Health Informatics Program Opens Doors to Various Workplace Environments

Clinical, research and educational: These are the environments in which graduates of Centennial College’s Health Informatics program, officially known as Health Informatics Technology, can find careers upon graduation. Additionally, within these three areas there is a wide range of positions in which these Health Informatics program grads can excel. These positions include: software developer, health data analyst, database developer, systems implementation specialist and business/ systems analyst.

The Health Informatics field combines information, computer science and health. Specifically, it deals with analyzing and modeling data, developing healthcare databases and applying different computer medical-imaging techniques. Professionals also use tools, algorithms and health informatics methods for hospitals, schools, healthcare agencies and public health departments and, more specifically, nursing, clinical care, dentistry, pharmacy, public health and biomedical research.

So how does Centennial College’s Health Informatics program prepare its students for such an important career in just three years? First and foremost, it contains an application process that requires applicants to posses at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. Students must also possess compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent and Math 11M or U, or 12C or U, or skills assessment, or equivalent. Please note that to graduate from the program, a Minimum C grade average is required.

Once accepted, students study from Centennial College’s Progress campus. As the school’s largest location, not only is it centrally located, it also boasts state-of-the-art computer labs to which students have access for practice in and out of the classroom. Health Informatics courses emphasize object-oriented software design methodologies, user-oriented interface design, structure of healthcare information systems, telehealth, data security and privacy in healthcare systems. Additionally there is a focus on technologies such as C#, Java, J2EE, Oracle, MS-SQL Server, Unix/ Linux, Microsoft’s .NET, HTML/ XML, Rational/ WebSphere, Data warehousing and Data mining, and BI tools in healthcare systems and more. Among specific Health Informatics courses are: Software Engineering Fundamentals, Web Interface Design, Network Technologies, Software Testing and Quality Assurance, Linear Algebra and Statistics, Wireless Programming, Telehealth and more.

To ensure that students get to apply what they learn before they graduate, the Health Informatics program provides an opportunity to complete two software development projects in the field of health informatics. These real world business applications require students to utilize all the technical, systems and business skills gained during their studies.

The credentials earned in this Health Informatics program are respected across Canada thanks to the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists deeming the Health Informatics program as meeting the national technology accreditation requirements established by the organization and, as such, accrediting it with national status by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board. The Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists also recognizes the Health Informatics program as having met all the academic requirements for certification in the Technologist category.

Financial Fraud Investigation A Quickly Developing Field

With Bernie Madoff almost getting away with the biggest ponzi scheme in American history, casinos being hustled by experienced gamblers and tax evasion becoming common place, the field of forensic accounting and financial fraud investigation continues to expand. Successful analysis and findings reported by practicing professionals may be the difference between whether perpetrators avoid detection or are brought to justice. In most cases, success is directly and primarily dependent upon the knowledge, skills and abilities of the professionals performing the work. Those interested in entering this field and becoming: forensic accounting/litigation consultants, tax auditors, gaming investigators, insurance investigator, bank investigators and internal auditors may want to consider attending Centennial College’s Financial Fraud Investigation program.

Taking just one year/ two semesters to complete, this fast-paced offering is geared towards mature students who have already completed college diploma or university degree in any discipline. Aside from having to submit an official transcript demonstrating proof of successful completion of a post-secondary diploma, applicants may also be required to provide proof of English proficiency. Please note that applicants who present a combination of partial post-secondary education and relevant work experience will be considered but they must be able to submit a transcript and have their resume reviewed.

Through small classes that offer hands-on training, the Financial Fraud Investigation program provides students with the essential skills and knowledge in forensic accounting and investigation techniques, equipping them to work in entry-level positions in the field of forensic accounting and audit investigations within the public or private sector. As such, in the first semester students take courses such as: Introduction to Fraud Examinations, Financial Crimes Investigation, Introduction to Intelligence Gathering, Financial Institutions & Identity Theft, International Legal Elements and Professional Court Presentation. Meanwhile, second semester Financial Fraud Investigation courses include: Advanced Fraud Examinations, Forensic Accounting, Investigative Methodologies, Ethics and Fraud Criminology, Practical Fraud Investigation and Case Management, and Interview and Interrogations. All courses solely focus on preparing students for speedy entry into the field.

Teaching these Financial Fraud Investigation topics are faculty members who have experience in the industry and are able to share their own personal stories, help students to network and offer advice with confidence. In addition, students from this offering study at Centennial College’s largest location, Progress Campus. This campus houses other financial and business programs, allowing for peer interaction as well as networking.

