Protection, Security and Investigation

2023/24 | Conestoga College

Program Code: 0002
Community Services

Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning

This is a companion document to the current Conestoga College Student Guide

Program Handbook Guidelines

​The purpose of this handbook is to provide students with program-specific details and other important information. The material in this handbook is accurate at the date of posting and is applicable for the current academic year. Students will be informed of handbook changes that occur, if any, through college email. Program handbooks are updated yearly, and students must check their program handbook for the current edition.

This handbook must be read in conjunction with general information about Conestoga College found on the website and in the Student Guide. The information in the Student Guide and on the college website​ applies to all students, regardless of program.

The Student Guide provides details regarding Student ServicesSafety and SecurityStudent Rights and Responsibilities and more. 

Welcome

To the School of Community Services

The pursuit of post-secondary education is an important decision, and we are honoured that you have chosen a program at Conestoga in the School of Community Services. 

Here at Conestoga, you will learn from program teams who are dedicated to your success. These teams have extensive community services, academic and research experience. They will work with you as you develop the practical knowledge and theoretical skills required to launch your future career.

As part of your learning experience, we are proud to provide you with state-of-the-art learning facilities that include college-operated child and youth development centres, an on-campus EMS station and a high fidelity live fire training site. Through these facilities, you will have multiple opportunities to engage in active learning experiences that will build your skills and develop the critical thinking required to solve problems and help shape your successful future.

I invite you to plan for success from day one - know what is expected of you and what resources are available for you. Today marks the first day of becoming the professional you aspire to be.

I wish you all the best,

Goranka Vukelich, PhD
Executive Dean, School of Community Services

Steps to Your Success

 1. Use MyConestoga to Connect To:

  • Your Conestoga Email: Your official vehicle for all college communication.
  • eConestoga: Your resource for all course-based information.
  • Student Portal: Where you will find your final grade information, college tuition invoices, class schedules and absence reporting.
  • Practicum Health Requirements: Keep track of your requirements on an ongoing basis; check that they are complete to allow you to go on your practicum (if applicable).

2. Know Your Academic Schedule And Plan Around It

  • Course Schedule: This is a timetable of all your classes for each semester.
  • The Academic Year Critical Dates: Program start and end dates, holidays and deadlines for course add/drop and withdrawal, are located on the college website. Plan around these dates to ensure you are here when you need to be--including the potential need to be present for the two weeks after the semester ends if you might need to complete supplemental work to allow you to continue to the next semester.

3. Be the Professional You Wish To Become

Civility, respect and professional behaviours will be key in the quality of your learning experience—and a future employer's first and lasting impression. Pay special attention to the following:

  • Professional Dress & Conduct: See Professional Conduct section for professionalism expectations for your program. The college's Student Guide sets out expectations of student conduct for our community at Conestoga
  • Pre-practicum Health Requirements: Pay attention to the deadlines listed on your documents.
  • Social Media: Use responsibly. See Standards of Conduct section of the Handbook.

4. Attend To Enhance Success

Attendance for class, labs and field placement supports student learning and your experience as a future professional.

  • Absence from Evaluations: Must be reported in the Student Portal before your scheduled evaluation time. See attendance for evaluation section in the handbook.

5. Take Responsibility for Your Academic Status

Make yourself familiar with what is expected of you, and if you have questions, ask.

  • Fee Payments: Payment is required to attend classes. Check your Student Portal for invoices.
  • Credit Transfer/Exemptions: Conestoga supports the transferability of academic credits between programs and educational institutions through recognized transfer pathways, articulation agreements and course-to-course equivalences. Refer to the Credit Transfer & PLAR​ website.
  • Academic Policies & Procedures: May be found under Policies and Procedures. Please read and understand the Rights and Responsibilities website. 

Letter to Students

Dear Students!

Welcome. Congratulations on being accepted into Protection, Security and Investigation program and for taking your first step toward entering the criminal justice system.

You will note that this program is designed to give you a good overall base for a variety of private-sector law enforcement careers. To do this, in the first year, you will be exposed to courses that give you a foundational understanding of private security. In the second year, you will be given the opportunity to concentrate your studies in Protection, Security and Investigation through experiential and scenario based learning. This program has been designed to add even greater value to your preparation for careers in the rapidly changing fields of public safety, security and investigations.

This handbook has been prepared to give you information about the academic standards, guidelines and processes that are specific to the program. Answers to questions that are more general in nature can be found in the Conestoga College Student Guide. Please use this handbook as your guide throughout the program, but if you have any additional questions or should you experience any difficulties during your studies, please talk to your Faculty, your Coordinator or come to my office to seek direction.

Welcome and we hope you have an enjoyable and successful two years.

Sincerely,

Marv Mustin, Chair, Community Safety

Relationships

Your Program Team

Your program team includes faculty, staff and administrators who are committed to your success. If you have questions about your progress in the program, course work or field placement, please take the time to connect with them.

