The University of Guelph serves the learning needs of people from a variety of age groups whose educational requirements may not match the program structure or services available through full-time undergraduate study. The adoption of the philosophy of lifelong learning, changes in the demographic characteristics of our communities, the explosion of new knowledge, and the effect of rapid technological advances on professional competence are major factors underlying the University's commitment towards alternative approaches to providing education through open learning.

Open Learning and Educational Support (OpenEd)

Open Learning and Educational Support (OpenEd) is an integral part of the University of Guelph’s learner centred and research-intensive mission.

As leaders in education, OpenEd creates innovative and relevant educational opportunities that meet the learning needs of a local and international audience. OpenEd is guided by learner-centred principles that are reflected in its diverse programs and rich learning experiences for traditional and lifelong learners. OpenEd intentionally integrates pedagogy with technology in the design, development and delivery of its educational programs. Through research and collaboration, it engages in scholarship to advance the teaching and learning mandate of the University of Guelph.

OpenEd supports University of Guelph educators and programs to improve curriculum, teaching practices, and the quality of student learning outcomes.

In partnership with academic departments, OpenEd works with faculty to create and maintain interactive and engaging online learning experiences using instructional design best practices, evidence-based pedagogical approaches, and appropriate educational technologies that support identified learning outcomes

Additionally, OpenEd engages in a wide range of activities to develop, administer, and support educational technology at the institution, both in the classroom as well as in the online environment.

The Open Learning Program (OLP)

The Open Learning program is an open-admission program that provides anyone, regardless of their academic background, with an opportunity to register for University of Guelph online degree-credit courses.

Students may choose to register in the Open Learning program for personal enrichment, professional development, eventual application to a degree program, or to satisfy requirements from another post-secondary institution.

Open Learning program students can expect to have the same workload, assignments, and examinations as those in a degree program. Upon successful course completion, they will receive the same credit weight as students in a degree program.

Please visit the Open Learning and Educational Support website for more information. 

Continuing Education (CE) Option

Our non-degree certificate and diploma programs provide the fundamental training and skills development necessary for career advancement or entry into new employment fields. We have many external partners in industry, government and other educational institutions, and we work with these partners to ensure that our non-degree programs align with industry requirements. As well, many of our non-degree courses and programs are approved and/or accredited by various professional associations.

Please contact the Open Learning program Counsellor for more information.

Guaranteed Admission to a B.A. Program

Open Learning program students who have no previous post-secondary experience and have completed four degree-level courses (2.00 credits) with a 70% minimum cumulative average may transfer into a B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) program at the University of Guelph.

Applicants are advised to complete two courses (1.00 credit) from the College of Arts and two courses (1.00 credit) in the Social Sciences. Please note that applicants are not eligible for direct entry to CJPP or co-op programs. For the Economics or Mathematical Economics majors, students must have Advanced Functions (MHF4U) or the equivalents.

Contact the Open Learning program Counsellor or visit the Open Learning and Educational Support website for more information about the Guaranteed Admission Pathway.

Guaranteed Admission to the B.Comm. Program

Open Learning program students with no previous post-secondary education will be offered guaranteed admission to the Bachelor of Commerce (B.Comm.) degree program under the following conditions.

1. Applicants must satisfy the English proficiency requirements (see the Undergraduate Calendar, Chapter IV Admission, English Proficiency).
2. Successful completion of four degree-level courses (2.00 credits) with a minimum cumulative average of 70% in at most, six course (3.00 credits) attempts. The four courses (2.00 credits) used in the calculation of the cumulative average will include any degree-level courses used to meet the English and mathematics requirements and must satisfy the following:
   1. at least 1.00 credits must be from arts and social sciences
   2. no more than 1.00 credits from mathematics and statistics combined may be used to calculate the cumulative average
3. Applicants must satisfy the following English and mathematics requirements:
   English Requirement
   A grade of 75% or higher in English 12U or the successful completion of one course (0.50 credits) from:

   Course List

   Code	Title	Credits
   ENGL*1030	Effective Writing	0.50
   ENGL*1200	Reading the Contemporary World	0.50
   GEOG*1220	Explaining Environmental Change	0.50
   SOC*1100	Sociology	0.50
   WMST*1000	Introduction to Women's Studies	0.50

   Mathematics Requirement
   A grade of 75% or higher in the 12U mathematics course(s) is required for the applicant's intended major or the successful completion of MATH*1030 Business Mathematics.

