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

Healthcare and Wellness

Activity Assistant

Program begins February 24, 2012

Learn to develop and lead leisure and recreational activities for seniors with cognitive and physical challenges. This program appeals to qualified health care workers who want to make a short-term time commitment in exchange for long-term job satisfaction. Graduates of this program have made a difference by helping seniors engage in an active lifestyle.

This part-time program will take place over six weekends (Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday) from February to April. Following the classroom sessions, 120 hours of practicum will be completed over 7 weeks in May and June, to enhance your skills.

2012 Class Schedule
Six weekend classes take place on Friday eves 5-8pm and Saturday & Sundays 9-3 unless otherwise indicated. All weekends and both practicums are mandatory

  • 1. February 24-26
  • 2. March 9-11
  • Practicum I (Observation), March 12 – April 13: 22.5 hours of On-site observation over five weeks
  • 3. March 23-25
  • 4. April 14-15 (Sat & Sun only)
  • 5. April 27-29
  • 6. May 5-6 (Sat & Sun only)
    • Practicum II, May 7 – June 22: 120 hours – must be completed over seven weeks. Students will be expected to commit themselves to a minimum of 3 days a week in practicum during this period.

Graduates find employment as Activity/Activation Assistants in care facilities, assisted living settings, adult day care programs, clients’ homes, seniors’ centres and residential group homes.

For more information and to receive a detailed program catalogue, please call 250-370-4578 or cectinfo@camosun.bc.ca or visit camosun.ca/activity -assistant

Admission Requirement
  • Resident Care Attendant (RCA) or Home Support/Residential Care (HSRC) certificate or Health Care Assistant (HCA) certificate or equivalent credential (e.g. RN or LPN).
Participation Requirement
  • Attendance at an Information Session.

Activity Assistant Info Session Free Info Session

Info Session CANCELLED for Thur, January 19, 2012 due to snow and icy road conditions.  Please check back for rescheduled date. In order to participate in the Activity Assistant program, you must attend a free information session. Attendance will be taken and noted on your application. 

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

Herbal Studies

New! Now accepting applications for our Spring 2012 intake.

Herbal Medicine is the ancient use of plant remedies in the treatment of disease. Modern science now allows us to better understand their healing powers and how they can complement traditional medicine. The philosophy behind herbal medicine is to treat the person, not the disease.

This comprehensive program provides a framework to enhance your health and spirit while deepening your knowledge of herbs and the body. Students of all ages and backgrounds will benefit from this program. It may be of particular interest to people in health, helping, and healing professions, Aboriginal community members, gardeners, chefs, people wishing to work in the herbal/health food industry, and people interested in ecologically sound and self-sufficient lifestyles.

Our six-month part-time program educates students to safely create effective, simple, affordable herbal medicines for personal use, using sustainable practices. You will:

  • Learn how to identify and use local wild and cultivated healing herbs.
  • Become knowledgeable in Western, Ayurvedic, and traditional indigenous philosophy and their use of herbs.
  • Create effective, simple, affordable herbal medicines for personal use and learn about sustainable herbal practices.
  • Apply a holistic approach to health and healing with herbs using modern science to enhance and complement your knowledge, efficacy and safety
A Certificate in Herbal Studies will be awarded upon successful completion (minimum B- in each theory course and successful completion of the field practice course).

Admission Requirements Submit proof of a letter grade of “C” or higher in English 10 or ENGL 033. Official sealed transcripts must be submitted to Enrollment Services;OR Submit proof of satisfactory completion of the English competency* test administered by the Assessment Centre.

Spring/Fall Schedule:
The online program runs from April 14 to September 9. The weekend herb walk sessions in Victoria will take place from 10-4 on the following weekends:
  • April 14 & 15
  • April 28 & 29
  • September 8 & 9
How to Apply
  • Step 1: Fill out a College Application and include the $36.41 non-refundable application fee.
  • Step 2: Attach documented proof of all Admission Requirements.
  • Step 3: Submit your application by mail or in person to Enrolment and Admission Services, Lansdowne Campus, Camosun College, 3100 Foul Bay Road, Victoria, BC V8P 5J2
Further Program Information
For a copy of the Herbal Studies program catalogue, please print the latest version here.