In addition to receiving an Ontario College Graduate Certificate, content taught in the financial accounting fraud program also prepares students for the Certified Fraud Examiner examination. Graduates are also comfortable carrying out tasks such as: investigating and analyzing financial evidence, testifying as a witness, becoming involved in criminal investigations and uncovering financial evidence in employee or insurance fraud cases, and investigating in the rapidly evolving area of computer fraud.

Mechanical Engineering Program Prepares You For Various Careers

Junior engineers, CAD operators, mechanical testers, quality controllers, technical sales, production, product designers and developers, lab technicians – these are some of the job titles professionals who attended a mechanical engineering program can obtain upon graduation. Centennial College offers one such program in a three-year offering that combines engineering theory and practice, and focuses on the design and development of various mechanical devices and equipment. As a result, students gain experience in machine shop operation, tool design, plus computer numerical control programming.

The Mechanical Engineering Technology - Design program (as it is officially known) has met the national technology accreditation requirements established by the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists and, as such, has received national accreditation status by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board. In addition, The Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists recognizes the Mechanical Engineering Technology - Design program as meeting all the academic requirements for certification in the Technology category.

Within the program, there is about 60-40 balance between theory and practice with students spending about one quarter of the program time on project work that simulates workplace assignments. These projects relate classroom theory to the actual design, manufacture and testing of products. In addition, students develop knowledge of computer-assisted drafting and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), as used in the industry. To complement hands-on training, students learn software instruction such as MasterCAM V9.1 & Version "X", AutoCAD 2007, Autodesks Inventor R11. "We have a unique lab, which was introduced a few years back. This lab has most of the things required in the current environment. For example, we have testing stations, we have a fluid module, we have the thermodynamic module, we have a wind tunnel. So these people, when they graduate, [are prepared]," adds Famiel Shiek, a professor in the program.

Specific Mechanical Engineering Courses in this program include: Tool Design (emphasis is placed on jig and fixture design, and die design. The fundamental concepts of design are taught with respect to drilling and milling, holding fixtures, assembly fixtures and pressworking dies); Applied Statistics (this course focuses on the application of principles presented in the Mechanics course by introducing students to problems depicting realistic situations encountered in engineering practice. Applied Statistics is a branch of Applied Mechanics and involves the study of forces and the effect of forces acting on bodies in equilibrium without motion or moving with constant velocity); Thermodynamics (introduction to classical thermodynamics, dealing with the relationships between heat, work and mechanical devices); and more.

To apply, for the Mechanical engineering program, students must present at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. You must also have the compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent and the Math 11M or U, or 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent. You will be placed in the appropriate English and math courses based on the skills assessment results. Please note that possession of minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.

Ford Technician Training Offers Knowledge to Ensure Students Are Industry Ready

If you are interested in becoming an automotive service technician at Ford Canada who is responsible for maintaining and repairing cars, vans and pickup trucks by fixing engines, changing brakes, checking windshield wipers and fluid levels, and replacing mufflers, hoses, belts and plugs, you may want to consider attending Centennial College's Ford technician training. In order to apply for this program, officially known as Automotive Service Technician Ford Company of Canada Limited Asset (MAP 32), you are required to have completed at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or a General Education Diploma or equivalent. A Ford Motor Company of Canada Ltd. Dealership must also employ you. Successful applicants must obtain an employer and then register as a MAP apprentice with the Apprenticeship Branch of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Acceptance is based on successful completion of all entry requirements. Limited space is available in this Ford technician training program. Please note that candidates may apply directly to Centennial College.

Once you are accepted, you will train to become comfortable working on cars, trucks, SUVs and crossovers such as the Focus, Fiesta, Explorer and classics such as the Shelby GT500 and the Mustang. Despite hard economic times, in 2010 Ford earned a net profit of $6.6 billion and reduced its debt from $33.6 billion to $14.5 billion. This demonstrates that it is a company that can offer a Ford technician a stead position.

Students of Centennial College's Ford Technician Training are taught by spending 32 weeks on campus and 32 weeks with their employer. Every four weeks, students alternate between the two so that they may apply what they just learned to real life situations. This alternating teaching method ensures that first students learn the basics, apply them to their employer sessions and come back with confidence to obtain more advanced in-class knowledge. In this offering, students obtain training that is more in depth than that of a traditional apprenticeship.

