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Infection Prevention and Control

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Program Code: IP511
Credential: Ontario Graduate Certificate
Start Dates: September
Program Length: 2 semesters
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Make September 2025 your time to shine. Apply on us and get your $150 application fee back*. See details.

Program Overview

Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) is an evidence-based practice that when applied consistently and efficiently can prevent or reduce the risk of transmission of microorganisms. Endorsed by IPAC Canada, this Ontario Graduate Certificate program is firmly grounded in system theory and experiential skills and provides students with forward-thinking education, knowledge and skills required to lead in the field as IPAC professionals. Graduates of this program will be equipped with the resources necessary for knowledge translation, design thinking, systems assessment, program design and implementation, surveillance, audit, monitoring, and reporting across the continuum of health, and non-health-related industries. The program also includes an in-person field experience. 

Program Delivery: courses are scheduled over two 14-week semesters and are a combination of set synchronous online lectures that occur once a month, and asynchronous, self-directed online modules. A field experience placement occurs in the second semester concurrently with the winter academic semester courses. The placement may be rolled over into the summer semester to accommodate students if needed.

This program is not available to international applicants.

Courses Open "Courses" to view individual course delivery modes.

Courses

At Humber, courses are delivered in a variety of formats:

In-Person - An in-person course is delivered fully on campus.

Online Asynchronous (A) - An online asynchronous course has no fixed class schedule and allows students to engage with the course at different times according to their needs. Faculty provide modules, which are completed independently by the students according to established deadlines.

Online Synchronous (S) - An online synchronous course is delivered fully online and requires faculty and students to participate in real-time according to a fixed schedule. Classes are scheduled for a specific day and time.

Hybrid - A hybrid course is a combination of in-person and online classes and follows a set schedule. Students must be available to attend in-person classes at scheduled times during the semester.

The chart below outlines the delivery options available for each course in this program, by campus. For some academic terms, there may be more than one delivery option available. You’ll be able to select your preferred options when building your course schedule during open enrolment. Preferences for course delivery will be considered on a first come, first served basis. Some Humber programs are also delivered fully online, where all courses are delivered online.

International students: the impact of studying from outside of Canada on Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility differs significantly based on when you start your program. Please review the PGWP eligibility before choosing your program and course delivery.

Course code and Name Delivery Type by Location
Course Code Course Name North Lakeshore IGS DL/Online
Semester 1
IPAC 5001 Microbiology N/A N/A N/A Online (S)
IPAC 5002 Epidemiology N/A N/A N/A Online (S)
IPAC 5003 Clinical Infection N/A N/A N/A Online (S)
IPAC 5006 Health and Safety Principles in Infection Prevention and Control N/A N/A N/A Online (S)
PREP 5000 Professional Development N/A N/A N/A Online (A)
Online (S)
Semester 2
IPAC 5502 Project Management for Quality Improvement in Infection Prevention and Control N/A N/A N/A Online (S)
IPAC 5503 Pandemic Preparedness N/A N/A N/A Online (S)
IPAC 5504 Field Experience - Infection Prevention and Control N/A N/A N/A Online (A)
Online (S)
IPAC 5505 Infection Prevention and Control Across Diverse Settings N/A N/A N/A Online (S)
IPAC 5506 Ethical IPAC Leadership for Organizations and Teams N/A N/A N/A Online (S)
IPAC 5507 Integrating and Applying IPAC Strategies N/A N/A N/A Online (S)

Work-Integrated Learning  

You will participate in one mandatory paid or unpaid 210-hour to gain professional work experience in the field of infection prevention and control. The field experience takes place during the second semester and can be extended into the summer as needed. Work will occur in diverse settings such as for-profit or not-for-profit enterprises, governmental or educational institutions, or health and wellness institutions.

The experience will enhance the theoretical learning in the program, giving you hands-on application in the field. Field experiences might include developing, evaluating and implementing an IPAC initiative/program; functioning as a member of a health protection team; or working at a public health organization as an IPAC professional. Students will be supported throughout their field experience with various key supports and key faculty and staff from the program.

Visit Future Students > Work-Integrated Learning > to learn more about your WIL power and other success stories.

Also take time to explore the digital Faculty of Health Sciences & Wellness Student Handbook to learn foundational WIL concepts, plus requirements specific to this program.

paramedic students holding a gurney with a training dummy on it

Watch the video to learn what is work-integrated learning.

Our Industry Partnerships

Thanks to our industry partners, Infection Prevention and Control program students have the opportunity to work in diverse healthcare settings such as in hospitals, long-term care homes, retirement settings, other congregate living settings and home care services, laboratory and medical device reprocessing departments, and public health units.

