Computer Programming and Analysis
The three-year Computer Programming and Analysis Ontario College Advanced Diploma program prepares you for a career in software development and systems analysis.
- Through a year-long applied research project, students collaborate with community partners in the design, development and deployment of an authentic information system solution
- Expand beyond computer programming and learn analytical skills that are geared toward future management roles
- Graduates from the Computer Programming Diploma program can ladder in to the Computer Programming and Analysis program
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Availability varies by course. Click here to view availability for courses in this program.
Schedule
Given the part-time delivery of this program, there is not a standard schedule for all learners.
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Other Campuses
Other Delivery Options
Use leading industry software and technology including object-oriented methodologies, database design, database administration, systems analysis and design, cybersecurity, quality assurance and testing, development operations as well as business and information technology to design, develop and deploy information systems.
Graduates may work in a variety of different fields, as almost all sectors of industry require programmers....(read more)
Overview
The three-year Computer Programming and Analysis Ontario College Advanced Diploma program prepares you for a career in software development and systems analysis. The program specializes in information systems design, development and deployment. You develop sound coding and software testing principles and practices leveraging proven methodologies and industry standards to develop robust system solutions meeting stakeholder's needs by bridging software development and the needs of the business world.
Use leading industry software and technology including object-oriented methodologies, database design, database administration, systems analysis and design, cybersecurity, quality assurance and testing, development operations as well as business and information technology to design, develop and deploy information systems.
Graduates may work in a variety of different fields, as almost all sectors of industry require programmers.
Fields may include, but are not limited to:
- private and public sectors
- healthcare
- education
- commerce
- science
- finance
- production
- information services
- service industry
- human services
To qualify for this advanced diploma, you must complete the program in six years.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Enjoy, and are adept at, strategizing solutions to problems.
- Are life-long learners ready to meet the challenges presented by rapidly changing technology.
- Possess the ability to see the big picture and to work in detail with individual parts.
- Enjoy working independently and with others as a member of a team.
Courses
Read this before applying:
Online |
Course Number | Hours | Course Name | Summer | Fall | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Series: 01 | ||||||
CST8116 | 70.0 | Introduction to Computer Programming | ||||
CST8118 | 56.0 | Computer Essentials | ||||
CST8215 | 70.0 | Introduction to Database | ||||
CST8300 | 42.0 | Achieving Success in Changing Environments | ||||
ENL1813T | 42.0 | Communications I | ||||
MAT8001C | 56.0 | Technical Mathematics for Computer Science | ||||
Series: 02 | ||||||
CST2355 | 56.0 | Database Systems | ||||
CST8102 | 70.0 | Operating System Fundamentals (Gnu/Linux) | ||||
CST8284 | 70.0 | Object Oriented Programming (Java) | ||||
CST8285 | 56.0 | Web Programming | ||||
ENL2019T | 42.0 | Technical Communication for Engineering Technologies | ||||
Choose one from equivalencies: | ||||||
GED1561 | 42.0 | General Education Elective | ||||
Series: 03 | ||||||
CST2234 | 56.0 | Systems Analysis and Design | ||||
CST2335 | 56.0 | Mobile Graphical Interface Programming | ||||
CST8109 | 70.0 | Network Programming | ||||
CST8288 | 70.0 | Object Oriented Programming with Design Patterns | ||||
Elective: choose 1 | ||||||
CST8283 | 56.0 | Business Programming | ||||
CST8390 | 56.0 | Business Intelligence and Data Analytics | ||||
Series: 04 | ||||||
CST8002 | 42.0 | Programming Language Research ProjectCST8002 Programming Language Research ProjectLearning a new programming language or framework on your own is a challenge faced by programmers on the job as part of their career. Students explore this process of self-study by applying project planning, applied research, testing, and implementation of basic and advanced concepts appropriate to the language or framework under study. Students develop major milestones and deliverables culminating in a project and reflective summary submission. Pre-requisites: CST8284 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
CST8276 | 70.0 | Advanced Database Topics | ||||
CST8277 | 70.0 | Enterprise Application Programming | ||||
CST8319 | 28.0 | Software Development Project | ||||
Choose one from equivalencies: | ||||||
GED1561 | 42.0 | General Education Elective | ||||
Series: 05 | ||||||
CST8400 | 56.0 | Analysis and Design Using Emerging TechnologiesCST8400 Analysis and Design Using Emerging TechnologiesIn the world of technology there is an ever changing and growing number of disruptive products, exciting tools and assistive services technology professionals can leverage as we invent, develop and produce technology solutions. Students explore emerging technologies and further develop the skillset to rapidly build and deploy technology solutions. Students research emerging technologies, and through hands-on learning, examine and implement these cutting-edge solutions. Topics may include machine learning and artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, big data, data analytics and visualization. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
