Banner: Continuing Education

Contact Info

Continuing Education &
Contract Training:

cectinfo@camosun.bc.ca
250–370–4578

Main switchboard:

250–370–3000

Enrolment Services (Registration)

250–370–3550
1–877–554–7555 (toll-free)

Enrolment Services hours

Mon–Wed: 9am–4pm
Thu: 9am–5:30pm
Fri: 9am–4pm

Cashiers hours

Mon–Wed: 9am–4pm
Thur: 9am–5:30pm
Fri: 9am–4pm

Bookstore hours

Bookstore website

Lansdowne

Fisher 134
Phone: 250–370–3080
Mon–Thu: 8am–6pm
Fri: 8am–4pm

Interurban

Campus Centre 247
Phone: 250–370–4080
Mon–Thu: 8am–6pm
Fri: 8am–4pm

Arts and Culture

Communication and Career

Career Exploration

This introductory workshop is for people who are unsure of their career direction. Joining others in a similar situation, you will start the career planning process by taking stock of who you are through self-assessment exercises. You will then gain information about careers and resources to help you make informed decisions and begin goal-setting and planning.

Humanities

The History of Rock and Roll: 1955-1980

This course will be an interactive experience with the goal of creating an understanding of rock and roll music in the second half of the twentieth century. We will examine the role of popular music in the context of desegregation, North American and British politics, youth subcultures, and social critique. The course will cover rock from Sun studios and the Moondog House parties, through Sgt. Pepper and Woodstock, to Disco and Punk. The course will encourage an exchange of ideas. Through listening and discussing music of the period, this class will establish its own unique History of Rock.

Timeless Wisdom: Eastern Religion and Philosophy for Westerners

The pursuit of timeless or eternal wisdom is neither a religion nor a philosophy, yet contains elements of both. Similarly, the western concepts of religion and philosophy do not accurately apply to the pursuit of wisdom in the East, but it is rooted in both. The Eastern view is to seek a middle ground, holding the two in balance and incorporating both faith and reason toward liberation, or the freedom from suffering and ignorance. In coming to understand this balance this course will provide an introduction to the basic concepts of the religions and philosophies of India, China and Japan.

Philosophy for Non-Philosophers

In a world where academic philosophy seems abstract and remote, this course will serve as a beginner's guide to the problems of philosophy and how philosophy can have a direct influence on each person's life. We will examine many questions such as: "What is the Good?"; "How do we know anything?"; "Can we really be free?"; "What is personal identity?"; "How is it possible to live a good life?"; "Does life have any meaning?" We will also examine a broad range of philosophers, including the pre-Socratics, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Hume, Kant, Kierkegaard, Camus, Nietzsche and Wittgenstein.

Humanities - Saturday Short Takes

Paris: La Ville de L'amour

Have you always dreamt of going to Paris? Spend an afternoon discovering this romantic city. Francois, a true Parisian will take you on a virtual tour of Paris's lively night scene, the romantic Seine, the majestic Eiffel Tower, the magnificent architecture, and the unique small communities that make up one of Europe's most seductive capitals.

Photography and Digital Arts

Digital Cameras for Beginners

Is your new digital camera still in its box? Are you frustrated by all the different settings and functions on your camera? This course will help you to understand the settings on your camera and learn how to manage image quality, focus, lighting and storage of digital photos. Perfect for the "point and click" photographer, this course will help you to record and store your family and vacation memories with ease. Bring your camera and manual to class.

Photography – Introduction

This course is designed as an introduction for traditional and digital photographers. Focus on the basics and you're on your way to creating picture perfect photographs! Learn the basic functions of your camera (digital dSLR & traditional film SLR) including: exposure, light (metering and flash), depth of field as well as an introduction to many more photographic topics. Bring your camera and manual to class and plan to shoot approximately three rolls of print or digital images during the course. Point ‘n’ shoot cameras (with manual functions/operations) are welcome but a digital dSLR or film SLR camera will afford you the best overall learning experience. Field trip: Saturday, February 4, section 001 at 9-11:30am; section 002 at noon-2:30pm.

Digital Photography – The Next Step

This course is designed for people who have taken the Photography – Introduction course or have a strong understanding of photographic basics but are still having a difficult time figuring out many of the functions and settings on their digital cameras. Discover how those settings will affect your images and what considerations are needed for you to obtain your best hard copy output. Throughout this course we will explore the many aspects and features pertaining to digital photography. With the aid of your camera and manual we will familiarize ourselves with many of these functions and in doing so improve your understanding of digital photography basics.

Photography – Intermediate

This eight week continuation of Photography – Introduction will help you, as a traditional or digital photographer, be more confident in your control of the photographic outcome of the image. You will review some of the basics, and continue with more in exposure control, depth of field control, basics of the "Zone System,” and composition. Bring your camera and manual to class and plan to shoot approximately six rolls of print or digital images during the course.
This course will be offered in the Spring term. Details will be available early in March.

