Certificate in Personal Support Worker

at Fanshawe College - London Campus Canada

The Horticulture Technician Diploma is a two-year co-op program with the emphasis on the practical aspects of horticulture. The program develops the academic and practical skill level in students that allow them to easily match a growing need in the green profession. All graduates can be fully employed in the field; there are, according to Landscape Ontario, the provincial trade organization, over 1600 positions available in horticulture in the province annually. Additionally, many opportunities exist out-of-province and even out-of-country.

The first year of the Horticulture Technician program is academic-centred while the emphasis in the second year is on hands-on practical training. Approximately 80% of the scheduled class time in the senior year is spent outside the classroom in courses such as Landscape Field Construction, Greenhouse Plant Production, Arboriculture and Garden and Landscape Maintenance.

Students and faculty participate in practical lab sessions while maintaining and redeveloping the grounds of the campus in real-time situations.  The A.M. (Mac) Cuddy Gardens, in near-by Strathroy, greatly enhances the practical experience in a world-class estate garden which houses a remarkable collection of rare and endangered plants.

Students graduate with an Ontario College Diploma (Co-operative Education Endorsed) and while in the program students are given the opportunity to complete optional training in chainsaw use and the provincial pesticide license. Fanshawe College is the first institution in North America to integrate the CLT (Certified Landscape Technician) a national standard of proficiency into the program. Students will complete practical and written tests during their senior year and if successful will also be able to add the CLT designation to their names.

All students, upon registration, become members of the Student Chapter of Landscape Ontario, the largest student driven chapter in the province.

Students participate in a number of professional opportunities at various shows throughout the year.  In past years Fanshawe has won many medals both provincially and nationally in the Landscape Gardening Skills Competition. Students participate regularly in Landscape Congress in Toronto, building the entrance garden in their final term. Senior students also volunteer in building gardens and assisting with the maintenance of gardens at Canada Blooms in Toronto. The Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington has signed a memorandum of understanding with Fanshawe College and, as a result, student experience is greatly enhanced through this partnership which includes both summer internships and programmed events at the gardens.

The College has active industry partnerships in areas such as: lawn and garden equipment and suppliers, greenhouse service suppliers, landscape suppliers and services as well as professional associations such as the Landscape Ontario, Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, Botanic Gardens Conservation International, Royal Horticultural Society, Scottish Rock Garden Society, the North American Rock Garden Society, the Hardy Plant Society, the American Public Gardens Association and the Ontario Rock Garden Association.

Industry support and corporate sponsorship allows the program to use the latest technology, tools and equipment in the teaching labs; annually over $100,000.00 of support is received from industry.

The Gardens of Fanshawe College and the A.M. (Mac) Cuddy Gardens are recognized as a botanical garden by Botanic Gardens Conservation International and are home to over one million plants of some 4,000 species. Most of the collections are labeled and are propagated in our greenhouse at Fanshawe College and our nursery site in the A.M. (Mac) Cuddy Gardens in Strathroy. Ten students in the program maintain the gardens during summer under the supervision of our two staff horticulturists. Students will spend both class and independent practical periods at both locations. Our annual open garden and plant sale in June at the A.M. (Mac) Cuddy Gardens draws over one thousand visitors.

Co-operative Education:
This two-year program has two co-op work terms.  Students who fulfill both the academic and co-op requirements of the program will be eligible to graduate with a Co-op Endorsed Diploma.  More information about Co-operative Education can be found at www.fanshawec.ca/co-op.

Learning Outcomes:
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to

• Apply the principles of plant* and soil sciences to complete work in horticulture*.
• Apply practical horticulture* skills to the production of plant materials*, including herbaceous plants*, woody plants*, and turf.
• Apply the principles of design* to horticulture*.
• Apply basic* installation and construction principles and practical skills to horticulture*.
• Implement maintenance procedures for plants, property, and equipment.
• Utilize knowledge of plant identification, usage, and maintenance criteria.
• Recognize the potential environmental effects of projects and the need to avoid environmental damage and promote healthier ecosystems.
• Apply the principles and practical skills of Integrated Pest Management (IPM)* to indoor and outdoor plants.
• Contribute to the effective planning, implementation, and conclusion of projects.
• Use safe working practices.
• Use business practices appropriate to the horticulture* industry.
• Act in a professional manner, maintain professional relationships, and communicate effectively with clients, co-workers, supervisors, and others.
• Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance and career opportunities and to keep pace with industry changes.