CST8410 | 56.0 | Advanced Mobile ApplicationsCST8410 Advanced Mobile ApplicationsMobile devices are the primary means of communication in today's world, and having knowledge in development of mobile applications is advantageous. Students expand their mobile application development knowledge through applied projects. Topics include an in-depth study of application development, integration of application programming interfaces (APIs) and utilization of mobile cloud services. Students experiment with location, networking, data storage, wearable technology and wireless communication using current industry protocols. The final capstone project is based on individual or group application development. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
CST8411 | 42.0 | Information Systems Development and DeploymentCST8411 Information Systems Development and DeploymentIn a team environment it is important to coordinate development efforts to increase efficiency and reduce errors. Students explore the techniques and architectures involved in developing, testing and deploying full-stack applications. The various phases of continuous integration and delivery are a key focus as well as application architecture and API design. Through a hands-on approach, students have an opportunity to work in teams to enhance, test and deploy a working full-stack application. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
CST8412 | 56.0 | User Interface Design in Application DevelopmentCST8412 User Interface Design in Application DevelopmentPossessing the skills to write software that is user-friendly, accessible and maintainable is desirable by industry and end users. Students gain hands-on experience in developing and deploying database-driven applications, with a focus on high-level software architecture and building interactive graphical user interfaces. Through extensive lab work, students build on their previous knowledge of software design to implement modular, testable application code. Students examine and utilize modern approaches to interface design using native and custom interface controls. Techniques for interacting with operating system APIs are explored. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
CST8413 | 56.0 | Data Warehousing and Advanced Business IntelligenceCST8413 Data Warehousing and Advanced Business IntelligenceData warehousing systems are a foundation for Business Intelligence (BI) and decision making within an organization. Through designing and maintaining data warehouses, students examine the unique design requirements of data warehouses and gain experience performing Extraction, Transformation and Loading (ETL) processes. Students explore the analysis and presentation tools and techniques that can help inform and improve data-driven decisions. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
CST8414 | 42.0 | Applied Research Project 1CST8414 Applied Research Project 1Experience with practical projects provides students with learning opportunities to gain industry-relevant insight and experience. Through collaborative participation in applied research projects and working closely with stakeholders in real-world workplace environments, students develop solutions for problems of significant technical complexity. The phases of software development are expanded on including gathering requirements, documenting, designing, coding and testing working software prototypes. Knowledge about testing, debugging and quality assurance is expanded along with Agile software development methodology practices including Scrum, Kanban and Lean. Drawing upon skills previously acquired, students plan, conduct research for, and begin the creation of a written report that summarizes the work and findings resulting from the first release of the project. Pre-requisites: CST8319 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
Series: 06 | ||||||
CST8512 | 56.0 | CybersecurityCST8512 CybersecurityOrganizations recognize the importance of cybersecurity in the design, development and management of information systems. Students explore cybersecurity threats and best-practice responses to those threats. Primary focus is given to software and application layers. As well, to give students a broad understanding of the threat landscape, a variety of attack vectors through to the network and physical layers are discussed. Students gain hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used to mitigate security threats, and consider policies and regulations regarding cybersecurity and information privacy. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
CST8513 | 56.0 | Quality Assurance and TestingCST8513 Quality Assurance and TestingAssuring the quality of information technology systems is vital as these systems support businesses, health systems, entertainment franchises and more. Students employ a variety of testing strategies and industry best practices to analyze, document, develop, monitor, and maintain robust computing system solutions. Students develop these skills through a combination of lecture and practical activities using industry tools and techniques. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