For more information about this course please email cectinfo@camosun.bc.ca

No More Snapshots: The Art of Travel Photography

Point and Shoot. Snapshot. Terms that conjure up a photo that is somehow "less". This class will give you the tools to make your travel photos "more". Have you ever come home from a fantastic vacation only to realize your photos did not faithfully reproduce the experience? Get the tools necessary to bring back amazing photos from your travels. You will learn about equipment and travelling with a camera, but most importantly you will develop your photographic 'eye'. All skill levels and all types of cameras are welcome. A tripod is recommended but not required. Field trip: Saturday, March 17, 1-4pm, location TBA. 

And Now For Something Completely Different

A less than serious, but seriously fun, look at photography. You know all the rules, or least the basic ones. This course will take a look at the various “elements of composition” and then consider which rules to apply and which to ignore in a series of non-traditional photographic assignments. Macro for a portrait? Maybe. What about photos that are eye level and shot with a 50mm lens? Boring! Can a person shoot a photo where no light exists? Let's find out. Each week students will be given an assignment that incorporates a non-traditional solution to a traditional situation. The assignments will be fun, but also challenging. Students should have the ability to control aperture (AV) and shutter speed (TV). Bring your camera, manual and a flashlight to class. A tripod is recommended. Field trip: Saturday, March 17, 9am-noon, location TBA.  

Landscape and Wildlife Photography

Landscape and wildlife images can tell a powerful story. Join published nature photographer, Dave Hutchison, as he shares his techniques for capturing that unique sunset or bird in flight. Learn how to adjust shutter speed, depth of field, ISO and exposure compensation at the correct moments—on the fly—for amazing images of the birds, wildlife, waterfalls and coastal beaches of Greater Victoria. This is an intermediate level course. Tripod, wide angle lens, 200-300mm (wildlife) lens, and a basic assortment of filters are required. Please bring your camera and manual to class. Field trips:  Saturdays, February 25, March 3 and 10, 9am-noon; locations TBA.  

Lights, camera, YouTube!

In this intensive hands-on workshop you will learn the basics of video capture, uploading and editing in YouTube's online editor, using your video-capable digital camera (no videotape camcorders, please!) This is accessible storytelling with video – on the cheap. Whether you want to create simple social media videos for your organization, or just for you and your family, this course will teach the basics of using natural/ambient light, effective framing, composition and editing your story in video. Be prepared for action – you will create a YouTube channel, shoot video footage, upload it, edit it, add a music bed and publish it for the world to see. Prior to the first class please call 250-370-4578 for a supply list or print from our website.

Shooting Social Media Videos That Don't Suck New

Steven Spielberg beware! This fun and interactive course will teach you how to turn your camera into a video weapon of mass creativity! Focusing on video composition, framing, lighting, and the basics of visual storytelling, this course will help you produce quality social media videos for your family, friends or business. Learn the skills you need to edit with a variety of software tools AND how to make your videos available online. Prior to the first class please call 250-370-4578 for a supply list or print from our website.

Basic Photo Compositing with Photoshop

Designed specifically for photographers and artists who want to see what Photoshop is all about, these classes will teach you to use the power of Photoshop to combine multiple images in different artistic ways, from simple image overlays to humorous head swapping to adding text and colour. Comfort in a Mac or PC environment and basic file management skills are recommended.

More Photo Compositing with Photoshop

This class continues on from the Basic class and introduces more advanced layering techniques as well as masking and over painting to create seamlessly realistic composites or abstract mindscapes. Prerequisite: Basic Photo Compositing with Photoshop or previous experience using Photoshop.

Visual and Performing Arts

Sketchbook Drawing New

A sketchbook has always been a valuable tool for aspiring animators, cartoonists, comic book artists, graphic novelists, illustrators, and anyone else who loves to draw. All character design starts with a simple sketch, and if you want to create dynamic drawings with personality, then this is the course is for you! Drawing inspiration from family, friends, pets, or famous people in the media, you will learn how to draw faces and figures structurally, then render in a variety of techniques, both black-and-white and full colour. The portability of your sketchbook means you can draw anywhere – cafés, parks, home, and school will be your studio! Prior to the first class please call 250-370-4578 for a supply list or print from our website (approx cost of supplies is $45).

Draw Your Heart Out: Interpretive Drawing New

Open to beginner and intermediate students, this course will begin with the basics, and then take your drawings in all-new directions. We will explore new materials and new techniques each week, with a focus on interpretation and imagination. Draw-what-you-feel is the driving philosophy behind this course, exploring ideas of technique, style and experimentation. Prior to the first class please call 250-370-4578 for a supply list or print from our website (approx cost of supplies is $50).

