Entering the World of Video Game Design and Development

The popularity of video games is constantly increasing. The industry is already a multi-billion dollar field. It appears that the increasing demand for more games with better visuals, themes and stories will take it places in the coming years. The video game players expect more every time and nothing seems to satisfy their endless demand for entertainment, fun and adventure.

Not only does the industry focus on video games players' entertainment needs but it also offers diverse career opportunities to game developers of software professionals. The industry gives them numerous chances to satisfy their creative sides, while making a decent living. It is no wonder why so many high school students want to be on the scripting side of the video games.

Creating video games is both fun and money-spinning. However, it's not as simple as you think. It requires creativity and imagination, idea generation, and technical skills to build high quality gaming software. While you should be able to think differently, you also need to build strong software engineering fundamentals.

How to Build a Career in Game Design

Step # 1 - Obtaining Formal Qualification

Students interested in building careers in the field of game design should consider enrolling in a college diploma or university degree in interactive game software development after secondary education. The game design course combines classroom learning, project-based learning, software development projects and an industry field placement.

The program emphasizes on various software design methodologies, programming languages, operating systems, database concepts, network technologies, 3-D graphics programming and user-oriented interface designing.  Additionally, you also study

• Functions and number systems
• Discrete mathematics
• Advanced business communications
• Linear algebra and statistics
• Advanced graphics
• IT project management

The prospective game designers are also expected to have a thorough understanding of the Canadian workplace environment.

To enrol in a software engineering course, you will need:

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent
• English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent
• Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent

Step # 2 – Industrial Training

Having theoretical knowledge in software engineering fundamentals and game designing and simulation is not sufficient to build a career in game development. You need to accumulate relevant practical hands-on-experience.

Good colleges in Canada offer game design program with co-op component that allows you to enhance your education by working in real-world settings through industry field training. Centennial College's three-year, post-secondary software engineering technology - interactive gaming (co-op) program offers you the opportunity to put your classroom learning into practice by allowing you to work three terms as paid employees in the field. Additionally, the program is accredited by CIPS (The Canadian Information processing Society) and CCTT (The Canadian Council of Technician and Technologies) and CTAB (The Canadian Technology Accreditation Board).

Step # 3 – Industry Placement

Typically graduates have to start their careers right from the scratch. This helps them gain in-depth understanding of the technical, creative and business aspects of video gaming industry. Students graduating from good colleges are immediately hired by top employers either during their industry field placement or upon course completion.

They are prepared to work as software developers, game programmers, software testers, computer programmers, system analysts, business analysts, web application developers, database administrators, and application or software support. Further studies and relevant experience help professionals move towards career advancements.

Community Development Programs in Canada

A community development program is an interdisciplinary field that incorporates economics, politics, social science, research and an understanding of cultural diversity. This is a post-secondary program that typically runs for two years, helping students build sustainable careers in the areas of

• Building community capacity
• Promoting sustainable community
• Managing/directing community economic development initiatives
• Social planning
• Promoting social and economic development of communities
• Social change
• Challenging oppression and discrimination

The students are taught that there is no one road map to community development practice that applies universally. This is why, social planning needs to be done, depending upon the specific requirements of people in a community.

Community Development Programs in Toronto

The job of a community development professional can be very challenging. Therefore, only genuinely interested candidates should only consider it as a career option and enrol into a community development education program.

There are several colleges in Canada that offer post-secondary community development programs to students. Unfortunately, not all offer them opportunities to practice their acquired knowledge in real world fieldwork settings.

Centennial College offer students opportunities to work in two separate real world fieldwork settings, domestic and/or international, under the supervision of community practitioners during the tenure of the program. They work in communities to understand their problems, challenge social and economic injustice, and advocate for change strategies.

Community Development Program Details

This program is aimed at helping students build strong theoretical foundations and gain hands-on-experience in community development. It covers a wide range of subjects, including:

• Theoretical foundations in community development
• Sustainable community development
• Communication fundamentals
• Social psychology
• Foundations of community based research
• Community economic development
• Community engagement and participation
• Global citizenship: from social analysis to social action
• Community development in action
• Global perspectives in community development
• Community development policy
• Business essentials

The program incorporates classroom learning, seminars, and two separate field placements.

Program Benefits

The graduates of this program can find employment with

• Government
• Voluntary organizations
• Corporations
• International community settings
• Philanthropy organizations

They are capable of

• Mediating and settling the matters of conflict
  
• Raising funds for community development
  
• Researching and identifying the needs of a community
  
• Challenging oppression and discrimination practices
  
• Encouraging locals to fight for their rights

The graduates of this program develop a strong understanding of

• How social systems work
• How some social practices contribute to social injustice and inequality
• How important the participation of people is to bring a social change
• How important it is to put continuous efforts to bring a sustainable social change
• How conveying the right message to the right audience at the right time and in the right manner is crucial

Admission Requirements 

 In order to apply for this program, students will need:

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent
• English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent

Students currently in high school can also apply for this program. Their midterm and final term grades will be automatically transferred to the college.

