The Private Vocational Institutions Regulation, M.R. 142/2023 governs the operation and regulation of private vocational institutions in Manitoba under The Private Vocational Institutions Act (C.C.S.M. c. P137). This regulation provides definitions of key terms such as “advertisement,” “applicant,” “campus,” and “international student,” with “advertisement” encompassing any promotional material for vocational institutions distributed through various media. It also distinguishes between institutions required to comply with the Act and those exempt, such as those authorized under different laws or providing training through employer contracts.

Certain entities are exempt from the Act, particularly those authorized by other regulations. The regulation specifies vocations according to the Government of Canada’s National Occupational Classification, explicitly excluding specific health and religious occupations. To operate a private vocational institution, applicants must submit a detailed application to the director, including proof of required insurance. Each institution must register separately, and any proposed name changes or expansions need to be communicated. Additionally, registration renewals require updated information and verification of compliance with established performance measures.

The regulation defines a “program of instruction” as any course or series of courses that costs over $3,000 or involves at least 40 hours of training. Before advertising, a program must be approved by the director, who assesses the market demand for its graduates. Private vocational institutions are prohibited from advertising programs until they receive this approval, and any substantial changes to a program—such as changes in duration, delivery mode, or admission requirements—must be reported to the director.

Institutions are required to provide clear contracts to students, detailing program specifics, fee structures, and policies. They are prohibited from charging fees not outlined in these contracts, ensuring transparency and fairness. Moreover, institutions must not enroll minors without prior consent from the director and must conduct background checks on staff interacting with minors.

Vocational institutions must issue diplomas and transcripts to students upon completion of their programs, retaining these records for at least 25 years to ensure students have access to important documentation. They are also mandated to publish annual performance reports on their websites, detailing student enrollment and completion statistics, while regularly updating employment outcomes for graduates to enhance transparency and accountability.

A public registry maintained by the director contains essential information about each registered institution, including program approvals, campus addresses, and compliance history. This registry informs potential students and the public about the status and performance of vocational institutions.

Manitoba (142/2023) September 1, 2023