Communication and Contact Information

Faculty

Name Email

Don Willis, Coordinator

Protection, Security and Investigation

dwillis@conestogac.on.ca

Craig Stephenson, Coordinator
Police Foundations

cstephenson@conestogac.on.ca

Jim Featherstone

jfeatherstone@conestogac.on.ca

Amit Rajput

arajput@conestogac.on.ca

Colleen Holmes-Cumming

cholmes@conestogac.on.ca

​Adam Ziegler

aziegler@conestogac.on.ca

Emergency and other messages to Faculty can be forwarded through the Program Assistant. Students may also make general inquiries about the program and procedures to the PA. ​ ​

Administration

Name Email

Kenzie Bonus 
Program Assistant 

kbonus@conestogac.on.ca

Marv Mustin, Chair 
Community Safety

mmustin@conestogac.on.ca

Goranka Vukelich, Executive Dean
School of Community Services

gvukelich@conestogac.on.ca

Contacting Faculty and Staff

Your course specific Faculty member is your first contact. When contacting Faculty and staff outside of class time it is advisable to use email. Your message should include the following information:

  • Appropriate greeting
  • First and last name
  • Student number
  • Course and level
  • Brief description of reason for contact
  • Students shall not enter faculty offices unless invited to do so by the faculty member

Student E-Mail

All students are supplied with a College email address. Please use this method or the eConestoga email method when communicating with College Faculty, as non-College email addresses (e.g. Hotmail) are problematic. Students are expected to check their College email daily as most official communication will be via this method.

Student Success Advisor

No matter your campus, school, or program, there is a Student Success Advisor (SSA) available to support you. Your SSA is there when you don't know where to start, are experiencing challenges affecting your learning experience, or need help succeeding in your program.

You can sign in to the Student Success Portal to book an appointment.

Student Success Advisor, School of Community Services
Ramona Sipos

rsipos@conestogac.on.ca

College Hours

The College is open and offers classes seven days a week.

Program Overview

Program Description 

The Protection/Security and Investigation (PSI) diploma program offers a two-year integrated learning experience to help you develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values of a preferred candidate in your chosen field. Through a combination of theory and dynamic simulation, you will be exposed to a range of strategies and investigation tactics that will include physical surveillance and technology-enhanced practices.

The Protection/Security and Investigation program is designed to prepare graduates for employment in private investigations, security services and a variety of other private law enforcement careers.

​​​Program Summary Map

Click Here to view Program Map

Program Design for Your Cohort

Students can find their program design on the student Portal by following the steps below:

  1. Log in to Student Portal
  2. Click on 'My Courses' tab
  3. Select 'View Progress Report' button

Courses are listed by level/semester. Students can also view courses for the most current program design for this academic year on the Conestoga College website. To find these courses, students need to scroll down the page to the 'Program Courses'.

General Education Electives

Students are required to complete General Education elective courses as part of their program requirements. General Education elective course requirements are listed at the bottom of the progress report, which is found on the Student Portal under My Courses. The progress report indicates the level/semester in which the course must be taken. Students are responsible for adding General Education electives into their schedule for the designated semester. Eligible courses are posted each semester by the School of Interdisciplinary Studies on the College's elective website. For more information and to view the current elective course offerings, visit https://www.conestogac.on.ca/electives/diploma. Questions regarding General Education electives can be directed to the School of Interdisciplinary Studies: genedfaq@conestogac.on.ca


Program Technology Requirements

Program technology requirements are posted on the program web page. Students in hybrid delivery courses will require a device, webcam functionality, and reliable Internet access. 

Academic Information

Academic Dates

It is the student's responsibility to be aware of various important academic dates throughout the year. These academic dates are posted on the college website.

Please note that Continuing Education courses and Apprenticeship programs may have different start dates and exam dates for courses. 

Course Add/Drop

You can add, change and drop courses from your portal depending on the dates and which program you are in:

  1. Log in to the Student Portal
  2. Click on the "My Courses" tab
  3. Scroll over the icons to the right of individual course listings. It is strongly recommended that students consult their Program Coordinator/Academic Advisor prior to dropping a course.

Credit Transfer, Pathways & PLAR

Conestoga recognizes you may have formal post-secondary education that may allow you to enter a program at an advanced level or provide for individual course exemptions. To ensure your credits are eligible for transfer, please contact our Credit Transfer Office at: credittransfer@conestogac.on.ca. 

The Credit Transfer Policy and Procedure are available on the college website.

For more information, visit the Credit Transfer webpage and the PLAR webpage.

If you are currently a Conestoga student and want to continue studying at Conestoga, there are a number of different pathway opportunities available to you.

Whether you wish to transfer to another program or apply to a new program after graduation, Conestoga has established pathways, to help you meet your goals.

Conestoga College has articulation agreements with many domestic and international institutions. These agreements allow students to transfer into a specific program with advanced standing. Students must meet the academic requirements stated in the agreement.

For more information regarding pathways at Conestoga, contact the Credit Transfer Officer at 519-748-5220 ext. 2166.

Awards

​​​Conestoga has more than 400 awards, bursaries, scholarships and academic grants available to Conestoga students. These funds are made available to our students through the partnerships we have established with local business and industry leaders. To be considered for an award, complete the General Application available through your Student Portal. Notifications and instructions to complete the application are sent to all full-time students' email accounts in the fall semester (Deadline: First Friday in October) and winter semester (Deadline: First Friday in February). Visit the Student Financial Services on Conestoga's website.