CST8514 | 42.0 | Business and Information TechnologyCST8514 Business and Information TechnologyInformation systems are an integral part of conducting business in today's world. An understanding of business concepts is key to the analysis and design of business information technology systems. Students develop an awareness of business concepts, business information systems, business processes, risk assessment, business impact analysis, software licensing, ethics, government standards, regulatory compliance and business media in the context of systems analysis and design and personal and professional development. Theory is reinforced with discussions, group work, case study and research. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
CST8515 | 70.0 | Applied Research Project 2CST8515 Applied Research Project 2The ability to identify and satisfy all stakeholder expectations is essential in successful product development and delivery. Students collaborate to complete their applied research project in consultation with faculty and community partner to create deliverables by monitoring and controlling the project resources. Activities include implementing, testing, debugging and deploying information technology systems, creating installation packages, addressing security issues and concerns, adhering to quality assurance standards, and creating supporting documentation. Students defend developed solutions in formal oral and written presentations, and showcase the project to peers, faculty, staff and invited guests. Pre-requisites: CST8414 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | ||||
MGT0114 | 42.0 | EntrepreneurshipMGT0114 EntrepreneurshipTaking a concept for a software product or service to market requires specific business knowledge. Students examine entrepreneurship as a fundamental skill for Information Technology (IT). Students explore how to investigate and develop the key components of a successful business plan. Focus is on developing business skills and innovative attitudes essential for those who want to be a founder of a technology start-up, a product manager working in a technology start-up, or an agent of change in an existing company. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. |
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
CST8116 Introduction to Computer Programming
Possessing the fundamentals of logic, problem-solving and programming language structure provides a solid foundation for further study in the field. Students develop introductory knowledge of computer programming with emphasis on problem analysis and design, using algorithms, pseudocode, flowcharts, UML Class Diagrams and testing, with the Java programming language used as a means to implement problem solution designs. Through an introduction to the Java programming language students use sequential structures, selection structures, repetition structures, variables, constants, methods, constructors, one-dimensional arrays, object-oriented programming, classes, objects, abstraction, encapsulation, inputs, outputs, coding conventions and documentation. Theory is reinforced with application by means of practical laboratory assessments.
CST8118 Computer Essentials
Maintaining a computer, using operating system and productivity software, and expressing related environmental and sustainability concerns, is an important part of working with Information Technology. Students explain computer hardware, and use operating system software to maintain, utilize, and secure a computer. Students practice the use of spreadsheet software to solve problems, use formulas, and visualize data with charts. Students discuss computer hardware and software with regards to financial and environmental sustainability. Theory is reinforced with application by means of practical laboratory assessments, including using virtualization software to install guest operating systems onto a host computer.
CST8215 Introduction to Database
Databases are used to store data and are a core component of many information technology systems. Students learn the fundamentals of relational databases design using Entity Relation Diagrams (ERDs), and use Structured Query Language (SQL) to create, modify and query a database. Students design and create databases that are maintainable, secure and adaptable to change in business requirements, using normalization. Students become familiar with the functions of a Database Management System (DBMS) and its components in comparison with legacy systems and alternative information storage mechanisms.
CST8300 Achieving Success in Changing Environments
Rapid changes in technology have created personal and employment choices that challenge each of us to find our place as contributing citizens in the emerging society. Life in the 21st century presents significant opportunities, but it also creates potential hazards and ethical problems that demand responsible solutions. Students explore the possibilities ahead, assess their own aptitudes and strengths, and apply critical thinking and decision-making tools to help resolve some of the important issues in our complex society with its competing interests.
ENL1813T Communications I
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.
MAT8001C Technical Mathematics for Computer Science
The study of algebraic and transcendental functions is an essential prerequisite to Calculus. Students manipulate algebraic expressions, solve algebraic equations and learn the properties of and graph algebraic and transcendental functions. Students investigate computer number systems in addition to Boolean algebra and logic to help solve problems involving computer systems. Students also study the addition and subtraction of vectors using vector components. Delivered in a modular format, this course is equivalent to the completion of all of the following math modules MAT8100 - A, B, C, F, L, and T.
