The Radiation Safety certificate program offered at Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley is a first step toward working in the nuclear industry.  It features two 15-week semesters.  To give students some practical, job-centred experience, there is also a 30-hour work placement in a facility licensed by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).

Algonquin College’s comprehensive program was developed in co-operation with experts in the field of radiation safety.  In addition to courses specific to radiation protection in the nuclear industry, the program contains a number of general academic subjects that will provide students with a broader knowledge base that will assist them as they progress in their career in the nuclear field.

Regulations governing Canadian nuclear facilities, techniques for ensuring safety in these facilities, and emergency preparation are important components of the program. The 30-week curriculum includes two levels of radiation safety, radiation protection and instrumentation, as well as site assessment and emergency procedures.  Some of the additional academic subjects that will help students succeed in the program include math and science so that they can fully understand the concepts involved in radiation safety and detection; communications; conflict management; computers; and job preparation.  See full program details.

Workplace Experience - The program concludes with an on-the-job training experience at a nuclear facility licensed by the CNSC. This is a 30-hour placement designed to give students the opportunity to gain some work experience following their two semesters of theoretical learning.

Previous to their Work Placement, students will prepare for employment by learning resume writing, practicing job interview techniques, and applying computerized job search skills through our on-campus Career and Employment Centre. 

To augment their learning, students may also have the opportunity to participate in a field trip to a nuclear facility. In addition, professionals who work in the nuclear industry may also take part in classroom discussions and seminars as part of the program curriculum.

PROGRAM PREREQUISITES REQUIRED:  Math and Science are required to enter the Radiation Safety Program because they are a core part of understanding the physics of nuclear energy and radiation and in using radiation survey instruments. 

Admission Requirements:  PLEASE NOTE THAT ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS BELOW WERE REVISED AS OF NOVEMBER 2007. 

To be successful in this program, students require an academic background at the high school level that includes the following specific courses. 

Do You Need A Prerequisite for the Radiation Safety Program?

If you require English, Math, or Science upgrading before applying to the Radiation Safety program, there are a number of options to acquire the necessary prerequisites.

High School Courses– contact your local high school to see if the above English, Math, or Science courses are offered in the day or evening, through summer school, or by correspondence.

Adult Upgrading Courses - The College and Career Preparation Program at Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley may be able to give you some of the academic foundations you require.  Contact:  Judy Purdy, 613-735-4700, ext. 2764 or email her at: purdyj@algonquincollege.com.

Correspondence, On-Line Courses & Independent Study Courses - You may also pursue courses you need through correspondence, on-line, or individualized modules.  Check here for more information about these options and check the links below. 

Independent Learning Centre

Ottawa-Carleton E-School

Adult Alternative School, Pembroke, Ontario

For more information about the Radiation Safety Program, contact

Jamie Bramburger at 613-735-4700, ext. 2756 or by

email brambuj@algonquincollege.com.

Apply to the program now at ontariocolleges.ca