Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good Applied Nuclear Science & Radiation Safety student?
Applied Nuclear Science & Radiation Safety students enjoy the challenges of a constantly evolving field and working with mathematical problems. They possess critical-thinking skills, are able to work in a team environment, and have good communication and interpersonal skills.
Has the Applied Nuclear Science & Radiation Safety 2-year diploma program replaced the 1-year Radiation Safety certificate program?
Yes. As a result of increased demand by the nuclear industry for additional specialized training, Algonquin College expanded the 1-year certificate to a more specialized 2-year diploma.
How does the optional paid co-op work?
Qualified students with a minimum GPA of 2.7 have the opportunity to apply for one or two Cooperative Education (Co-op) Work Terms. Each term is four months in duration and is completed during the summer term (May to August) or the fall term (September to December). To be eligible, students must have successfully completed the first two semesters of the program in good academic standing. Students are required to pay a co-op fee and complete at least 420 hours during their co-op work experience. Co-op participating agencies may have specific employment hiring standards which may include academic and aptitude testing.
Where do students get co-op placements and where do they work after graduation?
Students who participate in co-op placements gain valuable on-the-job experience, and the opportunity to build their contacts, and make a favourable impression on the employer. In the past, we have had co-op students complete their term with major nuclear employers in North America including Bruce Power, Ontario Power Generation and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. Many employers use co-op as a means to groom students for future employment with the company.
How do I apply for the co-op program?
Students will apply for co-op in their program of study in September using an online application form on HireAC. When the application portal on HireAC is open, students will be notified by email and provided with instructions on how to apply. The application portal will be open for roughly seven business days.
For answers to more typical Student Co-op questions, please visit: www.algonquincollege.com/pembroke/coop
Is there a fee that students must pay to participate in the optional paid co-op?
Yes. Co-op fees are paid in three installments, by semester:
- Preparation Term (September to December): $186.33
- Job Search Term (January to April): $186.33
- Work Placement Term (May to August): $186.33
- Total Co-op Fee: $559
Each installment is assessed on the last Friday of the first month of each semester (end of September, end of January and end of May).
*If you choose to complete a second Co-op during the fall, you will be charged an additional $559
*Please note that Co-op is optional, and not mandatory for program completion and is therefore not included in Program Tuition Fees
Are there industry-related certifications built into this program?
Yes, students will be required to complete 10 certifications, by no later than April 30th of their last year of study, 6 of which are compulsory and 4 are based on student interest. All are taken from a master list of 18 certifications. Most of the certifications cost $20 to $30, with the maximum cost of 10 certifications being $550. If students have obtained certifications prior to entering the program and those certifications are valid, they will count towards the required 10.
What is the partnership with Bruce Power?
Ontario’s largest private electricity generating company has chosen Algonquin College’s Radiation Safety program as one of its key feeder programs for its future workforce needs. As part of a broader plan to affiliate with specific college programs to address skilled workforce challenges, Bruce Power is partnering with four Ontario Colleges, including Algonquin’s Applied Nuclear Science and Radiation Safety program.