CST2355 Database Systems
Database systems can automate data processing tasks as well as tie into the security of information technology systems. Students acquire practical experience using market-leading object-relational database management systems like Oracle and MySQL. Students obtain hands-on experience with advanced engineering modeling tools along with SQL, SQL scripts and programming with Oracle's PL/SQL blocks. Database concepts covered include advanced SQL, case structures, rollup and cube operations, metadata manipulation, data storage and retrieval, security and transaction control and data warehousing
Pre-requisites: CST8215
CST8102 Operating System Fundamentals (Gnu/Linux)
Operating systems form the backbone of information technology systems coordinating the interaction between hardware and software. Students explore the basic concepts and components of Operating Systems (OS), and how they function and interact with hardware and software components. Students examine the details of operating system structures, process management, storage management, installation, configuration, and administration both in theory and through practical assignments based on the GNU/Linux operating system. Lab work is designed to implement the theory by developing skills using the powerful GNU/Linux command-line tools and utilities.
Pre-requisites: CST8116 and CST8118
CST8284 Object Oriented Programming (Java)
Working in the field of information technology as a programmer requires a firm understanding of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) concepts. Students explore object-oriented programming methodology using the Java programming language. Object oriented concepts, such as encapsulation, inheritance, abstraction and polymorphism are covered and reinforced with practical applications. Students explore the basics of data structures and algorithms as well as basic Graphical User Interface (GUI) programming.
Pre-requisites: CST8116
CST8285 Web Programming
The World Wide Web (WWW) has become an integrated part of everyday life. Students develop basic skills of web programming, website design and implementation. JavaScript, HTML5, and PHP are used to explore web-based solutions to problems of increasing interactivity and complexity. Lectures are reinforced by practical assignments that encourage students to construct and maintain their own websites.
Pre-requisites: CST8116
ENL2019T Technical Communication for Engineering Technologies
The ability to communicate effectively in a technically-oriented interdisciplinary workplace is a foundational skill in an innovation-driven economy. Students are exposed to exercises and assignments designed to foster independent and collaborative critical thinking, research, writing, visual communication and presentation skills related to technical topics.
Pre-requisites: ENL1813T
GED1561 General Education Elective
For this course, you will have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Your options will include courses which cover the following broad topic areas: (list the themes that have not been met by the mandated courses, e.g. Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, or Science and Technology).
Equivalencies: AST2000 and DSN2001 and ENL1726 and ENV0002 and ENV5004 and GED0021 and GED2200 and GED5002 and GED5003 and GED5004 and GED5005 and GED5006 and GED5007 and GED5010 and GED5300 and GED5301 and GED6022 and GEN1957 and GEN2007 and GEO0012 and HIS0001 and HOS2228 and HOS2288 and LIB1982 and MGT7330 and MVM8800 and PSI0003 and RAD2001 and SCI2200
CST2234 Systems Analysis and Design
Complex information technology systems require extensive planning and design. Guided by industry standard software engineering methodologies, students gain hands-on experience with case studies used to develop systems from inception through elaboration, construction and transition phases. Object-oriented design, modeling tools and techniques are used to produce system specifications. Project management principles are also used within team developed projects. Software methodologies discussed include the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC), agile approach, Rational Unified Process (RUP)and Rapid Application Development (RAD).
Pre-requisites: CST8215 and CST8284 and ENL2019T
CST2335 Mobile Graphical Interface Programming
Mobile devices play an instrumental part of everyday life, thus requiring knowledge of mobile graphical user interface development. Students explore graphical user interface programming in a mobile Android environment. Students learn how to program applications using the latest Android development tools. Topics include application architecture, interface design, network communication, and database integration.
Pre-requisites: CST8215 and CST8284
CST8109 Network Programming
Software programming in today's environment requires detailed knowledge of the underlying network topology, its implementation and programming support functions. Gaining an appreciation and perspective of this technology is imperative to developing good network programming applications. Students explore topics including the basic structure, design and layered communications models, with an emphasis on data communications, TCP/IP protocol suite, socket programming and multi-threading concepts. Labs include practical exercises in basic networking and using socket programming, along with multi-threading, in an environment rich with common networking tools for diagnosing and troubleshooting typical network programming problems.