When they are in-class for their Ford Technician training, students are based in Ashtonbee Campus, the largest transportation training centre in the province. As such, they have access to cars, tools of the trade and instructors who are professionals and have all worked in the automotive service field. Ford technician training courses place an emphasis on electronics, transmission, engines, air conditioning, supplemental restraint systems and the diagnosing of vehicle management systems. This is vital as technology continues to evolve and students must be prepared for the latest advancements in the field. Additionally, this program is set apart from others as it includes Ford specialties that, in the past, students had to attend Ford school to learn. These specialties are: engines, electrical, brakes and climate control. In addition, students may be eligible for employment insurance during the in-class training.

Once Ford Technician students alternate to their employer session, they get an idea of how the field will look upon graduation. They get to practice their skills, obtain new skills, learn to deal with customers and network. During this time, students are compensated for their work.

Heavy Duty Equipment Courses Teach Theory and Practical Application

“I decided to take the Heavy Duty Equipment Technician courses because I thought there was good demand,” says student Kelsey of the Heavy Duty Equipment Technician Co-op Apprenticeship program at Centennial College. “[Even] if the economy gets worse, there’s always going to be construction jobs, there’s good pay and I like working with my hands. It’s a really good trade to get into.”

Although all students have their own reasons for applying to the Heavy Duty Equipment Technician program, Kelsey is right in that it is an in-demand industry. As such, after attending this two-year program, students may find careers in forestry, construction, mining, transportation, landscaping, land cleaning, farming and more. Additionally, just by attending this one offering, they may work in a number of positions, including: heavy-duty equipment technician, service manager, service writer or coordinator, equipment company representative, or college or industry teacher.

But how do the heavy equipment courses get students from novices to professionals by the time they graduate? First and foremost, students spend eight months in school, followed by eight months during a co-op term actually working for an employer on a full-time basis and a final eight months back in the program. As such, students obtain basic knowledge, and then apply what they have learned and gain new knowledge in the real world that will allow them to master more advanced topics once they return to school.

Among the specific topics covered within the heavy equipment courses are: applied mechanics, vehicle dynamics as well as component design and repair, as it applies to the apprenticeship curriculum. Additionally, students partake in courses that are only available at Centennial College and cover advanced electrical/ electronics, logistics, plus hoisting and rigging. Lastly, students take courses that offer them a business perspective of the industry. Among the specific Heavy Duty Equipment Technician courses are: Trade Practices, Fixed Operations Management, Engine Systems, Fluid Power Systems, Occupational Health and Safety, Electrical Systems, Brake Systems and more.

The in-school component of this Heavy Duty Equipment Technician offering is conducted from Ashtonbee Campus. Known for being Centennial College’s transportation training hub and housing the province’s largest transportation centre, it offers students an advantage as they have access to tools of the trade and the opportunity to practice fixing actual heavy duty equipment vehicles. Additionally, the campus prides itself on fostering an atmosphere of real-life mechanic shops.

To apply for the Heavy Duty Equipment Technician program, students are required to posses at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or General Educational Development (GED) or equivalent. Applicants must also obtain satisfactory results in a program admission session; and demonstrate experience, mechanical aptitude and English proficiency. They may also be asked to present a resumé. Successful applicants must be eligible to work in Ontario and have an Ontario driver’s license.

English Communication Training - The Door to Success

Every job in the Canadian market has one thing in common: It requires a grasp on the English language to guarantee long-term success. For new Canadians, this may seem like a daunting task but Centennial College’s English communication training (officially known as General Arts and Science – English of Academic Purposes) offers a solid base so that students can build English language skills for success in college, university or careers. As graduate H. Wei notes, “The English for Academic Purposes program provided good preparation for my major program. If I hadn’t taken the EAP program, I couldn’t have successfully studied in Early Childhood Education. I have advised many students to enroll in EAP. It provides a good foundation.”

This foundation Wei mentions consists of developing: reading, writing, speaking and listening academic communication skills. Essentially, this English second language training serves as an academic pathway for students who, like Wei, wish to enter a specialized program. As such, training is fully accredited by Languages Canada, Canada’s premier language organization. This means it has met rigorous standards in terms of curriculum, teacher qualifications, student services and administration.

Based out of Ashtonbee Campus, which houses a variety of resources to support students in English second language training including computer labs, the library, conversation practice groups and tutoring, the English communication training fosters an inclusive environment. In this supportive academic environment, students build their language skills through communicative activities, practical exercises, group work, presentations, and assignments.

