Certificate in Personal Support Worker

at Algonquin College - Pembroke Campus Canada

In the one-year Urban Forestry - Arboriculture Ontario College Certificate program, you experience a hands-on education exploring arboriculture science with tree care skills.

You acquire the skills and knowledge related to a range of tree care services provided by professional arborists, including:

• tree climbing
• tree identification
• tree pruning
• tree removal
• tree care
• tree planting
• indenification of common tree wildlife
• identification, diagnoses and management of tree diseases

Spend the majority of your time in the program outdoors, in a variety of weather conditions and heights. Working on real trees, practice climbing techniques and learn to become proficient in the use of arborist-related equipment, including chainsaws, chippers and pruning essentials.

Develop foundational tree identification and safe tree climbing skills through theoretical, laboratory and hands-on learning.

Participate in workplace scenarios that replicate actual challenges faced by arborists. In classroom and labs settings, examine tree science and arboriculture practises, such as planting, pruning and removal.

Graduates may find a career as a(n):

• crew leader
• lead climber
• arborist
• climber
• consulting arborist
• ground crew

There are employment opportunities in a wide variety of areas such as:

• commercial tree service companies
• public utility companies
• city, county, and other government agencies
• landscape maintenance firms
• nurseries
• garden centres
• industrial complexes
• private estates
• theme parks and resorts
• arboretums
• botanical gardens
• tree research centres
• golf courses

If you choose to pursue further education, you are ready to write the College of Trades (COT) exemption exams for some college courses.

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.

Develop valuable business skills, get the big picture and learn to think like a leader.

The two-year Business Ontario College Diploma program, delivered in a compressed format over 42 weeks, provides you with a well-rounded education in multiple areas of business - from finance, accounting and marketing to operations management and human resources.

Using a combination of theoretical and hands-on learning, you develop essential business skills, such as:

• Persuasive presentation and communication skills
• Standards of excellent customer service
• Advanced business computer applications
• Problem solving

Complete projects that reflect real business responsibilities, including participating in a mock trade show and completing a professional business plan.

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 flexible diploma gives you many options after graduation. Graduates may find work in a broad range of employment settings in all sectors of business and industry, both domestic and international, including:

• Manufacturers
• Financial institutions and insurance
• Government offices
• Retailers
• Manufcaturers and non-profits
• Medical facilities

Graduates may be employed as:

• Entrepreneurs
• Marketing assistants
• Accounting support personnel
• Management trainees
• sales managers

You may also choose to specialize your education after graduating, taking advantage of several articulation agreements that allow you to progress to advanced diplomas and degrees.

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 two-year Outdoor Adventure Naturalist Ontario College Diploma program, delivered in a compressed format over 43 weeks, is the perfect choice for anyone interested in working as a professional in the adventure/ecotourism sector, guiding and educating clients through interpretation of natural environments. The Program has been created with our partner, Wilderness Tours, Canada`s largest outdoor adventure company.

As a student, you spend approximately 600 hours completing field study and practical skills training in outdoor settings/classrooms. Explore areas such as:

• River touring (kayak touring and gentle rafting)
• No-trace camping and wilderness travel skills
• Cross-country cycle touring
• Flatwater canoeing
• Astronomy
• Winter camping and travel skills
• Tracking
• Wildlife viewing
• Photography
• Wild edible and small plant identification
• Birding

Complete extended activity skills training sessions and take on several expeditions - the last being self-executed. The program`s curriculum also includes business courses in interpretive media, marketing and financial and small business management to enhance your career options and pathways.

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.

Obtain several industry-related certifications, such as:

• Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) Wild Educator Facilitator
• Assistant Cycle Tour Guide
• Paddle Canada Waterfront Canoe Instructor and Camping Program
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
• Paddle Canada Level I or II Sea Kayak Skills
• Heritage Interpreter Certification
• Leave No Trace (LNT) Master Educator

Upon graduation, you are ready for an exciting, in-demand career. Be prepared to work as:

• Nature and heritage interpreters
• Nature or ecotourism guides
• Program managers

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.

In the two-year Social Service Worker Ontario College Diploma program, you gain the skills and knowledge to work effectively with individuals, groups and communities dealing with personal and social problems.
Through theory and practical experiences, the program prepares you to support a wide range of client groups and communities who are in the process of change or growth, including those impacted by issues such as:

• Loss and separation
• Family crisis
• Poverty
• Violence
• Homelessness
• Addiction
• Disability
• Unemployment
• Oppression
• Resettlement issues

As a student, you complete three semesters in field placement experiences totaling almost 700 hours. You identify, practice and incorporate theoretical knowledge at a level that provides top client service. As well, you strengthen the bond between yourself and the community by participating in various applied research projects and direct practice opportunities. With these opportunities, you are ready to work on the front line of social services.

Graduates may secure employment as Social Service Workers in provincial, municipal and private social service agencies including:

• Social service departments
• Long-term care facilities
• Addiction and mental health services
• Schools and youth services
• Community health and resource centres
• Shelters
• Residential treatment programs

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.

The Environmental Management and Assessment Ontario College Graduate Certificate program adds depth to your existing expertise in the environmental management and assessment field. Highly-skilled and environmentally-aware professionals are constantly being sought out by employers in the field. This program enhances your knowledge of environmental sciences.

Gain essential knowledge and skills by studying a range of disciplines throughout this program, including:

• Ecological conservation
• Project management
• Environmental policy and reporting
• Contaminant control
• GIS and environmental map design

Take field, lab, classroom and online courses in hydrology, biodiversity and conservation, sampling, environmental policy and project management. The Pembroke Campus offers this program as a weekday delivery.

Field experiences throughout the program give you integrative skills that employers of this expanding field are looking for.

Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term. Please note that places in the co-op version of the program are subject to availability.

Graduates of this program may be employed in a number of fields including:

• Ecology research and reporting
• Water and wastewater monitoring
• Site assessments
• Cost proposals
• Pollution prevention and control
• Regulatory compliance
• Policy development

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.

International students enrolled in a co-op program are required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to have a valid Co-op/Internship Work Permit prior to commencing their work term. Without this document, International students are not legally eligible to engage in work in Canada that is a mandatory part of an academic program. For more information, please visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/coop

The two-year Outdoor Adventure Naturalist Ontario College Diploma program, delivered in a compressed format over 43 weeks, is the perfect choice for anyone interested in working as a professional in the adventure/ecotourism sector, guiding and educating clients through interpretation of natural environments. The Program has been created with our partner, Wilderness Tours, Canada`s largest outdoor adventure company.

As a student, you spend approximately 600 hours completing field study and practical skills training in outdoor settings/classrooms. Explore areas such as:

• River touring (kayak touring and gentle rafting)
• No-trace camping and wilderness travel skills
• Cross-country cycle touring
• Flatwater canoeing
• Astronomy
• Winter camping and travel skills
• Tracking
• Wildlife viewing
• Photography
• Wild edible and small plant identification
• Birding

Complete extended activity skills training sessions and take on several expeditions - the last being self-executed. The program`s curriculum also includes business courses in interpretive media, marketing and financial and small business management to enhance your career options and pathways.

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.

Obtain several industry-related certifications, such as:

• Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) Wild Educator Facilitator
• Assistant Cycle Tour Guide
• Paddle Canada Waterfront Canoe Instructor and Camping Program
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
• Paddle Canada Level I or II Sea Kayak Skills
• Heritage Interpreter Certification
• Leave No Trace (LNT) Master Educator

Upon graduation, you are ready for an exciting, in-demand career. Be prepared to work as:

• Nature and heritage interpreters
• Nature or ecotourism guides
• Program managers

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.