Graduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Studies in Human-Centred Design (Co-op)

at Algonquin College - Ottawa Campus Canada

The three-year Game - Development Ontario College Advanced Diploma program prepares you to enter into the increasingly competitive profession of game development with confidence. This program provides you with hands-on learning and a team-oriented environment that simulates the work setting found in large game studios. Throughout the program, you learn the design and critical thinking skills needed to find employment in the game development industry.

As a student, you learn how to create games of strategy and skill in an applied setting. During your first year, you gain knowledge in basic programming syntax and game development software tools. You enhance your skills with courses in:

• Game design and development
• Traditional and digital imaging
• Authoring
• Animation
• Programming

For your final project, you work with your classmates to conceptualize, design and implement a complete 3D game title. After graduation, you have the skills to demonstrate you are ready to start your career in this highly-competitive field.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Analyze the differences in game genres in order to develop games that meet the needs of specific markets.
• Analyze the history of video games to compare various approaches to game development.
• Support the development of games by identifying and relating concepts from a range of industry roles-programming, design, and art.
• Contribute as an individual and a member of a game development team to the effective completion of a game development project.
• Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance in the games industry.
• Perform all work in compliance with relevant statutes, regulations, legislation, industry standards and codes of ethics.
• Apply conceptual game design elements to support the ongoing iteration, creation, programming, design, and development of games.
• Apply practical game design elements to support the ongoing iteration, creation, programming, design and developing of unique gaming environments, levels, characters, assets and props.
• Apply programming principles and techniques to create operational games or game components.
• Apply artificial intelligence and/or network implementation strategies to support real-time game environments and simulations.
• Utilize game engine functionality at an advanced level to support real-time games and simulations.
• Create original game props, characters and assets based on the concepts and requirements outlined in game design documents.
• Contribute to world building and level design, including using a game engine.
• Conceive, prototype, develop, test and evaluate procedures for the creation, design, programming, production and testing of games in a group environment.
• Test, debug and correct game components to ensure efficient and appropriate game functionality.
• Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

This one-year Design foundation Ontario College Certificate allows you to develop fundamental design skills and to explore a range of design-related disciplines, in order to discover where your strengths and interests lie.

Throughout the program, you develop foundational knowledge and skills used in a variety of design elements such as:

• Principles of design and layout
• Typography
• Drawing and sketching
• Perspective
• Colour theory
• 3D structure
• Time management
• Web design
• Industry-standard software.

You explore your own aptitudes and interests through research and a speaker series of professionals, to help determine which area of design best suits you. Your work accumulates into a portfolio that represents your best design and artwork, which can be used to apply for future programs of study. An annual showcase provides an opportunity to exhibit your portfolio and interact with industry professionals, peers and the community.

The two-year Broadcasting – Radio Ontario College Diploma program prepares you with the creative production, hosting, and technical operation skills needed for a career in radio broadcasting and podcasting. You gain practical experience working at Algonquin College’s two radio stations – CKDJ 107.9 FM and AIR AM 1700. With the help of a second-year mentor, you are on the air within three weeks of starting the program.

Find your passion in on-air performance, audio production, and creative writing for radio and podcasting. Courses cover all areas of these two industries including:

• On-air performance
• Audio production
• Podcasting
• Voiceover announcing
• Broadcast journalism
• Basic video production and photography
• Creative writing and storytelling
• Promotions and marketing

While working at the campus radio stations, you put the theory you learn into practice. In the first level of the program, you study alongside Journalism and Broadcasting – Television students, building a strong foundation in transferable media skills while exploring these related fields. As well, during your first level, you are scheduled for weekly shows on CKDJ 107.9 FM and AIR AM 1700. The importance of teamwork is a focus while operating both Algonquin College stations. In this program, you are given the opportunity to
work on interprofessional teams with other media programs. In the second year, you will have the opportunity to choose a specialty elective course that aligns with your media interests. Towards the end of the program, you continue to expand and apply your skills during a field placement in the industry.

Pursue a career in the evolving world of web software application creation.

The two-year Internet Applications and Web Development Ontario College Diploma program prepares you to pursue a variety of different careers in the internet applications and web development industry.

This program is designed to teach you:

• Internet technologies
• Full stack Web development
• The analysis, design and implementation of internet applications

Use modern computing facilities with a variety of software offered to help you during the program. The department is sponsored by Microsoft Developer`s Network Academic Alliance and through other vendor agreements, which gives you access to the most up-to-date technology.

During the program, you study a number of topics relevant to the field. You learn full stack web development, database programming and internetworking in a TCP/IP environment.