The courses in English communication are attended five days a week and include: Speaking Up (emphasizes the development of pronunciation skills and interactive speaking and listening strategies for students to participate effectively in the classroom); Skills for Student Success (focuses on developing student awareness and understanding of a variety of academic skills and strategies for success at college including test preparation, test taking, goal setting, time management, dictionary use and an awareness of learning styles); Guided Writing in English (introduces students to the writing process. Students are given practice in a variety of grammatical and structural forms); and more.

Learners of English communication training are placed in Level 1, 2 or 3, based on the results of a diagnostic placement test. At the end of the third level, students obtain an Ontario College Certificate and may apply to more specific Centennial College academic programs.

English second language training applicants must possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. In addition, they must complete a language skills assessment. It should be noted that this is not an offering for absolute beginners. Students must have completed a beginner’s level language program prior to applying to the English for Academic Purposes program.

Biotechnology Technician Program Offers In-Depth Training

“The Biotechnology Technology program basically involves the study of microorganisms in detail as to the characteristics of the microorganisms, where they’re found, what they are, their names, their length and shape,” says Mohammed, a Biotechnology Technician – Industrial Microbiology student at Centennial College. “The labs, for sure, are very exciting as it involves hands-on [practice]. For example, there are labs that involve staining of samples or streaking of streak plates. Stuff like that is interesting to me, I can get in their, use my hands and kind of get dirty.”

While Mohammed gives a great overview, there is much more to the Biotechnology college offering that prepares students for the position of bench technician (in quality control and quality assurance) in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. For example, students obtain practical training in industrial microbiology as well as chemistry (analytical and organic) and biochemistry; isolate, enumerate and identify microorganisms from many types of samples (water, soil, air, your body, food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products); prepare specimens for staining; become proficient in aseptic handling of materials; accurately calibrate and use a range of instruments such as pH and BOD meters, Gas Chromatographs, spectrophotometers (regular/IR/UV), HPLC’s etc.; prepare microbiological media and reagents and culture pathogenic microbes; design and perform microbiology experiments; and use microorganisms to examine pharmaceutical products.

The Biotechnology Technician program also uses the eight up-to-date laboratories and modern wireless lecture facilities housed at the Morningside campus (the most high-tech of Centennial College’s four locations) to ensure that students are comfortable with the hands-on aspects of the field. Rounding out the Biotechnology Technician program is training in Occupational Health and Safety, WHMIS, GMP, HACCP, which is to industry standards.

It is worth noting that the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists nationally accredits this biotechnology college program. In addition, the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists recognizes the Biotechnology Technician - Industrial Microbiology program as meeting all the academic requirements for certification in the Technician Category. These national accreditations support program quality and provide mobility for graduates. In addition, the biotechnology technician offering is a repeat recipient of the Centennial College President’s Academic Program Recognition Award for outstanding student satisfaction.

Upon graduation from Centennial College, students may apply for certification through the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) to use the following professional designation: CTech (Certified Technician). Qualified graduates may also apply to enter the third year of the Biotechnology Technologist program to obtain further education. Lastly, Biotechnology technicians (also known as bench technicians) trained at Centennial College may find jobs with companies such as Kisko Products, Hermann Laue Spice Company, Apotex Inc., Agropur - Divisional Natrel, Mill Street Brewery, MAXXAM Analytics, Campbell Soup Company, bioMerieux Analytics, Griffith Laboratories and Cosmetica Laboratories Inc.

To apply to the Biotechnology technician program, students must have obtained an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or have mature student status (19 years or older); English Grade 12 C or U or equivalent, or skills assessment; and Math Grade 11 M or U or Grade 12 C or U, or equivalent, or skills assessment.

Hospitality Management Takes Just Two Years to Complete

Did you know that attending a Hospitality Management program, such as Centennial College’s Hospitality Management – Restaurant and Catering undertaking results in a challenging and satisfying career in restaurant operations management? In this position, the professional oversees the day-to-day operations of a restaurant. More specifically, he or she: manages daily operations, and organizes the use of materials and employee resources; ensures all materials used in food preparation and serving are working properly; orders new refrigerators, pots and blenders or calls for repair services; plays an active role in marketing the restaurant and devising promotional programs; interacts with customers and vendors and ensures that their needs are met in a timely and satisfactory manner; manages inventory and keeps financial records of purchases and sales; and works with the human resources department to train, develop, hire, retain and fire employees.