Attendance and Program Standards

Working Together to Plan Your Success

Your success matters!  Regular, punctual attendance, and active participation in scheduled classes, field and clinical placements, labs and any on-campus and off-campus activities scheduled by your program will help you to understand and master the learning complexities of your program.

If extenuating, unplanned circumstances require you to miss a class or an assessment, please note that it is your responsibility to follow up with individual faculty members prior to the class/assessment and access any missed information.

Attendance for Evaluations

Evaluations are critical components of each course and your overall success in your program. It is your responsibility to attend all evaluations (e.g. test, exam, presentation, etc...). If there is a concerning pattern of absence from evaluations across your program, you may be asked to meet with the Program Coordinator and/or Student Advisor to discuss strategies for success.

While circumstances such as religious holidays and academic accommodations may necessitate rescheduling of evaluations and will be accommodated, please note that there will be no special arrangements made for rescheduling evaluations due to personal conflicts such as work, commuting, or vacation plans.  

Faculty Responsibilities

  • To communicate the dates of each evaluation at the beginning of each semester through the Instructional Plan.
  • To communicate, in writing, any unplanned extenuating circumstances that may require changes to the course schedule.
  • As per the Religious Holiday Procedure, provide alternative evaluation arrangements for missed evaluations due to recognized religious holidays as defined by the College Employer Council.
  • To provide all accommodations requested by Accessible Learning.
  • To consider alternative evaluation requests in good faith and examine the unique circumstances (e.g., unexpected family obligations, personal emergencies, etc...) and collaboratively determine an appropriate solution.
  • Note, do not request doctor's notes from students.

Student Responsibilities

  • To review the instructional plan and familiarize with the dates of evaluation.
  • As per the Religious Holiday Procedure, inform your faculty member in writing that the religious holiday defined by the College Employer Council will occur during the semester and may require considerations for evaluations to be rescheduled.
  • If you must be absent from any scheduled evaluation, report your absence on the Student Portal using the procedure below. You must do this prior to the start of the evaluation or risk receiving a mark of zero.

How to Report Absences on the Student Portal

  1. Log into the Student Portal and click on the 'Absence tab'.
  2. Indicate whether or not there is an assessment scheduled on that day by clicking 'Yes or No', as well as the reason for the absence (illness or other).
  3. Click 'Continue' to report the absence.
  4. Click 'I agree' to confirm the absence.
  5. You will receive a confirmation email that your absence has been recorded.

Important! Please note the following:

  • The earliest you can record an absence for a particular day, is after 8:00 p.m. the day before. You must report each day you are absent.
  • The Absence Recording System will show you as being absent for the day, starting from the time that you recorded the absence. For example, if you record your absence on a specific day at 11:00 a.m., the system will show you as being absent for all classes starting after 11:00 a.m. that day.
  • If you are going to be present for any other classes on the day for which you recorded an absence, please let the faculty member know by attending or following up by eConestoga or college email.
  • As soon as possible, email the faculty member associated with the evaluation you missed and arrange for appropriate follow-up. 

Documentation for Absences

Conestoga recognizes that unexpected circumstances, such as brief illness, do arise during the term. As a visit to a health practitioner may not be necessary or possible, we do not ask you to provide a doctor's note except in exceptional circumstances.       

If the evaluation cannot be rescheduled, (e.g., experiential activity, lab, or a group presentation) your professor may provide you with a revised assignment or allocate its marks to another evaluation item, so long as the combined total does not exceed 40% of the course grade. This will be communicated to you by email.

Religious Holidays

Students are permitted by Conestoga policy to be absent from class to observe a recognized religious holiday. Any student who is unable to attend classes or participate in an examination, study, or work requirement on some particular day or days because of religious beliefs will be given the opportunity to make up the work that was missed or do alternate work/examinations subject to timely notification.
Conestoga recognizes all religious holidays as defined by the College Employer Council.

It is the responsibility of the student to:

a. Plan ahead and be aware of the dates of all examinations and other course obligations;

b. Advise the Faculty member that they will be seeking accommodation to observe a recognized religious holiday and make a request in writing within the first three weeks of the semester and prior to the date of assessment that falls on the religious holiday. Exceptions based on extenuating circumstances must be approved by the Chair.

Class Cancellations

Class Cancellations Due to Faculty Absence

All class cancellations due to Faculty absences will be posted in the Student Portal. These notices in the Student Portal will be the only general notifications of class cancellations due to Faculty absences.

Although the formal notification comes through the portal, faculty may also elect to post an absences on eConestoga. 

Personal Notifications of Class Cancellations

Students have the option of receiving special emails or SMS text messages notifying them of class cancellations due to Faculty absences. To receive such personal notifications students must subscribe to this special service.

To subscribe:

  • Log in to the Student Portal
  • Select Notifications under the Profile tab
  • Select the method by which you would like to be notified
  • Click Update

Note: To change the email address to which these notifications will be sent, select My Addresses under the Profile Tab, and change the default email address.

Program Standards for Professional Practice

There are three areas of conduct that students are expected to adhere to. They are outlined as follows: Professional Conduct, Academic Conduct, and Social/Behavioural Conduct.

Students are required to adhere with respect to Academic Policies and Procedures as detailed in Standards of Conduct in Conestoga College's Student Guide for the current academic year as well as the Standards of Conduct specifically identified in this document.