Music Industry and Arts Performance Program Takes Passion and Adds Business Savvy

Centennial College's Music Industry and Arts Performance offering proves that not all music programs are created equal. While other similar offerings focus on just one aspect of the industry, this all encompassing undertaking allows students to nurture musicality and creativity, raise awareness of a variety of music cultures, build knowledge of music-related technologies, and develop business and entrepreneurial skills.

Here is a closer look at one of Toronto's respected music education programs.

• To attend the offering, applicants must have completed an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, or have mature student status (19 years or older). They must also have completed Grade 12 English C or U, or equivalent (minimum grade required) or take the Centennial College English Skills Assessment for Admission.
  
  
• To demonstrate their dedication, applicants must attend a mandatory program admission session to audition on a primary instrument or voice, and complete an evaluation of their music theory knowledge, and a questionnaire about their music background and training.
  
• The program takes a total of three years to complete and offers an Advanced Diploma.
  
• During private music lessons and ensemble rehearsals, professional musicians mentor students.
  
• Once they have had a chance to get a view of the whole industry, the third year splits students into their choice of the music creation and business stream or the music creation and technology stream.
  
• Throughout the offering, students have many opportunities to perform and record.
  
• Making Centennial College's undertaking one of the most respected music programs Toronto has to offer is its six-week work placement. This is an opportunity for students to gain experience in the real world.
  
• No other music program - not even Toronto's music degree programs - offer the same blend of performance, creative, contextual, business, and technology courses.
  
• Also making this one of the most respected music schools Toronto has are the particular course that are offered, including: Creativity in Context, Musicianship, History of Western Art Music, Digital Music Creation, Music Business Fundamentals, Indigenous Music in Culture, Introduction to Audio Engineering, Music in Community, Advanced Sound Production and Recording and more.
  
• Unlike other music college Toronto-based offerings that train students for only one part of the field, this program allows students to become culturally aware musicians and singers with the technological and business savvy necessary to work in the music industry today - and in the future.

Financial Planning Prepares Students for Career Increasing in Demand

Did you know that it is entirely possible to change your career path in as little as two months? If you have already completed a post-secondary program in any discipline but wish to try something totally new, Centennial College offers a range of Graduate Certificate courses. These programs are designed with the mature learner in mind and take into account schedule (to ensure that students can fulfill their current responsibilities), past education (to compound the learning into a short amount of time and get students into the field quicker) and existing knowledge (to eliminate liberal courses).

One of the Graduate Certificate programs offered at Centennial College is the Financial Planning program, which prepares students for the role of the financial planner. According to Wikipedia, this professional "prepares financial plans for people covering various aspects of personal finance which includes: cash flow management, education planning, retirement planning, investment planning, risk management and insurance planning, tax planning, estate planning and business succession planning (for business owners). In carrying out the planning function, professionals are guided by the financial planning process to create a financial plan, a detailed strategy tailored to a client's specific situation, and for meeting a client’s specific goals."

Through twelve courses that use instruction materials from professional bodies, students gain all of the educational requirements to challenge the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) exam. These courses include: Tax Planning, Estate Planning and Risk Management, Retirement Financial Planning, Corporate Credit Management, Crafting and Executing Strategy and more.

After completing this Financial Planning certification, students have the know-how to: Integrate ethical decision-making processes into all aspects of the financial planning profession; integrate economic and personal information necessary for effective financial planning decisions; compare, contrast and select financial products and services, investment planning and counselling services for clients, while adhering to industry standards; successfully adhere to financial planning principles and industry standards; prepare accurate and relevant financial plans, manually and electronically; effectively market financial services to clients to gain new and renewal business; and recognize potential tax and legal implications within a financial planning situation.

Once they obtain their Certified Planner License, students may apply to jobs are institutions such as: banks, credit unions, financial planning companies, life insurance companies, mutual fund companies, investment dealers and more. Moreover, students of this Centennial College are able to gain additional accreditations as a result of successful completion of courses and industry exams that include: Canadian Securities Course (CSC®) and Wealth Management Essentials (WME®).

However, students who wish to continue their educations will benefit from Centennial College’s educational partnership with Davenport University. It allows qualified graduates to apply academic credit towards further study in the school's associated program.

Building a Career as Construction and Maintenance Technician

Building a career as construction and maintenance technician in Canada typically requires formal education and training as apprentice in electrical trade after completing high school. Students considering this as a career are required to obtain a thorough grounding in electrical engineering sciences and skills, including electrical circuits, maintenance of electrical devices and instruments, operation of electrical motors and power transmission. In addition to this, they need to undertake actual workplace assignments in order to gain hands-on-experience.

Construction and Maintenance Engineering Program

There are a number of colleges in Canada that offer co-op diploma apprenticeship programs in construction and maintenance. Unfortunately, not all offer extensive workplace experience through real-life assignments. Centennial College's post-secondary two-year construction and maintenance technician program - electrical engineering prepares students to build a career in this field. The program combines in-school theory, lab experience and paid co-op placement.

