XI. Special Study Opportunities

Open Learning

Continuing Education

The Centre for Open Learning and Educational Support annually offers over 100 professional development programs, courses, conferences, and certificates in collaboration with academic departments and/or professional organizations. For detailed information on learning opportunities offered by the Centre for Open Learning and Educational Support contact us at tel: 519-767-5000; fax 519 767-1114; email: info@coles.uoguelph.ca; website: www.coles.uoguelph.ca; or visit us in Johnston Hall Room 160.

Creative Writing at Guelph and the Creative Writing Certificate

Creative Writing at Guelph is a new program of writing courses in a variety of genres and, for dedicated learners, a focused program of study resulting in a certificate. These new courses open to all, will offer practical guidance in how to generate ideas, take that spark of inspiration to the page, advance your writing skills, and explore your creativity while offering advice about publishing and bringing your work to the world. Join a vibrant community of writers and readers and make creative writing a part of your creative life.

Currently there are ten courses being offered. More courses will be added in the following year. Students register in courses individually and may complete the courses in any order. Not all courses are offered every semester

To be complete the Creative Writing Certificate students are required to complete six courses:

Required Courses:
  • Introduction to Creative Writing

  • Creative Writing through Reading

Students will choose four electives (two in your genre, one outside of your genre speciality)

  • Short Story

  • The Novel

  • Creative Nonfiction

  • Writing for Screen and Stage

  • Poetry

  • Children’s and Young Adult Writing

  • Writing Mystery

To complete the Creative Writing Certificate students must complete a final capstone writing project where students will complete a 75-page manuscript in prose or a 30-page manuscript in poetry.

  • Capstone Writing Project

Creative Writing at Guelph is being delivered in partnership with the Department of English and Theatre Studies and University of Guelph’s Creative Writing MFA program. Students and alumni of this prestigious and nationally regarded graduate program will be involved in course development and the teaching of these new creative writing courses.

For details and to register please see: http://www.creativewritingatguelph.ca

Certificate in Coaching for Leadership

Employee engagement and performance management are essential drivers in high performing organizations. The Coaching for Leadership program focuses on developing your leadership skills using the coach approach.

Courses will examine the necessary components of a coaching culture and assist in developing leadership skills in an online learning environment. Participants will learn about performance management and how to manage conflict to build high trust relationships. The program is focused on leadership development using coaching and communication to engage employees to achieve organizational excellence.

The program consists of four online courses. The courses have been designed to be completed in sequence. Each course is eight (8) weeks in duration resulting in approximately 30 contact hours. There are no formal admission requirements for the program however the course has been designed for senior leaders, managers, supervisors, human resource professionals, project managers and organizational consultants or anyone in a leadership role with direct reports. Participants can complete the certificate program within approximately one (1) year.

Required Courses
  • Creating a Foundation for Leadership Coaching

  • Performance Management Fundamentals

  • The Coach Approach

  • Harness Conflict and Build Trust

To learn more, please visit the website at: http://www.CoachingforLeadership.ca or contact the Centre for Open Learning and Educational Support by email at info@coles.uoguelph.ca or call 519-767-5000.

Certificate In Couple & Family Therapy Studies

(co-sponsored by the Ontario Association for Marriage and Family Therapy)

The Certificate in Couple and Family Therapy Studies is designed to provide practising therapists with specialized training and updating in the needs, problems and changing patterns of couple and family relationships. Systems theory is the primary, although not the only, theoretical orientation within the program. Attention to issues of gender, race, class, ethnicity and culture underlies all aspects of the program. Program faculty are clinical members of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) and AAMFT-approved supervisors.

Courses in this program are designed to meet the education requirements for Clinical Membership in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. All courses are delivered at a level of rigour equivalent to that of a Master's degree and require completion of a formal evaluation component, marked according to University of Guelph grading standards. Individuals successfully completing the required course of study will receive the Certificate in Couple and Family Therapy Studies from the University of Guelph and the Ontario Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. While completion of all six courses in the certificate program is encouraged, students are welcome to take courses for general interest or specific upgrading, provided they have adequate background and/or preparation. It is strongly recommended that students pursue a concurrent program of clinical practice and supervision. Prerequisite: A Bachelor's degree.

Required Courses:
  • Theories & Methods of Family Therapy: Foundations of the Field

  • Theories & Methods: Post-Modern Models

  • Theories & Methods of Couple Therapy

Elective Courses (Choose 3):
  • Change Strategies in Therapy

  • Family Therapy and Mental Health

  • Research in Couple and Family Therapy

  • Systemic Approaches with the Addicted Client: Assessment and Intervention

  • Transition: The Human Life Cycle

  • Professional Issues in Couple and Family Therapy

  • Sexuality Across the Lifespan

  • Families in Transition: Divorce, Single Parenting and Re-Marriage

  • Violence in Families

  • Spirituality: A New Story in Couple and Family Therapy?