Contact the Open Learning program Counsellor or visit the Open Learning and Educational Support website for more information about the Guaranteed Admission Pathway.

Open Learning Program Certificates and Diplomas

• Certificate in Accounting
• Certificate in Business
• Certificate in Environmental Citizenship
• Certificate in Environmental Conservation
• Certificate in Food Science
• Certificate in Hospitality Studies
• Certificate in Leadership
• Certificate in Public Policy and Administration

Refer to Certificates and Diplomas in this section for descriptions or visit the Certificate/Diploma page on the OpenEd Student Portal.

Open Learning Program Courses

Please refer to Distance Education in this section for courses offered through the Open Learning program.

Visit the OpenEd website for technical and material requirements.

Distance Education

Open Learning and Educational Support (OpenEd) facilitates the delivery of online degree-credit courses to students. Online courses provide students with a flexible alternative in course scheduling. OpenEd assists in course development and preparation and is the focal point of this activity by providing information, student support, and administration. Please refer to the Distance Education heading in this section for the listing of courses offered through the distance format.

Visit the OpenEd website for more information about distance education.

Continuing Education (CE) Programs

Open Learning and Educational Support annually offers over 100 professional development programs, courses, conferences, diplomas, and certificates in collaboration with academic departments and/or professional organizations. For detailed information on learning opportunities offered by OpenEd, please visit the Open Learning and Educational Support website.

Certificate in Advanced Interpersonal Skills for PSW Practice

Personal support workers (PSWs) play a critical role in the health care team, and in ensuring that quality of life is maintained for the persons in their care. Advanced interpersonal skills are essential to PSW practice - they help to build connection with clients and colleagues, enhance the ability to adapt to new situations, and support personal and professional resiliency.

Through practical application and critical reflection, you will grow your ability to respond proactively and creatively to the complex care needs of your clients and the challenges of a demanding work environment, while developing transferrable skills that are highly desirable to employers in all sectors.

This fully online, asynchronous, instructor-led program consists of five micro-credentials that are five weeks each in length. Upon the completion of each micro-credential, you will earn a digital badge that can be shared with current and future employers to convey the skills that you have developed. By completing all five micro-credentials, you will earn a Certificate in Advanced Interpersonal Skills for PSW Practice from the University of Guelph.

To learn more, please visit the Certificate in Advanced Interpersonal Skills for PSW Practice website. 

Cheese Maker Certificate

Offered by the Department of Food Science, the Cheese Maker Certificate program provides instruction in all aspect of cheese making - scientific and technological principles of cheese making, unit operations, cheese technologies from A – Z, safety, quality control, grading and more. The program also offers an ongoing opportunity for any cheesemaker to attend Master Classes that focus on particular cheese varieties or technologies.

The certificate consists of four required core courses, two master classes and an internship. The Introductory to Cheese Making course is optional for those who have experience in cheese making. The Cheese Making Certificate courses and the internship can be completed over two years or up to six years. The internship can be done in the second year.

If you have any questions about the Cheese Maker Certificate or courses, please email: fsevents@uoguelph.ca or visit https://www.uoguelph.ca/foodscience/cheese-maker-certificate/.

The Advanced Certificate in Couple and Family Therapy Studies (CFTS) program is designed to provide specialized training and/or professional development in the theory, concepts and practices that inform needs, problems, and changing patterns of couple and family relationships. For therapists working within an organization or private practice, the focus of the program is on clinical or direct client service. Systems theory is the primary, although not the only, theoretical orientation within the program.

Courses in the Advanced Certificate in Couple and Family Therapy Studies cover the theory, concepts, and approaches of couple and family therapy practice. These courses introduce the major theories and central concepts that form the foundations of couple, family, and marriage therapy. They focus on the historical development of systemic therapy and introduce several models of therapy, such as: Cognitive-Behavioural, Experiential, Bowenian, Contextual, Structural, Strategic and many other models. A comparative analysis of the various models assists students in placing the various therapy tools into an integrated framework. The courses use a variety of teaching and learning methods to effectively translate theories into practical methods for contemporary therapists. Examples of active learning strategies utilized to promote student engagement include: case studies, small group discussions, small group work projects, activities that utilize movement (e.g., role-plays, fish bowl, etc.). Students should anticipate that many discussions and interactive activities require reflection and sharing from personal and or professional experience with class members and the instructor.