The program provides the technical knowledge and skills required to manage the construction of industrial, commercial, and institutional buildings from the planning stage through to completion. Studies include construction materials and methods, construction equipment, surveying, project management, scheduling, estimating, building economics, and construction contracts. Twelve months of co-operative work experience is an integral part of the program.

Co-operative Education
This three-year program has three co-operative work terms.  Students who fulfill both the academic and co-op requirements of the program will be eligible to graduate with a Co-op Endorsed Diploma.  More information about Co-operative Education can be found at www.fanshawec.ca/co-op.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop and use strategies to enhance professional growth and ongoing learning in the construction engineering field.
• Comply with workplace health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
• Complete duties and assist in monitoring that work is performed in compliance with contractual obligations, applicable laws, standards, bylaws, codes and ethical practices in the construction engineering field.
• Promote and carry out sustainability practices in accordance with contract documents, industry standards and environmental legislative requirements.
• Facilitate the collaboration and interaction among project stakeholders to support construction engineering projects.
• Collect, process, analyze and coordinate technical data to produce written and graphical project-related documents.
• Coordinate and facilitate the collecting, processing, interpreting and application of survey/geomatics and layout information* to implement construction projects.
• Select and use industry-specific electronic and digital technologies to support the design and construction of projects.
• Analyze and solve technical problems related to the design and implementation of construction projects by applying engineering concepts, technical mathematics and building science.
• Schedule, coordinate and monitor the progression of construction projects by applying principles of construction project management.
• Prepare estimates of time, cost, quality and quantity, tenders and bids.
• Perform, coordinate and facilitate quality control* testing and monitoring of equipment, materials and methods involved in the implementation and completion of construction projects.
• Apply teamwork, leadership, supervision and interpersonal skills when working individually or within multidisciplinary teams to complete work on construction projects.

This accounting co-op program will introduce you to accounting principles and concepts. You’ll learn to examine business from multiple angles and how to maximize your unique skill set. You’ll be taught by industry professionals how to balance the books in the manufacturing and merchandising sectors, banks, and other financial institutions. You’ll also learn how to analyze numbers in public accounting firms and federal, provincial, and municipal government offices by using cutting-edge accounting software.

Designed to prepare graduates to work in an accounting environment at the entry or intermediate accounting level, this accounting co-op program starts with accounting fundamentals and then moves to detailed accounting principles and concepts, including computerized accounting. When you graduate, you’ll have the skills required for success in a corporate accounting department in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, merchandising, banks and other financial institutions. You’ll also be prepared to work in public accounting firms and federal, provincial and municipal government offices. The paid co-op work term you’ll complete will provide you with valuable work experience as well.

Learning Outcomes 
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to

• Record financial transactions in compliance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for sole proprietorships, partnerships, private enterprises, publicly accountable enterprises and non-profit organizations.
• Prepare and present financial statements, reports and other documents in compliance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for sole proprietorships, partnerships and private enterprises.
• Contribute to recurring decision-making by applying fundamental management accounting concepts.
• Prepare individuals' income tax returns and basic tax planning in compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
• Analyze organizational structures, the interdependence of functional areas, and the impact those relationships can have on financial performance.
• Analyze, within a Canadian context, the impact of economic variables, legislation, ethics, technological advances and the environment on an organization's operations.
• Outline the elements of an organization's internal control system and risk management.
• Contribute to recurring decision-making by applying fundamental financial management concepts.

