All graduates of diploma programs require general education credits. These courses allow you to explore issues of societal concern by looking at the history, theory and contemporary applications of those issues.
Your program has designated some required general education courses. In addition, you have the opportunity to choose from a list of electives each semester.
Many of these courses and some other general education courses are also available through evening classes, by distance education, or on-line. See our Part-Time Studies Calendar for these opportunities.
You may already possess general education equivalencies from other colleges or universities. Please see the General Education Co-ordinators at the Peterborough and Lindsay locations for possible exemptions.
- Abnormal Psychology SOCI001
Units/ Hours: 45
This course explores the difficulties in defining abnormal behaviour and develops skills in evaluating historical and current theoretical perspectives of abnormality. Issues relating to abnormality in our society today are examined after students are presented with the necessary knowledge to understand a variety of behaviours (and disorders) and their treatments. In order for a student to succeed in this course they need to have general knowledge of basic psychological theory, critical thinking skills, sound writing skills, and the ability to apply material to their field of choice.
- Abnormal Psychology - ONLINE SOCI108
Units/ Hours: 45
Study the signs and symptoms of the major mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, there are discussions about eating and sleeping disorders, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder. An introductory course or experience in basic psychology concepts is helpful, but not required.
- Art History and Theory ARTS812
Units/ Hours: 48
This course is designed to familiarize students with early historical foundations to present day exemplars of art making. World art with an emphasis on Western art history (from renaissance to today) and minor focus on international art (Canadian, Contemporary, Asian, First Nations, Islamic, etc. is covered. Students will be expected to complete required readings, write an essay and final examination. (FA-ARTS1013) Fleming Equivalent to General Education Elective (D. Vanderspek 01/08/2010)
- Canadian Literature LANG065
Units/ Hours: 42
Participants will read selected Canadian literature, including novels and short stories, to analyse and discuss the relevance of setting and plot in relation to Canadian culture and history Students will identify the different types of audiences intended for each literary piece. This course will focus on both reading literature as well as the use of proper written English. Key literary terms, target audiences and events will be discussed for each novel. General Education Elective (Fleming - D. Vanderspek)
- Creative Writing ARTS061
Units/ Hours: 47.5
This course will help you gain access to and develop your inner voice. Learn how to tap into your own creativity and strengthen your writing skills in a supportive workshop environment. Topics include: good beginning, character, dialogue, plot, description and point of view. Step by step, you will experience the various components of the writing process; generating ideas/subject matter, first draft, the writing workshop, the art of revision and the final draft. This course can be taken repeatedly by new writers of fiction, creative non-fiction, and memoir, as well as experienced writers who want to refresh and expand their skills.
- Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic Minds - ONLINE SOCI080
Units/ Hours: 45
You will study how and why some individuals become criminals and why some actually become killers, stalkers, rapists and criminals. Also, the latest techniques used in criminal profiling and questioning will be examined. Note: for a more in-depth understanding of the subject, we recommend taking Abnormal Psychology and/or Introduction to Psychology before taking this course.
- Criminal Psychology II - Criminal Minds SOCI081
Units/ Hours: 45
Does rehabilitation really work for criminals? Do alcohol and drugs cause individuals to commit more crimes? What motivates cult members, racists and terrorists into committing acts of violence? This course further explores issues discussed in Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic Minds, and compares and explains psychological models as they relate to criminology. Approved General Education Elective (D. Vanderspek 01/08./2010- Fleming)
- Critical Thinking GNED010
Units/ Hours: 45
This course develops the skills of reasonable, reflective thinking in order to ask important questions from a range of contemporary issues in science, medicine, politics, popular culture, and family life. The goal is to develop the skills and attitudes of analytical, skeptical inquiry in order to become more confident participants and decision-makers in our communities, families, and workplaces. The course is driven by discussion and reflection, and activities are varied between readings, multi-media presentations, and lively in-class debates. Critical Thinking is a hybrid course, combining both classroom and online learning experiences.
- Critical Thinking SOCI075
Units/ Hours: 45
How do your own hidden assumptions, values, and biases affect your decision making? In this collaborative environment, you will analyze the manipulative techniques used by individuals, vested interest groups and the media. Learn how to identify both false and misleading arguments. In addition, you will write argument papers in which you trace the history of a social/political issue in Canadian society, and present arguments, supported by research, that take a stand on the issue.
