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Graduate Certificate

This certificate is both timely and unique in Canada, focused specifically on preparing educators for this era of uncertainty, complexity, and multiple crises (the climate emergency, crises of social inequality, civic engagement, human and ecological well-being, and technological revolutions).

Drawing lessons from the global pandemic has become a priority for all teachers, educators and ministries of education. These lessons include adapting practice to the technological, mental health, and equity concerns that the pandemic has highlighted and intensified, and adapting practice in the context of long-term crisis. The Association of Canadian Deans of Education (ACDE) has pointed out that the pandemic has been deeply disruptive in multiple and inequitable ways. The Deans have also reminded us that educators are frontline workers who play a key role in recovery and planning for an uncertain future in equitable, sustainable ways.

This certificate is designed to enhance the work of educators in formal and informal settings, curriculum specialists, program developers, and school leaders. It will support those who wish to continue on to a Masters of Education (M.Ed.).

What can you expect? You’ll get an overview of current educational challenges and models of leadership and curriculum design in courses focused on your practice. The cohort model supports you to apply, experiment, and develop practice as part of a diverse professional learning community. Join colleagues from across Quebec, Canada and internationally from a diverse range of educational contexts including formal K-12 and college levels, classroom and peri educational roles including student support, administration or curriculum leaders, as well as community, informal or non-traditional programs.

Program Details:

  • 15 credits, 5 required courses (36 hours per course)
  • Length of time for completion: under 12 months with 3 consecutive semesters
  • One course per semester in each of the fall, winter and spring semesters, concluding with two summer courses
  • Cohort model of 10-20 students
  • Online with hybrid option for two summer courses including the in-person on-campus Bishop’s Summer Institute

Course Offerings:

  • GCU542 – Radical Hope: Teaching and Learning in the Anthropocene (human-driven climate change)
  • GCU543 – Reconceptualization of Curriculum: Curriculum as a process in precarious times
  • GCU544 – Respect, Relevance, Reciprocity, and Responsibility: Teaching and Learning in good relation
  • GCU545 – Getting Dirty: Experiential teaching and learning within and beyond the classroom
  • GCU546 – Protest as Curriculum: Curriculum as protest
  • GCU547 – Navigating the Uncertainty of Living and Learning Online
  • GCU548 – Leading in an Uncertain World: Considering the meanings of transformation in education
  • GCU549 – Teaching and Learning in an Uncertain World: Syntheses and culmination explorations

General Admissions Details:

  • Have completed a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) or relevant degree at a recognized university, normally with an equivalent minimum average of 75%
  • Have at least two years of relevant experience (teaching or related professional experience)

Required supporting documents including one letter of reference, proof of English proficiency, copy of the most recent university transcript, curriculum vitae, and a personal statement illustrating your experience working with students and reasons for seeking admission to this program.