The course covers a wide range of subjects including

• Electrical theory, coding and printing
• Installation methods
• Electronics
• Monitoring systems
• AutoCAD
• Mathematics
• Network and Adv Control System
• Design and development course
• Power generation and distribution
• Prints - construction and maintenance

In addition, students also gain understanding of ethics in technology and environment and the Canadian electrical code. They spend eight months of the program time on a co-op placement arranged by the college, in order to gain practical hands-on-experience.

Enrollment Guide

In order to enroll in this program, you will need:

• Secondary school diploma
• English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent
• Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent

In addition, you will also need to:

• Complete a questionnaire to assess co-op employability
• Attend information/interview session to discuss questionnaire answers
• Be eligible to work as an apprentice in Ontario
• Credential evaluation of the above if you're educated outside of Canada

Career Prospects for Program Graduates

The graduates of this program can build exciting careers as construction and maintenance technicians in the areas of service, installation, repairs, sales and design. They design, install, maintain and repair electrical systems, devices and equipments that are needed in a building. They are also expected to design optimum electrical solutions for a particular building.

The professionals can find employment with construction companies and firms operating in other industries. Almost all companies employ maintenance technicians. Besides, increased dependence on electrical systems has resulted in the increase in demand of construction and maintenance engineering professionals.

Typical Job Duties

The technicians are typically expected to

• Designing site-specific electrical solutions
• Installing or overseeing/supervising the installation of electrical systems
• Monitoring the systems
• Ensuring that the designed systems meet health and safety requirements
• Advising clients on energy use and power transmission
• Selecting appropriate locations for equipment/device installation
• Estimating costs of installing, maintaining and repairing electrical systems
• Working with detailed diagrams, plans and drawings
• Using computer-aided design software to design the system required for a particular project

However, roles and responsibilities may vary depending upon the employment, job title and individual experience. Individuals wishing to improve job prospects may opt for advanced educational programs.

Distance Learning is a Convenient Way to Obtain a College Education

Not being able to make it into a classroom because of your hectic schedule should not prevent you from obtaining a post-secondary education and launching the career of your dreams. Increasingly, post-secondary institutions are becoming aware that not all learners can make the time or have the money to travel to learn on-campus. With this awareness, they are offering an array of options that don't require students to physically attend any classes.

Distance Learning, as it is known, is actually quite an old concept. However, it has been revitalized to ensure that students are getting the most out of it in today's day and age. At Centennial College, this option is part of the School of Continuing Education. The School's offerings are suited for anyone who has either been away from schooling for any period of time; anyone who wants to advance his or her career but isn't able to attend on-campus classes due to scheduling conflicts or other responsibilities; those who wish to build on the education and experience that they have already been achieved, either in Canada or another country; or anyone who simply feels more comfortable studying independently than in a classroom. With over 1,300 courses and programs, Centennial College offers flexibility and choice.

Distance Learning at Centennial College is presented in two options. Both allow students to obtain a respected credential but differ greatly. The one aspect they do have in common is that students are required to attend an end-of-program exam at one of Centennial College's four locations. Each student is responsible to write his or her exam on the first Saturday following the course end date. It is each student's responsibility to book the correct exam date within the time constraints of his or her course. Students who fail to write their exam by the due date will receive a zero on their exam.

Online Classes:

• Students have access to a 24-hour virtual classroom
• They can practically study from anywhere that has Wi-Fi or the Internet
• Professors can be contacted via e-mail
• Interaction with peers occurs through online discussion boards and via email
• Among the courses that students can complete online are Business Management – Sales, Financial Fraud Investigation, Medical Transcriptionist, Professional Writing, Retirement Communities Management and many others

Print-based correspondence:

• Course materials are physically mailed to the student
• Students interact with instructors over the phone or via email
• All studying is completed independently
• Should students require some help, a facilitator (tutor) is assigned to assist them with their assignments
• A print-based course consists of lessons, written assignments, exams and the various tools for success
• Courses that can be taken entire through print-based correspondence include: Business Management – Entrepreneurial, Business Management – International, Business Management – Marketing, Cosmetics by Correspondence, SmartServe, and Ophthalmic Medical Personnel

Community College Creates Valuable Experiences through Its Various Locations

At Centennial College, no matter what program you choose to attend, you will study in classrooms that are outfitted to your offering and include tools of the trade to ensure you are ready for this field.

This Community College offers a very unique layout to students, with four main campuses scattered across the east end of the city. Each campus houses one or two Schools of Study and boasts classrooms that are fully equipped to offer students a hands-on experience. Here is a closer look at each campus.

Progress Campus:

• As Centennial College's largest location, this space houses School of Business and School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture programs.
• For students of the School of Business, this centrally located campus offers training with the latest software that they will experience in the industry.
• The School of Business students also benefit because the campus is located near a wide array of businesses at which they often intern or are placed as field placement students.
• Hospitality, Tourism and Culture program attendees benefit from a wide array of on-campus facilities that offer real world experiences. Among these facilities is a real restaurant, which allows students to not only learn the ins and outs of the kitchen but also take on serving customers in real time. Another facility located at Progress Campus is a student-run conference centre that includes meeting rooms and spaces that students must set up for a range of events.