An Education in High Demand

Infection prevention and control practitioners are in high demand in a multitude of settings from health care to the food service and manufacturing industry. Recently, the ministry of long-term care has recognized the importance of infection prevention and control practices where legislation now requires every licensee to ensure there is a designated IPAC Lead, thus opening up and creating new job opportunities for this line of work. This graduate certificate prepares students with not only the knowledge but also the skills to work in this growing and in-demand industry. Graduates will be able to apply the knowledge, skills and abilities to develop, assess, implement and educate others regarding the policies, procedures and best practices surrounding the prevention of infections.

HealthConnex, a Canadian-based software company, offers an innovative Infection Prevention and Control platform designed to improve how clinical staff manage and report infections. Integrating HealthConnex's Infection Management software into Humber's curriculum significantly benefits your learning by providing you with practical skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deeper understanding of infection prevention and control. This integration enhances your post-graduate readiness for clinical situations and contributes to your success in the healthcare workforce.

The Humber Experience

The Right Fit

You are driven, motivated, inquisitive and a problem solver. You are a team player and have strong interpersonal and collaborative skills. You are looking for the next step in your career with a desire to help others.


Why Choose Humber?

Humber is one of Canada’s leading postsecondary institutions, offering programs that emphasize a solid academic foundation and practical, hands-on experience. During lectures, you will learn about evidence-based practices and procedures, along with practical skills from faculty who are connected to industry, giving you an advantage when it comes to beginning your career. With over 50 years of excellence, Humber offers real-world training and practical skills and knowledge to thousands of students every year. Humber develops highly skilled and adaptable citizens to be successful in careers that significantly contribute to their local communities.


Testimonials

Interested in Infection Prevention and Control at Humber yet want to know more before enrolling?

Your Career

As the field of IPAC becomes increasingly advanced, complex and without borders, demands are growing for highly skilled professionals with well-versed and structured IPAC education and credentials. Graduates of the program will be versatile and demonstrate the core competencies to pursue a career in a variety of industries such as: 

  • child care 
  • corrections and shelters 
  • dental care  
  • health care
  • laboratories 
  • pharmacies 
  • public spaces and transportation 
  • wellness

Professional Accreditations & Recognition

Infection Prevention and Control IP511

Certification in Infection Control

Curriculum is in alignment with the IPAC Canada Core Competencies for Infection Prevention and Control Professionals. Additionally, this Ontario Graduate Certificate program is endorsed by IPAC Canada.

The requirements for certification in infection prevention and control are determined by the granting body, the Certification Board of Infection Control, which is independent from the College. Students are encouraged to obtain the specific requirements directly from the granting body.  

Additional requirements may apply.

Note: The requirements for the additional credential(s) are determined by the granting body, which is independent from the College. Students are encouraged to obtain the specific requirements directly from the granting body before enrolling.

Program Availability

Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Online Online Open
Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Online Online Not Available

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students in Canada who apply for September 2024 start could be eligible for an automatic scholarship*. Apply now

Please note the new International Admissions Process and Provincial Attestation Letters. Read the update

Start dates between Sept 2025 - Aug 2026
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2025 Online Online Not Available

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students Out of Canada can Apply through Humber International

Please note the new International Admissions Process and Provincial Attestation Letters. Read the update

Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this website is current and accurate. Humber Polytechnic reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.

GET YOUR $125 APPLICATION FEE BACK*

Apply On Us This September!

Apply through OCAS between June 14 - July 19, 2024 and be registered full-time on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 and receive a $125 credit equal to the domestic application fee.

To qualify, get started by filling out the APPLY ON US form.

*This promotion is open to domestic applications for the September 2024 program intakes only. Offer not valid for existing applicants or applications.

International Students with a valid Study Permit or Letter of Introduction (LOI)* can receive a Waiver Code to cover the $100 September 2024 application fee.

Bringing You Our A-Game

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How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by July 15, 2024 to receive your Application Fee Credit. Applications for September will remain open as long as the program availability status shows Open.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Contact Us

Admissions Questions

General Enquiries

Call 416-675-3111 or email enquiry@humber.ca. If you have already applied, be sure to check your application status on myhumber.ca.

Domestic Applicants Enquiries

Domestic applicants can book a one-on-one advising appointment with an admissions representative.

International Applicants Enquiries

Contact the International Centre for information about full-time programs (including the International Graduate School), how to apply and to follow up on your submitted application.

