Certificate in Personal Support Worker

at Algonquin College - Ottawa Campus Canada

This two-year Developmental Services Worker Ontario College Diploma program prepares you to support children, youth and adults with physical, mental and/or developmental disabilities, through their activities of daily living, behaviour support, personal care and special education. You facilitate the development of skills for people with disabilities to enjoy independence, citizenship and social living.

As a student, you learn strategies for providing support in ways that are respectful of the dignity and individuality of each person with whom you work with.

The Developmental Services Worker program uses both experiential and outcome-based theory to help you prepare to work a variety of educational, community and social service settings.

During your program of study you apply theory and skills in various field placements, with opportunities to experience work as an Educational Assistant and Community Support/Residential Counsellor. Field placements allow you to explore concepts from a hands-on point of view and are an important learning tool to prepare for your profession. Throughout the program, you complete a series of field placements, totaling close to 600 hours of work experience.

You may find work in a variety of roles after graduation, including:

• Educational assistant
• Developmental assistant
• Special needs worker
• Residential counsellor
• Rmployment specialist
• Life skills instructor
• Vocational instructor
• Family support worker
• Support network facilitator

Computer Systems Technology Security is a three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma that prepares the students for significant roles in securing the integrity, critical data of a business, confidentiality, network infrastructure and transactions while developing the practical hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge to implement, recommend and solve various advanced security solutions and countermeasures.

During the course, the students learn to employ common techniques and tools used in investigations and digital forensics, deploy modern security countermeasures against threats to the IT infrastructure, explore how to participate in the investigation and incident response process effectively and how to validate and evaluate security controls. The curriculum also includes topics like Canadian/International laws, assess the technical aspects and risk levels of security solutions, privacy laws and compliance, ethical and social implications related to security, the legal process and proper evidence gathering procedures, analyzing and managing risk/threats, security and penetration tests and vulnerability assessments, designing effective corporate security policies and IT forensic concepts and tools

The graduates of the course may find jobs in various industrial, service, private and industrial sectors, public organizations (financial, healthcare), privately managed security firms, users of information networks, including government organizations; small, medium-sized and large business enterprises, ; law enforcement agencies (RCMP, OPP, local police forces) and associated security agencies (CSIS, CSE), primary communications carriers, information service providers, information technology consulting firms and security audit/penetration consulting firms.

The students may secure job positions in the Information Technology environment like that of a corporate information security or security administrator (junior to intermediate level); corporate information security manager/officer (junior to intermediate level); network security specialist (junior to intermediate level); IT/network security consultant (junior to intermediate level); IT/network security architect/designer (junior to intermediate level); security auditor/penetration tester (junior to intermediate level); digital forensic analyst/consultant/investigator (junior to intermediate level); IT/network security and compliance analyst/investigator (junior to intermediate level); technical support specialist - security (intermediate level); technical integration sales representative and support (intermediate level).

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Analyze and resolve information technology problems through the application of systematic approaches and diagnostic tools.
• Analyze, plan, design, and implement computer systems.
• Analyze, plan, design, and implement networking solutions.
• Install, configure, troubleshoot, monitor, maintain, upgrade, and optimize computer systems.
• Install, configure, troubleshoot, monitor, maintain, upgrade, and optimize networks.
• Use a variety of scripting tools and languages to automate routine tasks.
• Participate in the deployment and administration of databases within a networked environment.
• Plan, develop, and be responsible for data storage to ensure the integrity of information.
• Apply knowledge of security issues to the implementation of information technology solutions.
• Appraise existing security solutions with a view to on-going maintenance, development, and improvement of organizational security.

The one-year International Business Management Ontario College Graduate Certificate program prepares you for a rewarding career involving international business management. This program offers an in-depth understanding of versatile international management skills and knowledge. You help meet the need for trained professionals who can work with the increasing volume of cross-border traffic around the globe.

This program`s courses are scheduled to accommodate professionals who have to balance work and school. Faculty consists of experts who are dedicated to preparing you for a high level of career success. Take a hands-on approach, learning to investigate, analyze and manage domestic and international business activities. As well, learn to identify international partners and develop global networks. Activities, projects and case studies simulate a work environment and help prepare you for a career in International Business upon graduation.

Practice preparing documents, including international marketing, research and management plans. Develop strategies for overcoming language and cultural barriers and working with security requirements related to international logistics.