- Cults & Terrorism SOCI082
Units/ Hours: 45
This course will focus on conformity issues surrounding religious fundamentalism, sects, cults, and terrorist groups. The reasons why people join, and why they may have a difficult time leaving, will be examined. Society's contributions to supporting cultic groups will be explored. Strategies for protecting individuals and vulnerable populations from cultic and terrorist activity will be developed. Fleming - approved Gen. Ed. elective (D. Vanderspek - 01/03/2010
- Developing Effective Teams ORGB013
Units/ Hours: 45
Teams are a critical component of our personal, educational, organizational and societal lives. Successful teams don't just happen. This course teaches the formula for team success. Students will use effective tools and strategies to help any team become high performing which will better prepare students to achieve successful team membership in voluntary, public or private organizations. This course is a blended learning course. Students will attend the lecture hour in the first 7 weeks of the course where the framework for team success is taught and applied. For the lectures in weeks 9-15, students do not attend the lecture hour but instead will be expected to work independently utilizing the web to prepare for the face to face 2 hour seminar. This self-directed learning may include targeted readings, audio lectures, web surfing as well as team building activities and applications. On line and face to face learning is integrated in order to maximize the quality of the student?s learning experience.
- Developmental Psychology SOCI083
Units/ Hours: 45
This course is a detailed examination of human growth and development from conception to death. Participants will study the progression of physical, motor, intellectual, language, social and moral development through the human life span. Fleming approved Gen. Ed. Elective - D. Vanderspek (01/03/2010)
- Digital Imagery: The Artistic Element GNED072
Units/ Hours: 45
This course will provide the student learner with the opportunity to explore the natural environment. They will develop artistic skills and technical knowledge related to capturing and sharing observations, specifically for the purpose of biological and environmental documentation. Basic skills for using both a film based, 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera and digital cameras will be shared through lectures, demonstrations, hands-on field practice, critiques and personal photographic projects. Students will develop and create a personal photo portfolio.
- Domestic & Workplace Violence SOCI084
Units/ Hours: 45
This course examines family, school yard and workplace violence. Issues such as how and why co-dependency exists, the battered wife syndrome and abusive males will be addressed. Students will also examine why bullying exists in schools, and why confrontation can escalate into violence in the workplace. Strategies for dealing with domestic, schoolyard and workplace violence will be explored. Conflict resolution strategies will be developed. Fleming approved Gen. Ed. Elective (D. Vanderspek 01/03/2010)
- Entrepreneurship BUSN050
Units/ Hours: 42
This subject has been developed to introduce students to the disposition, concepts and skills necessary to express their entrepreneurial spirit in the form of a business. An examination of an entrepreneur and entrepreneurship will be supplemented by an examination of the expression of entrepreneurism in the business world. Contemporary expressions of entrepreneurism and intrepreneurism, their contribution to the economy, their role in the changing workplace, and their role in global business will also be explored. Students will complete an entrepreneurial business plan in stages throughout the course. Equivalent to BUSN02 - Business Essentials (R. Legacy - 2010/03/03) Fleming approved Gen. Ed. Elective - D. Vanderspek - 01/03/2010
- Environmental Citizenship ENVR039
Units/ Hours: 45
Based on the general principles of national citizenship, environmental citizenship goes beyond national borders to emphasize global environmental rights and responsibilities to focus on both conversation of and planned sustainable use of our planet's resources, as well as the recognition that environmental health is a prerequisite to human health. Environmental citizenship is a personal commitment to learning more about the enviroment and to taking responsible environmental action. This course is a journey into adopting attitudes and behaviours that foster global environmental responsibility. Equivalent to: GEN. ED. ELECTIVE (G. Bonczak - 2007/05/18)
- Environmental Ethics GNED093
Units/ Hours: 36
This course is an introduction to environmental ethics. The overriding question in environmental ethics is whether or not we have any moral obligation to the environment, and if so, to what extent? Does nature have value in itself, or do humans place value on nature? How can we decide what kinds of behaviours are `right' or `wrong' towards nature? In answering these questions, we will examine various moral theories that relate to nature, and examine how well they can be applied to environmental issues. We will also examine specific topics to see in what ways they are, in fact, moral issues and not just about physical facts. Topics will include animal rights, non-Western views on nature, the ethics of food, obligations to future generations, and environmental justice. Prerequisite: successful completion of college-level writing course is strongly recommended. Equivalent to: GNED15 (Fleming) Fleming approved Gen. Ed. Elective - 01/03/2010 - D. Vanderspek
- Ethical Issues in Business BUSN036
Units/ Hours: 45
