Diploma in General Arts and Science

at George Brown College - Casa Loma Campus Canada

Building automation systems don't just control the basics: they regulate airflow, monitor energy use and are integrated with security, lighting and other building systems to deliver comfort, safety and energy efficiency. Today’s buildings are increasingly complex, and they differ in use and size, but also in operating hours, comfort levels and environmental conditions. Offices, residences, hotels, schools and administrative buildings all have different requirements. Optimal building services technology is the result of appropriate systems design and integration during planning, construction, commissioning and operation.

This advanced diploma program in Building Automation provides students the technical skills they need for success in the job market. Students learn to:

• Install, program, adjust and maintain building automation systems
• Program and install sensors, actuators and controllers
• Collect data for use in real-time or for archiving in a central server
• Work with building software platforms that interconnect different systems

Graduates will have a diverse set of skills and abilities that will also prepare them for "green" careers focused on energy efficiency, renewable energy and the environment. This program provides a skill set that is in high demand in both the construction industry and the controls and automation industry.

Industry Skills

• Safety practices in the installation and troubleshooting of HVAC/R systems, including applicable codes and standards of the NEC, ASHRAE, OSHA, EPA and other regulatory bodies.
• Basic HVAC/R processes and the function, layout and operation of commercial HVAC/R systems.
• Functions, operating characteristics and applications of the control loops and control modes in digital, analog and pneumatic commercial control systems.
• Blueprints and manufacturer’s technical instructions for installing or servicing a sensor, controller, actuator and related relays and power supplies.
• General-purpose software and specific building automation software that monitors and controls HVAC/R and electrical systems.
• Various BAS controls and systems, including DCS, PLC, PAC and SCADA.
• Functions of network devices and protocols, such as a bridge, router, gateway, hub, firewall, twisted pair, Ethernet, TCP/IP, Zigbee, WiFi, BAS/IP and BacNet.
• Emerging green technologies, such as solar, wind and hydronic, and how they can be integrated into building systems and residential applications.

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Fabricate and build electrical, electronic, and mechanical components and assemblies in accordance with operating standards, job requirements, and specifications.
• Analyze, interpret, and produce electrical, electronic, and mechanical drawings and other related technical documents and graphics necessary for electromechanical design in compliance with industry standards.
• Select and use a variety of troubleshooting techniques and equipment to assess, modify, maintain, and repair electromechanical circuits, equipment, processes, systems, and subsystems.
• Modify, maintain, and repair electrical, electronic, and mechanical components, equipment, and systems to ensure that they function according to specifications and to optimize production.
• Design and analyze mechanical components, processes, and systems by applying engineering principles and practices.
• Design, analyze, build, select, commission, integrate, and troubleshoot a variety of industrial motor controls and data acquisition devices and systems, digital circuits, passive AC and DC circuits, active circuits and microprocessor-based systems.
• Install and troubleshoot computer hardware and programming to support the electromechanical engineering environment.
• Analyze, program, install, integrate, troubleshoot and diagnose automated systems including robotic systems.
• Establish and maintain inventory, records, and documentation systems to meet organizational and industry standards and requirements.
• Select and purchase electromechanical equipment, components, and systems that fulfill job requirements and functional specifications.
• Specify, coordinate, and apply quality-control and quality-assurance programs and procedures to meet organizational standards and requirements.
• Work in compliance with relevant industry standards, laws and regulations, codes, policies, and procedures.
• Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance and to remain current in the field and responsive to emergent technologies and national and international standards.
• Contribute as an individual and a member of an electromechanical engineering team to the effective completion of tasks and projects.
• Design and analyze electromechanical systems by interpreting fluid mechanics and the attributes and dynamics of fluid flow used in hydraulic and fluid power systems
• Contribute to project management through planning, implementation and evaluation of projects, and monitoring of resources, timelines, and expenditures as required.

The Plumbing Techniques program covers residential, commercial and industrial applications in the plumbing industry, paying particular attention to residential plumbing. It is a hands-on program that may benefit anyone seeking to enter an apprenticeship or any construction-related career path.

Through hands-on projects you will learn about:

• Tools, materials, equipment and methods used in the plumbing industry
• Estimating materials and labour costs
• Proper use of hand tools and power tools
• Safety practices and procedures associated with these tools

The program includes studying industry standards and building codes while considering health and safety issues and energy conservation.

