar with a broad overview of the Seaweed Industry. This includes biology, site operations, economic impacts, and ethical business practices. Students will be prepared to enter the workforce with a holistic understanding of the Seaweed Industry.

Required Courses*

SWP-010: Introduction to Seaweed
SWP-015: Seaweed Product and Site Planning
SWP-020: Seaweed Production, Environmental and Regulatory Requirements
SWP-025: Seaweed Site Operations and Management
SWP-030: Seaweed Grow-out and Traditional Practices
SWP-035: Seaweed Harvesting, Processing and Packaging
SWP-040: Seaweed Business Practices and Commercialization

*Students must register in all courses in the program

Statement of Completion

These are non-credit courses; students who complete the requirements will be issued a statement of completion.

Time Commitment

Can I work while taking the program?

The program is a full-time commitment. Working in addition to study is not recommended.

How will this program be delivered?
The Seaweed Production and Processing program will be taught at the Campbell River North Island College Campus; however, all courses will be blended – students will participate in face-to-face class time, lab time and field trips, as well as self-study via the online learning platform to complete readings, assignments, etc.

Is there a tuition fee for this program?
There are no tuition or application fees required for this program. Students are responsible for any expenses outside of the program application and tuition fee.  Bus passes will be available if required.

What are the program requirements?
• Attendance is mandatory.
• The program involves a blend of in-person theory training, applied lab training, and field trips and participation is mandatory.
• Students will need access to a home-based computer and Wi-Fi.
• Students will be required to supply personal outdoor gear.

What equipment do I need to participate in this program?
To access the online course resources, students will require access to a computer and a reliable internet connection (the NIC library has computers for daytime use).

What certificates will I get at the end of the program?
Students who complete the requirements will be issued a statement of completion.

Are class-related activities held in the evenings or on weekends?
No. Face-to-face delivery will occur Monday-Friday 8:30am-3:30pm, with self-directed activities online that can be completed outside of class time. There will also be field trips.

Can I work while taking the program?
The program is a full-time commitment.