Diploma in Outdoor Adventure Naturalist (Co-op)

at Algonquin College - Pembroke Campus Canada

Learn workplace-ready programming languages and practical applications to use wherever your career takes you

The two-year Computer Programmer Ontario College Diploma program prepares you for a career in software development. The program also specializes in program development strategies (using object-oriented modelling), database design and database administration.

Use leading industry software products such as Oracle and CASE tools. Learn about programming languages such as Java, COBOL, SQL and PHP. Study object-oriented analysis and design, operating systems and coding in integrated environments, and learn how to debug, test, and maintain codes.

In your final semester, participate in a software development project working with external clients to gain real-world experience in the programming field.

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 work in a variety of different fields, as almost all sectors of industry require programmers. You may be employed as:

• A software programmer
• A web programmer
• A business programmer
• An application programmer
• Graduates may also find opportunities in database design and database administration. 

The two-year Outdoor Adventure Ontario College Diploma program prepares you for working in the outdoors, leading adventure trips and teaching outdoor skills. Half of your time in the program is spent outdoors, in a variety of locations and adventure operations, including our partner training location at Wilderness Tours. The other half takes place at Algonquin College`s Waterfront Campus.

Complete technical training in various land-based activities from mountain biking and rock climbing to skiing and ice climbing. You also build guiding ability in water-based activities, such as:

• Whitewater rafting
• Kayaking
• Canoeing tripping

This program is built around an adventure tourism and small business management curriculum, with classroom courses in:

• Risk management
• Business management
• Ecotourism
• Human resources
• Computer applications

The two-year Computer Systems Technician Ontario College Diploma program prepares you for a career in information technology with a focus on network and system administration.

You learn to set up, configure and maintain all components that constitute an effective network: computer hardware, operating systems, networking and virtualization technologies, security and task automation. In addition you develop problem solving skills and troubleshooting techniques to help support an IT infrastructure. Throughout the program, you also develop your oral and written communication skills, customer support, and ethics relevant to the information technology workplace.

As a student in this program, you have access to the latest software and equipment including Cisco and Aruba hardware labs, network-based operating systems, including Microsoft and GNU/Linux, as well as other industry-standard tools and resources.

This program offers you the opportunity to gain real-world experience by taking part in back-to-back cooperative education (co-op) work terms (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op version of the program are subject to availability. If you elect to apply to the non co-op version of the program, you may not have the opportunity to transfer to the co-op version at a later date.

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.

Upon graduation you may find employment opportunities in a wide range of sectors including government, private and public for entry-level positions or self-employment in: network and systems administration; IT infrastructure installation, migration, and support; technical and customer service support; and computer training and consultation.

The two-year Environmental Technician program, delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, offers theoretical and extensive practical education in all areas of environmental sciences.

You explore the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physical science and engineering as you learn to collect, measure and analyze variables commonly considered in environmental studies. Gain field and laboratory experience in soil, water and air testing as you develop a basic knowledge of:

• Freshwater environment systems
• Soils and land forms
• The chemistry of pollutants
• Ecological processes

Use the appropriate tools and equipment needed in biology, hydrology, ecological field sampling and analytical chemistry.

This program includes applied research projects that allow you to apply skills and theory to real environmental issues, all while supporting important community initiatives, such as:

• Water quality monitoring and implementation of agricultural best management practices in the Muskrat Lake watershed
• Soil testing, weather/climate monitoring and pest/disease surveying for a local vineyard.

Benefit from the opportunity to gain more than 20 certifications in various preferred specialties including provincial certification in water and wastewater operation, electrofishing, and geospatial analysis.

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 two-year Office Administration - Executive Ontario College Diploma program, delivered in a compressed format over 43 weeks, 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
• Finance

Enhance your MS Office suite abilities through document production, transcription, desktop publishing, accounting practices, and database and project management. You also have the opportunity to participate in an executive administration environment work placement, allowing you to practice your skills.

Upon graduation, you may find employment within a variety of office environments such as corporations, government, associations and small businesses.

The one-year Action Sports Park Development Ontario College Certificate program offers a one-of-a-kind learning experience at Algonquin College`s Waterfront Campus in Pembroke. This program provides you with skills that are essential for the design, development or management of action sports facilities, such as:

• Resort terrain parks
• Skate and ride parks
• Dirt jump and BMX tracks
• Bicycle skills parks
• purpose-built mountain bike trail systems
• Municipal action sports facilities

Learn about construction, maintenance and program planning specific to these facilities. Develop business skills such as event planning, marketing, and risk management to succeed in many areas of the action sports industry.

Spend 40 per-cent of your time in the field training. You have the unique opportunity to explore action sports parks in the Ottawa Valley and learn from real-world examples.

Acquire and practice skills that are relevant to the action sports industry, with courses such as:

• Bike Park Maintenance
• Snow Terrain Park Maintenance
• Sustainable Single Track Trail Construction
• Ramp Fabrication

Upon graduation, benefit from having a certificate that reflects a program unlike any other in Canada. You also earn built-in certifications that can enhance your career options, including safe chainsaw operation and welding.