Projects include:

• Constructing and testing both drain and water systems
• Learning how to install hot water heaters and a variety of residential plumbing fixtures.
• Research on the science of sanitation, water, and the forces acting on a sealed piping system with and without atmospheric pressure applied to it.
• Studying blueprints and learning basic drafting techniques that will enable you to design, comprehend and build plumbing systems.
• A final project will focus on how to maintain the plumbing system you install and those that you may encounter in the future.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Work according to contractual obligations; the project manual; and applicable laws, standards, bylaws, and codes.
  • Perform residential plumbing projects effectively and accurately by interpreting and producing basic data in graphic, oral and written formats.
  • Work responsibly and effectively with others and in accordance with appropriate practices, procedures and in compliance with health and safety legislation.
  • Use tools and equipment for basic installation manufacture, and repair of components to required specifications.
  • Contribute to the organizing and planning of residential plumbing installation projects.
  • Solve routine problems related to work environments using a variety of systemic approaches.

Learning in state-of-the-art architectural studios with the most up-to-date equipment and software, you will develop a thorough knowledge of architectural drawing and technical design skills, as well as an understanding of sustainable building design and construction materials grounded in current green principles.

Courses cover 2D and 3D computer-aided drafting, design, rendering and modelling, design and development drawings, construction drawings and architectural presentation. You will also learn and apply the concepts of building science, building systems, building codes and construction law. Teamwork in a project-based learning environment is emphasized.

Note: If you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Communicate with clients, contractors, other building professionals, and approval authorities.
  • Assist in the preparation, reading, and interpretation of drawings, and other graphical representations used in building projects.
  • Read and assist in the preparation of specifications and other project documents used in design and construction.
  • Assist in the preparation of estimates of time, costs, and quantity.
  • Assist in solving technical problems related to building projects through the application of principles of building science and mathematics.
  • Collaborate with members of the building team.
  • Assist in the development of architectural designs.
  • Review and assist in the preparation of site planning documents.
  • Comply with the legal and ethical requirements of an architectural technician in the practice of building design and construction.
  • Assist in the assessment of buildings related to repurposing and renovation projects.
  • Ensure personal safety in the workplace.
  • Identify sustainable design and building practices.
  • Use current and emerging technology to support building projects.
  • Assist in the administration of the construction phase of building projects.

Wireless communications are pervasive in our lives. They have grown in recent years to include everything from personal communications networks to governments, hospitals and neighbourhood businesses. And there’s no end in sight to the growth of our wireless world.

George Brown College’s leading-edge Wireless Networking postgraduate program is designed to put you at the centre of this exciting world by giving you high-demand skills in radio frequency (RF), cellular, broadband and advanced data communications.

We offer you a unique choice of career direction. You can specialize in:

• Long Term Evolution (LTE) and Broadband Technologies
• Advanced Network Security
• Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Technologies

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Test and measure RF (radio frequency) signals, attenuation and antenna systems.
• Assist with the preparation and execution of wireless site surveys.
• Build a wired and/or wireless computer network using system design documentation.
• Measure performance of both wired and wireless network components and applications using a variety of basic and advanced network management tools.
• Produce documentation and reports related to network components and applications performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical problems related to both wired and wireless networks using standardized approaches and methodologies.
• Install and upgrade network hardware (e.g. workstations, servers, wireless access points, routers, switches, firewalls) and related components and software according to best practices in the industry.
• Monitor and evaluate network security issues and perform basic security audits on both wired and wireless networks.
• Assist in the collection and analysis of user requirements related to wired and wireless networks.
• Utilize change control, issue documentation and problem escalation procedures and processes as per industry best practices.
• Generate and maintain “as built” network documentation following industry best practices.
• Compare network performance against service levels and assist in the development of action plans as required against service level agreements.
• Employ concepts and practices as defined in ITIL (IT Infrastructure Library) to manage IT services and operation, including project management tools and techniques.

The Fashion Business Industry two-year diploma program at George Brown College's School of Fashion and Jewellery in Toronto gives students an introduction to all aspects of the fashion industry, from product knowledge to marketing and small business management.

The small to medium-sized business enterprise is a flourishing sector of the fashion industry and represents a great opportunity for entry into the fashion world. Smaller companies require employees who possess a variety of management skills to manage a business from the start-up stage to more developed business models. Students will be prepared for the roles and develop skills essential for the operation of a successful small fashion business. The entrepreneurial aspect of this program guides students through the process of developing a comprehensive business plan, which is essential to start a new business or manage an existing business.