  • Advanced Therapy in Couple Relationships

  • Therapy Interventions for Trauma, Abuse and Violence

For details and to apply visit http://www.couplefamilytherapystudies.ca.

Certificate in Real Estate Appraisal

The post graduate Certificate in Real Estate Appraisal is designed to prepare university graduates and undergraduates with a business focus for a career in real property valuation. Accredited with the Appraisal Institute of Canada learners can use this program to meet most of the educational requirements for the AACI designation.

Required Courses:
  • Introduction to Real Estate Appraisal

  • Urban Economics

  • Real Estate Investment Analysis and Advanced Income Appraisal

  • Commercial Property Analysis

  • Case Studies in Appraisal I

  • Case Studies in Appraisal II

Course of Study

The six courses will provide learners with a solid foundation in real estate valuation principles and their application in the appraisal process. Each course is six weeks in length with learners attending four full day classroom sessions on alternate Saturdays. An online discussion board will provide students with instructor support and opportunities for class discussion between the face-to-face sessions.

The courses are held consecutively and the certificate can be completed in less than 12 months.

For more information visit the program website www.realestateappraisal.ca or contact the Centre for Open Learning and Educational Support at 519-767-5000 or info@coles.uoguelph.ca

Diploma in Human Resources Management

Human resources management is critical to achieving organizational effectiveness in today's business environment. Participants will learn how to leverage and develop their skills to achieve creative and innovative organizational goals.

The Diploma in Human Resources Management program curriculum links theory with practice in order to develop HR core competencies and business acumen of a Certified Human Resource Professional. In order to receive your Diploma in Human Resources Management you must complete 10 courses within the program which include nine Human Resources Professional Association (HRPA) approved courses and one online distance education elective. There are no formal admission requirements for individuals interested in registering for most of the courses. Courses are offered in the fall, winter and summer semesters.

Required Courses:
  • Human Resources Administration

  • Organization and Management

  • Finance and Accounting Concepts

  • Occupational Health and Safety

  • Compensation and Benefits

  • Training and Development

  • Labour-Management Relations

  • Human Resources Planning

  • Recruitment and Selection

One subject-appropriate Open Learning program elective course offered through distance education. For a list of subject-appropriate elective courses, please visit the website at: http://www.hrdiploma.com. Elective course must be pre-approved by the Manager, Program Development.

For more information and to apply to this program, visit http://www.hrdiploma.com.

English Language Certificate Program

The English Language Certificate Program is an intensive academic English program designed to prepare ESL students aged 18 and over for academic study at the undergraduate and graduate level. Classes in grammar, reading, writing, listening and speaking help students achieve the advanced level English skill needed to be successful in academic studies. Students who successfully complete the Advanced level earn the University of Guelph Certificate of English Proficiency, which meets the English proficiency requirements for entry into undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Guelph and the University of Guelph-Humber. Applicants are encouraged to have an intermediate English skill level, and an academic goal to study at a university.

Equine Online Certificate Programs

Equine Science Certificate

The Equine Science Certificate is designed to help you improve the management and welfare of horses in your care. The courses are based on scientific research and are presented in a practical format, making it easy for you to directly apply what you have learned to the health and performance of your horse. This program is ideal for the horse owner. The Equine Science Certificate requires you to complete six courses successfully. All of the courses are completed online.

Required Courses:

  • Management of the Equine Environment

  • Health & Disease Prevention

  • Functional Anatomy

  • Equine Nutrition

Elective Courses (Select two):

  • Growth & Development

  • Exercise Physiology

  • Equine Behaviour

  • Equine Genetics

For details and to apply, please see http://www.equinesciencecertificate.com This program is provided in partnership with Equine Guelph, the horse owner’s Centre at the University of Guelph.

Certificate in Equine Business Management

The Certificate in Equine Business Management is for anyone interested in working in the business and management aspects of the equine industry. This certificate program will provide you with the business skills and tools you need to run a successful business including; writing a business plan, developing and implementing marketing and communication strategies including social media, establishing a financial management system and understanding financial reports. The Certificate in Equine Business Management requires you to complete six courses. A selection of courses is offered each semester.