Additional topics include:

• Client-side and server-side scripting
• Programming languages
• Systems and network security

In your last semester, you apply what you have learned throughout the program as a member of a team working on a multi-tiered internet application.

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.

This program is designed to help you begin your career as:

• A full stack web developer
• A web administrator
• An internet application developer
• A web application architect
• A web programmer
   

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).

The Water and Wastewater Technician Ontario College Diploma program equips you with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage water and wastewater infrastructure. The water and wastewater management field has been subjected to increasingly rigid legislation, due to ongoing public health concerns. This program teaches you how to deal with the demands on water quality professionals. This condensed 42-week program allows you to complete a two-year diploma program in only three terms, making it an intensive, but rewarding experience.

Through a series of courses in advanced chemistry, biology and mechanical systems, you are able to make informed decisions in your day-to-day career. Learn how to:

• Prevent waterborne illnesses
• Manage industrial waste
• Operate off-site wastewater treatment units

Learn using theoretical and applied approaches, in labs and in the field. Using industry-standard equipment, you acquire the most up-to-date skills and knowledge possible.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Work independently and with others to conduct tests related to water and wastewater in the lab and field.
• Analyze and interpret test results for clients or supervisors.
• Provide mechanical and electrical maintenance management at various water and waste water facilities.
• Collaborate with individuals in testing and troubleshooting equipment at water and wastewater plant facilities.
• Make decisions based on an understanding of Ontario environmental legislation affecting wastewater treatment plants, scope and authority of certificates of approval, and owner/operator responsibilities.
• Collaborate on basic design concepts and operational techniques of industrial and municipal water treatment systems.
• Collaborate with others in providing emergency responses to plant issues.
• Contribute to the design of water supply pumping systems, pipe networks and distributed storage reservoirs.
• Develop and implement risk management strategies for hazardous and non-hazardous industrial waste.
• 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 Interior Decorating Ontario College Diploma program develops your creativity and artistic flair in residential and commercial interiors. Recognized by the Decorators & Designers Association of Canada (DDA), this program prepares you with the essential design and client relations skills needed to succeed as an Interior Decorator.

Develop your creativity through hands-on projects using modern digital techniques as well as traditional skills. Create appealing atmospheres, discover current trends, choose effective colour palettes, understand complex kitchen and bath design, and manipulate elements such as furnishings, finishes and lighting. Work with individuals and/or businesses to improve residential and commercial spaces to enhance the users` experience.

The program provides an opportunity for you expand your real-world experience through competition and real community projects. Moreover, you are able to gain valuable industry experience and contacts as well as apply your skills during your 42-hour field/work placement during your final semester.

There are many career opportunities in the industry after graduation. Graduates may find employment as a:

• Residential or commercial decorator
• Kitchen and bath designer
• Set decorator
• Staging and colour consultant
• Exhibit designer
• Sales/product representative
• Window display and merchandising consultant for retail spaces or photo shoots

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.

The three-year Business Administration (Core) Ontario College Advanced Diploma program provides you with essential skills and knowledge for a career in business. This program is the perfect option if you are interested in pursuing a career in business, but are unsure which specialization best fits your interests.

This program has been designed to allow you to explore a variety of business fields before ultimately deciding on a major. In the third semester, take one course from each major to help you understand the various career specializations. During this time, you have the opportunity to meet with upper-level students and program coordinators for guidance. Then you make a selection that is most aligned to your interests.

Your final three semesters match the career or field you`re interested in pursuing. Choose to major in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, International Business, Marketing, or Supply Chain and Operations Management. With all majors, you have the opportunity to network and learn directly from business professionals. Our active Program Advisory Committee ensures that the program continuously evolves to meet the ever-changing demands of today`s organizations.

The two-year Occupational Therapist Assistant and Physiotherapist Assistant Ontario College Diploma program gives you the knowledge and skills to work under an Occupational Therapist and/or Physiotherapist. Occupational Therapist Assistants and Physiotherapist Assistants play a vital supporting role in the assessment, planning and implementation of therapeutic care for patients with the goal of achieving functional independence and occupational performance. They help teach clients to cope with limits in movement, daily functioning and activities.

Through classroom theory, lab techniques, group work and practical experience, you prepare to work with patients coping with health limitations. During various clinical placements, you apply theory and knowledge while further developing your skills. With more than 600 hours of clinical placements during the program, you increase your understanding of the field and gain confidence assisting professional therapists in various healthcare facilities.

Upon graduating, you may find work in:

• Hospitals
• Health centres
• Community organizations
• Rehabilitation facilities
• Private clinics, and
• Long-term care