The skills needed to carry out these tasks take two years to master with Centennial College’s Hospitality Management program, which results in an Ontario College Diploma as well as certifications that include the Smart Serve program and the National Sanitation Training certificate. Hospitality Management applicants must posses at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or have mature student status (19 years or older). In addition, they must have finished the English Grade 12 C or U or equivalent, or skills assessment.

Once accepted, students of the Hospitality Management program learn everything they need to be comfortable and familiar with menu management and design, kitchen management, beverage knowledge and bartending. This is achieved through a combination of theory and practical training that includes business practices in accounting, purchasing, human resources, supervision and cost control. Courses also cover business practices in accounting, purchasing, human resources, supervision and cost control.

Helping students to retain their newly acquired knowledge is access to the facilities at Progress Campus. These facilities include a hospitality management centre and real restaurant called Horizons. This “living lab” allows Hospitality Management program students to interact with customers, run the kitchen, carry out menu management and more.

In addition, students partake in two field placements. The first Hospitality Management program field placement enables learners to better understand the dynamics of the kitchen manager position, increase their knowledge of industry practices and provides a competitive advantage of experience in the job market. The second Hospitality Management field placement provides students with a continued learning experience, this time in the restaurant and catering manager positions. Among the Hospitality Management program’s industry partners are: Swiss Chalet, Kelsey’s, Milestones, Red Lobster, The Keg, Jack Astor’s, Canyon Creek and more.

Those who successfully complete the Hospitality Management program can further education through the Hospitality Management program’s partnerships, which them to apply academic credit towards further study. Among these partnership school are: Athabasca University, International Hotel Management Institute (Switzerland), Vancouver Island University, University of New Brunswick and Royal Roads University (B.C.).

Degree Programs Offer Best of College and University in One

Obtaining a four-year bachelor degree is an exciting prospect. But what do you do if you want to attend degree programs but find the benefits of college programs appealing? Or, what if degree programs interest you but you are unable to afford the high tuition costs that come with university undertakings? Lastly, what options are available to you if you want both a college experience and a taste of university while attending a degree program? Surprisingly, the answer to all of these questions is available at one place: Centennial College. That's because this institution offers degree programs at college level and degree programs that see students completing a portion of study at one of its four campuses before transitioning to a university campus.

Those who are interested in attending college programs that also give them a taste of the university experience would be best suited for Centennial College's bridging options. Through the college's agreements with various institutions, students can start their college programs on campus and finish them off at the campus of the particular university with which their program is associated. As such, in conjunction with Ryerson University, Centennial College students can participate in a Bachelor of Science Nursing program. Meanwhile, University of Toronto college degree programs include: Applied Microbiology, Environmental Science and Technology, Journalism, New Media Studies and Paramedicine. There is also a Bridging to Software Systems Design offering for students who wish to complete the Software System Design college degree in two years, while keeping a full-time job if they have a diploma in software and are working in the field.

On the other hand, students may opt for degree programs that see them studying for four years at Centennial College's Progress Campus. The first of these two degree programs is Computer and Communication Networks.

It sees students covering a unique blend of technology and business subjects that balance practical and theoretical aspects. As such, students work from state-of-the-art laboratories that are specially engineered for the curriculum. The labs also include uniquely equipped facilities offering VoIP, cellular networks, wireless broadband (WiMax), advanced routing and switching as well as network management. This college degree program boasts a co-op work term during summer between second and third year.

The second of these degree programs at Centennial College is called Software Systems Design. It emphasizes system design, a blend of technology and business subjects while also providing specialization in mobile application development or service-oriented architecture and cloud computing. It also covers advanced software standards and management. To complement their in-school training, students of this degree program partake in three software development projects. These real-world business applications require students to utilize all the technical, systems and business skills acquired during their studies.

Early Childhood Education Program Geared Towards Mature Students

Did you know that by attending one of Centennial College's early childhood programs, which is called Early Childhood Assistant, you may go on to find work as: a child care assistant in child care centers, a child care provider with licensed child care agencies, an independent child care provider and an in-home nanny? The best part is that the program takes just one year to complete, results in a respected Ontario College Certificate and allows for a seamless transition to further education (should you want to continue your studies).

To apply for this specific early childhood program, students must already possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 years or older); and English Grade 12 or skills assessment. Applicants are also required to attend a program admission session. It should be noted that this early childhood education program is designed specifically for mature students, ESL students and those with learning disabilities.

Because of the type of students to which this early childhood education program caters, it offers a mature learning environment that promotes inclusiveness and encouragement from faculty members who are hands-on and teach small-sized classes. This set up allows for one-on-one time as well as peer-to-peer interaction.