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Joan Lootee, program manager
joan.lootee@humber.ca

Campus Information

Book a campus tour to take a closer look at what it's like to be a student at Humber.

Want More Info?

Find out more about the student experience and everything that Humber has to offer Future Students.

for more info on Humber, including programs, special events and more!

How To Become An Apprentice

Becoming an Apprentice

Find an employer willing to sponsor you as an apprentice.

Contact the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development to register as an apprentice.

Work with your employer approximately one year before attending Humber.

View Instructions 

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

If you’re in high school – grade 11 or 12 – you can earn co-op education credits through work placements in some skilled trades.

Visit OYAP 

How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by the equal consideration deadline of February 1. You may apply after February 1, however, post-February 1 applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of the space in the program.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Need Advice?

Program Advising Appointments

Get help narrowing down your program options or book a one-on-one pre-enrolment advising appointment with one of our Recruitment Officers.

Transfer & Pathway Advising

Book a virtual appointment with a Student Mobility Advisor learn more about getting Transfer Credit(s) for previous post-secondary experience, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), and Pathways options.

Admission Requirements

Admission selection is based on the academic criteria indicated. Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

Admission selection is based on the following three requirements:

  • Academic

    To be eligible for admission, you must possess the following: 

    • A bachelor’s degree, advanced diploma, diploma or equivalent, in Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, Nursing or a health-care related field. 

    Mature Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or other postsecondary school, and will be 19 or older as of the first day of classes. Humber will invite you for testing to demonstrate that you meet all listed course requirements.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or attended postsecondary studies, and will be 21 or older as of the first day of classes. Mature applicants for degree programs will be required to meet course requirements at the U/M level or equivalent.

    College Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants must have an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent in the program. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

    University Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

  • English Language Proficiency

    All applicants whose first language is not English must meet Humber’s English Language Proficiency Policy.

  • International Credit Evaluation

    Canadian citizens or permanent residents with international education are required to provide a credential evaluation. Note, for international High school education course by course evaluations, ICAS must be used. For international post-secondary education, a WES evaluation must be provided. In situations where you expect to apply for transfer credit, it is recommended that a course by course WES evaluation is completed.

International Academic Equivalency

Admission equivalencies for Humber depend on your country of study. Please enter your location or choose detect my location to see the requirements for your country below.

Post-Admission Requirements

Once you have been accepted, and have confirmed your offer, you may need to complete a further set of requirements related to your program (Post-Admission Requirements).

Placement Requirements

The pre-requisite requirements must be fulfilled before the commencement of your first placement. Participation in placements will not be allowed if not all the pre-requisite requirements are met. Due to the variety of venues and possible changes in legislation, the requirements are subject to change. Please use the following link to find detailed information about your program’s placement pre-requisite requirements.

View Requirements 

View Requirements

Equipment & Device Requirements

Semester 1

Details and Specifications Minimum Specifications Recommended Specifications
Processor Intel i5-8300H (PC)
4-core or higher 64bit (Mac)
Intel i5-8300H (PC)
4-core or higher 64bit (Mac)
OS Windows 10 (PC)
OS 10.15 (Mac)
Windows 10 (PC)
OS 10.15 (Mac)
Memory 8GB of RAM 8GB of RAM
Storage 256GB 256GB
Monitor Laptop Laptop
Other Built-in microphone and webcam, Software: Adobe creative and Microsoft office Suite Built-in microphone and webcam, Software: Adobe creative and Microsoft office Suite

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Joan Lootee, program manager
joan.lootee@humber.ca

Fees & Financial Aid

The 2024/2025 fee for two semesters was:

  • domestic: $7,080.42
  • international: N/A

Fees are subject to change.

Fees by Semester

Domestic Fees International Fees

Financial Aid, Scholarships and Bursaries

Understand the costs associated with coming to Humber and explore resources available from first year to your final year on Student Fees and Financial Resources.

Scholarships

Humber Scholarships

Find out more about scholarships and bursaries that you may be eligible for, visit Student Scholarships. International students can visit International Student Scholarships.

Humber Bursaries

Bursaries are available for Certificate, Diploma and Degree programs primarily based on financial need, visit Humber Bursaries.

External Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Find out more information about external scholarships and bursaries, visit External Awards.

Indigenous Student Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Humber offers a variety of bursaries and scholarships for Indigenous students, visit Indigenous Student Awards.

Explore Opportunities through Humber Pathways

Humber Pathways include:

  • Opportunities to build on your college education and complete your diploma or degree at Humber.
  • Degree and graduate study opportunities at other institutions in Ontario, Canada and abroad.
View Pathways Into This Program  
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