Advocating for Career College Students and Institutions Across Ontario

Career Colleges Ontario (CCO) is a non-profit association dedicated to ensuring fair treatment for career college students and a level playing field for its member institutions. We advocate for policies that recognize the critical role career colleges play in Ontario’s post-secondary education system and their contribution to the province’s economic growth.

With a membership of over 260 career college campuses, CCO represents institutions that provide industry-aligned education in Applied Arts, Business, Healthcare, Human Services, Information Technology, Services, and Skilled Trades. Our member colleges equip students with the skills and training necessary to succeed in essential industries, producing more than 33,000 graduates annually—without relying on direct government operating funds.

Supporting Students and Strengthening Ontario’s Workforce

CCO is committed to student success and institutional excellence. Our initiatives include:

• Advocacy & Public Awareness – Engaging with governments, policymakers, and stakeholders to highlight the value of career colleges in Ontario’s post-secondary landscape.
• Financial Aid Services – Operating a Financial Aid Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities’ Student Financial Assistance Branch, helping students access funding for their education.
• Student Transcript Storage – Providing an approved transcript storage service, ensuring students’ academic records are securely maintained for future access.

A Dynamic and Accountable Education Sector

The career college sector in Ontario serves approximately 45,000 students annually, offering fast, flexible, and responsive education options that align with industry needs. Our institutions operate efficiently, adapting to market demands to complement Ontario’s public colleges, universities, and apprenticeship programs.

At CCO, we believe that for Ontario to maintain a globally competitive post-secondary education system, the government must foster equity, collaboration, and recognition among all four pillars of higher education—career colleges, community colleges, universities, and apprenticeship programs.