The certificate program consists of three (3) required core courses and three (3) elective courses that must be successfully completed within five (5) years.

The certificate is provided in partnership with the Canadian Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (CAMFT).

To learn more, please visit the Advanced Certificate in Couple and Family Therapy Studies website.

Creative Writing Certificate

If you are an aspiring writer looking to get serious about your craft then the Creative Writing Certificate program is designed for you. Take advantage of an opportunity to explore a variety of genres, improve your writing, and develop the tools to master a significant writing project.

The Creative Writing Certificate offers a series of writing courses in a variety of genres that enables you to focus your learning on the techniques of creative writing. The program offers you practical guidance in how to generate ideas, take that spark of inspiration to the page, advance writing skills and explore creativity while offering advice about publishing and being a writer.

The Creative Writing Certificate program consists of six courses: two required courses, a choice of three electives, and a final capstone project. Course activities include peer workshopping, reading, and story revision. All program instructors are experienced writers with published works.

With a total of six courses to complete, this certificate will provide you with the knowledge and skills to create your own literary works.

To learn more, please visit the Creative Writing Certificate website.

Data Science Certificate

The online Data Science Certificate reviews and provides a solid understanding of data science and the role of the data scientist in the real-world environment. Participants will learn how to use data analytics, predictive analytics and big data tools to understand the basic technical concepts and challenges of Big Data. The programs’ final course will include a capstone project that draws on skills gained from the curriculum to address a real-world problem.

Admission to the program requires an Undergraduate degree or College diploma, and successful completion of a basic Statistics course.

In order to receive your Data Science Certificate, you must complete the three online courses sequentially. The program can be completed within one year.

To learn more, please visit the Data Science Certificate website.

Certificate in Disability Management

The Certificate in Disability Management program provides students with an opportunity to explore concepts and utilize evidence -based best practices to advance their knowledge and skills in disability case management, attendance management, and employee support. Within each of these focuses, legal obligations and ethical responsibilities are explored.

The program’s design utilizes a highly interactive learning approach, engaging students in case studies and real-life scenarios to provide a deeper analysis of the many approaches, roles, complexities, and challenges in the field and specific functions.

There are no admission requirements. The certificate is achieved by successfully completing four different courses within the program offerings.

The certificate is provided in partnership with the Ontario Association of School Business Officials. To learn more, please visit the Certificate in Disability Management website.

DNA Barcoding Courses

Explore DNA Barcoding, PCR, next generation sequencing and environmental DNA (eDNA), to monitor biodiversity and obtain precise species identification, authentication and traceability through online courses developed by the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics. Gain an introduction to and history of DNA barcoding and its application as a standard for species identification. Metabarcoding reviews the state of the current technology and the suite of bioinformatics tools available for sequence analysis and data interpretation. Regulatory and forensic applications of DNA barcoding can trace and authenticate to the species level substitutes or counterfeits in traded commodities and pests. Standard operating workflows will give you the tools to develop routine protocols and integrative operational procedures.

Admission to this program requires, at minimum, a high school leaving certificate or secondary school diploma with biology credits.

These courses are provided in partnership with the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics at the University of Guelph.

To learn more, please visit the DNA Barcoding website.

Certificate in Facilities Management

The Certificate in Facilities Management provides students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to manage and lead the Ontario School Board’s infrastructure in a way that meets legal requirements and regulating authorities’ standards, ensures facility sustainability and creates green learning environments for students and communities, as well as engenders employee engagement.

There are no admission requirements. The certificate is achieved by successfully completing four different courses from within the program offerings.

The certificate is provided in partnership with the Ontario Association of School Business Officials.

To learn more, please visit the Certificate in Facilities Management website.

Certificate in Human Resources Management for School Board Administration

The Certificate in Human Resources Management for School Board Administration program is designed for Ontario school board professionals who wish to develop and/or enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities in effective human resources management as it relates to the uniqueness of the school board environment. The curriculum reflects the current and relevant information, critical issues, and challenges facing human resources professionals within Ontario school boards.

There are no admission requirements. The certificate is achieved by successfully completing four different courses from within the program offerings.

The certificate is provided in partnership with the Ontario Association of School Business Officials.

To learn more, please visit the Certificate in Human Resources Management for School Board Administration website.