Pre-requisites: CST8116 and MAT8001C
CST8288 Object Oriented Programming with Design Patterns
Design patterns are programming architecture solutions to common challenges faced in software implementation. Students implement best practices of object-oriented program development with software design patterns. Students also apply Unified Modeling Language (UML) program specifications in the Java programming language. SQL through JDBC technology is used embedded for developing and using "data access objects". Course topics include refactoring, domain modelling, JDBC and multithreaded servlet programming. Students develop proficiency in creating, testing, debugging, deploying and documenting programs and servlets through practical application.
Pre-requisites: CST8215 and CST8284
CST8283 Business Programming
Information systems built using the COBOL programming language support important institutions such as government services and the banking sectors. Students create COBOL programs in a business environment using structured methodology in the latest visual programming environment. Topics include output design, logic design tools, structured, top-down and modular coding, testing and debugging, and documentation. Students examine interactive, file-based, and database processing of data related to business problems. Arrays, indexed files, database access and sub-programs are explored.
Pre-requisites: CST8116
CST8390 Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
Business Intelligence (BI) can be broadly defined as a set of applications, infrastructure, and best practices that integrate and transform raw data into actionable information used for planning, monitoring and analyzing processes. The foundation underlying this process is the Data Analytics that explore the data, identify the relationships and patterns in a meaningful way. Students examine the components and best practices of BI technology, and how it guides operational to strategic business decisions in the context of real-world applications. Data analytics techniques are used to derive insight using statistical software to provide insight into patterns and trends not immediately obvious in the raw data.
Pre-requisites: CST8116 and CST8215 and MAT8001C
CST8002 Programming Language Research Project
Learning a new programming language or framework on your own is a challenge faced by programmers on the job as part of their career. Students explore this process of self-study by applying project planning, applied research, testing, and implementation of basic and advanced concepts appropriate to the language or framework under study. Students develop major milestones and deliverables culminating in a project and reflective summary submission.
Pre-requisites: CST8284
CST8276 Advanced Database Topics
Database administration is an important role, in particular for deployed information technology systems. Teams and individuals explore advanced database topics including database administration (using Oracle), data governance, globalization, security and advances in database technology. Topic coverage includes business intelligence, data warehouses, data visualization, big data, NoSQL and graph databases. Database administration tasks requiring knowledge of database architecture are examined: relational vs. non-relational models, security, performance, database distribution, database sharing, backup and recovery
Pre-requisites: CST2355 and CST8109
CST8277 Enterprise Application Programming
Enterprise applications connect clients to services that are based on data stored in database management systems. With a focus on the IT Enterprise, students examine the application enterprise environment using and extending the technologies learned in previous courses. Students examine the commonly used enterprise systems development technologies such as Java/Jakarta Enterprise Edition, cloud computing, security and the corporate database repository.
Pre-requisites: CST2355 and CST8109 and CST8288
CST8319 Software Development Project
Industry recognizes the value of graduates possessing real-world software development experience. Following the agile software engineering methodology, teams work with clients to analyze business needs, determine computer system requirements, model system designs, build prototypes, test code and deliver final products. Project management techniques are used to monitor progress and organize tasks. Students participate in interviews, technical reviews, presentations and the preparation of technical reports. The culmination of the course is a final presentation and technical review, followed by the delivery of the finished product.
Pre-requisites: CST2234 and CST2335 and CST2355 and CST8102 and CST8109 and CST8285 and CST8288 and ENL2019T
GED1561 General Education Elective
For this course, you will have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Your options will include courses which cover the following broad topic areas: (list the themes that have not been met by the mandated courses, e.g. Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, or Science and Technology).
Equivalencies: AST2000 and DSN2001 and ENL1726 and ENV0002 and ENV5004 and GED0021 and GED2200 and GED5002 and GED5003 and GED5004 and GED5005 and GED5006 and GED5007 and GED5010 and GED5300 and GED5301 and GED6022 and GEN1957 and GEN2007 and GEO0012 and HIS0001 and HOS2228 and HOS2288 and LIB1982 and MGT7330 and MVM8800 and PSI0003 and RAD2001 and SCI2200
CST8400 Analysis and Design Using Emerging Technologies
In the world of technology there is an ever changing and growing number of disruptive products, exciting tools and assistive services technology professionals can leverage as we invent, develop and produce technology solutions. Students explore emerging technologies and further develop the skillset to rapidly build and deploy technology solutions. Students research emerging technologies, and through hands-on learning, examine and implement these cutting-edge solutions. Topics may include machine learning and artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, big data, data analytics and visualization.