Specific topics covered within the program’s early childhood education courses include: infant and toddler development, preschool and school-age learning, the learning environment, health and wellbeing, guiding children’s behaviour, professionalism, and more. These topics are taught through one or two major assignments, a mid-term and a final test per course as well as presentations, small group assignments and in-class workshop participation.

The in-class studies are a great lead-up to the two field placements in Centennial’s two early childhood education centres, which allow students to experience and understand what high quality child care is all about. Some field placement agencies require a criminal reference check prior to student placement. Certain criminal convictions may disallow placement in these agencies and program completion may not be possible. Students must also have a clear medial report to participate.

Because of Centennial Colleg's thorough early childhood program, graduates are comfortable with: planning and implementing individual programs and curriculum to meet the developmental needs of children; utilizing a variety of observation techniques to enhance work with children, families and co-workers; maintaining responsive relationships with individual children and groups of children; establishing and maintaining safe and healthy environments that best meet the requirements of current legislation, regulatory bodies and program policies; and more.

Students who wish to further their early childhood education after completing this program, may enter Centennial College’s two-year ECE program — with between 10 and 33 per cent of graduates doing so. Many of these students are exempt from some ECE courses as a result of attaining a high level of success in the ECA program. ECA graduates who have successfully completed the ECE program have also been accepted into Ryerson University or York University.

Corporate Communications Courses Open Doors to Many Industries

As an entry-level communications specialist who has attended a Corporate Communications and Public Relations program complete with communication skills training, you may land jobs that involve: media relations, employee communications and web-based communications. More specifically, you may find a career with: public relations agencies, hospitals and health care providers, government ministries and agencies, trade associations, not-for-profit organizations, financial institutions and entertainment companies. Additionally, if you attend Centennial College’s Corporate Communications courses, you may be hired by reputable companies such as: Alliance Films, CTV, Apex Public Relations, Government of Canada, Enridge, Ontario Government, St. John's Rehab Hospital and more. As 2010 graduate Adrian Seely, who is the founder of trillPR points out, "The support I received at Centennial helped lead me to my first job and gave me the resources to start my own company. Thank you to the instructors at Centennial!"

Geared towards mature students, the communication skills training obtained through the Corporate Communications and Public Relations program is among some of the most highly regarded in Ontario. To apply, students are required to possess a college diploma or university degree in any discipline. The School will, however, consider applicants with partial post-secondary education (minimum of two years) and relevant work experience. In addition, applicants must attend a mandatory program admission session where they will: complete writing and editing exercises as well as submit a portfolio of writing and possibly a resume.

To ensure that they are employable upon graduation, students who attend this Corporate Communications course master: research, writing, planning, editing, as well as designing and implementing everything from strategic communications plans and employee newsletters to gala dinners for hundreds of people. Students also learn why it is important to create communications strategies that influence employee attitudes, shift stockholders’ opinions and tell an organization’s story to the media. Specific Corporate Communications courses include: Business for Corporate Communicators, Professional Practice, Project Management, Online Public Relations & Social Media (this program leads the way in social media and PR content), Presentation Skills, Design and Layout, and more.

Prior to graduation, students get to apply what they have learned in their Corporate Communication courses in two ways. The first is a course called Client Project, which sees students complete work outside the classroom, usually independently, with off-campus clients. The work is often for not-for-profits clients and can involve: strategic communications planning including the production of written and graphics pieces such as brochures, media kits or newsletters. Students are assigned a faculty advisor for the course and, typically, find their own clients. There is also an eight-week field placement that sees those in Corporate Communications courses work full time for eight weeks (or longer) at a public relations agency, a not-for-profit, a government ministry or department, a corporation or an association to gain practical experience and knowledge. Many field placements are unpaid positions. Others offer an honorarium.

Environmental Programs Prepare Students for Constantly Changing Field of Environmental Technology

The constantly changing field of environmental technology needs Environmental Protection Technicians to fulfill positions in areas such as: municipal/provincial/federal governments, environmental consulting/management firms, water/wastewater/industrial wastewater treatment operations, environmental and chemical laboratories, and manufacturing and energy production. Environmental Protection Technicians employed in these areas have duties such as: laboratory and fieldwork in water and waste chemistry; collecting samples of gases, soils, water, industrial wastewater, and asbestos products to conduct tests on pollutant levels and identify sources of pollution; responding to and investigating hazardous conditions or spills, or outbreaks of disease or food poisoning as well as collecting samples for analysis; making recommendations to control or eliminate unsafe conditions at workplaces or public facilities; and more. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the environmental protection arena is projected to expand faster through 2018 than other occupations that require post-secondary training or an associate degree.