Diploma in Human Resources Management

The Human Resources Management diploma program has been developed to provide you with the fundamental knowledge, skills and values to become a successful HR professional. The courses--many approved by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA)--have been designed to assist you with understanding the day-to-day realities of working within the HR field. The courses include a mix of lectures, case studies, small group work, simulations and role playing. Our program instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and relevant work experience to the classroom. These experts will guide and coach you to develop the core competencies required to be proficient in the field of HR. If you are interested in a career in HR or are already working as an HR professional and looking to upgrade your skills, then the HR Management diploma program may be just right for you.

In order to receive your Diploma in Human Resources Management you must complete ten (10) courses within the program which include nine (9) Human Resources Professional Association (HRPA) required courses and one (1) online course elective. There are no formal admission requirements for individuals interested in registering for courses.

To learn more, please visit the Diploma in Human Resources Management website.

Ice Cream Technology Short Course

Offered by the Department of Food Science, this intensive course provides participants with knowledge of the ingredients, processing, and quality features of ice cream. Various sessions examine the technical points of ice cream manufacturing, with an emphasis on the quality of the finished product. 

The course is designed for small to large scale manufacturers, suppliers and retailers. Of particular interest to those in production, quality assurance, R&D and technical sales. This course is also suitable for those interested in starting their own ice cream manufacturing business, whether they have previous ice cream making experience or not. However, business and retailing aspects are not discussed, the focus remains on production of a high-quality product.

For more information, please visit the Ice Cream Technology Short Course website or contact fsevents@uoguelph.ca.

Certificate in Information and Communication Technology Management

The Certificate in Information and Communication Technology Management program is designed for information technology professionals who wish to develop their knowledge and skills in effective information technology management and enhance their leadership and management competencies. The program offers students a strategic overview of the management of information and technology challenges and opportunities in today’s work environment.

There are no admission requirements. The certificate is achieved by successfully completing four different courses from within the program offerings.

The certificate is provided in partnership with the Ontario Association of School Business Officials.

To learn more, please visit the Certificate in Information and Communication Technology Management website.

Certificate in Privacy and Information Management

Privacy and the security of information are increasingly important in our society, and we are becoming increasingly aware of privacy breaches and how our data is being accessed, shared, and used. Organizations are faced with challenges surrounding the management and protection of the information they collect, use, and store. Organizations also need to manage requests for information along with the need to protect personal privacy.

This program provides an overview of the fundamentals of privacy and access. You will examine the legislation that informs how personal information may be collected, used, shared, and accessed, as well as best practices for handling a privacy breach and conducting a privacy impact assessment.

The program also examines the foundational components of a records and information management (RIM) program and how it plays an important role in ensuring organizations have the information, processes, and technology that they need to be effective and efficient, including responding to requests for access to information.

Throughout the program, leadership skills and abilities that support and advance people and work in the field will be emphasized.

While more broadly applicable, the courses utilize examples from education (e.g., school boards, higher education) and municipalities. Regardless of your background, you are invited to bring your knowledge and experience to the learning environment.

To learn more, please visit the Certificate in Privacy and Information Management website.

Foundation in Professional Sexuality Practices

Engage in specialized training to explore the foundations of professionally practicing as a sexuality educator, counselor, and/or therapist in the field of sexuality. Focusing upon theory, research, and professional sexuality practice interventions, we will explore the relationship that individual, relational systems, and larger social systems share with sexuality. Facilitative learning will take place within small group discussions and deliberate practice sessions with participants simulating students, patients, and/or clients and consultation teams, along with guest speakers, lectures, and videos.

This course is offered in an intensive format consisting of four full-day class days (online synchronous) within a one-month period with 18-23 hours of asynchronous work (readings, discussions, opportunities to excel, assignments) between classes.

It is assumed that participants already have a foundation in general knowledge of basic anatomy, gender socialization, basic models of sexual arousal and response, as well as an overview of sexuality over the lifespan.

This course does not certify you to be and/or practice as a Sex Therapist. For more information about how to become a certified sex therapist, contact an accrediting association, such as the Board of Examiners in Sex Therapy and Counselling in Ontario (BESTCO), or the American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors, or Therapists (AASECT).

This program is offered in partnership with the Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition.

For more information, please visit the Intensive Sex Therapy Training Program website.

