Brock University’s Faculty of Education has launched two new certificates designed to assist internationally educated students pursue advanced post-secondary studies in Canada and obtain work in community-based educational settings.

The first cohorts of Canadian Culture and Education Studies (CCES) and Leadership in Community-based Education (LCBE) students will begin their programs this September. The new programs expand on the success of a previous Faculty of Education initiative, the Masters Preparation Certificate in Education (MPCE), and aim to fill a gap in opportunities for international students.

“An environmental scan of similar programs showed the CCES and LCBE certificates would be uniquely situated in the post-secondary market,” said Susan Virtue, Manager of International Programs in the Faculty of Education. “While industry-specific training exists for teaching assistants and adult educators, and micro-certificates exist in leadership and cultural-adaptation, none provide the dedicated focus to prepare students for community-based settings that meld their unique backgrounds with Canadian experience.”

The CCES program addresses the unique needs of international students seeking to pursue advanced post-secondary studies in Canada in the broad field of education. CCES students will explore educational theory, the Canadian educational context and Canadian culture. Students will develop the skills needed for success in Canadian post-secondary programs, including research skills and academic communication skills. CCES graduates can also apply for conditional admission to the LCBE program.

The LCBE program will prepare international students for leadership positions in educational settings outside of public K-12 classrooms. Students will gain an understanding of educational theories and the skills needed for leadership in community-based settings. The LCBE program also provides opportunities for students to learn more about Canadian practices and improve their English language proficiency. It is expected that LCBE graduates may contribute as educational consultants, employment advisors, admissions counsellors, academic advisors, program officers and settlement workers.

“Each program provides graduates with valuable experiences for seeking employment and engaging in advanced post-secondary study,” said Vera Woloshyn, Professor in the Faculty of Education and Program Director for the MPCE, CCES and LCBE programs.

Students in both programs will participate in community-based experiential education and networking opportunities and have access to assistance with vita and resumé building. Academic and immigration advising and professional development services are also available.

Students who complete both certificates within a two-year timeframe are eligible for the three-year Post Graduate Work Permit. The certificates also meet the education requirements for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program-International Student Stream.

For more information on the new certificates, visit the Faculty of Education programs web page.