This program is intended for students who have a solid foundation in DSLR operation and want to develop their unique creativity to a professional standard in order to be competitive in the field of photography and its related industries. Students will explore a chosen photographic discipline where projects will be based on their choice of specialization and result in a professional portfolio that aligns with their personal career goals. Furthermore, students will gain entrepreneurial experience such as marketing and job pricing, by working with real clients as they operate an on-campus creative service centre that will provide photography and video production to the local community. Throughout the year students will have field trips to meet with professionals in the industry and visit trade shows and conferences to research new products and future trends in the ever changing field of photography.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to

• Capture still and motion imagery using a broad range of camera equipment, lighting techniques and procedures to suit project requirements.
• Create professional still and motion imagery in both studio and location environments using knowledge of contemporary processes, procedures, visual styles.
• Implement colour management strategies to create and maintain a properly colour calibrated work environment which complies with established standards.
• Create still and motion imagery through the editing of image characteristics, retouching techniques and composite creation using to professional standards in both printed and on-line presentation formats.
• Interpret the requests of clients to produce photos and videos that fulfil their needs.
• Develop business procedures for photography and video projects, including requirements and deliverables, budgetary considerations, pricing and contract management, to ensure profitability.
• Cultivate professional relationships with clients, customers and designers in order to build and sustain a professional practice.
• Produce a self-promotional cross-media portfolio which highlights one's innovative, creative skills and technical expertise in photography, print, video and interactive design.
• Investigate evolving photography trends, issues, technologies and industry practices in the development of professional growth strategies and plans and to develop expertise in a chosen field of work or specialization.

This program will provide the student a better understanding of the use of Information Technology as it relates specifically to the Healthcare Information Technology domain. Global advancements in the use of technology in digital health, automated voice transcription, digital imaging concepts, electronic health records, continuum of care, healthcare workflow, HIPPA/PIPEDA/Security, billing, and similar technologies.

Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to
• Assess organizational requirements for health information system technologies (HIST) and evaluate the impact of HIST on business/clinical processes, and on health services delivery to inform change in necessary.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate health information management practices, policies and processes to support client care, organizational goals, operations, and regulatory compliance.
• Synthesize relevant local, national and global health care and health information management issues, trends, technologies and standards to support health information systems and processes.
• Ensure compliance with the legal health obligations, as well as with the professional, ethical and organizational standards that ensure privacy, security and confidentiality in the access, retention, storage and disposal of personal health information.
• Ensure the completeness, accuracy, consistency, timeliness and integrity of health information throughout the management of its lifecycle.
• Work professionally, ethically and collaboratively with stakeholders and as a member of an interdisciplinary health care team, to enhance the collection, distribution, use, security and awareness of quality health information and its impact on client care.

The Computer Systems Technician program is a two-year accredited Ontario College Diploma program which provides comprehensive training for students wishing to work in the high demand areas of workstation, server, application, network and security support. This program provides students the ability to think critically, solve problems and acquire new skills quickly.

Under the guidance of expert faculty, combined with the use of leading edge labs, the program emphasizes the hands-on installation and configuration of workstations, servers and networking equipment.  Students will also be expertly trained in current operating systems from Microsoft as well as Linux.  The program also focuses in on the installation and configuration of web servers, database servers, IT security, effective communication, problem solving and teamwork skills.

Upon completion of the program, and in addition to the highly valued Ontario College Diploma, graduates should have the knowledge and skills to take exams for the following certification, if they choose to do so: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). Graduates may also choose to apply the knowledge gained to prepare and test for other industry certifications, such as those offered for Microsoft, Linux and VMWare.

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.
• Support the implementation and administration of computer systems.
• Support the implementation and administration of networking solutions.
• Install, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, and upgrade components of computer systems.
• Install, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, and upgrade components of networks.
• Use a variety of scripting tools and languages to automate routine tasks.
• Follow, monitor, and document data storage procedures designed to ensure the integrity of information.
• Apply knowledge of security issues to the implementation of information technology solutions.
• Provide efficient and effective technical support to clients in a manner that promotes safe computing practices and reduces the risk of the issue recurring.
• Conform to workplace expectations found in information technology (IT) environments.
• Contribute to the successful completion of the project applying the project management principles in use.