Applied Professional Sexuality Practices

Building upon a solid foundation of professional sexuality-based knowledge, this course offers advanced training focused on application of theory and research specifically related to sex therapy and counselling practices. Focus is on sexual health assessments, demonstrating an understanding of affirming practices, and clinical interventions for a range of common and complex sexuality-related individual and relational presenting problems. Facilitative learning will take place within small group discussions and deliberate practice sessions with participants simulating students, patients, and/or clients and consultation teams, along with guest speakers, lectures and videos.

This course provides advanced application of sex therapy practices. It is assumed that participants already have a solid foundation of professional sexual health and sexuality practices, including completion of either 200-9002: Foundations in Professional Sexuality Practices and/or 200-9001: Intensive Sex Therapy Training Program.
 
This course provides intermediate to advanced levels of theoretical and scholarly information, theoretical models, and sex therapy and counselling practice intervention materials. This course is offered in an intensive format consisting of four full-day class days (online synchronous) within a multi-week period with 18-23 hours of asynchronous work (readings, discussions, opportunities to excel, assignments) between classes.

This course does not certify you to be and/or practice as a Sex Therapist. For more information about how to become a certified sex therapist, contact an accrediting association, such as the Board of Examiners in Sex Therapy and Counselling in Ontario (BESTCO), or the American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors, or Therapists (AASECT).

This program is offered in partnership with the Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition.

For more information, please visit the Applied Professional Sexuality Practices website.

Certificate in Knowledge Mobilization

The Certificate in Knowledge Mobilizations is for students interested in addressing today's complex social, economic, health or environmental challenges calls for our increased collaboration capacity to find and implement innovative solutions. While a vast amount of knowledge is created every day, only a fraction of it is effectively mobilized—shared, used and applied—to inform real-life situations. This lack of knowledge transfer or exchange contributes to a gap between research, policy and practice, hindering social innovation and slowing progress. Knowledge mobilization practices help to bridge this gap and drive positive change.

Learn to make research and expertise more accessible, relevant, and applicable in various contexts and support moving knowledge into action. Develop your knowledge, skills, and values with respect to knowledge mobilization (KMb) and learn to select and apply KMb tools and techniques. Gain a deep understanding of how to harness knowledge to drive practical solutions and decision-making in diverse settings while recognizing and embracing different approaches to knowledge-sharing, dialogue, community engagement, and collaborative practice.

The Knowledge Mobilization Certificate courses present you with information and practice in knowledge mobilization and will help to start, develop, and diversify your knowledge mobilization practices, whether as a KMb practitioner or as part of your research practice. The certificate consists of three required courses, to be taken in order as follows: Inform, Engage and Act. Each course is 10 weeks in length.

The certificate is provided in partnership with the Community Engaged Scholarship Institute.

To learn more, please visit the Certificate in Knowledge Mobilization website.

Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate

The Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate provides research and evidence-based perspectives on supporting and adopting a plant-based diet. The program will investigate how you achieve the nutrients you need for optimum health and the management and prevention of disease while implementing a plant-based diet.

Students will examine the historical and contemporary perspectives and the impact of plant-based diets on individuals and the planet. The nutritional composition of plant-based diets, their functional components and their ability to meet individual needs throughout the lifespan are discussed and examined in relation to health and disease prevention.

This is an online, asynchronous program of short courses. Each course is four weeks in length and consists of 20 hours of coursework.

The certificate is provided in partnership with the Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition.

To learn more, please visit the Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate website.

Certificate in Pupil Transportation Management

The Certificate in Pupil Transportation Management provides a unique opportunity for school board transportation specialists and independent operators to develop and enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities in effective transportation management. The curriculum reflects the current information, evidence-based best practices, issues, and challenges facing pupil transportation at Ontario school boards. While more broadly applicable, courses focus on a public sector context and utilize examples from school board and municipal environments.

There are no admission requirements. The certificate is achieved by successfully completing four different courses from within the program offerings. The certificate is provided in partnership with the Ontario Association of School Business Officials.

To learn more, please visit the Certificate in Pupil Transportation Management website.

Diploma in School Board Administration

The Diploma in School Board Administration (DSBA) is designed for Ontario school board professionals who wish to develop and enhance their skills and knowledge of the board's business operations and functions. Facilitated by an expert team of instructors, the program explores a broad range of management topics and addresses strategic multidisciplinary issues in order to help participants effectively manage business opportunities and challenges in the school board environment. The intended audience includes individuals seeking to enhance their career potential within the school board environment.