At Centennial College, students of the Environmental Technician program receive practical training in the three foundation disciplines of biology, chemistry and civil engineering — which teaches them to understand and manage complex environmental problems. This unique combination of technical skills greatly increases Centennial graduates’ career options.

Applicants to this environmental program are required to possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. They must also have completed the compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent and Math 11M or U, or 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent.

To ensure students are in the right program, the Environmental Protection Technician undertaking consists of a first semester that is common to all Biotechnology and Environmental Protection Technology programs at the college. This first semester features environmental program courses that include: Chemistry, Occupational Health and Safety, Intro to Biological Systems, Microcomputer Applications for Technology and others.

Once students have a solid understanding of what the Environmental Protection Technician field entails, they move onto more specific training. Among the courses in which they partake during the remainder of their time in the program are Microbiogoloy Techniques, Lab Instrumentation, Chemistry of Pollutants, Ecology, Organic Chemistry, Soils and Goundwater, Water Quality Control and more. Much of the course time is spent in labs where students learn to use tools and equipment that professionals use in the field, and participate in practice in water quality testing, groundwater movement and the chemistry of pollutants.

In addition to preparing students for the field, Centennial College's Environmental Protection Technician allows students to apply credits towards university degrees. Transfer credits/ advanced standing may be awarded for previous science or engineering education. Additionally, the offering ensures students are ready to write the Ontario Ministry of the Environment Operator in Training (OIT) and Water Quality Analyst (WQA) exams, and lets them apply to register with the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologist (OACETT).

Logistics Management Courses Designed For Quick Entry Into the Field

Manufacturing and production companies, retailers and distributors, transport companies, government agencies and consulting firms all seek professionals who have attended Logistic Management courses. In these various places of work, Logistics Management graduates fill positions such as: production coordinator, consultant, supply chain analyst, international logistics manager, supply chain software manager, warehouse operations manager, customer service manager, fulfillment supervisor, transportation coordinator, purchasing manager and inventory specialist.

Despite the various areas and titles within Logistics Management, all those who work in this field must have common knowledge and skill to complete certain tasks, should they be required to do so. Among these tasks are: inbound and outbound transportation management, fleet management, warehousing, materials handling, order fulfillment, logistics network design, inventory management, supply/demand planning, and management of third party logistics services providers. In addition, logistics function may include customer service, sourcing and procurement, production planning and scheduling, packaging and assembly.

In just one year, the Graduate Certificate in Logistics Management program prepares graduates with a solid logistics foundation that can be transferred across all industries. As they are geared toward mature students, Logistics Management courses applicants must have already completed a diploma or university degree in any discipline. In addition, the application process requires a proof of English proficiency. However, the Logistics Management program will consider applicants with partial post-secondary and relevant work experience. For this, a transcript and resume review is required

Once they are accepted, students attend Logistics Management courses at Centennial College’s Progress Campus. Not only is it the largest of the school's four campuses, this location also boasts computer labs with state-of-the-art software and knowledgeable staff members to ensure students are well equipped for success. In addition, students partake in Logistics Management courses such as: Transportation Economics and Integrated Logistics, Transportation Law, Transportation Systems & Logistics Processes, Crafting and Executing Strategy, Management and Leadership Accounting for Managerial Decision Making, and Ethics and Stakeholder Management.

The Logistics Management courses have a partnership with the Canadian Institute of Traffic and Transportation (CITT), a leading professional development association in the supply chain and logistics sector and Canada’s most respected and widely held professional designation in the industry. Thanks to this, graduates who successfully fulfill the CITT certification enhance their overall career success because CITT certification signals a higher level of understanding and ability to employers. Centennial’s Logistics Management courses prepare graduates with the academic credentials necessary to pursue the CITT designation. To become fully accredited with the CITT designation, applicants must also: attain five years of industry experience, provide proof of continuous professional development, accept the CITT Code of Ethics and pay CITT membership dues.

GM Technician Training Offers Vital Industry Skills and Know-How

Those who attend an Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship, such as Centennial College’s General technician training, go on to take on a variety of responsibilities. Automotive service technicians: review work orders; road test motor vehicles, and test automotive systems and components; change, repair or replace parts and components of automotive systems; test and change repaired systems to the required standards; perform scheduled maintenance service, such as oil changes, lubrications and tune-ups; advise customers on work performed, general vehicle conditions and future repair requirement. They are employed by motor vehicle dealers (for example, those who attend this training are equipped become General Motors technicians), garages and service stations, automotive specialty shops and retail establishments, which have automotive service shops.

