Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems

at Algonquin College - Ottawa Campus Canada

The one-year Victimology Ontario College Graduate Certificate program prepares you for work in a variety of fields, providing services to victims of crime. This one-year program provides specialized knowledge and skills in victimology and in the provision of victim services. You also explore the history and theories of victimization, with applied victim-centred focus.

Combining theoretical and applied learning, it includes a field placement of more than 140 hours. It is in this setting where you learn about victims` issues and perspectives first-hand from experts in the field.

Practicum options include:

• Victim crisis units
• Police services
• Victim advocacy centres
• Indigenous healing centres
• Government agencies
• Women`s shelters
• Community action groups

Overall, you develop knowledge of crisis response, sudden and traumatic loss, and victim populations. Learn about crime and its effects on victims in the criminal justice system. In your practicum, you integrate theory with practice and contribute to victim service initiatives within your community.

The Victimology program offers you the means to pursue a unique career. This program is the first graduate certificate program offered by a Canadian college specializing in victimology. More than just theory, this program puts you in the field, allowing you to learn how to look at issues from the victim`s perspective.

You may find work in a wide variety of fields helping victims of crime. Work opportunities may exist in:

• Social services
• Child protection
• Crisis response
• The criminal justice system, and
• In other areas related to victimization

In the Law Clerk (Intensive) Ontario College Diploma program, you study a broad range of legal topics and processes to prepare you for a career as a legal assistant or law clerk.

This program is offered in a compressed format over 42 weeks so you can start your career as soon as possible. The program prepares you for administrative work in an office environment where you work independently under the general direction of a lawyer, or as part of a legal services team. Learn from dedicated faculty who ensure that your skills surpass industry standards.

As a student, you develop and practice the skills that are essential for a successful career, including:

• Paying attention to details and independently following instructions
• Organizing client files and managing deadlines
• Interviewing clients
• Performing general office procedures
• Working with legal software to compile information and prepare documents
• Compiling evidence and documentation
• Maintaining corporate documents and filings
• Entering data in legal forms and drafting routine correspondence
• Preparing briefs
• Learning about family, estates, civil litigation, corporate, administrative, and real estate law practices
• Engaging in civil litigation and research

Benefit from the ability to participate in an off-site field placement or in an in-class workplace simulation. These experiences give you real-world experience and an opportunity to practice your skills.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Support the needs of clients and legal professionals through the use of accurate terminology and professional communication strategies, both orally and in writing.
• Complete all work within routine and unexpected time lines and limitation periods within the legal environment.
• Use current and relevant electronic and print resources, within the legal environment, to conduct legal research, to assist with file and evidentiary management, to facilitate communication and generate legal documentation, complying with current regulations and procedures.
• Research and summarize the presenting legal issues, applying knowledge of substantive law, to support the legal team.
• Apply rules of procedure to support best legal practices.
• Conduct oneself professionally in adherence to the guidelines of the Law Society of Upper Canada.
• Carry out clerical and administrative duties for the operation of a variety of legal environments.
• Outline strategies for ongoing professional development to ensure continuing competence as a Law Clerk.
• Act equitably and justly with diverse populations.
• Provide support for legal professionals in courts and administrative tribunals within the legal system.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

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 four-year Bachelor of Building Science (Honours) degree program is designed to give you a broad knowledge base related to building environments. It covers all facets of building design, construction, human comfort and sustainability. It is Canada`s only Bachelor of Building Science program.

The small class sizes of the program allow you and your peers to form tight-knit working groups and build effective communication skills necessary to succeed in the industry. You will send approximately one third of your time working in the labs, developing your skills. You also have the opportunity to gain industry experience from the site visits, professors who are actively working in the field, and two mandatory paid cooperative education (co-op) terms.

As a student in the program, you learn skills specific to architecture, construction methodologies, building enveloped, sustainability and other areas such as:

• Science and engineering principles, professionalism and methodologies
• Fundamentals of mathematics, technical writing, computer applications
• Building frames and structures, geotechnical engineering, and materials science
• Sustainable design, botany, renewable energy, urban planning and building information modeling
• Business fundamentals, project planning and management, research and leadership skills

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Integrate sustainable building practices and alternative energy solutions and present options that balance client specifications, site conditions, and human factors.
• Use sound, acceptable engineering principles for the solution and documentation of situations encountered during the construction or rehabilitation of buildings.
• Communicate effectively with all project stakeholders.
• Read, interpret, and, with direction, modify documents related to building plans, including working drawings that involve structural, electrical, and mechanical features.
• Formulate strategies for the efficient and effective commissioning and operation of buildings and building systems.
• Evaluate the practical applications of primary and secondary theoretical research related to existing and emerging construction methods and materials.
• Analyze, test, and comment on the functionality of alternative structural, mechanical, and electrical solutions proposed for integration in both new projects and renovations.
• Contribute to the on-going economic viability of construction and engineering projects through the application of principles of estimating, accounting, and cost controls.
• Facilitate partnerships and productive interactions within project teams that involve knowledge-workers and skilled trade workers.
• Ensure work, activities, and practice are in compliance with established ethical and professional standards, as well as local, provincial, and national legislation.
• Adapt to changes in employment requirements through the development, implementation, and updating of professional and personal development plans.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

If you have a recognized Advanced Diploma in Architectural Technology or Civil Engineering Technology, you may be eligible to enter the third year of study. If you have a recognized Diploma in Architectural Technician, Construction Engineering Technician, or an Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Technology you may be eligible to enter into the second year with advanced standing. See the Bachelor of Building Science (Honours) Entry into Level 5 and Bachelor of Building Science (Honours) Entry into Level 3 bridging programs for details.

