Masonry is an old skill, but one that is always in demand. Masonry programs at Ontario colleges teach students the hands-on skills and theory that will be necessary to be constantly learning in the industry.
If you don’t mind hard work on the job and can see yourself in the masonry industry, here’s what you need to know. More
Masonry Courses
There are many skills necessary when practicing masonry, which will be covered by Ontario college masonry programs. Classes you can expect might include (but aren’t limited to):
- Safety standards
- Measuring, testing and bonding methods
- Mathematics (with emphasis on calculation and estimation)
- Blueprint reading and drafting
- Understanding of the Ontario Building Code
Students will also spend time in the shop, practicing skills like traditional stonemasonry, arch, fireplace and chimney construction, traditional dry stone walling and more. Field study in areas such as masonry jobsites or quarries will help students obtain further understanding of the industry.
Another goal of masonry programs is to teach students not only to work in construction, but in restoration as well. Classes in architecture history and traditional techniques will prepare students to work on historical buildings.
General Masonry Program Requirements
Masonry programs may be offered as diploma or certificate programs, depending on the institution. Requirements typically include an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, with a senior English and mathematics credit.
Note: Students are encouraged to enroll in an apprenticeship after graduation to continue to refine their skills before formally entering the workplace. Students wishing to apply for an apprenticeship must do so through the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.
Masonry Jobs and Salaries
Jobs in the masonry field cover a number of areas, including (but not limited to):
- Bricklaying
- Fireplace and heater masonry
- Landscape masonry
- Stonemasonry and stonecutting
- Restoration masonry
Because of the high skill level required for masonry work, salaries in the field are high. Apprentices or those just starting out have an average starting salary of around $37,000 per year. A masonry journeyperson can make up to $35 an hour ($70,000 per year) or more, with unionized workers seeing salaries that are even higher.
Ontario Colleges Offering Masonry 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 masonry programs at Ontario colleges. Less