In the event of a conflict between the Program Handbook & the College Student Guide, the Student Guide will take precedence.

Throughout their program of studies, students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and apply themselves to academic achievement.

  • Students are required to uphold and promote the ethical standards of the program and the profession.
  • Students are responsible to protect the integrity of the Protection, Security and Investigation program and the college community by identifying students who are dishonest and/or violate the standards.
  • Students are expected to seek clarification from Faculty or administration when unsure of any of these standards.

Program Policies

As a student of Conestoga College you are a member of the College community and as such you have received a Conestoga Student Guide that includes Student Rights and Student Responsibilities. It is essential that you review this section and familiarize yourself with these responsibilities. It is expected that your conduct as a student will be reflective of the responsibilities listed. If you have any questions regarding any of them, please contact your Program Coordinator.

Ethical Conduct

The fundamental responsibility of a student is to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to be competent in the Protection, Security and Investigations sector upon graduation. As students, preparing to play a role in public safety, it is imperative that your behaviours and attitudes reflect the professional and ethical standards that are embraced by your chosen careers.

We believe that a value system incorporating high moral and ethical integrity is of vital importance, and regard the absence of such values as critical and dangerous to practice. We believe integrity to be a quality that includes sound moral principles, sincerity, honesty and self-respect.

Professional Appearance: Uniform Policy

Rationale

The industry standard for security investigations typically involves wearing a uniform for part, or all, of one's career. While private investigators do not wear uniforms, as a rule, many investigators start in the field of private security and investigators also need to feel comfortable wearing uniforms to blend into certain occupational roles as part of their undercover work.

To assist you in preparing for a career in your chosen field, you are required to wear a uniform while in the PSI program. Wearing a uniform will help you:

  • Become used to one of the requirements of your chosen career
  • Cultivate a professional appearance and attitude
  • Explore and discover whether a career in this field right for you
  • Develop team cohesiveness, pride and profile

In other words, your program uniform is part of the process of becoming a professional which starts with your first day in the program. You are not expected to be that fully fledged professional on day one. However, you are expected to strive for professionalism throughout your time in the program. This will help you be competitive in today's labour market, and to present as a preferred graduate for prospective employers.

Procedure

The uniform is an element of your program design and your participation in, and development within, your program. It shall be worn as directed and approved by the program. When worn, it should be worn correctly both in, and outside, of classes.

Some classes or courses may be exempted from the uniform requirement on a regular basis, with approval of the program; if so, this will be communicated to students as appropriate by the program. For example, in fitness classes, appropriate fitness clothing is to be worn during training and physical assessment/testing sessions. Students are encouraged, but not required, to wear their uniforms in their General Education and Communications courses.

Individual course faculty/instructors (full-time or part-time) have the discretion to permit you to attend class/events out of uniform for specific reasons as discussed and approved at the Program level by the Program Team and/or the Department Chair (e.g., fundraising events, documented accommodations).  

The approved uniform consists of:

Plain dark black business style casual pants (black jeans, jogging pants or leggings are not permitted);

Any* plain black shoes;

Any* plain black socks;

Any* plain black leather belt; with an

Approved uniform top:

Duty polo shirt displaying the Conestoga College 'Protection, Security and Investigation' logo on the chest, which may only be purchased from the distributor (Conestoga College Bookstore).

OR

3/4 zip black fleece pullover/jacket with the program logo (available at the Conestoga College Bookstore)

OR

Official black Conestoga program hoodie (available at the Conestoga College Bookstore)
*The black pants, shoes, socks, and belt may be purchased from any vendor the student chooses

Hats, sunglasses, and ear buds recreational listening are not to be worn while in class. Sunglasses are not to be worn in class nor placed on top of the head during class. This is consistent with the professional standards of the industry.

Please Note:

Professional appearance is an important part of the day-to-day work world for which students are preparing. The uniform must be kept neat and clean in appearance.

When students are in uniform they must act in a manner that will not bring the character of the Program or Conestoga College into disrepute.

Failure to abide by the uniform procedure may result in the application of progressive disciplinary measures, as the uniform is part of the program design.

Professional Conduct - Use of Social Media and Cell Phones

To support a quality and respectful learning environment both in the classroom and in field placement, the use of cell phones and laptop computers for social networking should only occur during break times, before/after class, outside of children's play areas (indoors/outdoors) and during formal break time in field placement.

As a student and future professional, it is essential to maintain professional boundaries in all communication, including Social Media.

Ensure that your posts reflect you as the professional you are and wish to become – if a potential employer were to see your posts.

  1. Many types of social media encourage instantaneous, casual dialogue. It is important to remember that even an innocent comment may be easily misunderstood.
  2. Assume that information you post or send can be accessed or altered by anyone.
  3. Consider whether any posting may reflect poorly on you, your school, or your profession.
  4. Avoid online criticism of other students, colleagues, professors or field placements.
  5. Avoid impulsive, inappropriate or heated comments.
  6. Pictures should not be taken, posted to social media sites or shared without the express permission of all individuals involved.
  7. Remember that online sites you visit are not anonymous.
  8. Make sure your on-line name and email reflect professionalism.
  9. Ensure that your postings will not be considered harassment or defamation of a peer, colleague, faculty or others. 
Maintain privacy of all care and service activities when in practical work experiences:
  1. Do not take or post any pictures while on placement or involved in lab activities
  2. Maintain client-provider relationships and boundaries. The addition of a client to a 'friendship" status online is unacceptable.