Morningside Campus:

• This is the technological hub of Centennial College. It caters to students of the School of Engineering, Technology and Applied Science (ETAS) as well as the School of Community and Health Studies.
• For students in the ETAS programs, there are labs in which experiments can be conducted. For example, students of the Medical Laboratory Technician program learn to collect blood samples and perform ECGs.
• Students of the Community and Health Studies courses, meanwhile, literally have mock environments that are meant to imitate the real world. As such, nursing students practice in mock hospital rooms; Paramedic students learn on ambulances; Massage Therapy students massage on real tables; Esthetician students have an entire spa to learn from and the list goes on.

Story Arts Centre:

• Exclusively designed for students of the School of Communication, Media and Design, this campus is a hub of traditional and modern creative programs.
• Large art studios benefit students of Art and Foundation Studies and Fine Arts Studio.
• Modern newsrooms are designed for Journalism and Broadcasting and Film students. These newsrooms come equipped with cameras, Teleprompters and much more.
• All students benefit from the latest software, including software that is essential to teaching students in programs such as Game and Art Design the very latest know-how.

Ashtonbee Campus:

• This campus serves two purposes. First, it is the hub for all School of Transportation programs. Secondly, it also boasts foundational programs that serve as stepping-stones to further education.
• For students in the School of Transportation, the benefit of studying at the campus is immense, as this is the largest transportation training centre in Canada.
• The campus boasts not only mock garages filled with cars that have been donated for a range of programs but also a real-sized airport hangar with planes on which aviation students work.

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Mechanical Engineer Industrial

Mechanical engineers can find employment with companies that design and manufacture mechanical devices and systems, such as the government, military, customer service companies and research labs. They are involved in almost all stages of manufacturing, including selecting the appropriate materials, measuring the dimensions, choosing the right machinery, designing and developing the product, testing quality, and troubleshooting the machinery.

Mechanical engineers mainly work with, but not limited to, companies operating in these industries:

• Automobile
• Biomedical
• Customer service
• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning
• Nuclear
• Robotics
• Power and energy
• Piping
• Aeronautical
• Marine
• Oil and gas
• Aerospace

The professionals offer technical support in the fields of design, development, testing, troubleshooting, power generation and power conversion. The job may or may not require travelling, depending upon the employment.

The engineers can also be expected to

• Analyze product designs
• Identify problems in a product
• Create blueprints for product development
• Generate specifications for various parts of the products
• Resolve mechanical problems whenever they surface
• As0sist in plant expansions
• Prepare job safety programs
• Coordinate time and motion studies
• Develop quality control systems
• VPlan and schedule new facilities

Guide to Becoming a Mechanical Engineer - Industrial

Like any other profession, mechanical engineering also requires students to undergo a formal education and practical training to seek entry level employment in this field. In fact, this is the first step towards becoming a mechanical engineer - industrial. Higher education and years of experience are required to an advanced career.

The three-year post-secondary mechanical engineering courses help you gain theoretical and practical knowledge along with hands-on-experience in manufacturing and production of mechanical equipments. The students can build strong fundamentals as well as more specialised skills relating to modern manufacturing and production processes.

The programs cover a wide range of subjects including technology mathematics, properties of materials, machine shop, physics, applied statistics, mechanical drafting, manufacturing processes, applied electricity, differential calculus and analytical geometry, fluid mechanics, tool design, applied dynamics, hydraulics and pneumatics and tool design and quality assurance.

Apart from these, the program also helps students gain excellent computer skills, blueprint reading, and communication, CAD programming skills, report writing and project design, construction and management skills. Shop floor management, facility planning and work cell designing and principles of financial accounting and management are also covered.

Practical Training

Good mechanical engineering programs combine theory, hands-on-lab and projects, designing, building and testing an original piece of equipment, actual workplace assignment and employment placement. This is done to help students put their classroom learning into practice in real world scenarios and gain hands-on-experience. This also provides valuable contacts that can be used as references when entering the world of work upon completion of the program.

Choosing the Right College

Choosing the right college is the most crucial step in becoming a mechanical engineer. There are many colleges in Canada that offer post-secondary programmes in this field. Unfortunately, not all of them are accredited. Centennial College’s program in mechanical engineer is CTAB accredited and offers you required exposure and practical experience to build a career in this field.

In order to apply for the program, you will need:

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent
• English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent
• Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent

Co-op (PTY) requirements include:

• Minimum C grade in COMM-170/171
• Minimum 2.5 CGPA
• Minimum 80 percent of year 1 & 2 courses for COOP-221

Continuing Education Has Something for Everyone Including Novices and Professionals

We often hear people say, "It's never too late to go back to school." And the statement is actually quite accurate. That's because, increasingly, post-secondary institutions are including options that cater to mature students who are seeking either to advance their career, change careers all together or gain an education that will allow them to transition from having a job to a fulfilling career.

Known as Continuing Education, this option has actually been around for sometime. What has evolved is the approach schools take in delivering continuing education. For example, Centennial College in Toronto, Ontario offers a range of delivery methods to work with students to pursue their education according to their schedule. The school offers 1,300 courses and programs that result in choice and flexibility.