The three-year Applied Museum Studies Ontario College Advanced Diploma prepares you with the knowledge and skills to support curatorial and conservation activities in the museum, heritage and cultural sectors.

• Gain skills and knowledge in:
  • Collections management
  • Educational programming
  • Exhibit preparation
  • Museum management
  • Conservation and preservation

Develop capabilities related to cultural resource management, focusing on collections care, research and interpretation. Areas of study include:

• Classifying, cataloguing and interpreting collections of artifacts and works of art
• Constructing and installing exhibits and displays
• Assessing, preserving and treating material culture

Put theory into practice in our well-appointed conservation and exhibition preparation labs. Working with our teaching collection and in collaboration with local cultural institutions, you complete a variety of hands-on projects and group assignments that will enhance your knowledge and skills and make valuable contributions in museums, galleries and the cultural sector.

This program includes a full-semester field placement. The field experience combines your theory and lab skills with professional practice in the cultural industry. At the end of your placement, highlight your work in a showcase event. The showcase event also gives you the chance to network with industry professionals for future employment.

In this two-year Strategic Global Business Management Ontario College Graduate Certificate, you learn to navigate complex geopolitical climates and to develop positive cross-cultural relationships, so that your business can have global reach. You explore the ways that areas of business management work together to form a strategic global approach.

Extend your business management skills as you identify feasible opportunities to enter new global markets in ethical and socially responsible ways that comply to international policies, regulations, and laws. Identify how to manage projects, human resources, finances, marketing, sales, risk and continuity within international settings. Apply business principles to digital business environments through e-commerce, supply chain and social media marketing to support the business in a global market. Think innovatively to explore ways to leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning while protecting your business through cyber security and information management. The program culminates with a collaborative project complete with an industry partner, an opportunity that supports your growth as a strategic global business professional.

Specialize with a challenging and inspiring career in human resources

Human Resources is one of seven majors that Business Administration students can select. In the second half of the three-year Business Administration Ontario College Advanced Diploma program, you select a major to specialize in. Prior to selecting a major, you develop a strong foundation various business skills.

The Business Administration - Human Resources program prepares you for a rewarding career in the field of human resources management.

Learn about various specializations of human resources management, including:

• Human resources planning
• Recruitment and selection
• Compensation and benefits design and administration
• Training and development
• Labour relations
• Occupational health and safety
• Employee and organizational research
• Employee relations
• The procurement, implementation, and maintenance of information systems
• Relevant human resources and organizational management legislation

Benefit from completing an optional 30-hour field placement in your final semester and apply your knowledge and skills in a real work environment.

The Early Childhood Education Ontario College Diploma program, delivered in an intensive format over 34 weeks, prepares you to become an educator of young children in a variety of early learning settings.

As a student in the Intensive program, you have relevant prior education and experiences that allow you to complete the coursework in an accelerated time frame. As a result, the program is fast-paced with frequent assignments.

This program provides you with the ability to create, implement and assess play-based curricula while building stimulating child-centred environments.

Benefit from both theoretical and hands-on learning opportunities. You have two field placements during the program that focus on children from birth to age 12. These real-world experiences allow you to integrate theory with professional practice in early learning programs.

You assist in providing guidance to children while planning, implementing and evaluating programs. Through your placements, you gain valuable hands-on skills and experience to help you understand the diverse roles, settings and responsibilities of an Early Childhood Educator.

Upon graduation, you are eligible to register with the College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE). Registration with the CECE is required to be eligible to work as an Early Childhood Educator in Ontario.

The Business - Accounting Ontario College Diploma program balances accounting theory with tools used in the industry. This two-year program equips you with the essential skills for various entry-level accounting positions.

Learn how to complete accounting tasks, from conducting bookkeeping responsibilities to preparing financial statements and personal income tax returns. Expand your knowledge of various business concepts including economics and finance.

Explore accounting concepts while sharpening your communication, math and technological skills. Courses incorporate accounting software to strengthen your computer literacy and provide you with up-to-date technical skills, which are essential in this field.

In the program`s final semester, you have the opportunity to apply for a work placement to practise your skills in a real work setting. See Additional Information for eligibility requirements.

Students considering a professional accounting designation or an accounting credential are advised to make inquiries with the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario (CPA Ontario) before deciding to complete this program. See Additional Information for further details.

This program prepares you for entry-level positions in:

• Financial accounting
• Managerial accounting
• Payables and receivables
• Taxation

Graduates typically find employment in roles such as:

• Accounts payable clerk
• Accounts receivable clerk
• Bookkeeper
• Payroll clerk
• Junior staff accountant

Culinary Management is a two- year Ontario Diploma program that is curated to train the students to become professional chefs by putting a great emphasis on the advanced culinary skills, hands-on experience and managerial training. The curriculum includes courses on sanitation and safety procedures, food preparation, computer applications, the control of food costs, baking techniques, and nutrition and menu planning and the students are required to complete all the industry- related certifications to graduate. 

The students get multiple chances to participate in various activities, event s and competitions at the different hotels, restaurants and event facilities to develop their skills and knowledge. Students are required to complete a mandatory 40-hour field placement per term in order to graduate from the program.

The graduates of the program can seek employment in food preparation and service establishments like cafeterias, restaurants, senior care facilities, hotels, cruise ships or catering companies.