Please respect the fact that your faculty and staff will not invite you to their personal web pages when you are a current student, nor will they accept any invitations to your personal sites 


What is Academic Integrity?

Having academic integrity means acting fairly and honestly when engaging in academic activities. 

By having and applying an Academic  Offences Policy and Procedure, Conestoga ensures graduates complete their studies fairly and honestly through hard work and dedication, and thus are well-prepared for their future careers.

Copyright at Conestoga 

Conestoga facilitates access to print, media, and electronic resources to support and enrich learning, teaching, and research in compliance with the following:

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is submitting or presenting work of another person(s)/organization in whole or substantial part as one's own without proper citation and referencing.

​Test and Evaluation Procedures

General Guidelines for Quality of Written Work

In the PSI program, there are continuous requirements for written work in a variety of formats (papers, assignments, forms and plans, handouts, etc.). It is expected that all students will meet the required standard of English. Students may attend or be referred to the Learning Commons to help them improve the quality of their written work.

General Guidelines for Submitting Written Work

For specific course requirements, refer to the Course Outlines and Evaluation. If you are still not clear about course requirements, discuss with the individual Faculty. Students are required to use spell-check and grammar-check to assist with the editing of written work. The Learning Centre will be an invaluable resource to students who require assistance in organizing and writing an assignment with correct spelling and grammar.

Unless otherwise indicated by Professors, generally, assignments should be:

  • Word processed;
  • Double spaced and 1 sided;
  • Submitted using a font size of 12, if word-processed and proper margins;
  • Written in a grammatically correct manner (use spell and grammar check);
  • Handed in at the beginning of class on the designated due date in class, unless otherwise indicated by professor;
  • Handed in using the APA format (see below) if references are required;
  • Handed in securely fastened with a cover page indicating the course name, Faculty's name, student's name, section, and date submitted.

NOTE: Faculty does not assume responsibility for assignments not given directly to them in hard copy at the beginning of the relevant course and/or electronically via DropBox, where required. Students should avoid handing in assignments outside the regularly scheduled class time and should make every effort to hand assignments to the professor in person.

Steps to Follow to Submit Assignments Outside of Class Time

We cannot assure that Faculty or administrative support staff will be present to receive assignments. Please make sure that if you are dropping an assignment off outside of class that you have indicated to your Faculty, via email, that you have dropped it off. In your email, you should indicate the date and time you dropped off your assignment. You should also provide an electronic copy of your assignment to the Faculty as per Faculty instructions. All assignments must be clearly labeled with your student number and Faculty name to ensure delivery/marking.

Testing

Tests are to be written at the times scheduled by the Professor/instructor, the program, and the College. Unauthorized absence from a test will result in a grade of zero for that test. Authorized absence from a test must be arranged with the Professor/instructor prior to the scheduled test date, and the rescheduling of such tests is at the discretion of the Professor/instructor. Students who arrive late for a test may be refused admittance to the test room.

Test Results

Test results will be posted on the student portal or otherwise communicated as soon as possible after a test. Tests will not normally be returned to students, but students may arrange with their Professor/instructors to see and discuss their test results. Students should consult with their Professor/instructors for details of the review process. Such reviews should be conducted within two weeks of the posting of test results.

It is the students' responsibility to check their mark on any test or assignment and raise any issues within two weeks of the posting.

Authorized Resources

The following resources are required in test situations: student ID cards, pencils, pens, and erasers. A Faculty member may authorize specific resources for a test. All other resources are considered unauthorized and must be stored in student lockers or an area of the test room designated by the Professor/instructor.

Data Link Tests

Data Link is a form that is filled out for multiple choice/true and false type tests questions. A sample Data Link sheet has been attached. If the Datalink forms are not filled out properly, you risk losing marks and delay receiving your results by the week.

If you have no grade posted for a given test, go see the faculty member in charge of that course to find out why it wasn't posted. Do not wait until the end of the semester to check why you're missing grades. If you wait more than 1 week to check your missing grade, a mark of ZERO will be posted.

Grading System

Students must attain a minimum 55% passing grade in PSI. The College uses numeric, alpha and grade point average (GPA). An incomplete is submitted as an "I". Incompletes change to failures if the terms of the incomplete are not met within the stipulated time.

Late Policy

It is expected that students will submit all assignments on time, on the date they are due, as per instructions of the course faculty.

Assignments that are received past the due date will be subject to the following deductions:

  • 1 to 3 days late - 10%
  • 4 to 6 days late - 20%
  • 7 to 10 days late - 30%
  • 11 to 15 days late - 40%
  • 16 to 20 days late - 50%
Assignments that are received more than 20 days late will receive a mark of 0, will be reviewed and offered feedback.
Students experiencing extenuating circumstances that may prevent them from meeting assigned due dates may have the opportunity to negotiate a different due date providing they meet the following conditions:
  • They discuss their circumstance with the course faculty at least 3 business days prior to the due date
  • They negotiate a new due date that is mutually agreed upon

Importance of Test and Presentation Dates

Test and assignment dates are scheduled at the beginning of each semester. Unplanned extenuating circumstances involving the College, the program, or the Faculty may require changes to the course schedule. If this occurs, students will be notified.

