E-commerce Basics for Startups and Individuals

Course overview
This 20-hour introductory course provides startups and individuals with the foundational skills needed to succeed in the growing digital marketplace. The course covers essential topics such as building an online store, understanding digital marketing strategies, managing payments and logistics, and optimizing customer experience. Participants will explore e-commerce platforms, learn to navigate payment gateways, and gain practical insights into launching and scaling their businesses online.
The Government of British Columbia’s Ministry of Skills Development emphasizes the importance of e-commerce learning, stating that “digital skills, including e-commerce, are critical for economic growth and competitiveness in the modern economy.” By learning these skills, students will be able to leverage technology to reach a broader audience, improve operational efficiency, and capitalize on global market opportunities.
Program Duration
20 hours / 4 weeks
Admission Requirements
High School or Equivalent
Career Opportunities
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be equipped to work in:
• Different roles in E-commerce
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
Understand the foundational concepts of e-commerce, including its definition, evolution, and comparison to traditional commerce.
Identify the different types of e-commerce models, including B2B, B2C, C2C, and C2B, and their applications.
Gain knowledge about popular e-commerce platforms and technologies, including payment gateways, and the importance of secure transactions.
Learn the essential steps to set up and run an online store, focusing on product selection, UX, and design.
Develop a foundational understanding of digital marketing tools and techniques like SEO, social media, and email marketing.
Analyze customer behavior in an online environment and understand how to enhance customer experiences and trust.
Recognize the legal and ethical issues related to e-commerce, including consumer protection, data privacy, and cyber security.
Explore emerging trends in e-commerce, such as the impact of AI, personalization, and sustainable practices.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be equipped to work in:
• Different roles in E-commerce
Delivery Method
In Class
Distance education
Fees
Domestic Students:
• Tuition Fee: $625
• Application Fee: $150
• Administrative Fee: $25
Total Fee – $800
International Students:
• Tuition Fee: $825
• Application Fee: $250
• Administrative Fee: $25
Total Fee – $1,100
This program does not require approval by the registrar of the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) of the Ministry of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills. As such, the registrar did not review this program.