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 semester and one in fourth semester). 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 an 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. Thats why all of Centennial Colleges 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.