Application Inquiries

Enrolment and Admission Services Phone: 250-370-3550 or Email: info@camosun.bc.ca Toll-free: 1-877-554-7555 (Canada only)

Herbal Studies Information Session New Free Info Session

To learn more about your instructor Don Ollsin, visit www.herbalhealingpathway.com

Hospital Unit Clerk

Start Preparing Now for September 2013!

Skilled Unit Clerks who bring an excellent work ethic, compassion for people and a positive attitude to their jobs are needed in our health care system! These positions offer a competitive union wage (currently $20.77 hour + 11.4% for casual work = approx $23.13), flexible hours, a fast-paced interactive environment, and an interesting variety of duties. Learn more about this challenging and rewarding career of looking after the administrative and clerical requirements of a hospital unit. This 335 hour part-time certificate program will prepare graduates to apply for employment in a hospital as a Unit Clerk. The program begins in mid-September and finishes in May after the 110 hour practicum. Classes are held two weeknights and Saturdays. Class size is limited to 20 students. To receive a brochure with further course details, please call 250-370-4565 or go to the program website camosun.ca/unitclerk

Program Admission Requirements

  • Camosun College Medical Terminology Course or approved equivalent, (min. 60 hr. course and 75% final grade taken within 3 years of starting the program)
  • 50 net wpm keyboarding speed (dated July 2012 or later). Net means 1 word taken off for each error.
  • Grade 12 (including English/Communications 12) or GED completion (sealed transcript required)
  • VIHA Medical Terminology Assessment – minimum of 72% (dated July 2012 or later)
  • Attendance at a Program Information Session


Unit Clerk Program Website: See camosun.ca/unitclerk

Hospital Unit Clerk Info Session Free Info Session

Registering for and attending an Information Session is REQUIRED for students thinking or wanting to apply for this program. During this informative session, the Program Coordinator will share information and answer your questions. Topics include: roles and duties performed by Unit Clerks, pros and cons of working in the field, job prospects, program curriculum and schedule.  The session is free but please call 250-370-3550 to register.

Medical Laboratory Assistant

Apply now for September 2012!

Medical Laboratory Assistants perform a vital role as part of the medical laboratory team in hospitals and private laboratories. Industry professionals teach you how to collect blood and other specimens for analysis, perform electrocardiograms (ECG’s), and a variety of basic laboratory procedures.

This part-time program takes place two evenings per week and most Saturdays from September to April. Skills will be developed and practiced throughout the program in hospital and community lab settings. A four-week, full-time practicum helps prepare you for a meaningful and interesting career.

Admission Requirements

  • Completed Grade 12 graduation or equivalent;
  • Letter grade of "C" or higher in English 12 or assessment;
  • Letter grade of “C” or higher in Camosun Math 053 or Math 10 (Principles), or Foundations of Math & Pre-calculus 10; or assessment;
  • Keyboarding to a minimum of 40 net words* per minute within the last six months prior to application. Test must be from a recognized organization and show gross words, timing, errors, etc. *The Medical Lab program deducts two points per error if the student submits gross words plus errors.
AND
  • Letter grade of "C+" or higher in Camosun's Medical Terminology course, or another Medical Terminology course with a minimum of 60 hours; OR
  • Letter grade of "C" or higher in a Human Biology course (e.g. Biology 12); OR
  • Minimum of six months paid or volunteer work or education in a health care field.

Medical Laboratory Information Session Free Info Session

It is strongly recommended you attend a free information session. The program coordinator, and instructors who also are currently working in the field, will provide detailed information on the work performed, what the course entails and the admission process. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and we hope you will make a more informed decision after attending the session. 