Students are required to write all tests during the scheduled in-class test times. Students who make personal commitments that conflict with meeting test and assignment deadlines do so at their own risk. There will be no special arrangements made for students with personal conflicts (e.g. work, family commitments or vacation plans). Students who wish to reschedule a test or presentation because of a religious holiday are required to discuss the situation with Faculty at the beginning of the semester.

Academic accommodations are provided to students with documented disabilities through the Accessibility Services Office.

Academic Progress Through the Program

Academic Progression

The college's approach to academic progression is governed by the Promotion Decision Procedure.

A student's academic achievement results in a promotion decision, such as eligible to continue, graduate, and discontinued.

Progress from one level to the next in a program is dependent upon the successful completion of courses and/or meeting program promotion standards.

Progression Guidelines

Each program has very clear guidelines about how students successfully progress through their course of study. These guidelines are found in this program handbook. They include information about what may happen should you fail courses or field placement, how you could recover these courses, and what your options may be if recovery is not possible. We encourage you to review these guidelines in order to understand them. If you have any questions about them, please connect with a member of your program team. Remember, we are all here to help.

In order to resolve any concerns which may arise during a course, field placement or relating to the program overall, students are encouraged to resolve issues or concerns informally at the program level prior to proceeding to a formal appeal.

If attempts have been made, and a successful resolution has not been reached, students are encouraged to refer to their Conestoga Student Guide, and to follow the procedures outlined under the "Academic Dispute Resolution and Appeal Procedure​."​

Academic Standing and Promotion

Promotional Standards

Promotions Standards are minimally accepted academic performance and standards of conduct expectations that must be met as the student progresses through the program.

These standards set the basis for the evaluation of student performance and provide the program with an ongoing decision-making process for assessing whether the student has met the expected academic performance and standards of social conduct and is permitted to advance to the next academic level of the program.

Special Timetables/Adding Dropped or Failed Courses

Please note that when students are not taking the program in the prescribed sequence, they will be on "special timetables". Prior to the beginning of the semester, students should attempt to add missed courses from a previous semester by logging in to the Student Portal and following the instructions to register for courses. If students are not able to add courses on their own (because of a timetable conflict or full course section) they must seek assistance from their Program Coordinator during the "Special Timetable Registration" initiated by the College. Dates, times and locations of Special Timetable Registration periods are posted in the student portal in advance of the beginning of each semester. Students must attend this meeting where they will receive further guidance regarding this academic status from their Program Coordinator.

Students who take longer than the designed program length of time to complete their studies are accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the program of study. Unless otherwise stated, students registered in non-cohort delivered programs must complete the program of study within seven years of being admitted to the program.

Academic Probation

Students who have have failed two or more academic courses, and/or have required considerable testing/assignment variances may be recommended for Academic Probation. Academic probation allows students to be promoted to the next level with a special timetable or with academic conditions. Special timetables and academic conditions are designed as part of written learning contract that the student and Program Coordinator create together. The goal of these measures is to allow students to continue in the program accompanied by a supportive plan for success.

Discontinuance                                                       

Students who have not successfully participated in the requirements of their academic probation, who have failed to meet the standards set out in the Conestoga Student Guide and/or the Program Handbook involving academic dishonesty, student responsibilities, or unacceptable behaviour, attitude or conduct. Students who have been discontinued from the program will not be considered for re-entry to the program for a minimum of one semester and/or until they have worked with the Program Coordinator to develop a written learning contract to support their academic and non-academic success.

Students may also be discontinued for the following reasons:

  • For failure to meet academic program standards by failing 70% or more of their core (non-elective) program courses within an academic semester.

Withdrawal

Students not planning to return to the PSI Program the following semester are expected to complete a Withdrawal Form available from the program coordinators, the Registrar's Office, or on the College website.

Program Transfer

Prior to transferring to another program, it is recommended that the student meet with the program coordinator or academic advisor. Students who decide to change programs may do so by completing and submitting a program application form to the Registrar's Office. If considering transferring to a program outside the school in which they are currently enrolled in, students may want to discuss options with a career advisor. When a student moves from one Conestoga program to another and where courses numbers/codes are identical or equivalent, automatic credit is given if passing grades are met.

Appeal

Students have the right to appeal any academic decisions as set out in the Conestoga Academic Dispute Resolution and Appeal Policy and Procedure. It is recommended that students begin this appeal process by first meeting with the faculty and/or program coordinator and/or program chair.

Clearance of Academic Deficiency/Supplemental Opportunities

Students who have failed a course and who are eligible may receive an opportunity for a supplemental evaluation. Following the end of semester, eligible students will be invited for a supplemental opportunity. If a student does not respond to this invitation or is unavailable at the specified date and time, the student forfeits the supplemental opportunity for the course. For more information please visit the College Policies, Procedures, Practices and Guidelines webpage then click on the Academic Administration side tab and search for the document entitled Clearance of Academic Deficiency. 