CST8410 Advanced Mobile Applications
Mobile devices are the primary means of communication in today's world, and having knowledge in development of mobile applications is advantageous. Students expand their mobile application development knowledge through applied projects. Topics include an in-depth study of application development, integration of application programming interfaces (APIs) and utilization of mobile cloud services. Students experiment with location, networking, data storage, wearable technology and wireless communication using current industry protocols. The final capstone project is based on individual or group application development.
CST8411 Information Systems Development and Deployment
In a team environment it is important to coordinate development efforts to increase efficiency and reduce errors. Students explore the techniques and architectures involved in developing, testing and deploying full-stack applications. The various phases of continuous integration and delivery are a key focus as well as application architecture and API design. Through a hands-on approach, students have an opportunity to work in teams to enhance, test and deploy a working full-stack application.
CST8412 User Interface Design in Application Development
Possessing the skills to write software that is user-friendly, accessible and maintainable is desirable by industry and end users. Students gain hands-on experience in developing and deploying database-driven applications, with a focus on high-level software architecture and building interactive graphical user interfaces. Through extensive lab work, students build on their previous knowledge of software design to implement modular, testable application code. Students examine and utilize modern approaches to interface design using native and custom interface controls. Techniques for interacting with operating system APIs are explored.
CST8413 Data Warehousing and Advanced Business Intelligence
Data warehousing systems are a foundation for Business Intelligence (BI) and decision making within an organization. Through designing and maintaining data warehouses, students examine the unique design requirements of data warehouses and gain experience performing Extraction, Transformation and Loading (ETL) processes. Students explore the analysis and presentation tools and techniques that can help inform and improve data-driven decisions.
CST8414 Applied Research Project 1
Experience with practical projects provides students with learning opportunities to gain industry-relevant insight and experience. Through collaborative participation in applied research projects and working closely with stakeholders in real-world workplace environments, students develop solutions for problems of significant technical complexity. The phases of software development are expanded on including gathering requirements, documenting, designing, coding and testing working software prototypes. Knowledge about testing, debugging and quality assurance is expanded along with Agile software development methodology practices including Scrum, Kanban and Lean. Drawing upon skills previously acquired, students plan, conduct research for, and begin the creation of a written report that summarizes the work and findings resulting from the first release of the project.
Pre-requisites: CST8319
CST8512 Cybersecurity
Organizations recognize the importance of cybersecurity in the design, development and management of information systems. Students explore cybersecurity threats and best-practice responses to those threats. Primary focus is given to software and application layers. As well, to give students a broad understanding of the threat landscape, a variety of attack vectors through to the network and physical layers are discussed. Students gain hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used to mitigate security threats, and consider policies and regulations regarding cybersecurity and information privacy.
CST8513 Quality Assurance and Testing
Assuring the quality of information technology systems is vital as these systems support businesses, health systems, entertainment franchises and more. Students employ a variety of testing strategies and industry best practices to analyze, document, develop, monitor, and maintain robust computing system solutions. Students develop these skills through a combination of lecture and practical activities using industry tools and techniques.
CST8514 Business and Information Technology
Information systems are an integral part of conducting business in today's world. An understanding of business concepts is key to the analysis and design of business information technology systems. Students develop an awareness of business concepts, business information systems, business processes, risk assessment, business impact analysis, software licensing, ethics, government standards, regulatory compliance and business media in the context of systems analysis and design and personal and professional development. Theory is reinforced with discussions, group work, case study and research.
CST8515 Applied Research Project 2
The ability to identify and satisfy all stakeholder expectations is essential in successful product development and delivery. Students collaborate to complete their applied research project in consultation with faculty and community partner to create deliverables by monitoring and controlling the project resources. Activities include implementing, testing, debugging and deploying information technology systems, creating installation packages, addressing security issues and concerns, adhering to quality assurance standards, and creating supporting documentation. Students defend developed solutions in formal oral and written presentations, and showcase the project to peers, faculty, staff and invited guests.