Students will gain an understanding of textiles, garment construction, quality criteria and apparel merchandising. They will also learn to apply marketing, accounting, financial and other business concepts necessary for the decision-making they will encounter in their future careers.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Use basic apparel drafting and construction skills and industrial sewing machines to complete apparel products.
  • Use standard fashion industry computer software for business and for design development.
  • Manage daily operations, resources, visual merchandising and customer relationships to ensure profitability in a retail enterprise.
  • Develop a business and finance plan for a small apparel enterprise that reflects awareness of market conditions, resources required and cash flow.
  • Apply appropriate buying, merchandising and accounting practices to support small business operations in the fashion industry.
  • Apply supply chain management and logistics to operate a successful fashion business.
  • Develop, communicate and implement a marketing plan by combining marketing research, strategies and tactics.
  • Analyze economic, fashion and industry trends to make business decisions in small and medium-sized apparel enterprises.
  • Evaluate products by applying quality control processes to meet appropriate standards.
  • Identify textile materials, asses their suitability and compatibility, and select accordingly for end use.

Rising fuel costs, indoor air quality and climate change are all contributing factors in raising awareness of the true cost of energy. There is a great need for energy-efficient building environmental system design, construction and maintenance.

In the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program students will:

• Develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector.
• Gain solid skills and knowledge in design, operation and maintenance of environmental systems, in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).
• Develop practical skills through hands-on experience, working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs.
• Gain competency with industry-ready skills in soldering, wiring and electric control circuitry and troubleshooting for HVAC and gas installations.
• Use computer-aided design software to assess building heating and cooling requirements, select appropriate equipment and develop HVAC system drawings and specifications for the residential market.
• The program follows industry-standard design practices for environmentally responsible and energy-efficient residential, commercial and industrial systems, as established by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI), the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Canada Green Building Council.

Note: When you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

Program Learning Outcomes:

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
• Relate effectively to heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning supervisors, coworkers, and customers.
• Work safely and in accordance with all applicable acts, regulations, legislation, and codes to ensure personal and public safety.
• Select and use a variety of heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning tools and equipment safely and properly.
• Solve math and applied science problems required to effectively install and maintain heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems, and associated components.
• Prepare and interpret electrical, mechanical, and piping drawings.
• Install, service, and troubleshoot heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems, and associated components.
• Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development, that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.

A solid grounding in engineering sciences and practical hands-on experience in mechanical shops and computer assisted design laboratories provide the combination of applied and theoretical knowledge that employers expect in today’s integrated work environments.

In the third year of the program, teams plan and craft their own creations that require the application of all of the knowledge accumulated throughout the program. Once built, projects such as medical devices, entertainment equipment, solar-powered products and automotive accessories are often put on display and form an important part of the student assessment. More importantly, graduates learn to work in teams while solidifying their mechanical engineering knowledge and skills.

Note: If you enrol in the program in January, you must complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year.

Your Field Education Options
Field study in the form of applied research is provided to all students.

Some students will also have the opportunity to complete a Co-op term. Co-op participants will be selected based on their academic performance, including a minimum GPA of 3.0 and an interview component.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Communicate clearly and concisely in written, graphic and oral form using appropriate formal and informal vocabulary and formats.
  • Display appropriate responsible attitudes.
  • Carry out established design procedures, making use of handbooks, catalogues, specifications, and codes. He/she should be able to recognize problems and apply established engineering practice to arrive at practical solutions.
  • Prepare and interpret detail drawings, assembly drawings and compile technical specifications.
  • Inspect, conduct tests, and compare and compile data in accordance with standard formats and procedures.
  • Assist in the planning, operation, control, and improvement of manufacturing and production processes.
  • Participate in the installation and maintenance of equipment and systems.

The Information Systems Business Analysis graduate certificate program at George Brown College is designed to meet the urgent need for professionals who can be the key liaison between business and information technology functions within an organization. Further, George Brown is recognized by the International Institute of Business Analysis as an Academic Member, and is proud to offer the IIBA® Academic Diploma.

This intensive program is designed for IT or business professionals who aspire to enter into a business analyst role, or practitioners who wish to enhance their experience with formal education. A deeper level of understanding of the business analyst role will be developed through unique learning techniques and invaluable practical experience. Participants will be engaged and supported by a team of business analyst consultants and faculty in developing critical skills and competencies in the areas of:

• Problem identification
• Documenting and analyzing user requirements
• Process and workflow modelling
• Communication and facilitation
• Project management
• Technical writing
• Leadership and management
• Decision-making

A key characteristic of this program is the applied nature of the curriculum. Students are immersed in the process of business analysis through case histories of real-world business issues, and are responsible for developing solutions. The uniqueness of this program is in creating a practicing business analyst rather than creating someone who knows how to do it. This program creates work-ready graduates who can do, and have done, the business analysis process through applied, hands-on experience.