Students will be introduced to the study of Ethics and the case study method. Cases will be drawn from real business situations. Using a combination of research papers and case studies, students will be required to discuss the cases, papers and solutions in class. Reports and presentations of various cases will be used to determine the students' grades. Equivalent to: Fleming BUSN11 (R. Turner - 2010/08/18) Fleming - Gen. Ed. Elective - 2010/03/01 - D. Vanderspek)
- French 1 (OL) LANG024
Units/ Hours: 42
Aims at building a vocabulary such as numbers (1-100), days, months, seasons, members of the family, salutations, asking questions, as well as giving the answers. Also covers: the verbs etre, avoir, and groups of verbs in er in the present tense and future tense with aller affirmative and negative. Emphasis is placed on development of oral comprehension of day-to-day communication. (Formerly Francais 1) EQUIVALENT TO LANG2. Approved. Gen. Ed. Elective - 2010/03/01 D. Vanderspek
- Geography & Tourism TOUR049
Units/ Hours: 45
This course examines the world landscapes as well as associated cultural and historical phenomena. Contemporary theories in the earth sciences such as geological time, plate tectonics, processes of erosion and factors affecting climate are explored. The course is intended for students who wish to know more about how the physical, cultural and historical elements of the world landscape combine to make each designated region interesting and unique. Approved as Gen. Ed. Elective (Fleming - D. Vanderspek - 01/09/2011)
- Global Warming Concepts - ONLINE GNED090
Units/ Hours: 30
Develop an awareness of the current scientific certainties in global warming versus what is not certain, historical and current political issues at a global and national level, including topics such as the Kyoto agreement, ethical responsibilities of individuals, corporations, and governments, and the conflictions between economic development and the environment. This course provides the opportunity for students to develop greater understanding of social awareness and the relationship between science, technology and an individual's responsibility to society and the environment.
- Human Growth and Development SOCI025
Units/ Hours: 45
This course is designed to give the student a basic understanding of the normal patterns of growth and development at various stages within the life cycle from infancy through to old age. The major theories of development will be examined to enhance understanding of this field of study.
- Human Sexuality GNED022
Units/ Hours: 45
This course draws on historical, theoretical, cross-cultural and life cycle perspectives of sexual attitudes, behaviours, development and experiences. Topics will include gender relations, body image, sexual diversity, arousal and response, mating, dating and interpersonal attraction, sex education, sexual health and issues of power/intimacy. Students will have the opportunity to examine their own values related to human sexuality during the seminars.
- Human Sexuality SOCI085
Units/ Hours: 45
This analysis of human sexuality draws on historical, theoretical, cross cultural, and life cycle perspectives of sexual attitudes, behaviours, development, and experiences. Selected topics may include, gender relations, body image, sexual diversity, arousal and response, mating, dating, and interpersonal attraction, interpersonal communication, sex education, sexual health or risk, and issues of power or intimacy. Equivalent to: Fleming GNED22 (C. Shields - May 5, 2010) Approved Gen. Ed. elective (Fleming) - 01/03/2010 - D. Vanderspek
- Humanities GNED099
Units/ Hours: 45
This course focuses on some of the fundamental questions individuals ask of themselves as they proceed through life. Why are we the way we are? Do we have free will or are we prisoners of our past experiences or of our biology? What motivates societies to change? Why do social changes often divide people into opposing camps? Why does work merely "kill time" for so many people? What constitute good government? How should injustice be fought? Can nations deal with global issues? Can scientists provide the solutions to the problems they create? Is objectivity about art (or anything) possible? These questions are organized into units that begin with issues concerning the nature of the individual and then extend outward to various social, cultural, and physical contexts. This course qualifies as a General Education credit and is a compulsory course for the Certificate in the Study of Human Behoviour Program 09711. Fleming approved Gen. Ed. elective - 01/03/2010 D. Vanderspek
- Intercultural Communication - Introduction - ONLINE COMM100
Units/ Hours: 42
Learn the definition of culture and explore intercultural communication theories (for example, differences in gestures, personal spaces, and customs). Enhance your ability to communicate with people from different origins comfortably. This course is of interest to workers in health, education, human services and businesses that have regular interactions with people of from other cultures.
- Intro to E-Business - ONLINE COMP208
Units/ Hours: 45
Develop an understanding of the current practices and opportunities in electronic publishing, electronic shopping, electronic distribution, and electronic collaboration. Security, authentication, privacy, encryption, safeguarding of intellectual property rights, acceptable use policies, and legal
- Introduction to Children's Literature - ONLINE COMM053
Units/ Hours: 42
Acquire an overview of children?s literature, its history and development, and its rich variety of forms and techniques. This course focuses on major authors in children?s literature and on the important issues presented in those works that have captivated children and adult readers over time. (This subject may contain material that some may find offensive.)