I Can Draw!

You CAN draw, and this course will prove it! Starting from simple shapes and lines, each new project will introduce additional drafting, seeing and planning techniques that will build your skill and confidence. Learn about value, composition and texture and how to select drawing materials while drawing from life, photos and from your imagination. Soon you will be seeing, thinking and drawing like an artist. You can do it! Please call 250-370-4578 for a supply list or print from our website, prior to the first class (approx cost of supplies is $50).

Visual Storytelling for Comics & Graphic Novels!

Comics and Graphic Novels have rapidly gained world-wide popularity and recognition as a valuable art form. This course will teach students the unique language of telling stories with words and pictures, and then apply those skills to create imaginative Super-Hero, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy characters and stories, or heartfelt autobiographic works based on personal experience. Please call 250-370-4578 for a supply list or print from our website, prior to the first class (approx cost of supplies is $100).

Basics of Acrylic Painting

Learn to paint with acrylics! This class is designed for those interested in using this versatile and exciting painting medium. Whether you are a beginner or already enjoying painting but interested in learning more, this class has something for you.  Prior to the first class, please call 250-370-4578 for a supply list or print it from our website (approx cost of art supplies is $120).

Introduction to Graphic Design

This course is an opportunity for creative people to learn how to combine the elements of graphic design into an interesting and engaging work of visual communication. Focusing on the basics, we will cover the creative process, the use of type, photographs and illustrative imagery, and how to use layout grids. We also look at communication in its basic form and how best to create work for a client. Comfort with using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop is required. First class is Sunday, January 22, 9:30am-4:30pm; subsequent classes are Thursday evenings. Prior to the first class, please call 250-370-4578 for a supply list or print from our website (approx cost of art supplies is $60).

Visual and Performing Arts - Saturday Short Takes

The Art of the Caricature New

If you've ever watched a caricature being drawn and wished you could draw one yourself, here's your chance to learn how it's done, in a fun supportive environment. This class will demonstrate how to exaggerate a person's prominent features while still capturing a likeness. Photos of politicians, movie stars, or someone you know will be used as reference. Caricatures in animated movies, magazines, newspapers and comics will be used for inspiration. Prior to the first class please call 250-370-4578 for a supply list or print from our website (approx cost of supplies is $15).

Media Allsorts: So many art supplies, so little time New

With so many art materials out there it’s difficult to know where to begin. This course is designed for those people who love being all over the place and who want to learn how to use all those grades of pencils, graphite sticks, conte, charcoal and oil and chalk pastel, almost all at once. Art materials will be provided for this class.

Acting for Beginners

Are you curious about becoming an Actor? This course introduces the elements and art of performing. Using acting exercises and the written word you will explore the fundamentals of acting by engaging your mind, voice and body. We will create characters, perform monologues and scenes, and explore each student's unique creative expression. Led by Jessie-nominated actress (CAEA/ACTRA) and playwright (Playwrights Guild of Canada) Nicolle Nattrass.

Writing and Publishing

The first three of the following Writing and Publishing courses are part of our Writers’ Workshop Series. The Writers’ Workshop Series brings well-known, published local writers to the classroom to work with a small group of aspiring writers (maximum 12 participants per workshop) in a genre workshop. Participants will have an opportunity to hone their craft in a supportive, creative community of learners.

Poetry Writing Workshop with Joelene Heathcote New

Poetry is part of the apprenticeship of writing, and only from careful consideration of language, image, and detail, can we become effective and engaging writers of other genres. Students should be prepared to submit one poem each week for the workshop. During this class, participants will learn helpful approaches to editing and revising their own poetry and the poetry of others, exploring aspects of technique such as diction, syntax, and line, as well as various structures for the poem. Creative assignments and in class reading will help with the generation of poems and with the creative process. Registered students wishing to make submissions on the first day of class please email cectinfo@camosun.bc.ca.

Fiction Writing Workshop with Robert Wiersema

Get it written, get it right! Wanting to write isn’t enough – being  a writer requires skill-sets, paradigm shifts and survival strategies. Bookseller, critic and bestselling author Robert J. Wiersema will lead aspiring writers from inspiration and preparation through writing and revision and on to submission and publication. With insights, experiences, exercises and a focus on your work, this workshop will be a hands-on immersion to the writing life for both new and experienced writers.

Children's Fiction Writers' Workshop with Julie Lawson

Have you started to write children's fiction? The aim of this workshop is not to get you published, but to explore the challenges of the genre while enjoying the writing process. Sessions will consist of exercises, critiques and discussions in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Note: It is essential to bring your twelve year old self! Julie Lawson is author of twenty-eight books for children. Renowned for taking moments in Canadian history and weaving them into compelling works of fiction; her books have received critical acclaim and numerous nominations and awards, including the Sheila A. Egoff Award for White Jade Tiger. Classes are Saturday mornings and Tuesday evenings.

