Certificate in Human Services Foundations

at Algonquin College - Ottawa Campus Canada

The Technical Writer Ontario College Graduate Certificate program provides you with the skills and training needed for a career in technical communication. Throughout this one-year program, you create different types of workplace documents to help users enjoy all features of a product, service or information. In particular, you learn to:

• Research and analyze technical material
• Connect with an intended audience
• Use specialized tools to author documents
• Manage multiple projects to meet the goals of a group
• Create structured documents that cater to different user tasks

These skills are so highly prized in the workplace that you can choose to work in either the public or the private sector, and in a freelance, part-time or full-time capacity.

The Technical Writer program will teach you how to create different kinds of online and print documents such as instruction sets, training materials, user manuals, white papers, proposals, online help, instructional videos and podcasts.

Through a combination of real-world learning, group projects, and collaborative learning activities, you can confidently apply these skills in all areas of industry including manufacturing, health and medicine, government, high-tech and private training institutions.

Cooperative education (Co-op)
Cooperative education (Co-op) allows students to integrate their classroom learning with a real-world experience though paid work terms. Two academic terms prior to the cooperative education work term, students are required to actively participate in and successfully complete the self-directed co-op online readiness activities and in-person workshops.

Students must actively conduct a guided, self-directed job search and are responsible for securing approved program-related paid co-op employment. Students compete for co-op positions alongside students from Algonquin and other Canadian and international colleges and universities. Algonquin College`s Co-op Department provides assistance in developing co-op job opportunities and facilitates the overall process, but does not guarantee that a student will obtain employment in a co-op work term. Co-op students may be required to re-locate to take part in the co-op employment opportunities available in their industry and must cover all associated expenses; e.g., travel, work permits, visa applications, accommodation and all other incurred expenses.

Co-op work terms are typically 14 weeks in duration and are completed during a term when students are not taking courses.

The Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management (Honours) (Co-op) degree program prepares you for supervisory and management careers within the dynamic hospitality and tourism industry. The program gives you a solid knowledge of hospitality and tourism business operations, coupled with effective leadership and management skills.

Created by industry experts, this degree program is the first of its kind in Eastern Ontario. Core components of the program include exponential, theoretical and analytical learning in:

• Hotel operations management
• Leadership and entrepreneurship
• Food and beverage management
• Tourism trends

Throughout the program, you are provided with opportunities to develop teamwork, leadership, communication, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

Smaller class sizes allow you the one-on-one time you need to succeed.

Expand your real-world experience with two mandatory, paid 500-hour co-op placements. Over the course of the placements you are given the opportunity to network with professionals and gain valuable industry experience that is essential for success in the hospitality and tourism industry. See Additional Information for more details.

Graduates of this program are equipped with the skills, knowledge and experience leading to highly sought after graduates throughout the industry. Graduates may find employment both locally and globally in:

• Hotels or resorts
• Restaurants
• Cruise lines
• Casinos
• Consulting firms
• Destination marketing organizations
• Suppliers to the hospitality and tourism industry

Specific opportunities can include:

• Management trainee for large hotel chains
• Sales and marketing managers
• Revenue/finance managers
• Event coordinators/planners
• Human resources coordinators
• Food and beverage managers/supervisors
• Front desk managers/supervisors
• Club managers
• Attractions managers/supervisors
• Restaurant managers/supervisors
• Membership coordinators convention visitors bureaus

The Cyber Security Analysis (CSA) Ontario College Graduate Certificate program is designed to prepare you to meet the market demand for cyber security professionals in the public and private sector.

Throughout the program, you focus analytically on key cyber security principles including threat and vulnerability management, event analysis, laws and ethics relating to security compliance and implementation, cryptographic solutions for data confidentiality and communication protection, cyber incident response, digital forensics processes, disaster recovery and business continuity following cyber incidents and related tools and security appliances. You develop the skills and knowledge necessary to select and deploy the optimal tools and security solutions given unique scenarios.

Graduates possess the theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills to assess, recommend, implement and troubleshoot various advanced security solutions and countermeasures. Utilizing IT concepts and tools, you evaluate the technical aspects and risk levels of security solutions, security and penetration tests and vulnerability assessments. You also examine the legal process and proper evidence gathering procedures, effective design of corporate security policies, analysis and management of risks or threats as well as ethical and social implications related to security, Canadian and International laws, privacy laws and compliance. Algonquin College`s state-of-the-art computing facilities, running the latest Windows and Linux/UNIX-based operating system (O/S) platforms and supporting a wide variety of pre-installed software applications, support you to be well-prepared for entry into the field of cyber security. You gain exposure to real-world technologies currently used within industry including specialized networking, Cisco and hardware labs along with several network-based O/S servers. The Cyber Security Analysis curriculum has been designed to closely align with the Canadian Center for Cyber Security`s (CCCS) curriculum guidelines and also assists in preparing graduates to achieve a number of industry certifications. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to attain certifications including:

• ISC2 SSCP and CISSP
• SANS GSEC and other GIAC certifications
• EC-Council`s CEH and CHFI
• CompTia CySA+ and CASP

Co-op
Cooperative education (Co-op) allows students to integrate their classroom learning with a real-world experience though paid work terms. Two academic terms prior to the cooperative education work term, students are required to actively participate in and successfully complete the self-directed co-op online readiness activities and in-person workshops.