While successful completion of post-secondary education is required for admission to the program, academic consideration may be extended to students with experience in a board environment. 

This program requires the completion of six required online courses and four electives. Courses within the Business Operations and Administration certificates comprise the Diploma in School Board Administration electives. 

The diploma provided in partnership with the Ontario Association of School Business Officials.

To learn more, please visit the Diploma in School Board Administration website.

Certificate in Supply Chain Management for Public Procurement

The Certificate in Supply Chain Management for Public Procurement is designed to provide knowledge and skills required in supply chain management and applied in the broader public sector (e.g., school boards, hospitals, etc.). Students will develop a deeper understanding of the principles of supply chain management for public procurement and the critical issues currently facing the field (e.g. legislative and regulatory change, costing, risk), while advancing their skills in strategic sourcing decision-making, methods of procurement, managing the competitive bidding process, contracting, and managing vendor relationships from negotiation to dissolution.

There are no admission requirements. The program is currently comprised of six different courses, four of which must be successfully completed to earn the certificate.

The certificate is provided in partnership with the Ontario Association of School Business Officials

To learn more, please visit the Certificate in Supply Chain Management for Public Procurement website.

Turf Managers’ Short Course Certificate

The Turf Managers’ Short Course is an intensive four-week residential program designed to provide turf industry personnel with knowledge in all aspects of turf management and culture. Students will learn to interpret and integrate turfgrass agronomic information to design and implement turfgrass management strategies.

This program is delivered in partnership with the Guelph Turfgrass Institute.

To learn more please visit the Turf Managers’ Short Course Certificate website.

Online Equine Studies 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 introduce you to research and evidence-based practice 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.

This program is provided in partnership with Equine Guelph, the Centre for Equine Education and Research, at the University of Guelph.

To learn more, please visit the Equine Studies website.

Certificate in Equine Business Management

The Certificate in Equine Business Management is designed for anyone interested in working in the administrative and management aspects of the equine industry. Learn how to develop marketing and business plans, create budgets and set up financial records, manage operations and establish yourself as a professional. Take the first step in gaining the skillset required for sustainable equine business success. The Certificate in Equine Business Management requires you to complete six courses.

This program is provided in partnership with Equine Guelph, the Centre for Equine Education and Research at the University of Guelph.

To learn more, please visit the Equine Studies website.

Equine Welfare Certificate

This program challenges you to consider welfare from the perspective of the horse. You will use an evidence-based approach to support your views for or against specific issues relating to equine management and gain an in-depth understanding of the Five Freedoms, a core concept in animal welfare. You will examine the science behind what is required to support sound management and welfare practices for horses in Canada and around the globe. The Equine Welfare Certificate will help you discover solutions to the behavior and health problems horses face because of our management practices.

This program is delivered in partnership with the Campbell Centre for the Study of Animal Welfare and Equine Guelph the Centre for Equine Education and Research, at the University of Guelph.

The Equine Welfare Certificate requires you to complete six courses.

To learn more, please visit the Equine Studies website.

Diploma in Equine Studies

The Diploma in Equine Studies developed with Equine Guelph, brings the expertise of a world-class veterinary college to horse owners. You will explore topics like equine safety and management practices, environmental stewardship, equine behavior, nutrition, anatomy, health, and welfare in this comprehensive program. With so many electives to choose from, you can customize your learning to best fit your interests and career goals, with an opportunity to integrate business courses with fundamental equine science studies. Whether you are new to the equine industry or have been involved for many years, the Diploma in Equine Studies will give you the extensive equine education that you are looking for. The Diploma in Equine Studies requires you to complete ten courses.

This program is delivered in partnership with Equine Guelph, Centre for Equine Education and Research at the University of Guelph.

To learn more, please visit the Equine Studies website.

Online Horticulture Studies Diploma Programs

The Horticulture Studies Diploma Programs include two diploma options:

Horticulture Diploma

The Horticulture Diploma is designed to produce highly knowledgeable, skilled and versatile graduates looking to work in parks and recreation, institutional grounds, nurseries, greenhouses, garden centers, or as a naturalist or professional gardener.

To achieve the Horticulture Diploma, students must successfully complete ten courses: five required courses and five elective courses. To learn more about the Horticulture Diplomas, please visit the Horticulture Studies website

Landscape Design Diploma

The Landscape Design Diploma will elevate your level of understanding and skills related to commercial and residential landscape design. Students who graduate from the diploma will have thorough knowledge of landscape design techniques and will be able to present their ideas to prospective clients in a professional manner. The Landscape Design Diploma is suited to anyone looking to pursue a career in landscape design or upgrade their credentials as a landscape designer.