Seniors Health

Education and knowledge for seniors, caregivers, and the community about providing care to seniors.

Confusion in the Elderly New

What causes confusion in the elderly, how to differentiate between delirium, dementia and depression and what can be done about it. You will get tools you can use to make care easier for everyone involved and learn techniques to manage confusion and accompanying behaviours.

Lifts and Transfers

This course introduces the skills and safety of one person transfers and lifts/transfers with mechanical devices (Sara, Maxi, Wispa). Students will also gain knowledge on using: the STABLE technique at work, safe back care and on equipment used in mobility (canes, wheel chairs, walkers, transfer belts).

For information about this course please email CECTinfo@Camosun.bc.ca .

Basics of Medication

This two-part course is designed to help personal or professional caregivers ensure medications are given safely, legally and effectively. The unique problems of administering medications to children, the elderly and individuals with special needs will be addressed (not including narcotics or injections).

Basics of Medication Part 1

You can register and begin this course at anytime.  This is a complete self-study course.  It is comprised of important pre-reading and a homework assignment that must be completed as a pre-requisite for Part 2. 

You may also take this course for personal interest if you do not require Part 2 for employment. 

Please allow one to two weeks to receive your self-study materials by mail, if you have not received your material or you wish to arrange pick up,  please call 250 370-4578 

Dates indicated are used internally to schedule the self-study sections of this course. Please register at anytme.

Basics of Medication Part 2

Register at least 2 weeks in advance for this theory review, including a hands-on lab. You are expected to review the Self- Study manual and complete the homework assignment from Part 1 before attending. 

A written examination will be administered during the class. A Confirmation of Completion will be mailed to successful students. The pass mark for the course is 80%, based on a homework assignment in Part 1 and a written exam in Part 2.  

Mandatory Prerequisite is Basics of Medication Part 1 (HLHS 507V). Please bring Home Assignment to class. As the cafeteria is closed on Sundays, please bring a lunch and snacks.

Health Promotion

The science and art of helping people change their lifestyle to move toward a state of optimal health.

You Are Not What You Eat- You Are What You Eat, Digest & Eliminate! New

Expanded - now 4 hours!
Our organs of digestion and elimination are of vital importance to our overall health. Did you know back pain, heartburn, reflux, constipation, headaches, psoriasis and a weak immune system could be symptoms of an unhealthy digestive system?

If you are frustrated with simply medicating your symptoms, this workshop offers practical and simple ways to begin your journey to self-empowerment and knowledgeable digestive health choices. Combining Eastern Ayurvedic principles and practices and Western theory, both offering practical suggestions, this workshop will offer you simple ways to ensure you digest and eliminate what you eat. Say goodbye to medication, say hello to a healthier you!

To learn more about this course and the instructors, Stephanie Needham and Cameron Moffatt, check out their website: http://www.moffattneedham.com/about.cfm

Professional Development

The science and art of helping people change their lifestyle to move toward a state of optimal health.

I Want to Work in Health Care! New

Take a practical approach to exploring potential health care career paths before you commit to one.  This course will help you match your unique traits and needs to a range of health careers you may not even know exist, to find the best fit for you. You will have the opportunity to “try on” traditional and non-traditional health careers – not just what’s available through Camosun - in a safe and supported environment. You will gain insight into the culture of the job, not just the tasks. You will leave with a clearer picture of which health care jobs you wish to pursue and why, and how to get them.

Come out with realistic and concrete career options and knowledge of how to take the first step.

Part 1: Do What You Are - learn more about your unique personality and why some careers will "feel" right". You will determine the key criteria that are important to you, to narrow down your range of career choices. 

Part 2: Interdisciplinary Panel:  Interdisciplinary panel will re-enact the culture of a variety of jobs (decision-making, clientele, environment, etc ) 

Part 3: Next Steps - Develop research skills to know what questions to ask, such as navigating scholastic lingo and financial aid.