To be eligible for a supplemental opportunity, a student must meet the following criteria:

  1. A final course grade within 10% of the passing mark of the course and no lower than 50%.
  2. No academic offences in the course.
  3. Evidence of passing at least one evaluation in the course.

Procedure

  1. Eligible student will be contacted by the program and will be provided details of the supplemental process.
  2. Student will receive a supplemental form and through the student portal pay the fee.
  3. Student completes supplemental work (test or assignment) in accordance with the times and dates communicated.
  4. Supplemental work is assessed, and the final grade is posted.
  5. If successful in completing the supplemental work for the course, the failing course grade will be upgraded to the minimal passing grade for the course.

Students in the PSI programs may complete a maximum of four (4) supplemental evaluations throughout the program.  A maximum of two (2) supplemental evaluations in each of years 1 and 2 of the program. If successful in completing the supplemental work for the course, the failing course grade will be upgraded to the minimal passing grade of 55% for the course.

Readmission to a Program

Students are required to apply for readmission when they have been absent from their program for one semester or longer unless an Intention Form has been completed (returning students only), or when the student has withdrawn or been discontinued. Upon readmission, students are placed into the current program of study which determines graduation requirements. Students are subject to the college and program policies and procedures in place at the time of readmission.

Students applying for readmission to Level/Semester one must do so through Ontario Colleges. Students applying for readmission to a level beyond Level/Semester one must do so using a Conestoga College Program Application Form. Applicable fees will be charged.

The application for readmission will be reviewed based on the student's academic eligibility, program readmission requirements, and space availability. The student will be informed in writing of the decision.

For additional information, refer to the Academic Administration page for more information on the readmission procedure.

Exemptions

If you have completed courses from a college or university that you think may be very similar in content to courses in the PSI program you may be eligible for a course exemption. Please note that to receive an exemption, courses must have been completed within the past 7 years and with a mark of at least 60%. If you would like to proceed with a request for exemptions, please contact your Program Coordinator for guidance. Please note that exemptions will not be processed until a student is registered in the Program. The exemption process will take some time (2-3 weeks), and students should attend all scheduled courses until they receive the exemption as they will be responsible for all material covered in class should the exemption be denied.

Failed Courses

Should you be unsuccessful in achieving a passing grade, your course may be available through Continuing Education or on-line through Ontario Learn. Faculty approval must be obtained prior to re-taking the course to ensure equivalency.

Administrative Fees

The College requires that appropriate forms be completed and that an administrative fee be paid at the Registrar's Office. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that such forms are completed and fees paid. For example, you must pay a fee for a supplemental assignment prior to writing the supplemental.

Graduation

Students are expected to respond to their invitation through their Student Portal. Convocation ceremonies are held in the spring and fall of each academic year. Students, who take longer than the advertised program length, are responsible for completing any new or additional courses due to a program design change. Students who complete their program after the scheduled completion date are required to fill out an Application to Graduate form and submit it with payment to the Registrar's Office. Students who are discontinued or have withdrawn and then return to the College will be placed in the current program design and must meet all requirements to graduate.

 

Work-Integrated Learning Experiences

​Student Consent Forms

Students are required to complete program specific consent forms. To access the forms, students need to visit the WIL Document Services Community in myConestoga and click on the Consent Forms tab. 

Safe Practice

Safe practice is a hallmark of professional practice. It is an expectation of everyone who is or wants to be a professional.

There are a number of policies and procedures associated with practical training in your program that has been developed to ensure your safety and the safety (physical and emotional) of those around you. These will be reviewed with you during your program.

The following basic procedures are outlined for your attention and follow-through:

  1. Your personal safety begins with the use of professional attire and foot wear and with your attention to the health and safety expectations that may be identified throughout the college. 
  2. Help us have a safe and pleasant environment by wiping up spills, by ensuring laptop cords do not snake across walking areas, and by reporting equipment or facility problems when you see them.
  3. Specific dress codes, personal protective equipment and specific codes of behavioral conduct may apply to certain programs; failure to follow these may result in your inability to participate in a lab, class or experiential learning activity.  
  4. Safe work practices are to be followed during all training; follow the direction of your instructors. If you have a field placement, your Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Preceptor will ensure that you are aware of safe practices and safety precautions and procedures. This includes problem-solving by the Responsible Faculty and Program Coordinator with the college's Occupational Health & Safety Department as required. For example, should outside temperatures during the summer become unusually hot, very high temperatures may occur in some workplaces; this could require that specific steps be taken to ensure a safe working environment. 
  5. All safety-related accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to the Instructor-in-Charge immediately. This is an opportunity to problem-solve how to avoid these areas of concern for the future.



Student Engagement

Conestoga 101

The Student Engagement Department is here to help you transition to the Conestoga College experience, connect with your community, and build your skills. 

Start your college experience by completing Conestoga 101 (CON0101) on eConestoga, a mandatory course for all new full-time students that will take you approximately one hour to complete. CON0101 provides an overview of the supports, services, and opportunities available to you throughout your time at Conestoga. Make sure you complete it early on in the term, as it contains valuable information that will help you transition to Conestoga.