Firstly, students can attend courses on campus where they have the opportunity to learn the latest technology and practices, through progressive, collaborative teaching techniques and real-world practical experiences. Additionally, students who attend courses during business hours, in the evenings and on weekends complete hands-on learning with instructors who are working professionals in their fields. This type of learning is most beneficial for visual learners who require the hands-on component to fully understand what they are studying.

But what happens if, for example, you can't make it into the school during business hours or if you have no interest in the hands-on learning and much prefer to study on your own when it is convenient for you? This type of learner is not at all at a disadvantage thanks to Centennial College's other continuing education option: Distance Learning. Presented in both modern and traditional formats, Distance Learning is just what it sounds like — an opportunity to attend classes at a distance and study when it most convenient to your schedule in the comfort of your home or wherever you choose.

The more traditional Distance Learning route is delivered through correspondence or print-based courses. In this approach, students are required to complete courses typically within a six-month time frame. Print-based courses are best suited to students who work independently with minimal supervision. These students do have some sense of the classroom with telephone and email access to their professors, who may offer guidance as students work through course material.

A modern approach to distance learning occurs online. In a virtual classroom, students interact with their peers and professors through email and discussion boards. This allows for a classroom feel without the need to physically sit at a desk on campus. The course material is also completed in students' own time with the student determining when to study and how best to complete the course.

Degree Programs Offers Wide Range of Courses To Ensure Well-Rounded Education

Spending four years of your life to obtain an undergraduate degree is a huge commitment. As such, choosing a post-secondary program that will see you obtain the degree is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Luckily, today, the options are broader than ever with colleges even offering respected four-year degrees.

These college-based Degree Programs come with their own set of benefits. The most obvious benefit is that students gain a Bachelor degree and gain plenty of hands-on experience as opposed to university programs, which tend to focus on theory.

At Centennial College, students can choose from four unique degree programs. Here is a look at some of their standout courses that include hands-on application.

Bachelor of Public Relations Management

• Media Relations: Students examine how the communicator develops and fosters effective relations with the news media to achieve specific communications goals. Developing familiarity with media directories, creating targeted media lists, pitching stories to the media, monitoring media coverage, framing answers to questions from the media and designing special events to attract media attention are part of the course. Methods of instruction include interactive, team-based learning, case studies, lectures and guest speakers

• Project Management: This course covers the concepts and basic functions of project management, the role of the project manager and the project management resources in developing and implementing a project. Learners develop a comprehensive project plan including the identification of measurable tasks, project scope, scheduling and budgeting. In addition, learners develop an understanding of the fundamental role of working with outside agencies/contractors as well as internal clients.

Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences - Computer and Communication Networks

• Operating System Fundamentals: This introductory course outlines concepts that underlie modern operating systems. The fundamental concepts covered in this course are based on those found in existing commercial operating systems in particular Unix/ Linux, Microsoft Windows NT, Microsoft Windows 2000 and Microsoft XP.

• Wireless Networks: The course introduces students to modern wireless technology and its application to transmit voice, data and images. Emphasis is on digital modulation techniques, their spectral characteristics and on various components, subsystems used in wireless system and their specifications. Theory classes are supplemented with labs to enhance practical knowledge in integrating, testing, commissioning and management of wireless networks.

Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences - Software Systems Design

• Database Design and Modeling: This course teaches the students the core concepts related to relational databases, including the general architecture, conceptual, logical and physical design, querying techniques, and security features.

• System Analysis and Design: This course examines best practices in business processes for a variety of business models. Critical risks and compensating controls are identified in each of the major operating cycles of the business. The principles of systems analysis and design are identified and applied to operations in the planning and analysis phases of the systems development life cycle. Process mapping techniques are developed through the use of commercial mapping software.

Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences - Bridging to Software Systems Design:

• This program offers the same courses as the Software Systems Design offering but computer program/analyst graduates or software engineering graduates from Centennial or from a similar program from another college may be eligible to obtain this four-year Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences in Software System Design (SSD) in two years by joining in the fifth semester.

Bachelor of Public Relations Management Gives Students a Business Advantage

Although roles vary for those in public relations, there are some common duties that these professionals must fulfill. Among them are:

• Preparing, developing and executing various public relations strategies;
• Answering inquiries from media, individuals and other organizations;
• Researching for, writing and distributing press releases to media organizations;
• Writing and editing in-house magazines, case studies, speeches, articles and annual reports;
• Preparing and supervising the production of publicity brochures, handouts, direct mail leaflets, promotional videos, photographs, films and more;
• Devising and coordinating photo opportunities and press conferences;
• Maintaining and updating information on the organization’s website

The skills to effectively carry out these tasks are taught through post-secondary Public Relations programs. These undertakings focus on offering students skills in professional writing, research, strategic communications, and social and digital media.

One school that offers a Bachelor of Public Relations Management program is Centennial College. This program, however, is unique in comparison to other similar offerings. That’s because it is a first-of-its kind program in Canada. As such, students attend college-level courses but graduate with a Public Relations Degree. This approach is advantageous for a number of reasons.

