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Please note:

To effectively participate in this program, students must have reliable Internet access and a device that meets these requirements.

About the program

The Volunteer Management certificate program is the longest-running program (since 1984) and the only one in Canada with a national Volunteer Management Professionals of Canada (VMPC) partnership. The courses align with the accepted professional and program standards established by the VMPC, Volunteer Canada and the National Occupational Standards. This program will provide you with the knowledge, resources and tools to be effective, creative and inspiring managers of volunteers. You will receive up-to-date professional information; resources and the tools necessary to develop and implement best practices. The courses are taught by leading and award-winning experts. Using a unique portfolio approach, you will create a customized set of tools and resources for an organization. We offer a hybrid learning format with optional virtual classes. The program can be completed entirely online within a year. It is strongly recommended that you have previous experience as a volunteer or working with or supporting volunteers.

The program is ideal for anyone who works in a paid, unpaid or supportive role with volunteers in various sectors from faith-based or community organizations to large hospitals and municipalities. Many areas of volunteer management intersect and align with Human Resources Management best practices. The skills are highly transferable for supervisory or leadership roles in the not-for-profit sector, or for those exploring a new career. As a graduate you will be prepared to lead positive change in your communities through facilitating quality volunteer engagement. You can use the program as a foundation to further your professional development and apply it to the education criteria required for writing the Certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA) exam.

Program information

All courses must be completed within 4 years of acceptance into the program.

Admission requirements

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, OR 19 years of age or older.

Note re: admission requirements

  • Students must be able to receive instruction, respond, and research in the English language.
  • Before applying to the program, we strongly encourage potential applicants contact the program coordinator at dyoung@conestogac.on.ca or 519-748-5220, ext. 8250.

Admission procedures

  • Submit a completed Conestoga College Program Application Form.
  • Attach proof of Admission Requirements.
  • Final selection is made following an assessment of the admission requirements.

Graduate opportunities

For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the Government of Canada website: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home

Program outcomes

  • Recommend strategies to address trends and issues in volunteerism that support volunteer engagement and mitigate risks. 
  • Develop a volunteer management plan based on national competencies and standards that strategically engages volunteers and supports organizational goals.
  • Construct a framework that supports and encourages volunteer recruitment, placement and development.
  • Recommend strategies to illustrate the impact and value of volunteer contributions in order to sustain volunteer involvement. 
  • Design a volunteer management records system to meet to organizational and legislative requirements.
  • Examine various approaches to strategy development in order to promote and enhance volunteer services within the organization and community.
  • Construct a framework that supports and encourages the creation of an ethical, accountable and engaged volunteer services. 

Program related resources

Program contact

Continuing Education
Upcoming registrations

Mark your calendar with our registration dates, so you can plan your future.

Winter registration: Opens November 4, 2024
Spring registration: Opens March 17, 2025