At Centennial College, those who are currently employed at a General Motors dealer and wish to advance their career, may apply to attend Centennial College’s GM technician training or Automotive Service Technician General Motors of Canada ASEP (MAP 32), as it is officially known. Aside from already being employed in the field, these technicians must also possess at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or a GED or equivalent. It should be noted that if students are not currently General Motors employees, they may also be selected through an interview process. Once they’ve been accepted, they’ll have to obtain an employer and register as a MAP apprentice with the Apprenticeship Branch of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Acceptance to the GM technician training is based on successful completion of all entry requirements and space is limited.

Because this GM technician training combines both in-school lessons and on-the-job experience, students alternate between Centennial College and their place of employment for 64 weeks (32 weeks with each). While they are on-campus, students use the labs and tools of the trade with which Ashtonbee Campus, the provinces largest transportation training centre, is equipped.

The topics covered during the in-school sessions of GM technician training include: all of the latest GM vehicle systems, with emphasis on diagnosis and repair, following recommended GM service procedures. A large portion of the program involves vehicle electrical and electronic systems diagnosis and repair. Specific courses within the GM technician training include: Motor Vehicle Engine Systems, Electrical, Electronics & Fuel Systems; Gear Trains, Applied Work Practices & Procedures; Steering, Suspension & Brakes; and more. During the time they alternate to their place of employment, students apply what they have learned and obtain new knowledge in order to come back to Centennial College prepared to master more advanced topics.

Upon graduation, GM technician technicians receive up to 21 GM Dealer Technician Training Credits and an Ontario College Certificate.

Continuing Education: Something for Everyone

Continuing Education is a wonderful post-secondary option that takes into account the hectic schedules and life responsibilities that may be preventing you from obtaining a diploma, advanced diploma or certificate. That's because this option involves enrollment in post-secondary, credit-granting courses by part-time students, and is often offered through a division or school of continuing education of a college.

One location in Toronto, Ontario that offers Continuing Education is Centennial College. As the province's first community college — established in 1966 and primarily serving the eastern portion of the Greater Toronto Area through four campuses and seven satellite locations — this school has grown to enjoy a sound reputation. As such, its Continuing Education School sees nearly 22,000 learners each year in 160 programs that feature more than 1,200 courses and a 97 per cent learner satisfaction.

Through Centennial College's School of Continuing Education, students have traditional and non-traditional options to obtaining their education. First and foremost, those who function best in a classroom environment with practical application of lessons, classroom discussions, trips and more would benefit from the part-time evening class format. Through this Continuing Education option, students can attend Addiction Studies, Business, Computers and Information Technology, Early Childhood Education, Engineering Technology, Food Service Worker, Media and Design, Part-time Health Studies, Retirement Communities Management/Long Term Care Management, Transportation, and more. The instructors who teach these Continuing Education options are trained to offer flexible, learner-centered teaching methodologies; provide practical hands-on knowledge to place relevant theory into context and perspective; recognize and respect both the level of maturity and work experience of students; and provide effective instructor to student ratio and an optimal classroom size enabling competent peer interaction.

Meanwhile, students who enjoy a classroom feel but may be limited by schedules and responsibilities may be better suited for the Distance Learning format. In this Continuing Education option, students learn in a virtual classroom that is open 24 hours a day and boasts qualified and industry-experienced instructors, communication tools, discussion boards and forums, a sense of email access with classmates, digital assignment capabilities, and more. Lastly, Continuing Education students may partake in print-based courses, which are suited for students who enjoy independent learning and have the ability to work at their own pace within typically a six-month time frame.

In most cases both delivery methods (online and print-based) require that students attend the campus towards the end of their class to write a continuing education final exam.

All Continuing Education programs facilitated through the Continuing Education School have their own prerequisites and it's best to check each individual program's page to ensure that students have the necessary requirements to apply. It should also be noted that within certain programs there might be qualification requirements and costs for external accreditations, designations, certifications or recognitions. These are set by the granting bodies and not by Centennial College or its School of Continuing Education. In order to qualify for any of those external accreditations, designations, certification or recognition, students and graduates will need to follow the processes and meet the applicable requirements listed on the websites and materials of those external bodies.