Firstly, because it is presented at a college, this program offers students a practical rather than theoretical education. Among the hands-on application students enjoy are real-world projects, which mock tasks that students will have to complete once they graduate and enter the field. Students also partake in a 15-week field placement in the industry. During this time, they work alongside professionals from whom they can learn and build relationships with that may benefit them upon graduation.

Secondly, Centennial College’s Public Relations courses are completely up-to-date and, therefore, cover traditional and modern PR approaches. While ten core business courses are offered in partnership with Centennial’s School of Business and ensure a solid foundation, more specific PR courses allow students to master the skills to navigate today’s digital world — including developing multifaceted social media and integrated online marketing programs.

Additionally, while other PR programs focus strictly on the industry, Centennial College believes it is essential that students get a deeper understanding of today’s complex world. As such, it places a focus on global citizenship, corporate social responsibility and the role communicators play in helping organizations make change.

Lastly, because this PR program Toronto-based offering does teach students key business skills including financial management, organizational behaviour, business law, accounting, and more it gives them a competitive edge in the marketplace. As such, there is a wide range of career options available to graduates. Graduates from the program are prepared to work in a diverse range of careers in organizations including: public relations agencies, corporate communications and investor relations departments, digital marketing companies, not-for-profit sector organizations, and hospitals and healthcare organizations.

Pre Health Programs Help You Start Your Medical or Healthcare Career

The health programs offered at Canadian colleges are very competitive and sometimes, students may not be able to get admission in these programs. Because of this, they may require to do some extra preparations or obtain eligibility to apply to any of the available health/science programs at the college.

Apart from this, many students are not aware of the career options that health industry offers. They need to explore the career paths that diverse health programs offer them, in order to choose the one that suits their interests as well as helps them meet their specific career goals.

Other than this, some students have not finished high school science courses, which is a necessary requirement for being eligible to apply for college-level health programs. In such a scenario, they need to build foundation in science subjects that will help them get into diploma programs at the college.

If you're dealing with any of the above cases, pre-health programs are for you. They give you what you need to get into the college or make the right decision. If a health or science-related career is what you dream of, you may want to consider these programs and get on the right track.

Pre-Health Programs in Canada

Students considering science careers often have different goals. A pre-health science program helps them meet their specific goals, while helping them build strong foundations in:

• Mathematics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Developmental psychology
• Pre-anatomy and physiology
• Computers for healthcare professionals
• Communications

The program runs for one year through two semesters and helps students choose the right career path. It exposes them to a number of career options, so that they can choose the one that puts them on the right track.

Program Highlights

A pre-health program helps students:

• Obtain eligibility to get into science or health programs at the college
• Meet entrance requirements (increase their scores in science subjects) for a particular science program
• Get academic advice from experts
• Explore career options related to various health and science subjects

Program Details

A program in pre-health can be taken after completing secondary education. Applicants need to submit secondary school diploma certificates along with scores of English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent and Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent. Those who do not fulfill these requirements need to take college's English Skills Assessment and Mathematics Skills Assessment for admission. Students currently in high school are also eligible to apply for this program.

Studying Pre-Health in Canada

Numerous Canadian colleges in Canada offer one-year post-secondary programs in pre-health. Unfortunately, not all may help you meet your specific goals. Therefore, it's important to conduct a thorough research before you apply with a college.

Centennial College's program helps you meet all your specific goals, no matter whether you're looking to obtain eligibility to get into a science program at the college or explore career options in health industry. Additionally, students completing this program with acceptable academic standing have chances to transfer directly into Practical Nursing or Pharmacy Technician program at the college.

Explore Diverse Career Options in the Areas of Arts, Science and Social Science with a General Science and Arts Program

The one-year, post-secondary general arts and science - arts program is designed for students who wish to obtain the academic admission credentials needed to enter university while exploring arts, science and social science education programs within the college.

The program helps students acquire knowledge in these major disciplines:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Humanities
• Modern history
• Human genomics
• Communications
• Hospitality and tourism

During this program, students also explore various career options that these fields offer. This helps them choosing a suitable college program that can lead them to the right career path.

With myriad of post-secondary programs in arts, science and social science, it becomes really difficult for high school students to choose a course that suits their interests and helps them fulfill their career goals. Centennial College’s one-year general arts and science program helps them attain clarity and decide

• Which stream (field) to choose
• Which program is most appropriate for them
• Where they want to study
• Which arts colleges they should apply with
• What specialization to choose
• Whether they need a quickie credential or a degree course
• What they want to achieve after college or university education

Benefits of a General Arts and Science Program

The program offers a number of advantages to the students.

• It helps them gain experience in actual university level courses
• It makes them eligible to participate in articulated programs with selected universities
• It allows them to apply credits towards further study
• It helps them choose the curriculum that best fits their interests and career goals
• It helps them explore employment prospects for available educational programs
• It helps them make learning an enjoyable and productive journey, as they choose what they like
• The program runs from one to four semesters in length, depending upon their future goals

Program Details

The general Arts degree Toronto program covers a wide range of subjects including communications, contemporary Canada: places, people and perspectives, math in digital age, pathways to academic success, concepts in humanities, concepts in social science, principles of sociology, developmental psychology, twentieth century history, logical self defense and human genomics: an ethical view.

