Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I am the right fit for this program?

This program is well-suited for students who:

  • Wish to expand their career options in the environmental industry.
  • Enjoy a hands-on approach to working in the outdoor and built environment.
  • Are critical and innovative thinkers.
  • Are able to analyze, evaluate and apply relevant information from a variety of sources.
  • Are independent learners.

What is a graduate certificate?

Graduate Certificate programs are open to applicants with at least some post-secondary education at the university or college level. Most graduate certificate programs will require a degree or diploma credential. Graduate Certificate programs are more specialized and taught at a higher level than diploma or college certificate programs.

How long is this graduate certificate program?

The program duration is eight months for the non co-op stream and up to 12 months for the co-op stream.

How does the optional paid co-op work?

Cooperative education (Co-op) allows students to integrate their classroom learning with real-world experience through paid work terms. Two academic terms prior to the cooperative education work term, students are required to actively participate in and successfully complete the self-directed co-op online readiness activities and in-person workshops.

Students must actively conduct a guided, self-directed job search and are responsible for securing approved program-related paid co-op employment. Students compete for co-op positions alongside students from Algonquin and other Canadian and international colleges and universities. Algonquin College’s Co-op Department provides assistance in developing co-op job opportunities and facilitates the overall process, but does not guarantee that a student will obtain employment in a co-op work term. Co-op students may be required to re-locate to take part in the co-op employment opportunities available in their industry and must cover all associated expenses; e.g., travel, work permits, visa applications, accommodation and all other incurred expenses.

Co-op work terms are typically 14 weeks in duration and are completed during a term when students are not taking courses.

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

Where do students get co-op placements and where do they work after graduation?

Students who participate in co-op placements gain valuable on-the-job experience, and the opportunity to build their contacts, and make a favourable impression on the employer. Co-op students have the opportunity to complete their term at water and wastewater treatment facilities, conservation authorities, power plants, engineering companies, consulting firms and in applied research. Many employers use co-op as a means to groom students for future employment with the company.

Are there any additional fees for this program?

Yes. Additional program-related expenses include:

  • Books cost approximately $600.
  • Students will need to purchase 1 full-length lab coat, and 1 pair of CSA approved safety glasses. Students will also be required to conduct fieldwork, and should have denim pants or coveralls, long sleeves, CSA approved steel toe boots, puncture-resistant work gloves, CSA approved hard hat and eye protection. The estimated cost of this equipment for the program is $275.