- Introduction to Psychology SOCI036
Units/ Hours: 45
This course offers a systematic approach to exploring human behaviour. The concepts and empirical findings are examined using a variety of theoretical approaches. Major topics include perception, motivation, learning, memory, intelligence, and personality.
- Introduction to Psychology - ONLINE SOCI072
Units/ Hours: 42
To understand ourselves and interact appropriately with others, we must first understand the basis for behaviour. The study of psychology provides you with an understanding of why people think and act as they do. Examine the scientific process of research, the human brain and the nervous system, sensation and perception, learning, memory and personality.
- Introduction to Science SCIE104
Units/ Hours: 45
This course introduces the student to notations for scientific measurement, basic chemical principles, elements and compounds, nuclear weight, organic chemistry and health related biological principles. Approved (Fleming) as Gen. Ed. Elective - D. Vanderspek 01/03/2010
- Introduction to Sociology - ONLINE SOCI079
Units/ Hours: 42
Study the concept of people's relationship to society as a whole and the effect of society on them. The concepts, theories and methods of sociology will be introduced and discussed with particular emphasis on the dynamics of Canadian society and Canadian social problems.
- Introduction to Sustainable Development ECOS032
Units/ Hours: 45
This course in intended to introduce the concept of sustainable development to a broad audience. The course will discuss the environmental, economic and social impacts that affect the sustainability of our communities. The course will investigate the development of human populations and how their energy and nutritional needs have compromised the natural ecosystems. Social and economic factors will be explored that will lead to greater social equality and more sustainability in the world economy. Individual responsibility to sustainability through lifestyle changes will be examined.
- Issues in Diversity SOCI038
Units/ Hours: 45
In this course students will critically identify and examine issues in diversity. Specifically, students will focus on topics pertaining to inequality in various social settings, including but not limited to: race, gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Incorporating social/legal explanations of diversity, students will develop a clear understanding of the impacted groups and possible strategies of community empowerment.
- Myths and Legends SOCI090
Units/ Hours: 42
This subject examines the similarities and differences of world mythology and legends. By discussing stories from different cultures, students will see the common threads of the human experience. Prerequisite: College English or equivalent Fleming - approved as Gen. Ed. Elective (D. Vanderspek 01/03/2010)
- Nutrition HLTH055
Units/ Hours: 42
Do you feel stressed out? Do you eat when you're not hungry? Are you tired all the time? These are only some of the side effects of not living a balanced lifestyle. This course will teach you how to put control back into your life. In the first half of the course, we analyze how nutrients breakdown and work together in the body. In the second half, we discuss issues and theories involving health and nutrition. (Previously called Body and Nutrition.) (SE-NAT160)Prerequisite: College English or equivalent. Fleming - approved as Gen. Ed. Elective (D. Vanderspek - 01/03/2010)
- Political Science/Public Administration LAWS202
Units/ Hours: 42
The political science portion of this course provides an introduction to the democratic system of governing in Canada. It includes a description of the organization of the three levels of government: federal, provincial and municipal. The interaction of each government level, the democratic election and legislative processes are discussed. The course includes the services of each level of government, the daily problems and issues facing Canadians, and the impact on the fields of law enforcement by public opinion and special interest groups. The public administration portion of this course focuses on organizational theories as they pertain to public administration. Students will explore the organizational administrative workings, and interaction among federal, provincial and local governments. Students will develop an awareness of dominant and underlying issues related to law enforcement that affect the formal and informal political, public administration and management processes. EQUIVALENT TO LAWS43 AS PER SHAUNA LONGMUIR/GREG CONNOLLEY (2009/01/15). APPROVED GEN. ED. ELECTIVE (Fleming) - 01/03/2010 - D. Vanderspek
- Practical Science GNED095
Units/ Hours: 45
Practical Science will challenge students' curiosity and critical thinking skills in order to explore, investigate, and propose explanations for current scientific questions of personal and social importance. Using practical applications of the scientific method,students will learn to pose and test hypotheses, report findings, and reflect on their growth as scientific thinkers. Students will also have the opportunity to interact with faculty independently and within small groups to introduce projects, report on progress, and share findings.
- Professional Portfolio Development GNED033
Units/ Hours: 45
Get the Work You Want! This course will assist post-secondary students to locate and win positions they want in the workplace. The use and development of a professional portfolio will be emphasized. Through career analysis self-assessment, goal setting, and portfolio development participants will improve their ability to link their skills and knowledge to appropriate career positions. The basics of job searching will be enhanced with sessions on electronic resume posting, web site searches, and online job links. Participants will complete this course with the foundation of a professional portfolio and the knowledge to find the work they want.