After one year, the students may proceed directly into year 1 of a university arts program. However, for this, they will need to earn at least a 3.0 GPA.

Admission Requirements

Students interested in exploring various career options in the fields of arts, science and social science along with gaining academic credentials to enter university will need to meet following requirements to apply for this program:

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent, or a mature student status (19 years or older)
• English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent. Those who don’t meet this criterion will have to undergo an English skills assessment provided by the college.

Applications can be submitted in person, by mail or online. Those who are applying through the Second Career Strategy can send their applications to the Employment Training Centre for Second Career.

The Business of TV and Film Through Intensive Hands on Training

Before you can make it big as a behind-the-scenes professional in TV and film, you must obtain the academic background. This is achieved through attending a film school that will prepare you for careers in independent film and television production sector in the areas of business affairs, accounting, business development and production management/ producing.

While there are many film programs in Toronto, Centennial College's Television and Film – Business is geared towards professionals who have already worked in the field. It takes knowledge of film and TV and combines it with the principles and practices of accounting and business, global marketplace, transmedia, distribution models and additional revenue sources, and developing plans for various business aspects of the film and television industry.

The majority of courses in this Toronto film school are split into two parts over two semesters.

The Business of Producing: How producing works and why is essential. As such, the first course introduces students to Canadian and international independent producers, broadcasters, trade organizations and regulatory bodies. The second course, meanwhile, digs deeper by looking at how a producer successfully develops and sells project ideas. For hands-on experience, students examine industry case studies and, with a focus on marketing principles and strategic planning, create a full project pitch and implementation plan.

Accounting for Film and Television: In their first course, students learn to set up and keep an accurate, up to date set of books for a single purpose production company. Included is accounting software training, which shows students how to make the day-to-day entries necessary to track a television production as well as generate basic reports. The second accounting course looks at more specific topics such as: generating cash flow projections and cost reports; union and guild remittances; working with payroll companies; reports for tax credits and funding agencies; working with interim financiers, wrapping production and going through the audit process.

Production Management and Coordination: The daily details of production are critical, as things must be done on time and on budget. This first course focuses on setting up and managing a production schedule, creating an industry standard project budget and liaising with all the departments, unions and guilds that are necessary to organize a production. The second course looks at seeing production through to wrap by managing costs and generating cost reports, dealing with employment and human resources issues and creating the production wrap documents necessary for complete project delivery and contract fulfillment.

Entertainment Law: From contracts to copyright laws, TV and film business professionals must be familiar with the laws that govern their industry. The first course breaks down contracting basics so that students may interpret and navigate industry standard contracts such as option agreements and rights assignments. The second focuses on practical application by looking at a set of essential case studies that frame the role of entertainment law and how to legally navigate production.

Unlike other film schools Toronto has to offer, this program doesn't stop at showing students how things are done in a classroom environment. The final semester of this undertaking actually sends students into the field to apply what they learned, build new skills and expand their professional network.

How Can an Advanced Television and Film – Script to Screen Program Help You?

No matter whether you're looking to break into television or film writing or enhance your script writing skills, an advanced program in television and film – script to screen at Centennial College Toronto may be of great help. The program comes as the right choice even if you want to learn how television shows are created or what all goes into making of a film or hone your writing skills. It covers both the creative and technical aspects of TV and film production.

Program Content

It is a one-year script writing program running through two semesters and covering fifteen extensive subjects. It is an intensive and comprehensive program that offers both theoretical grounding and practical experience to students in just one year. The idea is to help individuals get back to the world of work as quickly as possible and apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills to further advance their careers.

Focuses on Technical and Creative Aspects of Script Writing

The program covers all aspects of screen writing, including both technical and creative elements. Formatting of screenplays by using specialized computer programs used by professionals is also included in the course. Not only this, the students also learn about what goes into pre-production, production and post-production of a TV show or a film.

The comprehensive program in script writing Toronto also allows students to explore the work of actors and directors, in order to be more effective when writing for screen. They learn to adapt the script according to the personality and the character of actors. This helps them learn how to write the script to fit the demand of a character.

Overall Development of Students

The program is taught through classroom lectures, exercises and practical assignments. The students are also asked to direct the short scenes and present them in front of the audience. They also shoot two short films, while taking care of pre-production, production and post-production aspects of the film making. This helps them put their learning into practice and gain clarity how shows and film are created.

All students, during the program, are expected to write scripts and then perform a monologue, which is filmed. After then they can analyze their performance on their own and understand the need for improvisation.

The program content and assignments are directed towards providing solid working knowledge to students. This is why, more time is spent on practical assignments and directing, writing, shooting and acting.

It's All Drama!

The program in script writing at Centennial doesn't have a split focus. It only covers drama, which includes comedy and all other genres apart from documentary film-making. So, the program is only for those who are looking to enhance their script writing skills in comedy and other genres.

Career Opportunities

Those who were already employed in TV and film production can find appropriate place for them in the form of better and more advanced career opportunities while others can easily break into the industry with specialized education.

As this is a postgraduate program, graduates in any discipline can apply for this program. They need to send their completed application forms along with an updated resume, a letter of intent and a portfolio of their work that may include a film produced or directed or an on-camera audition or a writing sample (preferably a script).