This program prepares you for success immediately after graduation. We put a strong emphasis on connecting students with prospective employers. Upon graduation, you have met the academic requirements for application to the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation granted by the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT). One year of relevant work experience is also required to qualify for this designation. Graduates may find employment in a wide range of international fields, including:

• Government
• Banking
• Financial services
• Industry
• Logistics
• Supply chain management
• Marketing
• Sales
• Management consulting
• Entrepreneurship
• Administration

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.

This Ontario College Graduate Certificate program, delivered in a 42-week consecutive format, prepares you for a career in the field of recreation therapy. Recreation Therapists work with individuals facing key health issues and cognitive, physical and/or mental health challenges across the lifespan from children, youth, adults to seniors. In this program, you develop a strong foundation of skills and knowledge to use the tools of recreation and leisure to ensure people of all ages and abilities have a healthy social, physical, emotional and cognitive lifestyle.

Develop advanced knowledge of how to complete client assessments, create individualized and group programs and document client outcomes. Apply a variety of facilitative techniques to promote meaningful recreation and leisure participation, improve functional ability, and enhance quality of life and wellness. Through collaboration, teamwork, research and professional involvement, you learn to adapt, implement and evaluate recreation activities to meet the needs of people in a wide range of settings including hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centres, municipal community programs and mental health agencies. Through a combination of theory and industry-based work terms, you gain theoretical and practical knowledge and experience.

As a current institutional member of Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO), students enrolled in the Therapeutic Recreation program receive a Therapeutic Recreation Ontario Student membership for the duration of the program. Graduates may apply to become registered members of TRO and/or other professional associations. As well, Algonquin College is working closely with TRO in seeking recognition of this program, thus allowing graduates to apply to become a Registered Therapeutic Recreation Ontario member.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Provide for the safety of clients, self and others in compliance with applicable legislation, regulations, standards and ethical practices.
• Assess individual needs, strengths, challenges and interests of people experiencing barriers to healthy leisure lifestyle in order to assist them in meeting their goals.
• Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with ministry guidelines, professional standards of practice and organizational policies and procedures.
• Plan, implement and evaluate holistic individual and group recreation therapy programs which respond to identified needs, align with assessment results and adhere to current best practices.
• Provide individual and family therapeutic functional intervention, leisure education support, and opportunity for recreation participation.
• Research, analyze and evaluate recreation therapy activities and programs using evidence based practices.
• Plan, implement and evaluate community, private and institutional programs and/or services and processes to enhance quality of life for clients.
• Collaborate with individuals, caregivers, interprofessional teams, volunteers and community service providers using a person-centered approach to promote personal, social, economic and the health-related benefits of recreation therapy services.
• Develop and plan for ongoing personal and professional growth and development.
• 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 Office Administration - Executive Ontario College Diploma program prepares you for a rewarding career as an administrative professional in the public or private sector.

Develop essential skills through extensive applied practice in a simulated office in the areas of human resources, social media, office management, domestic and international travel, event planning and finance. Enhance your MS Office suite abilities through document production, transcription, desktop publishing, accounting practices, and database and project management.

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 related to the use, maintenance and procurement of office equipment and technologies.
• Evaluate, establish and administer a variety of records management systems* to ensure confidential, secure, accessible and organized electronic and paper records.
• Produce financial documents and reports by identifying and compiling relevant information and using accounting software.
• Prepare and produce a variety of business documents using available technologies and applying industry standards.
• Use interpersonal, leadership and client service skills to respond to diversity and to support the vision and mission of the organization.
• Research, analyze and summarize information on resources and services and prepare summary reports with recommendations.
• Select and use information technologies to support communication with internal and external stakeholders and to promote the organization.
• Organize and coordinate meetings, conferences, special events and make travel arrangements, including the preparation of related documentation.
• Support the implementation of projects by applying basic principles of project management.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

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).

Become a Powerline Technician

This two-year Powerline Technician Ontario College Diploma program prepares you with the skills you need to succeed as a powerline technician in Ontario. Begin by learning electrical basics and move on to design, planning, construction and maintenance of distribution lines.

You will learn:

• How to use AutoCAD to design structures in 2D and 3D
• About electrical machinery and metering
• How to develop essential safety skills and knowledge
• About practice rigging
• How to design overhead and underground power installations 

Starting in the second term, you begin spending one day per week at the Hydro Ottawa partner site located on Bank Street in Ottawa. There you learn climbing, rigging and other hands-on skills you can apply throughout your career.

To ensure the safety of all students, you must complete a Working at Heights training session before you begin training at Hydro Ottawa.

