| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-05-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2024-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
This online certificate program focuses on local food system development in Canada, combining academic knowledge with hands-on experience. Participants learn through applied learning, online networking, and community research, gaining the skills to contribute to sustainable local food systems. The program offers a flexible study schedule and emphasizes independent learning, allowing participants to work from home and build online networks with colleagues across the country.
Program Outline
Outline:
This online certificate program focuses on local food system development in Canada. It combines academic knowledge with hands-on experience and covers regional food initiatives and best practices from around the world. Participants learn through applied learning, online networking, and community research.
Program Structure:
- Part-time online program
- 6 compulsory courses
- Maximum completion time: 5 years
Course Outline (2023-2024):
- Field to Fork: Introduction to Local and Global Food Systems (CSSL 26)
- Food System Trends and Policy in Canada Today (CSSL 33)
- Understanding Sustainable Farming: Principles and Practices (CSSL 29)
- Food Security and Food Justice in Canada (CSSL 28)
- Urban Agriculture, Community Gardens, Food Secure Cities (CSSL 30)
- Between Farm and Table: Local Food Businesses and Cooperatives (CSSL 31)
Course Descriptions:
- Field to Fork: Introduction to Local and Global Food Systems (CSSL 26): This course introduces the local food movement and its impact on regional food systems. Students explore the history, principles, and challenges associated with local food production and distribution.
- Food System Trends and Policy in Canada Today (CSSL 33): This course examines the current state of food systems in Canada, focusing on policy changes and emerging trends. Students analyze the impact of these trends on food production, accessibility, and security.
- Understanding Sustainable Farming: Principles and Practices (CSSL 29): This course explores the principles and practices of sustainable farming, covering topics like organic agriculture, crop rotation, and soil health management. Students learn how to apply these principles in different farming contexts.
- Food Security and Food Justice in Canada (CSSL 28): This course examines the concept of food security and explores the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in Canada.
- Urban Agriculture, Community Gardens, Food Secure Cities (CSSL 30): This course examines the role of urban agriculture in creating sustainable and food-secure cities. Students explore the different models of urban agriculture and the benefits they provide.
- Between Farm and Table: Local Food Businesses and Cooperatives (CSSL 31): This course explores the business models and operations of local food businesses and cooperatives.
Careers:
Graduates of the program can find employment opportunities with organizations focusing on local food systems, including non-profit organizations, charities, community research institutions, international development agencies, and restaurants and grocery stores.
Other:
This program is the first of its kind in Canada and offers a cutting-edge advantage for individuals seeking careers in the sustainable local food sector. The program emphasizes independent learning and a flexible study schedule, allowing participants to work from home and build online networks with colleagues across the country.
Conclusion:
The Sustainable Local Food certificate program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to actively contribute to the development of sustainable local food systems in Canada. This comprehensive program offers hands-on learning, an online community environment, and the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a growing field.
St. Lawrence College
Overview:
St. Lawrence College is a public college in Ontario, Canada, offering a wide range of full-time and part-time programs across its three campuses in Kingston, Brockville, and Cornwall, as well as online. The college boasts over 100 programs, including fast-track delivery, graduate certificates, and four-year degrees.
Services Offered:
St. Lawrence College provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic & Student Success:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and other resources to help students succeed in their studies.Athletics & Recreation:
Intramural sports, fitness facilities, and recreational activities.Campus Services:
Information technology services, libraries, parking, and other essential services.Career Services:
Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.Housing:
On-campus residence options for students.Indigenous Services:
Support and resources for Indigenous students.International Services:
Support for international students, including visa assistance and cultural adjustment programs.Student Life:
Student clubs and organizations, social events, and other activities to enhance the student experience.Student Wellness & Accessibility:
Counseling services, accessibility resources, and support for student well-being.Student Life and Campus Experience:
St. Lawrence College offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with opportunities for students to connect with their peers, participate in extracurricular activities, and develop their leadership skills. The college provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Wide Range of Programs:
St. Lawrence College offers a diverse selection of programs across various fields of study, catering to a wide range of interests and career aspirations.Flexible Learning Options:
Students can choose from full-time, part-time, online, and blended learning options to suit their individual needs and schedules.Industry-Relevant Curriculum:
The college's programs are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for success in their chosen fields.Strong Industry Partnerships:
St. Lawrence College has strong connections with local businesses and organizations, providing students with valuable internship and job placement opportunities.Supportive Campus Community:
The college fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students feel supported and encouraged to succeed.Academic Programs:
St. Lawrence College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts, Media & Design:
Graphic Design, Photography, Music, and more.Business:
Business Administration, Marketing, Human Resources, and more.Community and Social Services:
Social Work, Child and Youth Care, and more.Graduate Certificates:
Specialized programs for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.Health Sciences:
Nursing, Paramedicine, and more.Hospitality & Culinary:
Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, and more.Justice Studies:
Criminal Justice, Law and Security, and more.Science & Technology:
Computer Programming, Engineering Technology, and more.Skilled Trades:
Carpentry, Electrician, and more.Other:
St. Lawrence College is committed to sustainability and has been awarded a Silver designation in the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment, and Rating System (STARS) by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). The college also has a strong focus on internationalization and welcomes students from around the world.