Required Courses:

  • Equine Business Management

  • Management of the Equine Environment

  • The Equine Industry

  • Finance and Risk Management

  • Marketing and Communication in the Equine Industry

Elective Courses(Select one):

  • Equine Journalism

  • Equine Event Management

  • Stewardship of the Equine Environment

For details and to apply, please see http://www.equinebusinesscertificate.com/ This program is delivered in partnership with Equine Guelph, the horse owner’s centre at the University of Guelph.

Equine Veterinary Technicians Certificate

The Equine Veterinary Technicians Certificate will provide equine-specific academic (research and evidence-based) and skill development (practicum’s) for Veterinary Technicians. This program is delivered in partnership with Ridgetown Campus.

Required Courses:

The first three courses are delivered in an online distance education format. The advanced online courses are available to all students who meet the pre-requisite requirements.

  • Advanced Equine Functional Anatomy

    - Pre-requisite is Equine Functional Anatomy or equivalent

  • Advanced Equine Health through Nutrition

    - Pre-requisite is Equine Nutrition or equivalent

  • Advanced Equine Behaviour

    - Pre-requisite is Equine Behaviour or equivalent

The following courses are delivered in a face-to-face practicum. These courses are available to students who are registered in a Veterinary Technology program, have graduated from Veterinary Technology program or are currently a Registered Veterinary Technician or equivalent. International student designations will be considered.

  • Equine Dentistry

  • Equine Reproduction

  • Equine Critical Care

To be awarded the certificate students will have:

  • Completed all courses with a minimum grade of 60 percent

  • Graduated from a recognized Veterinary Technician program or

  • Qualified for the Registered Veterinary Technician designation or equivalent.

For more information contact the Centre for Open Learning and Educational Support at info@coles.uoguelph.ca or 519-767-5000. Program information is available at www.coles.uoguelph.ca/equinevettech

Equine Welfare Certificate

The Equine Welfare Certificate will assist students to become knowledgeable stakeholders on equine welfare issues; able to consider multiple perspectives and to engage in effective dialogue with each other, community members and researchers, thereby assisting the community in recognising equine welfare issues and their solutions.

Pre-Requisite Courses:

  • Management of the Equine Environment

  • Equine Behaviour

  • One other Equine Science Certificate course

Required Courses:

  • Equine Welfare

  • Global Perspectives in Equine Welfare

  • Advanced Equine Behaviour

  • Equine Nutrition OR Advanced Equine Health through Nutrition

Electives (select 2):

  • Health & Disease Prevention

  • Equine Industry

  • Equine Nutrition OR Advanced Equine Health through Nutrition

  • Advanced Equine Anatomy

For details and to apply visit http://www.EquineWelfareCertificate.ca This program is delivered in partnership with Equine Guelph and the Campbell Centre for the Study of Animal Welfare, University of Guelph.

Diploma in Equine Studies

The Diploma in Equine Studies provides a comprehensive course of study and is suitable for those interested in a career in the equine industry. It is comprised of ten online courses and is designed to provide advanced knowledge. A selection of courses is offered each semester. Students who have completed or are currently registered in the Equine Science Certificate program may opt to continue their studies in order to earn the Diploma, and students new to the Diploma in Equine Studies will be provided with a comprehensive starting point.

Required Courses:

  • Management of the Equine Environment

  • Health & Disease Prevention

  • Functional Anatomy

  • Equine Nutrition

  • Equine Behaviour

  • Stewardship in the Equine Environment

Elective Courses (Select Four):

  • Equine Growth & Development

  • Equine Exercise Physiology

  • Equine Genetics

  • The Equine Industry

  • Equine Business Management

  • Finance and Risk Management

  • Marketing and Communication in the Equine Industry

  • Equine Journalism

  • Equine Event Management

For details and to apply, please see http://www.equinestudiesdiploma.com/

This program is delivered in partnership with Equine Guelph, the horse owner’s Centre at the University of Guelph.

Landscape/Horticulture Online Certificate Programs

The Landscape/Horticulture Online Certificate Programs include five certificates and over 20 online/web-based courses. Learners may enrol in one or more individual courses or study towards one or more of the certificates.

Creating Landscapes Certificate

The Creating Landscapes Certificate is designed to provide landscape designers, contractors and gardening enthusiasts with the training and skills necessary for creating desirable outdoor living environments. The program refers to historical influences on modern landscape design and discusses the Design Process. Other topics include management principles for operating a successful business, the physical properties and uses of landscape construction material, and incorporating computer technology in creating successful designs.