Optional text Do What You Are will be available at the Lansdowne Bookstore in January 2012 (approx $23.99)

This class takes place over two Wednesday evenings (Feb 8 and 15 from 6-9pm) plus two full Saturdays (Feb 4 and 18 from 9-4) at our Lansdowne campus.  Ages 16 to 99. 

Nursing Refresher: Practical Skills

Refresh your skills within the current scope of your practice. Monitor, assess, and practice techniques together, using case studies in our lab. This hands-on course reviews wound management (dressing changes and drainage), chest tubes, TPN, PICC lines, and infusion pumps.

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

Nursing Refresher: Assessments

Review theory and gain hands-on practice in our lab. This system by system health assessment overview covers respiratory, integuementary, CNS, Cardiovascular, GI, genito-urinary, musculo-skeletal, and pain assessments. Mental Health not included.

Local Anesthesia Certification Course For Dental Hygienists

This self-study, interactive, and hands-on course  teaches dental hygienists to safely and effectively administer local anaesthetic agents.  

  • meals included
  • low teacher instructor ratio

The Spring offering is during the weekends of February 25 and March 18, 2012.   The fall offering is September 8/9 and 29/30.   To receive a registration package  please email cectinfo@camosun.bc.ca. or download the registration package.


  • 2012F HLHS 600V 001 • Sep 8 - Sep 30 (4 sessions)
    Sat Sun • 8:30am - 4:30pm • Lansdowne
    Sat Sun • 8:30am - 4:30pm • Lansdowne
    Sat Sun • 8:00am - 4:30pm • Lansdowne
    Sat • 8:30am - 4:30pm • Lansdowne
    Sat • 8:30am - 4:30pm • Lansdowne
    Sat Sun • 8:30am - 4:30pm • Lansdowne
    Sun • 8:30am - 1:00pm • Lansdowne
    Sun • 8:30am - 1:30pm • Lansdowne
    $1125
    Register online now!
    or Register by phone, fax or in-person…

Class 4 Driver's Training

A Class 4 Driver’s License is required by many worksites. It is highly recommended that you attend a class to prepare for your road test, which focuses on safety and the pre-trip check. Camosun has arranged a special group rate of $225 per person for this class. You will attend a full-day session with a group.  Please note:

  • You must successfully complete your ICBC Knowledge Test at a Driver’s Centre, and pay for your Learner’s License fee before attending this session.
  • Practice: You are advised to practice driving a suitable vehicle with your commercial Learner’s license. Practice time may be arranged directly with the company, using their vehicle, and is a separate charge at an hourly rate of approximately $75 per hour. If you are currently an active driver, this practice time should take about one hour.
  • You may want to book your commercial road test following the practice session, using the same vehicle. Our contractor may be able to arrange this.
  • ICBC Fees: Learners License fee $15; Road Test fee $40; Licensing fee $17; Medical form processing administration fee $28
  • BC Medical Exam: approx. $100 (depending on your doctors fees)

Pharmacology

Update your knowledge of current pharmacology and medication administration for safe and competent practice. A review of drug classifications, adverse effects and most common considerations applicable to nursing will be presented. Includes new drugs that are common in clinical practice.

Medical Office Skills

These courses are designed for those hoping to work in a medical environment or as professional development for those currently in the field wishing to enhance or strengthen their skills. A confirmation of completion grade letter is issued for Medical Terminology, a confirmation of attendance for Medical Billing, and an assessment score is issued for VIHA-Medical Terminology Assessments.

Medical Terminology - Classroom

A very intensive course that will help you develop the skills you need to understand medical terms including common medical prefixes, suffixes and combining forms as well as an exploration of the body systems. This course is a fundamental prerequisite for most positions in the medical field. Medical Terminology is an intense course in which students typically devote at least three to five hours of study to each session. Disciplined home study is required. Strong fluency in spoken and written English language is essential. Purchase text (approx $100) at the Bookstore, Lansdowne 250-370-3080.

