The Blue Seal Program

Building business into your career

 

What is the Blue Seal Program?

The Achievement in Business Competencies (Blue Seal) program provides Alberta-certified trade and occupational certificate holders with the opportunity to supplement their trade skills with business credentials. The combination of trades and business knowledge signified by Blue Seal accreditation is a valuable asset for trades employers when recruiting to fill management positions. It can also be a great stepping stone for those who want to start their own business.

The goal of the program is to help certified individuals develop and refine their business competencies. Regardless of the position held in an organization, knowledge about business topics such as management, human resources, marketing and commercial law are valuable.

Blue Seal Certification is supported by Learning Communities who create a way for those living in Northern Alberta to access education. Please see their web site for more information. Details

What are the benefits of obtaining a Blue Seal?

Business training is essential in today's competitive and dynamic environment. It enhances skills and creates opportunities! The Blue Seal illustrates that an individual has applied reasonable effort in the study of, and possesses a respectable knowledge of one or more business topics.

What are the eligibility requirements for Blue Seal certification?

Individuals possessing a valid Alberta Journeyman Certificate, an Alberta Occupational Certificate, a document indicating that the individual holds a certificate that is recognized as equivalent to an Alberta trade or occupational certificate, or a certificate that is recognized as equivalent to an Alberta trade or occupational certificate are eligible to receive a Blue Seal.

How do I complete the certification program?

Certified trade and occupation certificate holders can enhance their business knowledge and careers, and obtain a Blue Seal, by completing 150 hours (3 courses) of study in one or more of the following areas:

  • accounting
  • administration
  • business law
  • economics
  • entrepreneurship
  • finance
  • human resource management
  • industrial relations
  • leadership
  • management
  • marketing
  • project management
  • public administration
  • operations management
  • organizational behavior
  • supervision

The Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training board recognizes Athabasca University as a training provider for the Blue Seal accreditation program. See Courses for a complete list of courses Athabasca University offers in these areas.

Please see the SB Advisor contact information below for assistance with your course selections.

This is a flexible program. Credit for prior course work can be determined during the registration process. Any course can be challenged or taken at another participating institution. A prior learning assessment, to grant credit for relevant employment and practical experience, is available.

Once you have completed a business program or the number of courses required to fulfill the Blue Seal standard, you will need to submit proof (i.e. official transcripts or certificate) along with an Achievement in Business Competencies Program – Blue Seal Application and the non-refundable $50.00 fee to any of the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training offices. Alberta-certified trade or occupation certificate holders who have already completed equivalent training programs are also encouraged to apply for the Blue Seal.

Blue Seal recipients can further their credentials and business knowledge by continuing work toward an Athabasca University Certificate or Degree program. Click here for a complete list of School of Business programs.

Where can I find more information?

For more information on Blue Seal training, contact:

Athabasca School of Business
call 1-888-449-8813 or;
e-mail sb@athabascau.ca
or visit www.tradesecrets.org/

Faculty of Business - Last Updated