Explore a challenging and rewarding career in business.

• Earn a flexible diploma that shows you are skilled in all of the key business disciplines. The Business Administration - General Business Ontario College Advanced Diploma program gives you the opportunity to customize your education in business. General Business is one of the seven majors that Business Administration students can select in the second half of the three-year program. Develop a skillset with learning from areas of business that include accounting, finance, human resources, international business, marketing and supply chain and operations management.
• By selecting the General Business major going into the fourth semester, you choose courses from at least two majors, and no more than four courses from any one major. Your coursework is based on which courses you select (not all courses are available).
• Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op version of the program are subject to availability.
• Upon graduation, you earn a comprehensive diploma that shows employers you are skilled in all key areas of business. Based on the course selections you made, pursue a variety of careers in diverse fields and industries.
• Upon completion of six semesters and with a minimum GPA of 2.9, you can apply to Nipissing University and with as little as 12 months of additional study at the Woodroffe campus, complete a Bachelor of Commerce degree.

Today`s global business environment requires students that have developed the ability to become technology professionals capable of creating and implementing information and communications technology solutions to achieve competitive advantages, productivity gains, and innovation. This four-year degree program prepares students for a career in business software systems development and technology management by providing skills and competencies in two closely related disciplines, technology and business. Our program curriculum provides the necessary key knowledge in software development and business technology management required by business and offers students the opportunity to use, develop, and research emerging business technologies such as mobile and wearable computing, artificial intelligence and agent technologies.

Students gain practical experience in technology project management, systems analysis and design, software development and implementation, data analysis, database technologies, operating systems, web applications and information security. When combined with knowledge of business principles, economics, accounting, internal audit and human resource management, students develop a unique skill set critical for strategic information and communications technology development environments.

Graduates have a unique blend of applied knowledge and skills in core competencies in software development and business, including the project management book of knowledge (PMBOK) and the business analysis book of knowledge (BABOK). Students gain significant hands-on experience through online, in-class, simulation-based learning experiences and experiential learning activities such as co-op work terms and interdisciplinary final year team-based projects. The combination of knowledge, skills and experience allows students to integrate quickly into the complex global technology and business workforce in entry level information communications technology positions.

The Bachelor of Technology (Business Systems Development) (Honours) program is aligned with the learning outcomes and competencies published by the Business Technology Management (BTM) standards. Algonquin College has initiated the accreditation process with BTM.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Analyze, design, develop, implement and maintain business systems and/or components to support strategic business requirements.
• Manage the process of evaluating, selecting and using business systems.
• Develop and improve business systems by applying accepted methodologies, theories, concepts and practices.
• Manage data using appropriate methodologies and standards to improve business processes and decision-making.
• Apply the Project Management Institute`s Body of Knowledge to business systems software engineering projects.
• Apply security principles and practices in systems development and the systems environment.
• Apply principles and skills of business management, leadership and change management in the context of business systems software engineering.
• Apply quality assurance and quality management principles to business systems development projects.
• Educate a diversity of clients in the use of business technology to support, promote and improve business processes.
• Apply business technology management skills to innovate in business systems development targeting new and existing local and global markets.
• Adhere to professional, ethical and legal codes and standards.
• Conduct and evaluate research to contribute to evidence-based practice in business systems development.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
• Leverage artificial intelligence and agent technologies to support short and long term business decisions

The three-year Computer Engineering Technology - Computing Science Ontario College Advanced Diploma program prepares you for an information technology (IT) career in the private or public sectors. You gain the knowledge and skills to use a broad range of IT-based analytical thinking and problem-solving skills in support of the day-to-day operation of an enterprise`s software systems or in the development of new systems.

Learn a variety of programming languages (Java, C#, C++, C, and others) and operating systems (Windows, Unix/Linux, and QNX). In addition, you study the development tools and debugging techniques used to design, code and test integrated and/or embedded applications and software systems.

In your final year, you work in teams on sponsored real-world projects to develop a comprehensive application as part of the software engineering portion of the program. You also have the opportunity to select an elective course from an approved list, in areas that include graphics/multimedia, advanced database programming, android, business programming (Cobol), security and advanced web programming.

The majority of the program consists of courses in systems programming, software development, testing and maintenance. The balance of the curriculum consists of courses in technical communications skills (both oral and written), mathematics and general education electives.

Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op version of the program are subject to availability. Students who elect to apply to the non co-op version of the program may not have the opportunity to transfer to the co-op version at a later date.

Graduates may find employment as systems, integration, and applications programmers and/or testers, and as customer service representatives providing training and product support to clients of high technology corporations.