Medical Terminology Online

The ONLINE course covers exactly the same content as the classroom course.  The pace and homework expectations of this 15 session online Medical Terminology course are the same intensity and demands of the twice a week classroom offering. Students typically can expect to devote at least three to five hours of disciplined study to each of the 22 chapter topics.  To ensure you get off to a great start and are confident with your online skills, students must complete a  basic mandatory online orientation session at the beginning of the course.  Once you have registered, the instructor will contact you by email within 5 days of the class beginning to guide you through the orientation. Your email address MUST be supplied at the time of registration.

Testing:

Local Students meet in person at the Interurban Campus for a paper based Final exam.  See exam date below.
Out of Town Students who want to register are required to supply an approved exam proctor from a local community college in their area before the start of the course.  Your proctor must be approved PRIOR to starting the course by contacting trotterk@camosun.ca or by calling Kelly at 250-370-4124.  Out of town students must write the final exam on the same weekend as the local students (see date below).
All other course work takes place online.

Course Requirements:

  • Strong fluency in spoken and written English language skills is essential
    Internet access
  • An email account 
  • Ability to perform basic keyboard and mouse tasks (typing messages, scrolling up or down online screens, pointing and clicking the mouse, etc.)
  • A computer with an operating system capable of running one of the following browsers:
    • Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE) version 7.0+ or 8.0+
    • Mozilla Firefox version 3.0 or higher
Please note that:
  • The course site does not currently support Internet Explorer 9
  • The supported browser for Mac computers running OS X is Mozilla Firefox
  • While it may not cause problems, Mac OS 10.6 is not officially supported for operation of the optional study tool CD  
The online course requires the purchase the version of the textbook that contains the  ONLINE ACCESS CODE booklet (approx. $145) at the Interurban Bookstore (250-370-4080) at least one week prior to the course start.

On-Campus Final Exam Date:

  • Saturday July 28, 2012 9:30am - 12:00pm Interurban
for the April course and Saturday, December 15, 2012 for the September course.

Computerized Medical Billing

In this hands-on course students will become competent users of the popular Osler's “Practice Manager”, their newest medical billing computer software. Areas covered include: all aspects of electronic scheduling, extensive billing (electronic, private and alternate party insurers); use of electronic medical records; organizing and maintaining patient wait lists, recalls and categories and using the "tasks" feature to manage office work flow. Students will leave the sessions with lots of "tips, tricks, and shortcuts". This course is designed for people familiar with medical office routines (MOAs/receptionists) and who are comfortable using the computer. Familiarity with Medical Terminology is helpful but not required. No Class April 17.

VIHA - Medical Terminology Assessment

The Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) has joined with Camosun College to be the sole administrator of the Medical Terminology Assessment for VIHA in Southern Vancouver Island. If you are applying for a VIHA position that requires Medical Terminology, the results of this test must accompany your VIHA Application for Employment. A copy of the VIHA application form can be picked up at any VIHA acute care site, or can be printed off the VIHA website at: http://www.viha.ca/careers/


 
The VIHA Medical Terminology Assessment is comprised of 50 multiple-choice questions. The minimum requirement to be considered for employment within VIHA is 72% (36/50). All test questions are based from “The Language of Medicine” text. Students wishing to study should use either the 7th, 8th or 9th edition. To take the VIHA Medical Terminology Assessment students must pre-register for one of the sessions below by calling Camosun registration at 250-370-3550, as seats are limited. You must arrive at least 5 minutes before the scheduled start assessment time and will be required to provide VALID PHOTO ID prior to taking the test. You will be provided with a written copy of your assessment score upon completion of the test. 

Important Note from VIHA: Taking and/or passing this medical terminology assessment in NO WAY guarantees employment with VIHA. Results are NOT currently recognized by other employers.

Last updated: 19-Oct-2011 4:13 pm