OCAD University has received $50,000 from the Ontario Micro-credentials Challenge Fund for the School of Continuing Studies to develop the new micro-credential, Navigating Production with the Film and Television Industry.
This is one of 250 micro-credentials being funded across the province by the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities. Since 2020, the Government of Ontario has invested over $60 million in its micro-credentials strategy.
“This new micro-credential is designed for those interested in pursuing a career in film and TV production but don’t know where to start,” said Evan Tapper, School of Continuing Studies Director at OCAD U. “We’re thrilled to partner with the local unions and guilds to provide students with a close look at the industry,” he added.
A micro-credential is a new model that uses short, focused courses to verify competency in a range of high-demand and specialized skills. At OCAD U, the offering includes official certification of the acquisition of an individual’s skills. It is awarded in a digital form, which is verified, secure and shareable with peers, employers and educational providers.
In today’s fast-changing workforce, a nimble system to recognize individuals’ skill sets is an asset to professionals as well as employers, who are increasingly moving towards skill or competency-based hiring.
"As we look to the future, it’s clear the way we work is changing. Many jobs are not going back to the way they were before. That is why our government is investing in programs that help people upgrade their skills to earn bigger pay cheques at work or start new careers," said Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton.
Film and television is one such sector that has changed enormously over the last two years. The industry has had to evolve, due, in part, to the restrictions and shutdowns brought upon by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, according to Ontario Creates, the film and television industry contributed 30,000 jobs and $1.5 billion to the province’s economy in 2020.
OCAD U’s Navigating Production with the Film and Television Industry micro-credential course directly addresses the industry’s need for workers with specialized skills and is designed to provide learners with the knowledge to enter or return to the entertainment industry with confidence.
“This is a great opportunity for creative professional to gain the knowledge they need to begin their careers in film and TV production, and industry to connect with the talent they need to expand and diversify their workforce,” Tapper explained.
Earlier this year, Ontario became the first jurisdiction in Canada to offer student financial assistance for micro-credentials, making it easier to access the course. More than 1,200 micro-credentials are currently approved for the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).
“Our government continues to prioritize quick, flexible training opportunities that will prepare Ontarians for the in-demand jobs of today and tomorrow,” said Minister of Colleges and Universities Jill Dunlop. “These micro-credentials will be developed in collaboration with industry to respond to regional labour market needs and will strengthen partnerships between postsecondary institutions, training providers and employers.”