Introduction to Academic Writing New

In our modern world of copyright laws and intellectual property rights, the practice of citing and referencing sources has never been more important. Whether you are writing a graduate thesis, a research paper, or a letter to the editor, correct acknowledgment of your sources not only protects you from committing plagiarism but also increases your academic credibility with your audience. This course will focus on APA and/or MLA citation standards, depending on the needs of the students. Students will gain an understanding of the importance of citation, and how to access and use physical and on-line resources to help with its application. We will also look at the art of effective argumentation, and how to present your position in the most persuasive way.

Be Brief, Be Bright, Be Write New

Many jobs in today’s workplace require concise, clear and correct writing. This course will focus on strategies for making sure that your intended meaning is not lost in a sea of words, and provide you with the knowledge and skill to feel confident about your writing.

Writing Non-Fiction Books: From Inspiration to Publication New

Explore the main stages and challenges of writing a non-fiction book. The uphill journey includes inspiration, conception, research, selection, recognizing threads and themes, finding an appropriate structure, writing techniques and strategies, assessing the audience, and finding a publisher. The downhill journey, for author and publisher, includes editing, design, layout, printing, marketing, distribution, and reviewing. This informal workshop provides time for lectures, writing, individual and group discussion, and feedback.

Memoir: Making Literature from Life

Rediscover and record the stories of your life. Whether you've already started to, or have always wanted to write your memoirs, this course will get your pen moving. The focus will be on taking anecdotes from life and weaving them together to form a piece or collection that goes beyond the personal experience to the universal. In-class writing activities and discussion will help students draw together the bits and memories of life into a cohesive tale.

From Travel Essay to Memoir: Writing about Travel

Come and explore writing about your travel experiences in short articles, longer essays, and travel memoir. Using in-class writing exercises and examples of travel writing in newspapers, magazines, journals and memoirs, students will delve into their own writing. Could you send one of your pieces out into the world to be published? Sometimes all it takes is imagining and putting words on the page.

Creative Writing for Beginners: Releasing the Writer Within

Have you always wanted to write but haven't known where to start? This course will help you begin to develop your own personal writing aesthetic by exploring the building blocks of creative writing – character, plot, dialogue, scenes and description. We will explore elements of fiction, creative non-fiction and poetry through in-class writing exercises designed to release your writer within. Guest speakers will be invited for their expertise in a particular genre.

Writing for Seniors

Have you always wanted to write down your experiences to share with family and friends but life never provided the time? Now's your chance! Whether it be poetry, fiction or non-fiction, you've accumulated a lifetime of memories and experiences that could become a precious gift to your descendants and might even be published one day. Come explore the fun of sharing your imagination and anecdotes with others and discover how to put your stories to paper in a safe, supportive environment. This course is held at the Interurban Campus. No class February 17.

Writing and Publishing - Saturday Short Takes

How to Write a Killer Query Letter and Sell Your Book New

Congratulations! You've written your novel or non-fiction book...but how do you get the attention of an editor, agent or publisher? You need a query letter as your introductory pitch—not just any letter, but a brief, punchy and brilliantly-crafted advertisement that will hook the reader's interest and have them wanting more. By day's end, students will have learned the basic elements of a query letter, analyzed do’s and don’ts from strong and weak examples, and crafted their own killer queries, ready for pitching. Students are encouraged to bring a draft query for a novel or non-fiction book for which they are seeking publication. Nicola Furlong has had eight mysteries and two non-fiction writing primers published. She regularly blogs and speaks about genre writing, and is a professional pitch writer.

The Business of Online Writing and Editing

The Internet offers many kinds of work opportunities for writers and editors. English is the international language of business, and you too could be working for businesses and individuals all over the globe. This course looks at how to be successful in a competitive marketplace. It covers what kind of services are in demand, how to get started, how to create successful bids and win projects, how to price your services, and how to build your business.  The class will include an exploration of the Elance bid site.

Publish Your Own E-Book

Thinking about publishing your writing but struck out with traditional publishers? Don't fancy the headache of self-publishing in print? Then it's time to join the latest publishing sensation. You can publish your magnum opus (or cookbook, or romance, or...) in an electronic book format, sell it through major online booksellers and receive above average royalties as easy as a,b,c...well, almost. This course will introduce you to all things e-book including set-up and formatting, online bookselling sites, e-reader choices, cover image basics and marketing possibilities. One of instructor Nicola Furlong’s ebooks has recently been nominated for an EPIC Ebook award in the science fiction category.

Last updated: 19-Oct-2011 4:12 pm