Graduates may find employment as a(n):

• Action sports program coordinator
• Snow terrain park staff member
• Indoor/outdoor action sports facilities
• Trail maintenance crew member
• Municipal action sports park
• Action sport event staff/coordinator
• Action sport facility designer
• Four-season resort action sports park and facilities

Graduates may also find work with a park builder using private facilities, contracted-builders and municipalities.

Construct your future.

The one-year Carpentry and Renovation Techniques Ontario College Certificate program prepares you for a future in construction, whether you pursue apprenticeship training, employment as a framer or finisher or just want to tackle a few projects around the house.

You acquire a well-rounded education, combining traditional carpentry skills with newer technologies. Algonquin College`s Waterfront Campus in Pembroke is a great place to learn, as you have access to high-quality tools in a state-of-the-art shop.

Gain knowledge and skills in:

• Hand and power tool usage
• Carpentry/framing techniques
• Blueprint reading
• Welding
• Hoisting and rigging
• Plumbing
• Applied construction geometry
• Mathematics
• The Ontario Building Code
• General and specific safety training

Throughout this physically demanding program, explore the latest green technology and energy-efficient construction techniques. Apply your construction skills to building projects that will help local communities.

There is an anticipated shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry as a result of an aging workforce and local expansion. That means there are many opportunities for employment available to graduates. With this certificate, you may pursue a specialized education in construction, or seek exemption from the Basic Level of the General Carpenter Apprenticeship training.

Graduates may find work as a(n):

• Apprentice carpenter
• Construction framer
• Interior systems installer
• Exterior systems applicator
• Renovator
• Door and window installer
• Concrete form worker
• Deck and porch designer/builder
• Junior construction site supervisor
• Junior estimator

The two-year Applied Nuclear Science and Radiation Safety Ontario College Diploma program is the only program of its kind in Canada. In this program, you learn to monitor radiation levels and implement preventive measures critical to ensuring the safety of employees and members of the public, and providing for protection of the environment.

Learn to effectively complete important tasks focusing on radiation safety, such as detecting and measuring radiation levels, mitigating contamination hazards and providing guidance and information to personnel to control contamination and minimize radiation exposure.

Gain theoretical and practical understanding of nuclear operations fundamentals, radiation detection and measurement, instrumentation and techniques, waste management, contamination and decontamination procedures, and incident assessments. Your courses focus on regulatory frameworks and compliance with internationally accepted radiation protection principles.

Learn from nuclear industry professionals who have years of experience. This program benefits from a partnership between Algonquin College and Bruce Power, Ontario`s largest private electricity generating company.

Benefit from the opportunity to complete industry-recognized certifications in this program.

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 in:

• Nuclear power plants
• Nuclear-based research and development facilities
• Decontamination/waste storage facilities
• Uranium mines/mills
• Radiation protection contract companies
• Isotope production/refinement facilities
• hospitals that use radioisotopes
• Universities with radiological labs
• The oil and gas industry concerned with naturally-occurring radioactive materials (NORMs) management

Graduates may work in roles such as:

• Contamination monitor
• Radiation protection technician
• Radiation surveyor
• Health physics technician
• NORMs technician

The Personal Support Worker Ontario College Certificate program prepares you for immediate work in healthcare. This two-term program provides you with the knowledge and practical skills to work as a care provider in a range of healthcare settings.

Develop the ability to engage with persons and families of various ages and health-related needs to promote healthy living. Learn how to assist clients with their daily personal care needs, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. In your career, you help those who need assistance to remain as independent as possible.

Through theory, lab practice and clinical/community experiences, learn how to:

• Deliver person-centered care
• Encourage independence
• Improve the quality of life for your clients

Participate in clinical experiences, where you focus on the various skills needed to succeed in the field. In these clinical placements, you demonstrate your knowledge and expertise and learn about applying different concepts to real-world environments. These clinical experiences provide you with the opportunity to continue working as a member of a healthcare team.

After graduating, you may find employment as a Personal Support Worker. In this role, you work under the supervision of Registered Nurses and/or Registered Practical Nurses in:

• Retirement homes
• Long-term care facilities
• Home care agencies, and
• Hospitals

The two-year Environmental Technician program, delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, offers theoretical and extensive practical education in all areas of environmental sciences.

You explore the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physical science and engineering as you learn to collect, measure and analyze variables commonly considered in environmental studies. Gain field and laboratory experience in soil, water and air testing as you develop a basic knowledge of:

• Freshwater environment systems
• Soils and land forms
• The chemistry of pollutants
• Ecological processes

Use the appropriate tools and equipment needed in biology, hydrology, ecological field sampling and analytical chemistry.

This program includes applied research projects that allow you to apply skills and theory to real environmental issues, all while supporting important community initiatives, such as:

• Water quality monitoring and implementation of agricultural best management practices in the Muskrat Lake watershed
• Soil testing, weather/climate monitoring and pest/disease surveying for a local vineyard.

Benefit from the opportunity to gain more than 20 certifications in various preferred specialties including provincial certification in water and wastewater operation, electrofishing, and geospatial analysis.