- Psychology Of Sport GNED035
Units/ Hours: 45
This course is designed to assist students' personal development in the areas of sport and exercise. As such, the student will be provided with the basic understanding of psychological principles as they relate to their behaviour in sport and exercise contexts. Sport psychology applies to a broad population base such as: elite athletes, children, the physically and mentally challenged, seniors, and the average participant. The focus is on the application of research findings in order to understand how participating in physical activity affects a person's psychological development.
- Racism & Discrimination LAWS164
Units/ Hours: 42
This course will target racism and discrimination that are observed in the Canadian multiculturalism context. Learners are able to identify types of discriminations and racisms based on our cultural values and find the connection between discrimination and the society. We will also analyze sociological factors such as the media that could cause biases and prejudice. The objective of this course is to enhance the sensitivity and intolerance of the mistreatment based on racial or ethnic background and to consider how to handle these issues as occupational professionals and individuals in this pluralistic society. (LO-LAWS8007) Approved (Fleming) Gen. Ed. Elective - 01/03/2010 D. Vanderspek
- Resume Building and Career Development GNED091
Units/ Hours: 36
This course provides an opportunity to design and create a resume and other job search documents that are effective in today's workplace. A portfolio of employment documents will be started. Industry and employer expectations will be researched and incorporated into career development strategies. Interview techniques to gather information and to conduct an interview process will be practised. The student will develop confidence to job search in today's marketplace.
- Science Fiction SOCI095
Units/ Hours: 42
Science Fiction shows you other worlds: it describes possible future societies and the problems lurking ahead. It also shows how human beings can and do create these future worlds - that our future is in our hands. Science fiction stands as a 'bridge between science and art, between the engineers of technology and the poets of humanity.' Approved Gen. Ed. Elective - 01/03/2010 D. Vanderspek
- Social Psychology SOCI127
Units/ Hours: 42
Social psychology is the scientific study of how people think about, interact, influence and relate to others. The course will emphasize understanding about how and why individuals behave, think and feel in social situations. Of particular importance will be the study of the individual, their thoughts and resultant behaviour in social situations. Approved Gen. Ed. Elective 01/03/2010 D. Vanderspek
- Social Psychology SOCI059
Units/ Hours: 45
This course is designed to assist students' personal development and understanding of social relationships in a culturally diverse world. The emphasis is on the development of social and interpersonal skills to foster effective work teams and personal relationships.
- The Histories, Cultures and Traditions of Indigenous North America GNED049
Units/ Hours: 45
This course focuses on the study of First Nations peoples in the Americas (Turtle Island), from a First Nations perspective. Study will encompass the historical, cultural, and political realities of aboriginal America. This course will respect the oral traditions of First Nations peoples as much as possible.
- The Hockey Hall of Fame Presents RECR083
Units/ Hours: 42
This subject details the incredible growth of Canada's national pastime, including the NHL's formation, the 'original six' and national and international expansion. Prerequisite: EAC149 or equivalent. Approved Gen. Ed. Elective (Fleming) - 2010/03/01 D. Vanderspek
- Virtual Culture GNED041
Units/ Hours: 45
The Internet is a powerful tool that can take you places and expose you to experiences which you might not be able to enjoy in 'reallife'. Through Virtual Culture, you take excursions to the world of culture on the Internet. Explore your own culture and those of the people around you. Learn a new language and communicate across cultures. Go to art galleries, museums, concerts and movies. Read literature and listen to storytellers. See how the Internet can be used to challenge culture. Through these excursions, you will be able to reflect on how the Internet has an impact on learning about and enjoying many aspects of culture.This course meets the General Education requirements in cultural understanding, arts and language, and understanding technology.
- What in the World is Going On? SOCI110
Units/ Hours: 42
Every day, the TV or newspaper's front page confronts us with people, places, and issues from around the world. Every story has a background: cultural, religious, political, or economic. Without this background, it is hard to make informed judgements. This subject focuses on the main international news stories. Approved as a General Education Elective - 01/03/2010 D. Vanderspek
- World of Work GNED060
Units/ Hours: 42
This course prepares students for the world of work by leading them through a process of exploring changes in the marketplace, researching their intended fields, and developing skills related to acquiring desirable employment. Students learn how to uncover their strengths, understand their motivations, establish goals and become successful workers in an ever-changing environment. Approved as Gen. Ed. Elective (D. Vanderspek - 01/09/2011)