​​Student Feedback

​Student feedback is an essential component of our continuous improvement process. Our opportunities for student feedback include:

Ontario College Student Experience Survey

All college programs in the province are evaluated using the Ontario College Student Experience Survey. This survey is conducted each academic year in select classes - every student is invited to participate in each year of their program. Strategic goals to improve the programs are developed from these results. This data and other data specific to the campus and the program/school are collected so that Conestoga College can continually improve quality.

Student Appraisal of Teaching (SAT)

The Student Appraisal of Teaching (SAT) allows direct feedback from students on teaching for a particular course. Completion of the SAT forms give teachers and academic managers valuable information to use for the improvement of teaching at Conestoga.

The SAT process has two components: the Early Course Check-in and the Full-SAT. The Early Course Check-in is 8-12 questions, occurs during week 10 of classes and provides early feedback to faculty about the student experience within their classroom. The Full-SAT is 43 questions and occurs late in the semester; a summary of the results goes to the faculty member and their academic manager. Typically, about one-quarter of the faculty is appraised per term. All full-time faculty have a SAT review at least once every two years. Part-time faculty may be reviewed more frequently. 

Program Advisory Committees (PACs)

Program Advisory Committees (PACs) provide the necessary link between Conestoga and the community it serves. PACs operate in an advisory capacity to Conestoga administration with the objective to keep Conestoga responsive to current and future workforce needs, trends or opportunities in industry and the marketplace.

All post-secondary education programs of study at Conestoga, both full-time and part-time, which lead to an employment related credential, or are approved by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU), will be associated with a PAC, with the exception of apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. For any program not leading to an employment related credential, such as foundation programs, PACs are optional.

At the beginning of each year, the coordinator(s) of the program will ask for student volunteers. The coordinator(s) will select which student(s) will represent the program at PAC. Student attendees are important members of the PAC and are expected to be present at all meetings and are responsible for preparing and submitting a report based on guidelines provided by the program coordinator.

Students who participate in PACs will receive credit on their Co-Curricular Record (CCR) . Your CCR is an official document, complementary to your academic transcript, which recognizes and records learning that you have achieved through approved Co-curricular experiences at Conestoga.

College-wide Policies and Procedures

​​Student Protection Acknowledgement

A Student Protection Acknowledgement confirmation pop-up will appear when a student logs into the Student Portal on a yearly basis. This will direct students to policies and procedures relevant to their academic responsibilities. All Conestoga College wide academic policies and procedures are listed on the college website under "About Conestoga", "Policies and Procedures". 

Students are advised to review and comply with all policies and procedures, including the following:         
  • Academic Dispute and Resolution Policy & Procedure
  • Academic Offences Policy & Procedure ​
  • Clearance of Academic Deficiency Policy & Procedure
  • Convocation Procedure
  • Co-operative Education Policy
  • Discontinuance Procedure
  • Evaluation of Student Learning Policy & Procedure
  • Grading Procedure
  • Program and Course Withdrawal and Refund Procedure/International Student Withdrawal and Refund Procedure
  • Readmission Procedure
  • Religious Holiday Policy & Procedure
  • Student Expectations for Online Engagement
  • Student Feedback Policy
  • Student Fees Policy & Student Fee Invoicing and Payment Procedure
  • Student Rights and Responsibilities Policy & Procedure

Students must follow all of the policies and procedures for Conestoga College and it is expected that faculty will accept, fulfil and enforce these standards.​​ 

Web-based Tools

​Program courses may use web-based services with data centres outside of Canada. Students may be expected to complete assessments where information is transmitted outside of Canada. Students who do not wish to submit their information to other countries have the right to opt-out. It is the responsibility of the student to notify the instructor if they, in the first week of term or at the time assignment details are provided, wish to submit an alternate assignment.

Course examinations may be administered through a remote proctoring service to assure academic integrity. Ensure that you meet the system requirements that will allow the recording of your computer screen, webcam, and microphone.

Accommodation Disclaimer

​Conestoga College provides an equitable environment where all students have the opportunity to participate in College life. In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code, Conestoga recognizes its responsibility and legal obligation to provide education, information and services in an accessible manner.

Conestoga's Accessible Learning services provide support for students with permanent and temporary disabilities who feel they are encountering barriers to learning. They work with students to understand the impact of a disability in the college environment and will help develop a success plan that considers student goals and required academic accommodations. Accessible Learning will also communicate necessary accommodations to professors on behalf of the student. 

To consult with an Accessibility Advisor about accommodations please make an appointment by emailing accessibility@conestogac.on.ca or calling 519-748-5220 ext. 3232.

Exceptions for non-accessibility focused issues need to be consulted on with your professor. Final approval for exceptions unrelated to academic accommodations rests with the program chair.

Program Handbook Revision Log

​​
​ Last Revised By Whom
June 15th, 2015Jillian Grant
June 30, 2016Janos Botschner
July 4, 2016Dom Parisi​
​June 20, 2017​Dom Parisi
​July 5, 2018​Jaymie Wilson-Neil
​July 9, 2019
​Julia Rodricks
​August 19, 2020
​Ashitha Jacob
​June 30, 2021
​Liz Oliveira
​June 16, 2022​Jess Balzer
​June 2, 2023​Cindy Wang


Protection, Security and Investigation