As the Information Technology (IT) sector continues to grow in Toronto and our industry partners report skills shortages, George Brown College is helping to meet employer demand by educating IT professionals who understand all aspects of computer systems. Our two-year Computer Systems Technician program provides students with a broad and in-depth technical base, through courses in the high-demand areas of system support, network administration and web technologies. The curriculum prepares graduates with the strong administration, troubleshooting and design skills they need for careers in IT.

As the Information Technology (IT) sector continues to grow in Toronto and our industry partners report skills shortages, George Brown College is helping to meet employer demand by educating IT professionals who understand all aspects of computer systems. Our two-year Computer Systems Technician program provides students with a broad and in-depth technical base, through courses in the high-demand areas of system support, network administration and web technologies. The curriculum prepares graduates with the strong administration, troubleshooting and design skills they need for careers in IT.

George Brown continues to invest in up-to-date networking, wireless and security lab equipment to help students develop hands-on installation, configuration and troubleshooting skills. Students use the NetLab platform, which enables them with 24/7 remote access to Cisco Systems physical equipment. This investment, along with our hands-on teaching environment, was recognized by Cisco when the college was designated an Area Support Centre and Instructor Training Centre.

Graduates of the Computer Systems Technician program are prepared to write several industry certification exams that are in demand by employers.

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Identify, analyze, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
• Contribute to the diagnostics, troubleshooting, documenting and monitoring of technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
• Implement and maintain secure computing environments.
• Implement robust computing system solutions through validation testing that aligns with industry best practices.
• Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationships.
• Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
• Adhere to ethical, legal and regulatory requirements and/or principles in the development and management of computing solutions and systems.
• Assist with the implementation of computer systems.
• Install, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, upgrade and decommission computing system infrastructures.
• Automate routine tasks using scripting tools and programming languages.
• Provide technical support for computing system infrastructures that aligns with industry best practice.
• Implement the basic concept, principles, and scope of DevOps.
• Apply task automation using configuration management and the Cloud.
• Automate network administrative tasks across distributed clients.

Employment opportunities in the Welding trade span several industries including transportation, petro chemical, oil and gas, aerospace, fabrication, manufacturing, pipelines, mining and construction.

George Brown’s Welding Techniques program prepares students with practical, hands-on experience that applies the technical theory and elements of the welding field. Students articulate their technical and essential employability skills through an e-portfolio, based on skill development throughout the program.

At the end of this intense, two-semester program, students will have the opportunity to challenge the shielded metal arc weld test, in accordance with CSA W47.1/W59 standards, in a position(s) of their choosing through the Canadian Welders Bureau. (This test will be voluntary and at an extra cost to the student.)

This experiential program will provide you the skills to master five of the most common types of welding processes:

• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW): This process uses a consumable electrode covered with flux. It is the primary type of welding used in the maintenance and repair industry. Arc welding is usually used to weld iron and steel, although it can also be used for alloys (aluminum, nickel, etc.).
• Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW): This welding process uses electricity to melt and join pieces of metal together. It is generally regarded as one of the easiest types of welding to learn. It is also called Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). It can be used to weld a variety of metals such as carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, magnesium, copper, bronze, etc.
• Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW): The process uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode that delivers the current to the welding arc. The tungsten and weld puddle are protected and cooled with an inert gas, typically argon or helium. It is most commonly used for welding stainless steel and non-ferrous metals like aluminum, magnesium and copper alloys.
• Plasma Arc and Oxyfuel Cutting: This process utilizes an electrode and compressed gas, forced at high speeds through a nozzle, usually copper, to cut metal, primarily mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum. Oxyfuel cutting uses fuel gases combined with oxygen to cut metals, usually steel.
• Fabrication: Metal fabrication is the building of metal structures by cutting, bending, and assembling processes. It is a value added process that involves the construction of machines and structures from various raw materials.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Perform work responsibly and in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and industry processes and procedures, including demonstrating learned knowledge of WHMIS.
  • Interpret engineering drawings and blueprints to produce basic graphics and welding projects as required by industry.
  • Select, plan, and demonstrate sustainable metal fabrication operations using industrial metal fabrication machinery and emerging technologies.
  • Perform basic technical measurements and welding functions accurately, using appropriate equipment and welding techniques.
  • Create welds on various types of materials and joints in the major welding positions to industrial standards and codes.
  • Use shop tools and equipment to manufacture, assemble, maintain and repair components according to required specifications and industry standards.
  • Interact effectively and professionally in shop environments, both independently and with fellow workers and other tradespeople.
  • Assess weld quality and implement corrective action where required to follow quality control and quality assurance procedures and meet organizational standards and requirements.
  • Create a professional development plan that addresses one’s strengths and areas for growth in the greater context of the welder profession.