Candidates with partial post-secondary education, but a verifiable portfolio of work representing minimum two years of relevant work experience can also apply for this program.

Benefits of Foundation Certificate Course in Hospitality and Tourism

The foundations certificate in hospitality and tourism provides a route to a diploma or a degree program if you don't have the qualifications to enroll into a course at college or university. It may also be a good choice if you

• Have not studied subjects (in your high school) essential to become eligible for a college or university program
• Are unaware of the hospitality and tourism courses available at colleges and institutes in Canada and their scopes
• Do not have sufficient understanding of the various career paths in hospitality and tourism industry
• The benefits of foundation programs in hospitality and tourism are that these
• Lay a strong emphasis on the use of English in all their aspects. As proficiency in English is the major criterion to be employed in Canada, these courses help students further develop their English language skills.
• Are delivered by experienced professors who help students understand various career options available in this field.
• Include specially crafted learning experiences in the areas of hospitality, tourism and culture.
• Offer individualized attention to participants, as class sizes are small.
• Help students enhance their language standards and communication competence

Program Details

The hospitality and tourism foundations programs typically run for one year through two semesters. The focus is on providing students with the basic understanding of geography and tourism, theory of food fundamentals, sanitation, safety and hygiene, mathematics, life skills, communication skills development and job readiness.

As these are foundations programs, thus, do not include any advanced courses related to either hospitality or tourism. The focus is on helping students understand the industry and various career options it offers them.

In order to apply for foundations courses in tourism and hospitality, students will need to fill and application form and submit required documents, such as a copy of secondary school diploma certificate or mature applicant status and scores in English Skills Assessment conducted by the college. Applicants with scores 130 or 131 in English can begin this program. However, the applications may or may not be sent directly to the colleges. Each college has a different procedure for inviting applications.

Studying Hospitality and Tourism Foundations in Canada

There are a number of colleges offering foundations courses in tourism and hospitality in Canada. However, most colleges offer this program as an "alternate offer" for individuals who apply to their post-secondary programs in the areas of hospitality, tourism and culture, but do not meet admission requirements. Therefore, applicants must carefully research about the course and choose a college where they would want to apply for a post-secondary program after the completion of the foundations course.

Centennial College is considered as one of the most prestigious educational institutions for studying culture, tourism and hospitality. All their courses are recognized and offer a combination of classroom learning and real world experience through industry field placements.

In addition, the college has tie-ups with other universities where students are eligible to apply for advanced hospitality degree courses after completing their college diploma. Moreover, the college provides excellent placement opportunities to graduates of culture, heritage, tourism and hospitality programs.

Becoming a Food Service Worker in Canada

The food service workers are responsible for preparing and presenting/delivering food trays to the staff of the organization they are employed with, while ensuring that food is prepared hygienically, following a standard process. They are expected to understand and communicate the role of nutrition and strictly adhere to the departmental and government regulations. Their main job responsibility is to provide a safe and health dietary environment and ensure that food prepared is free of bacteria and other harmful contaminants.

The food service professionals are typically employed with hospitals, specialty care facilities, acute care facilities, nursing homes, long term care facilities, retirement homes and healthcare cafeterias. They prepare food under the supervision of dieticians and other healthcare practitioners who specialize in nutrition and dietary services.

Becoming a Food Service Worker in Canada

In order to become a food service worker in Canada, interested individuals need to undergo a formal education and training in this field. Employers are keen on hiring only those individuals who have undergone required training and possess hands-on experience in food preparation for healthcare environment.

Basic Education

The aspiring food service professionals must have detailed understanding of the role of a food service worker, safety and sanitation, nutrition in healthcare and kitchen equipment and food preparation. They must be aware of the practical aspects of quantity food production, meal service, basic therapeutic diets, sanitation practices, and nutrition and customer service. With this, they should also be able to communicate with the staff and patients.

In order to gain the required knowledge, they may consider enrolling in a post-secondary food service worker program. This is a one semester full time program in which classes are scheduled for three days a week. The program prepares them to be an effective member of an interpersonal healthcare team.

Practical Training

The program also incorporates a field placement in a healthcare facility, providing students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience while putting their classroom learning into practice.

Students who have completed their secondary school diploma and Grade 12 Workplace level English are eligible to apply for this program. As they will be employed in the healthcare sector, they need to obtain an annual clear police check with vulnerable sector screening, complete mask fit testing and complete a pre-clearance health form by a physician or registered nurse practitioner stating that they meet the health requirements of legislated acts, ministry guidelines and agency policies.

Studying a Food Service Worker Program in Canada

Centennial College’s program in food service is considered to be one of the prestigious programs in the country. This is because the program

• Is developed to meet the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care regulations
• Is designed with input from professional organizations and healthcare employers
• Offers the skills to transfer into two-year food service diploma program and later on in a food service degree program
• Incorporates a four-week field placement in a healthcare facility
• Runs for 15 weeks with 11 weeks of classroom studies and 4 weeks of placement
  
  

This certificate is an essential requirement to work in this field in Canada.