1. Healthcare Environmental Services Management Program
Offers Practical Application On and Off Campus
Did you know that healthcare environmental services management is a combination of healthcare
environmental service knowledge with business and human relations skills? As such, post-
secondary institutions are challenged with seamlessly integrating both into their curriculums.
One school that does a great job of balancing both aspects in its healthcare management
program is Centennial College. The program, Healthcare Environmental Services Management,
takes two years to complete during which students study from Morningside Campus. Because this
location houses School of Community and Health Studies programs, it is outfitted with large, well-
equipped industry specific laboratories and computer labs with industry specific software. As such,
students obtain plenty of hands-on practice with a realistic spin before heading on two field
placements (one in second semesters and one in fourth semesters). These experiences allow
students to apply what they have learned in their classes and gain knowledge of the role and tasks
related to entry-level positions in the Healthcare Environmental Services Department, which will
lead to better comprehension in how to manage these positions.
Here is a look at some of the standout courses within the offering that prepare students for both
placement and their future careers.
Infection Control 1 & 2: The first of these two courses establishes principles and practices of
infection prevention and control in the healthcare setting. Students learn to identify relevant
industry and governmental regulations, standards and best practices with regards to infection
control in healthcare as well as quality assurance methodology. The second course, meanwhile,
sees students apply planning, implementation, management and evaluation practices of infection
prevention and control program, while learning to effect applicable quality assurance principles.
Communication and Interprofessional Collaboration for Environmental Services: Because
implementing infection control measures is a collaborative process, students learn to communicate
verbally and non-verbally with co-workers, supervisors and clients. Interprofessional and
collaborative care models in healthcare are examined using practical examples.
Math Application for Environmental Services: It is not enough just to learn general math
equations. That’s why all of Centennial College’s math courses are specifically designed. This one,
for example, covers mathematical concepts and methods used in healthcare environmental
services management. Emphasis is placed on the application of methods, concepts, vocabulary
and problem solving strategies used in the industry.
Purchasing and Materials Management: Managers in this field must know the process of
purchasing cleaning, linen and related supplies. As such, students examine how to apply quality
standards for various environmental services categories and understand central procedures used
in healthcare environmental services operations.
After completing each healthcare management course, students are prepared for employment
in hospitals, nursing homes, retirement homes, commercial buildings, schools and residential
buildings. It is worth noting that the diploma students earn after they graduate reflects high
standards of learning and offers them transferable skills.