To achieve the Landscape Design Diploma, students must successfully complete ten courses: eight required courses, a choice of two courses and one elective course.

To learn more about the Horticulture Diplomas, please visit the Horticulture Studies website.

Online Horticulture Studies Certificate Programs

There are five certificate programs. Students may choose to complete individual courses or complete a set of courses that count towards the certificates. Students who complete either the Horticulture or Landscape Design Certificate may continue to complete additional courses towards a diploma.

To learn more about the Horticulture Diplomas, please visit the Horticulture Studies website.

Horticulture Certificate

The Horticulture Certificate will show you how to create beautiful and hardy landscapes through innovative residential garden design tactics and strategies. You will explore topics related to plant care principles, soil conditions, plant science, and horticulture. The program is designed to prepare you with the knowledge and skills related to pests, diseases and weed management so you can effectively address plant health issues and optimize the well-being of any garden. Designed specifically for gardeners, this program will enhance your knowledge and skills with respect to the residential garden environment.

To achieve the Horticulture Certificate, students must successfully complete five courses: three required courses and two elective courses.

To learn more about the Horticulture Certificate, please visit the Horticulture Studies website.

Landscape Design Certificate

The Landscape Design Certificate will show you how to improve the design of current landscapes and offer meaningful solutions to landscape design challenges. Learn how to produce landscape drawings, recommend construction materials that satisfy client intentions, and deliver aesthetically pleasing design and function into residential and commercial settings.

To achieve the Landscape Design Certificate, students must successfully complete five courses: four required courses and a choice of two courses.

To learn more about the Landscape Design Certificate, please visit the Horticulture Studies website.

Maintaining Golf Courses Certificate

The Maintaining Golf Courses Certificate is designed to provide students with valuable skills and knowledge related to golf course design and construction techniques, tree care, and the environmental care of golf courses. Develop practical and applied skills to design, construct and manage golf courses and turf, keeping the sustainable care of turf and plant communities at the forefront.

To achieve the Certificate, students must successfully complete six required courses

To learn more about the Maintaining Golf Courses Certificate, please visit the Horticulture Studies website.

Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate

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

To achieve the Certificate, students must successfully complete five courses: four required courses and one elective.

To learn more about the Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate, please visit the Horticulture Studies website.

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.

To achieve the Certificate, students must successfully complete five courses: four required courses and one elective.

To learn more about the Sustainable Urban Horticulture Certificate, please visit the Horticulture Studies website.

English Language Programs

The English Language Certificate Program (ELCP) is an intensive academic English program designed to prepare students for academic study at the undergraduate and graduate level. Students develop English language and academic skills needed to be successful in university studies. Students who successfully complete the ELCP Advanced levels 9 & 10, earn the University of Guelph Certificate of English Proficiency, which meets the English proficiency requirements for admission to undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Guelph and the University of Guelph-Humber. Applicants should have an academic goal to study at the University of Guelph.

Students may also earn the Certificate of English proficiency by completing the Integrated Admission Pathway (IAP). The Integrated Admission Pathway (IAP) allows academically qualified students to complete degree credit courses through the University’s Open Learning program while studying English language courses. The pathway includes a combination of classroom-based and fully online degree course offerings and provides a range of student support.

Students with an IELTS 5.5 or equivalent and who satisfy all other undergraduate admission requirements may be offered conditional admission to one of the following pathway streams:

• Bachelor of Arts, all majors (including Co-op options)
• Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management, all majors (including Co-op options)
• Bachelor of Commerce, (Undeclared)
• Bachelor of Mathematics, all majors (including Co-op options)
• Bachelor of Science, all majors (including Co-op options)
• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, all majors (including Co-op options)
• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences, all majors (including Co-op options)

Successful completion of the degree-credit courses with a 60% cumulative average and successful completion of the English Language courses with a 75% cumulative average will satisfy the conditions of admission to the degree program specified in the original offer letter. Successful students will enter the degree program at the level of second semester after having studied in IAP for three successive semesters.

To learn more, please visit the English Language Programs website or contact Open Learning and Educational Support by email at info@OpenEd.uoguelph.ca.