Pre-requisites: CST8414
MGT0114 Entrepreneurship
Taking a concept for a software product or service to market requires specific business knowledge. Students examine entrepreneurship as a fundamental skill for Information Technology (IT). Students explore how to investigate and develop the key components of a successful business plan. Focus is on developing business skills and innovative attitudes essential for those who want to be a founder of a technology start-up, a product manager working in a technology start-up, or an agent of change in an existing company.
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment as a mobile application developer, business program developer, full-stack software developer, programmer analyst, quality assurance analyst, database designer or as a database administrator.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Identify, analyze, design, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, document and monitor technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
- Analyze, design, implement and maintain secure computing environments.
- Analyze, develop and maintain robust computing system solutions through validation testing and industry best practices.
- Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationships.
- Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
- Apply project management principles and tools when responding to requirements and monitoring projects within a computing environment.
- Adhere to ethical, social media, legal, regulatory and economic requirements and/or principles in the development and management of the computing solutions and systems.
- Investigate emerging trends to respond to technical challenges.
- Gather, analyze and define software system specifications based on functional and non-functional requirements.
- Design, develop, document, implement, maintain and test software systems by using industry standard software development methodologies based on defined specifications and existing technologies/frameworks.
- Select and apply object-oriented and other design concepts and principles, as well as business requirements, to the software development process.
- Gather requirements and model, design, implement, optimize, and maintain data storage solutions.
- Integrate network communications into software solutions by adhering to protocol standards.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
2024/2025 Academic Year
Fees are subject to change.
Fees for part-time programs are charged on a course-by-course basis and are published on each individual course page. For questions related to fees, please call the Registrar's Office at 613-727-0002.
Graduation Fee:
Once you have completed all the courses in the program, it is the responsibility of the student to complete a credential application (https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/certificationgraduating/). A graduation fee is charged when the application is submitted. After your credential application has been approved, you will be invited to Convocation.
Additional program related expenses include:
Books and supplies cost approximately $600 per level on average. For more information visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials/students/.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
The following requirements are recommended to ensure success in the program:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program).
Program Eligibility
The following requirements are recommended to ensure success in the program:
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- Mathematics, (Grade 12 MCT4C) or (Grade 11 MCR3U) or equivalent; or (Grade 12 MAP4C with a grade of 80% or higher) or (Grade 11 MCF3M with a grade of 70% or higher).
- It is recommended applicants with international transcripts have the following IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo scores to ensure success: IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.
Application Information
Read this before applying:
Additional Information
Program Resources
This program is also offered full-time online and full-time on campus.
Please note: The co-op option is only available in the on-campus delivery of this program.
International students wishing to study online should visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/international/ for information related to International online students and for International fees information prior to registering. Please note that AC Online programs do not qualify international students for new study permits or study permit extensions.
AC ONLINE ACADEMIC PLANNER:
The Academic Planner provides registered part-time students the ability to declare into a program of study. The Academic Planner outlines successfully completed courses to date, as well as courses that need to be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. It is therefore, essential that all part-time students declare to their program of study, allowing administrators to plan course offerings. The tool is available on ACSIS, located under 'Part-time Students' on the left-hand toolbar.
PRIOR LEARNING AND RECOGNITION (PLAR):
Students who wish to apply for PLAR need to demonstrate competency at a post-secondary level in all of the course learning requirements. Evidence of learning achievements for PLAR candidates may include a comprehensive challenge examination and/or completion of a portfolio.
PROGRAM PROGRESSON:
As per policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements when students are admitted to a program, they are assigned to the Program of Study that aligns with their start date. If a student takes a break for two or more consecutive terms the Program of Study is reset to align with the current version (when studies are resumed). For more information please contact your Program Support Officer (https://www.algonquincollege.com/academic-success/ac-online/).
Contact
For additional information, please contact AC Online at online@algonquincollege.com or 613-727-4723 ext. 3330.