Student Experience

Learn in a fully networked environment

The Computer Systems Technician program at Algonquin College is designed to give students a good working knowledge of PC systems technology, microcomputer operating systems, and networking systems. Students gain hundreds of hours of practical lab experience in a fully networked computer lab environment. They also benefit from smaller class sizes and greater access to teachers.

Build leadership skills

Each year, students run a Help Desk offering free computer repair, mobile repair and tech support to fellow college classmates and Algonquin College employees. Students have designed the Help Desk to be delivered in-person or remotely. From booking systems to ticket monitoring to promotion, this student-led initiative during the second term of their students, allows students to lead a project from start to finish.

“The choice to return to school at Algonquin College Pembroke was one of the best decisions I have made. The professors of the Computer Systems Technician program have gone above and beyond to ensure an effortless transition into the online learning world. This year they trusted us with running the first-ever virtual IT Help Desk. We were responsible for branding, creating, and implementing an online ticket system that ran live for faculty and students at the Pembroke Campus.

When allowed on campus I had the task of setting up blade servers in the server room and this ticket embodied a real-life experience that you would not get anywhere else.

I would recommend the Computer Systems Technician program at the Pembroke Campus to anyone who enjoys smaller classroom sizes, more opportunities, and a hands-on educational experience.”

-Tiffani Morgan, Computer Systems Technician student

Gain practical experience through co-op

This three-semester program includes an optional, paid co-op placement, during the summer months, between semesters two and three. This wonderful opportunity enables students to learn new skills, improve their business communications, gain confidence, and build a more credible resume. Furthermore, many students get hired by their co-op employers after graduation.

“I enjoy everything in my program so far, I especially enjoyed the teaching style of the professors, they give a lot of useful information that I can apply here during my co-op at the hospital. I like the Pembroke Campus, I think this is one of the best colleges in Canada and I specifically chose the Pembroke Campus because the program is a shorter amount of time than others but you get the same information which worked better for me.”

– Oleg Sydiak, Computer Systems Technician Student

Qualify for Industry Certifications

The Computer Systems Technician program prepares students to write exams for several popular IT certifications, including CompTIA’s A+ and Network+, Linux+, and Security+. These certifications will give students additional qualifications for a career in the high-tech field.

“I enjoyed having small class sizes and getting to know the professors on a first name basis. It was a huge adjustment for me to go back to school, but I had a great support system from my family and classmates. If there was one thing I could tell future students, it would be to sit at the front of the class and never procrastinate! Once I graduated, and started working, I realized that the best thing about my job was that people are always so happy and thankful to see you, and even happier when you find them a solution. We are basically rock stars! Not many people can say they got the education and experience from one institution.”

-Erin Morris, Computer Systems Technician Grad, 2012