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.

Graduates of this program may be able to work as a powerline technician with electric power generation, and transmission and distribution companies, or pursue a career with electrical contractors and public utility commissions.   
 

Earn a flexible diploma that shows you are aware of all areas of business, and that you also have specialized education in accounting.

Accounting is one of seven majors available to Business Administration students. This three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma program starts with three semesters, learning a variety of essential business skills, before ultimately deciding on a major.

The program prepares you for a challenging and rewarding career in the accounting industry. Accounting is often referred to as the backbone of business - businesses need skilled accountants to monitor financial accounts in order to operate effectively and efficiently.

This program enables you to provide businesses with the complete and accurate financial picture they need to thrive.

Study all major areas of accounting including:

• Financial accounting
• Managerial accounting
• Taxation
• Financial management

Practise recording financial transactions, preparing/presenting financial statements, reports and other documents, and using current accounting software.

You may find employment in both the public and private sectors in roles such as:

• Accounting assistant
• Accounting associate
• Accounting clerk
• Junior financial analyst
• Junior staff accountant 

There are opportunities in a variety of work environments, including:

• Accounting firms
• Small and medium-sized businesses
• Service organizations
• Government departments
• Financial institutions 

The one-year Accounting and Financial Practice Ontario College Graduate Certificate provides you with the required knowledge and skills essential to begin and advance in the field of accounting. With a wide range of accounting and financial responsibilities present in the financial sector, there is a continuous demand for junior and intermediate accounting personnel.

In this program, you focus on accounting practices that incorporate technology used in a variety of business environments. With the use of financial accounting software and spreadsheet applications, you gather and analyze financial information and prepare financial reports.

Through financial scenarios and practical exercises, you develop in-depth knowledge of financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, audit and finance, and acquire the skills, terminology, concepts and tools required in the field of accounting. The program concludes with a capstone business case that gives you the opportunity to consolidate the knowledge and skills applied and practiced throughout the program.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Integrate ethical decision-making processes into accounting practices to establish and maintain transparency and fairness.
• Apply recognized accounting principles to the systematic recording of transactions to provide consistency in the reporting of financial information.
• Prepare accurate, relevant and timely financial statements for users of financial information that meet respective needs.
• Analyze financial and managerial accounting information to support decision-making.
• Use accounting software and relevant technology to produce accurate and timely financial information.
• Prepare effective budgets to support business operations.
• Research and discuss statistical techniques that safeguard data integrity and facilitate data interpretation.
• Select and recommend information systems that support effective business planning.
• Recognize legal implications arising in business situations to mitigate risks.
• Produce effective business communications to convey pertinent information.
• Examine and monitor current financial operations and provide suggestions to increase operational effectiveness.
• 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 Library and Information Technician Ontario College Diploma program provides you with a broad range of knowledge and experiences for the library and information management field. This unique program teaches skills that deal with both technical and public service considerations. Technical services involve manual and automated operations related to collecting, processing and organizing material. Public services involve assisting or teaching clients in finding or using information resources.

An emphasis on exposing students to the latest technologies, trends and developments in the library and information field enables students to graduate job-ready. Benefit from small class sizes. Learn from professors with industry experience. Test your knowledge and skills through hands-on classroom activities and work field placements.

Field placements take place in:

• Schools
• Public, government, and academic libraries, or
• Archives, records and information management organizations

Through field placements, you develop relevant industry connections, preparing you for work in the field.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Acquire, loan, borrow, and maintain book, serial and online collections, using procedures for bibliographic verification, vendor selection, order production, and fund management.
• Derive, edit and/or create catalogue records using internationally accepted cataloguing rules with MARC coding in national bibliographic utilities, and computer-based systems.
• Conduct reference interviews, analyze information requests in a variety of topic areas, provide instructional assistance, and perform searches using current, relevant and authoritative resources.
• Assess client needs and provide effective client service to distinct client groups in various library, archive or information management settings.
• Develop and prepare promotional materials, library programming, bibliographies, finding tools and reports using word processing and publishing programs.
• Design relational databases, web sites and use integrated library systems and other library related software according to current standards.
• Identify different types of libraries and topics related to library science such as the publishing industry, freedom of information, censorship and copyright.
• Recognize, identify and perform duties in an archive, records management or information management setting and apply meta data to online resources.
• Outline theories and practice of library management and apply skills in staff supervision, conducting primary research, marketing library services and budget preparation.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.