Community Heritage Fundamentals for BC Practitioners Online Course
New dates! Heritage BC, in partnership with Royal Roads University is once again offering the online course Community Heritage Fundamentals for BC Practitioners (CLST075) from May 19 to July 12, 2026.
With a focus on case studies and meaningful discussions with fellow heritage practitioners, you will gain insights into the application of heritage tools at a community level, explore how to incorporate heritage values in community planning, and develop strategies for finding common ground around heritage with others in your community.
Who Should Take this Course
This course is perfect for:
- Regional and municipal government staff
- Heritage Planners and Urban Designers/Consultants
- Heritage Commission / Advisory Group Members
- Heritage advocates and anyone passionate about safeguarding BC’s rich heritage
Course Details
Dates: May 19 – July 12, 2026
Format: Online/Virtual
Time Commitment: ~4.5 hrs/week for 8 weeks
Evaluation: Discussions and assignments
Cost: $795.00 (Heritage BC members get a 10% discount. Email membership@heritagebc.ca for a discount code)
Earned Credentials: Continuing Professional Development credits & Royal Roads University completion certificate.
Topics Covered
Module 1 – Introduction: Orientation, Course Goals, Heritage Municipal Roles
Module 2 – Heritage Foundations: Values-Based Heritage, Indigenous Heritage, Heritage Legislation & Tools in BC
Module 3 – Heritage in Community: Community Engagement, Applying Heritage Tools, and Strategies for Heritage in Community Plans
Module 4 – Putting the Fundamentals into Practice: Communicating Heritage, Placing Heritage in Your Community’s Broader Context
Student Testimonials
I would recommend this [course] for two reasons. Firstly, should heritage be a priority in an OCP, this course will introduce planners and municipal employees on how best to employ the Community Charter and the Heritage Conservation Act to our advantage. Learning more about heritage conservation standards and guidelines means we don’t have to reinvent the wheel to tackle heritage projects, as well. This experience also reiterated the importance of storytelling and meaning. We inherit these assets and how we treat them in the present and for the future is indicative of our appreciation for the past and its people who got us here.
~ Sarah Benson-Lord, Museum Director, Trail Museum and Archives
Expertly designed and delivered by Heritage BC and Royal Roads University, it was an invaluable learning experience, and I am grateful to have participated. I left with both overarching concepts and practical insights that will enrich my work in heritage conservation and planning in a meaningful way.
~ Ivonne Voelkel, ARB UK-Registered Architect & CAHP Heritage Professional