• Graduates may also pursue careers in such diverse areas as:
• Game and multimedia development
• GUI (graphical user interface) development
• IT communications, IT security, real-time and database systems
• Web-based applications
• Technical roles in all levels of government (federal, provincial, and municipal)

Learn engineering design, and offer solutions as a mechanical engineering technologist

The three-year Mechanical Engineering Technology Ontario College Advanced Diploma program teaches you to apply scientific and engineering principles to solve mechanical engineering problems in a variety of industries.

Through a series of classroom-based courses and extensive practical labs, you acquire skills specific to mechanical engineering technologists, including:

• Modifying and improving engineering designs using conventional and computer-based methods
• Performing engineering tests
• Supporting product development
• Using engineering software and systems to conduct engineering design and analysis
• Designing specialized jogs and fixtures
• Analyzing problems involving machine design, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics and heat transfer
• Understandingand applying design standards (i.e. ASHRAE and ASM International)
• Using design software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD and MasterCAM 

During your third year in the program, you complete a capstone project under the guidance of your faculty members. You work with external stakeholders in the industry during the project to analyze, plan and execute your project.

Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op version of the program are subject to availability. Students who elect to apply to the non co-op version of the program may not have the opportunity to transfer to the co-op version at a later date.

Graduates may find work in the research, design and testing of mechanical systems, or with:

• Manufacturing processes
• Electro-mechanical control systems
• Automation
• Green-energy and building systems 

The Police Foundations Ontario College Diploma program provides you with a foundational knowledge of the field of law enforcement. Curriculum includes both theory and applied lessons in policing - helping you prepare for the employment in industry. This program offers instruction in:

• Police powers and procedures
• Community policing
• Investigation processes
• Diversity
• thics, and
• Communication

While there is a strong theoretical aspect to this program, there are many opportunities for hands-on learning through in-class scenario situations and our fitness program. Outside the classroom, students are given opportunities for community volunteering and work integrated learning.

The program prepares you to apply for and be tested for employment in policing. As fitness is an important part of a career in law enforcement, you use an on-site fitness facility to prepare for physical fitness tests required by police departments. In addition to your work in our fitness facility, you establish and maintain your own exercise schedule .

There are a number of potential job opportunities for graduates of this program in areas such as:

• Municipal, provincial or federal police services
• Military police service
• Bylaw services
• Canada Border Services Agency
• Transit security
• Private or public sector security
• Correctional Services Canada
• Social services agencies
• Government of Canada
• Parliamentary Protective Services, or
• Commissionaires

The two-year Office Administration - Health Services Ontario College Diploma prepares you for a rewarding career in a variety of health services office environments.
Develop essential theoretical and applied skills for health services by engaging in extensive learning in a simulated office using an Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system in a variety of specialties. Provide patient services through:

• Client file management
• Office management
• Billing
• Patient management
• Medical transcription and terminology
• Accounting practices, and
• Document production

You also have the opportunity to participate in a health services environment work placement allowing you to practice your skills.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Conduct oneself professionally and adhere to relevant legislation, standards and codes of ethics.
• Manage the scheduling, coordination and organization of administrative tasks and workflow within specific deadlines and according to set priorities.
• Coordinate the collection, analysis, distribution and response to communications in the workplace to facilitate the flow of information.
• Operate and provide support to others related to the use of office equipment and technologies.
• Evaluate, establish and administer health records management systems* to ensure confidential, secure, accessible and organized electronic and paper records*.
• Produce financial and client billing records* for health services by compiling relevant information and using accounting software.
• Produce health documents and reports using available technologies and applying industry standards.
• Use interpersonal and client service skills to respond to the diverse needs of clients, their family members and the health care team.
• Identify and use non-invasive clinical tasks to support effective and efficient health service operations.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

The two-year Recreation and Leisure Services Ontario College Diploma program prepares you to pursue a career in a variety of supporting roles and leadership positions at culturally relevant recreation facilities, parks and in open spaces. In this program, you learn how to make a difference in the community by promoting and advocating for the benefits of recreation, leisure and healthy living.

Experience the fun, exciting and growing recreation and leisure services field. As a student, you complete more than 300 hours of field placement, which provides you with on-the-job training and active experience in the industry.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Develop, implement and evaluate inclusive recreation, leisure and wellness programs and events for individuals, groups and communities which respond to assessed needs, interests, abilities and that use available resources and incorporate best practices.
• Apply administrative and customer service skills to support the delivery of recreation, leisure and wellness programs, events and services.
• Analyze, develop and implement marketing strategies to reach diverse individuals, groups and communities for programs, events, services and facilities using current communication technologies.
• Contribute to the development of fiscally sustainable and responsible recreation, leisure and wellness programs, events and services using current and relevant principles and practices of business, finance and social entrepreneurship.
• Supervise, lead and support the development of staff and volunteers involved with recreation, leisure and wellness programs, events and
• services.
• Apply safety and accessibility practices to the efficient operation and administration of recreation and leisure facilities and settings.
• Promote the benefits and values of recreation, leisure and healthy active living and recommend inclusive programs, events and services to individuals and groups.
• Apply community development strategies which engage citizens and community partners while advocating for healthy communities.
• Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development as a recreation and leisure services professional.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.