Certificate in Communication for Professionals
To work and live well in today’s globally interconnected world, an educated adult needs two critical skills. The first is to be able to think – to reason inductively and deductively, to analyze and to synthesize, and to construct a logical argument. The second is to be able to communicate that thinking clearly, substantively, and persuasively in speaking as well as in writing. Specifically designed for native English speakers, this certificate program offers communication and interpersonal skills essential for success. Students will work to polish their speaking and writing skills so that they can communicate logically and effectively and with confidence and authority. Class sizes will be limited to a maximum of 24 students to allow for individual attention and a workshop setting. Where enrolment numbers permit, diagnostic testing will be undertaken in the first session in order to group students according to their interests and skills.
Certificate Prerequisites
This certificate program offers advanced communication and interpersonal skills essential for Canadian business managers and industry leaders. Specifically, it is designed for native speakers:
- Who already have solid English language skills, but who have never really studied the nuances or power inherent in the written and spoken word;
- Who would like to move their careers forward or to change careers and believe that acquiring better and more specialized communication skills would be advantageous;
- Who are either writing for others or whose line of work encompasses finance, law, medicine, or any other profession that requires logical, precise use of language.
Certificate Requirements
Certification requires the successful completion of five courses. Logic and Persuasion (SCS 1345) is mandatory, as are at least two foundation courses. To complete their program, students select either the remaining foundation course plus one specialist course, or, if they prefer, two specialist courses.
Required Course
Foundation Courses – Choose At Least Two
SCS 1348 The Business Approach to Writing
SCS 1349 Public Speaking and Presentation
SCS 1346 The Writer’s Handbook
Specialist Courses – Choose a Maximum of Two
SCS 1344 Copywriting That Sells
SCS 1241 Effective Communication and Negotiation
SCS 1351 Writing Documents That Work
SCS 1843 Writing for the Web
Notes: There is no particular sequence of courses recommended for study. In particular, there is no requirement to begin the certificate program with Logic and Persuasion (SCS 1345). Some students find it preferable to take this mandatory course only after they have taken the foundation courses.
Students have three years from the start date of their first course to complete the certificate.
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) exemption may be granted for a maximum of one course.
