What to expect from a Border Services and Customs career
Border services and customs professionals are Canada’s first line of trade and law enforcement. Trade and global relations play an important role in our economy, and as a result, we face increased security risks and more complex trade and border operations. Ontario college border services and customs programs prepare students to work in this growing and challenging field.
If you’re interested in customs, trade and immigration, and think you could succeed in this intense career, here’s what you need to know.
Border Services and Customs Courses
Border services and customs programs at Ontario colleges are generally offered as two-year diploma programs. Some colleges have the option to fast-track and complete the program in one year instead of two.
Students in these programs will develop strong critical thinking, observation, leadership and problem-solving skills. Courses may vary, but common subjects include:
- Canadian law and security
- Conflict management
- Fitness
- Immigration
- Sociology
Students will gain technical knowledge on customs, brokerages, immigration and import / export regulations. Courses will also focus on trade agreements, food regulations for inspection, how to identify counterfeit documents and how to conduct investigations.
Some programs offer a co-operative work placement, giving students the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned and receive real work experience.
General Border Services and Customs Program Requirements
Ontario college border services and customs programs require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a grade 12 English credit.
Students will be required to present a Criminal Record Check (for field placement). Due to the nature of the program and career, students should have good physical fitness and be prepared to take courses that will test their physical condition.
Border Services and Customs Jobs and Salaries
Border services and customs programs can lead to careers in many exciting and diverse organizations. Graduates could find jobs with customs brokerages, private import / export businesses, airports and land border government associations. The Canada Border Services Agency also has many positions for which graduates will be eligible.
Salaries for border services and customs jobs vary widely depending on the organization you’re working for, but the average is around $30,000 per year. Entry-level government positions could start as high as $60,000 or more.
Ontario Colleges Offering Border Services and Customs Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of border services and customs programs at Ontario colleges.
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