51

Faculty of Applied and Technical Studies

Learn a trade in high school

Earn high school graduation credits and begin your journey toward a skilled trades career at the same time.

The 51 (51) Faculty of Applied and Technical Studies, Trades and Technology division, partners with School District 78 (Fraser-Cascade), School District 33 (Chilliwack), and School District 34 (Abbotsford) to offer eligible high school students an opportunity to complete Grade 12 graduation credits while receiving post-secondary training toward a skilled trade at 51’s Chilliwack Trades and Technology Centre.

What is the Dual Credit Program?

The Dual Credit Program allows motivated students to transition into university trades training while still in high school. Students enrol as 51 adult learners and attend full-time classes alongside post-secondary peers.

Seats for dual credit students are limited each year, and admission is competitive. Applying does not guarantee an offer.

Upon successful completion, students may:

  • Earn high school credits toward graduation
  • Receive credit for foundation pre-apprenticeship training or a recognised 51 Trades certificate
  • Accelerate their pathway into the skilled trades sector

Programs may include

Available programs may include: 

Note: Programs offered and seat availability may change annually.

Why choose Dual Credit?

  1. Graduate with a head start: Students earn credits toward high school graduation while completing recognised training that helps move them toward a skilled trades career.
  2. Experience university life early: Students attend 51’s Chilliwack campus full-time and gain hands-on experience in shops, labs, and kitchens with experienced instructors.
  3. Save on tuition costs: School districts typically fund the tuition portion of dual credit programs. Students are responsible for their own student fees, textbooks, tools, and required personal protective equipment (PPE). Transportation arrangements vary by school district, so students should check with their career counsellor.
  4. Build employable skills: Students gain practical, job-ready skills in high-demand trades that can lead to employment opportunities or further training.

Eligibility requirements

Students must:

  • Be registered in SD78, SD33, or SD34 and complete their district-specific application process
  • Be on track to complete Grade 12 graduation requirements during Grade 11
  • Meet 51 entrance requirements for their chosen trades program

Am I ready to be a Dual Credit student?

Ask yourself a few questions:

  • Am I genuinely interested in this trade?
  • Am I willing to attend school consistently and be on time?
  • Am I ready to participate full-time as an adult learner at 51?
  • Am I prepared for the expectations of attendance, motivation, and work readiness?
  • Am I comfortable being away from my high school during my Grade 12 year?

School-based career programs staff will support students through the application process, including referrals, interviews, and academic planning.

Where to apply

Application processes vary slightly by school district. Visit your district’s career education site for timelines, application details, and contact information:

Career facilitators in each district can help determine readiness, guide students through the application process, and support the transition to UFV.

Program location

All Dual Credit Trades training takes place at:

51 Trades and Technology Centre
Chilliwack, Canada Education Park
 

Start your career in the skilled trades

The 51 Dual Credit Program gives students a head start toward meaningful, hands-on careers. If you are ready to explore welding, automotive service, carpentry, electrical, or another skilled trade, this program offers a direct pathway from high school to post-secondary training and future employment.

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