Fine Art Foundation is a one-year certificate program designed to give a broad base of experience and knowledge in the visual arts.  This foundation year introduces students to the fundamentals of art and design: practical skills, critical thinking and visual vocabulary.  Studies in this program include painting, drawing, video, sculpture, photography and art history.  Through studio based projects students will develop a portfolio of work in a range of media.  This program prepares students for the Advanced Diploma program in Fine Art at Fanshawe College, or advanced arts programs at other institutions, as well as prepares students who are seeking entry-level employment opportunities requiring fundamental visual arts skills.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to

• Create two and three-dimensional projects using a wide range of materials, processes and techniques.
• Use an artistic process to develop and solve visual problems using various strategies for idea generation.
• Apply the formal elements and principals of visual language.
• Utilize a variety of presentation skills appropriate to critiques, public and private venues.
• Develop skills in presenting a personal portfolio using a variety of media through studio based projects.
• Articulate art concepts, history and the role of art in society to the general public.

The Public Safety Fundamentals (PSF) program is a one-year preparatory studies certificate program designed to provide opportunities for students to experience post-secondary public safety studies in a supportive environment. The program provides a pathway for those students interested in pursuing a career in the field of public safety, mature applicants returning to school, and applicants who are seeking further information prior to making a public safety program choice. The PSF program is delivered in two 15 week terms offering combined in-class, blended and online courses, and incorporating experiential learning.

The program is designed to provide students with the opportunity to build a strong knowledge base in fundamental public safety skills relevant to, and in preparation for, their chosen public safety program. Skills in communication, human behaviour, law and ethics, physical fitness, sensitivity training and knowledge of specific public safety disciplines (e.g., Justice, Protection & Policing, Legal) will prepare the student for entry level employment in public safety related fields or for future studies in public safety career programs. This certificate programs focus is to instill an appreciation of the professional roles, responsibilities and academic requirements of public safety disciplines. In the program, students will develop skills and strategies they can use to master the challenges of post-secondary education and those found in the workplace. Students will also participate in self-assessments of aptitudes and skills, labour market assessments, job search techniques and strategies, and the writing of employment search correspondence and resumes. The concept of professional portfolios will be introduced.

In the first level of the program, given the foundational nature of the program, the curriculum will focus on fundamental skills in areas such as strategies for college success, communications, practical math, computer basics, human behaviour and ethics. In the second level of this program, students will be required to select and follow one of the School of Public Safety program streams such that the students second level studies aligns with their School of Public Safety (SoPS) diploma program goal.

The following program streams of study are available:
Justice, Protection and Policing: Designed for students interested in pursuing a justice, protection or policing career program in the School of Public Safety.
Legal: Designed for students interested in pursuing a legal career program in the School of Public Safety.
Fire: Designed for students interested in pursuing a career in fire sciences.
Students interested in pursuing a career in emergency telecommunications may choose either the Legal or Justice, Protection and Policing program stream for Level 2.
Students who successfully complete the program may receive additional consideration when applying for admission to public safety and other career programs.
Important Note: Students need to be aware that the preferred designated preparatory program for the Paramedic Program is the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop an education and career plan within the range of field of public safety professions, including the preparation of resumé and cover letter;
• Identify major theoretical models associated with the study of human behaviour to explain their potential impact on public safety;
• Evaluate various aspects of the changing society and the impact of these changes on personal and social responsibility for citizens and public safety workers;
• Select and use relevant and appropriate terminology when communicating with other public safety providers;
• Apply concepts from one of the following areas of scientific study in order to demonstrate relevance to a field of public safety: chemistry, anatomy, biology, ecology, climatology, computer science;
• Identify current policies, procedures and legislation in Canada's legal system as pertains to the field of Canadian Public Safety;
• Compare and contrast the professional roles of a specific public safety stream.

The Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resources Management) program is a four-year, honours level degree with a mandatory co-op work term between Levels 7 and 8.  Students will study core fundamentals of business including business strategy, management, accounting, leadership and marketing in addition to the specialized human resources management courses, including performance management, human resources planning, talent acquisition, employee and labour relations and compensation and benefits administration. All nine CHRP course credits required for professional licensing bodies are included in this program.

Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Use the interdependence of various functional areas of business (i.e. financial, marketing, operations, human resources) to achieve organizational success in domestic and international environments.
• Develop strategies that will achieve organizational goals through integration of business methodologies that assess costs, benefits, risks, and opportunities, and that utilize current and emerging technology and trends.
• Enhance business opportunities by incorporating external variables into various business decision models.
• Assess the unique business needs of organizations of various sizes, public sector, private sector, and not-for-profit firms.
• Evaluate professional, ethical, and legal codes of conduct.
• Research, analyze, and critically evaluate qualitative and quantitative data from a variety of sources to support business decisions through effective problem solving, critical thinking, logic and reasoning.   
• Communicate information, arguments, and analysis accurately and reliably for the message, audience, and purpose.
• Perform effectively and efficiently within groups or teams, demonstrating leadership, team-building, conflict resolution, negotiating and influencing skills.
• Design personal learning plans and integrate lifelong learning strategies into current and future development goals.
• Assess resource allocation decisions that influence sustainability practices and drive economic, social, cultural, and environmental stewardship.
• Analyze domestic and international business opportunities within an international context.
• Plan, implement, and evaluate projects and programs, using project planning principles and tools.
• Assess the overall financial performance of an organization.
• Apply management-level decision-making and strategic planning skills.
• Evaluate strategic human resources policies, procedures, and programs related to the following areas:  staffing (recruitment, selection, retention, human capital strategy) and performance management; orientation, training and development; diversity initiatives; health and safety; disability management; finance; employment legislation, basic contract law and privacy laws.
• Research and support the development of compensation and benefit plans that assist the organization to achieve its business goals.  
• Develop mechanisms, including policies, procedures, and programs, to foster positive employee relations, to mediate disputes/grievances in unionized and non-unionized environments, to facilitate arbitration, and to negotiate collective agreements.
• Evaluate Human Resources plans to ensure alignment with organizational goals and responsiveness to current and future labour market conditions.
• Manage training and organizational development and change initiatives including workforce design, development, and employee engagement initiatives, to support organizational effectiveness.
• Establish and manage systems and processes to collect and safeguard Human Resources information.   
• Analyze and evaluate required numerical and financial data for projecting the impact of human resources plans.  
• Assess workplace health and safety practices to: ensure practices meet legislative requirements, analyze risk to the health and safety of employees, and determine appropriate preventative measures.
• Assess how and why human resources programs, policies and procedures differ among countries, and the limitations that will be experienced by human resources managers who have transnational responsibilities.

Co-operative Education
This four-year honours degree program requires completion of one mandatory co-op work term. More information about Co-operative Education can be found at www.fanshawec.ca/co-op

Business - Logistics and Supply Chain Management (Co-op) is a two-year Ontario College Diploma program with a co-operative education component. The curriculum covers theory and application of supply chain management in private and public sector environments. Specifically, courses address material sourcing, transportation methods, inventory, retail management, negotiation skills and analytical techniques. Students also enhance their computer skills and their business communication skills. The program aligns to the curriculum of various professional associations in supply chain management. Graduates, equipped with the skills required to improve an organization's profitability and operations, are in high demand in both the private and public sector.

Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to
  • Apply knowledge of the functional components of logistics to the interrelationships in the integrated supply chain.
  • Employ a working knowledge of operations processes and systems required in manufacturing, distribution, and services.
  • Contribute to plans and schedules, at various levels in an organization.
  • Apply the basics of purchasing and supplier management to current best practices.
  • Apply best practices for inventory planning and control throughout the integrated system.
  • Utilize information technology to support logistics management functions.
  • Evaluate and select warehousing and transportation options and recommend appropriate solutions for business requirements.
  • Participate in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of projects.
  • Conduct business in the international marketplace.
  • Conduct business in compliance with relevant national and international law, legislation, regulations, safety requirements, and professional standards.
  • Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, as required in a business culture.
  • Apply problem-solving and critical-thinking skills as required in logistics management.
  • Use effective human relations, interpersonal, and team skills in an organizational environment.
  • Develop strategies for ongoing professional development to maintain and increase competence.
  • Apply basic knowledge of the interrelationships among the functional areas of business in logistics management.

Co-operative Education

• In order to be eligible for co-op, students must maintain a 2.5 GPA and be academically complete at the commencement of their co-op work term.
• This is a two-year co-operative education program.  Students who fulfill both the academic and co-op requirements of the program will be eligible to graduate with a Co-op Endorsed Diploma.  More information about co-operative education can be found at www.fanshawec.ca/co-op.