About MTCU Codes

About MTCU Codes

MTCU APS Table (Updated September 2024)

  • MTCU codes are 5-digit numbers assigned by the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security (MCURES) to postsecondary programs of instruction.
  • They identify the provincial program category assigned to programs similar in their vocational objectives and titles.
  • Programs in the same MTCU family share similar themes and dimensions across credential levels 
  • Credential level is identified by the first number 
  • Family is identified by the last four digits
  • Remember: We don't map to programs - we map to MTCU codes!
  • It's important to consult with CVS early in the program development process to ensure proper MTCU code selection and alignment for your proposed program. 

What Do MTCU Code Numbers Mean?

  • The first digit in an MTCU code refers to the type of credential: 
    • 4 = Ontario College Certificate (OCC)
    • 5 = Ontario College Diploma (OCD)
    • 6 = Ontario College Advanced Diploma (OCAD)
    • 7 = Ontario College Graduate Certificate (OCGC)
    • 8 = Bachelor Degree 
  • The last four digits in an MTCU code refer to the family. For example:
    • 50100 = Diploma in Accounting 
    • 60100 = Advanced Diploma in Accounting
    • 70100 = Graduate Certificate in Accounting 

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Why are MTCU Codes Important?

  • The MTCU code is the basis for all new program proposals or program modifications
  • It is the first and most important step in program development 
  • It creates the framework 
  • It includes critical information that will help expedite the process for CVS validation 
  • Each MTCU code aligns with a College Program Standard or a Program Description; the CVS AA - Tool has a database of existing College Program Standards and Program Descriptions. The database was developed in early 2018 and therefore, programs developed prior to 2018 may not be included in the system.

Key Elements of MTCU Codes

  • Program titles 
  • Vocational Learning Outcomes (VLOs)
  • Course hours, program duration, and instructional settings
  • Program weight and funding unit 
  • Tuition limits

Program Titles and MTCU Codes

  • The first program ever validated under a new MTCU code sets the precedent for titles of programs that are validated later on
  • Colleges must consider existing validated program titles 
  • For MTCU codes attached to program standards, the program title must be the same as that of the standard. Colleges can propose a modifier but these must be supported by a minimum of two additional college-level VLOs aimed at the specialty. Note that this may change PGWP eligibility.
  • For MTCU codes attached to program descriptions, the program titling is more flexible. The title must reflect the program focus and must include at least one word from the MTCU code family. 

VLOs and MTCU Codes

  • Much like program titles, the VLOs of a new program proposal and an MTCU code must align with those of previously validated programs under that same code 
  • For MTCU codes with program standards must use the stated VLOs of the standard at a minimum. Additional VLOs can be added - especially if there is a proposed title modifier for the program. 
  • For MTCU codes with a program description proposed VLOs must align to the equivalent VLO in the existing description but changes are acceptable. Ensure that the themes and dimensions of the existing base VLOs are considered and captured in the proposed VLOs. If an existing VLO is not being used in the new program proposal, provide a rationale to justify its exclusion. 

Funding and MTCU Codes

  • Funding for a program is calculated by MCURES to reflect the proposed number of hours and instructional settings 
  • Existing programs within that MTCU code set the precedent for all new programs in the same code as it relates to titles, program duration, instructional settings, program weight, and funding unit. 
  • If a programs hours, duration, and/or instructional setting vary drastically from other programs within the same MTCU code, the submission may not be funded by MCURES. 
  • If a programs hours, duration, and/or instructional setting align with other programs within the same MTCU code, the submission should be approved and funded by MCURES. 
  • If the funding review does not include the same elements as the validation done by CVS, MCURES may assign a different MTCU code to a program during its approval process.
  • Additionally, colleges need to consider tuition limits. MTCU codes have a maximum allowable fee structure the college has to work within. 

MTCU APS Table 

  • The Approved Program Sequence (APS) Table is located on the MCURES website or through OCQAS at this link. 
  • This Table includes all funded programs and is updated routinely by MCURES. It's a great source of information related to the MTCU code including title, duration, program weight, and funding units. 
  • CVS highly recommends consulting this document prior to the creation or modification of a program at Cambrian College. 

No MTCU Code?

  • Sometimes a standard or a description for a credential type doesn't exist in a particular MTCU code 
  • In these cases, we should use an MTCU code in the same family for a different credential and be sure to demonstrate the proper level of performance for the proposed credential as outlined in the framework for programs of instruction. 
  • In some cases, when developing a program in a new field of practice, you may be required to map to more than one MTCU code. In these cases, CVS will work with Cambrian to provide guidance on how best to proceed with development that meets the needs of the intended program.
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