Required Courses:

  • Landscape Design I

  • Landscape Design II

  • Introduction to Landscape Construction

  • Introduction to Plant Identification

  • Computer Assisted Design

  • Business Management Principles

For details and to apply, please see http://www.horticulturecertificates.com/.

Maintaining Golf Courses Certificate

The Maintaining Golf Courses Certificate is designed to provide turf managers and golf superintendents with turf identification and management skills, insight into golf course design and construction techniques, tree care, and other best management practices related to the care of golf courses. Challenges such as maintaining healthy playing conditions while respecting environmental needs such as wildlife and water quality are also examined.

Required Courses:

  • Turf Management

  • Irrigation

  • Golf Course Design and Construction

  • Weed Management in Turf

  • Arboriculture

  • Environmental Management of the Golf Course

For details and to apply, please see http://www.horticulturecertificates.com/.

The Horticulturist Certificate

The Horticulturist Certificate is designed especially for gardeners wishing to enhance their knowledge and skills relating to the residential garden environment. The impact of soil conditions are a critical aspect of this study program. Basic horticulture and botany are discussed as are principles of plant care for ensuring optimum health. Students will learn about common plant pests and diseases and their effective treatments. They will also learn to understand how beautiful and functional landscapes are the result of good design strategies and tactics.

Required Courses:

  • Cultural Practices for Plants

  • Introduction to Plant Identification

  • Designing the Landscape

  • Ornamental Plant Protection

  • Introduction to Soils and Plant Growth

  • Weed Management in Horticulture

  • Growing Plants

For details and to apply, please see http://www.horticulturecertificates.com/.

Growing Plants for Profit Certificate

In the Growing Plants for Profit Certificate, students will learn how to effectively grow healthy crops while at the same time implementing sound business practices. Plant propagation techniques are thoroughly discussed as are the specifics of both greenhouse and nursery production. Business skills are offered to guide students through the complexities of running a profitable business operation. Plant identification techniques ensure that learners have a good understanding of the most exciting product choices.

Required Courses:

  • Commercial Greenhouse Crop Production

  • Introduction to Plant Identification

  • Greenhouse Management

  • Nursery Production

  • Plant Propagation

  • Business Management Principles

For details and to apply, please see http://www.horticulturecertificates.com/.

Sustainable Landscapes Certificate

The Sustainable Landscapes Certificate is designed for students who wish to learn about innovative strategies which help fortify the relationships between people, water and land, ensuring best care of natural environments. Design tactics to retain or enhance naturalized landscapes will be examined. Students will gain knowledge about tree health as it relates to both the individual plant and woodland communities.

Required Courses:

  • Alternative Land Use Practices for Sustainable Landscapes

  • Introduction to Plant Identification

  • The Naturalized Landscape

  • An Introduction to Woodland Ecology

  • Arboriculture

For details and to apply, please see http://www.horticulturecertificates.com/.

Sustainable Urban Agriculture/Horticulture Online Certificate Programs

The Sustainable Urban Agriculture/Horticulture Online Certificate Programs include two certificates and nine online/web-based courses. Learners may enrol in one or more individual courses or choose a study path to obtain the certificates.

Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate

The Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate is designed for urban dwellers, city planners and community gardeners interesting in growing food in sustainable manner to support families, neighbourhoods and communities.

Core Courses:

  • Theory and Principles of Sustainable Urban Agriculture and Horticulture

  • Fundamentals of the Role of Plants in Urban Sustainability

  • Sustainable Urban Crop Production

  • Food Processing for Urban Gardeners

Elective Courses - choose one of the following:

  • Ecology of Gardens and Landscapes in an Urban Environment

  • Agricultural Plant Selection for Urban Gardeners

  • Business Management Principles

For details and to apply, please see http://www.urbanhort.ca.

Sustainable Urban Horticulture Certificate

The Sustainable Urban Horticulture Certificate focuses on the environmental, social and economic implications of horticulture in our cities. The program is designed for landscape designers and builders, municipal planners and environmental advocates interested in micro-economic sustainability and maximizing aesthetic and property values through innovative garden design.

Core Courses:

  • Theory and Principles of Sustainable Urban Agriculture and Horticulture

  • Fundamentals of the Role of Plants in Urban Sustainability

  • Naturalizing and Restoring Urban Gardens

  • Sustainability, Economics and Horticulture

Elective Courses - choose one of the following:

  • Ecology of Gardens and Landscapes in an Urban Environment

  • Human Well-Being and the Urban Garden Environment

  • Introduction to Plant Identification

For details and to apply, please see http://www.urbanhort.ca.

University of Guelph
50 Stone Road East
Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1
Canada
519-824-4120