The Canadian Coast Guard College (CCGC) is the Coast Guard's national, bilingual, degree- conferring training institution. The College provides all marine training for Coast Guard Officers and marine safety, security and environmental protection specialists.Located in the urban hub of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, the College's unique and specialized training is sought after by organizations around the world.
The four-year Canadian Coast Guard Officer Training Program is one of the best marine training programs in the world, producing both Marine Engineering Officers and Marine Navigation Officers.
The Canadian Coast Guard has the responsibility to ensure safe and navigable waterways for all Canadians and our country's visitors. The Canadian Coast Guard College trains and prepares Canadian men and women for a career protecting Canada's coastlines as Marine Navigation Officers and Marine Engineering Officers. The College develops and delivers a range of academic programs, operational and technical training through dedicated instruction, world-class simulators and practical training facilities.
The College offers a variety of accommodations for officer cadets, trainees and government employees on travel status. Visitors and trainees enjoy the comforts of a private style hotel room. Officer cadets live in cabin-like accommodations called clusters, which emulate life on board a vessel and foster a team atmosphere. Each cluster is made up of:
- 8 private rooms
- a shared bathroom
- a shared living room
All residents have access to a:
- games room
- billiard room
- laundry facility
- large media room
To meet the professional standards of the Canadian Coast Guard, the Officer Training Program can be more demanding and structured than a typical university course. This 4-year consecutive program aims not only to educate but to develop you as a leader. You will grow intellectually as well as ethically and become part of something greater than yourself.
We'll train you to become an officer in the Canadian Coast Guard. The 45-month training period covers in-class theory at the College and practical experience at sea on Coast Guard vessels.
When you apply to the college, you'll be applying for both a degree program and a job with the Public Service of Canada. You become an employee upon acceptance into the program.
The Wellness Centre and Sports Complex promotes and enhances the health and wellness of officer cadets, trainees and staff. As part of campus life, you can have fun and take part in friendly competitions with your peers and staff. The multi-functional facility includes:
- a music room
- a squash court
- a double gymnasium
- a 25-metre swimming pool
- lunch-time classes, such as: spin, yoga, and CrossFit
- modernly-equipped fitness rooms
- a hiking trail
- a soccer field
- a baseball field
- walking and running trails in nearby Petersfield Provincial Park
The John Adams Library is one of the largest nautical libraries in Canada. Its bilingual collection is focused on nautical sciences and technology, and supports the College's academic program. Officer Cadets have access to wide variety of print and electronic resources.
Virtual tours are available online. Campus tours can be arranged (currently not available due to the pandemic).
Every day chefs prepare a variety of healthy all-you-can-eat meals. The galley proudly accommodates the needs of our campus community with vegetarian and pre-arranged dietary alternatives. The pastry chef's menu includes plenty of delicious freshly-baked bread and desserts.
Officer cadets, trainees and staff may choose indoor or outdoor seating. The galley also offers occasional barbecue menus during the summer.
The galley is a relaxing place to take a break, share a meal and socialize with your peers.