Computer Programming and Analysis (Co-op and Non Co-op Version)
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
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Winter 2025
No
Spring 2025
No
Fall 2025
No
Schedule
For the co-op version of this program: If students are unable to secure co-op employment or fall short of co-op eligibility at the end of Level 3, the program delivery schedule will be adjusted for them as outlined in the Alternate Co-op Delivery Schedule(s).
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Other Delivery Options
Work Integrated Learning
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.
Through a year-long applied research project, you collaborate with community partners in the design, development and deployment of an authentic information system solution....(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.
Through a year-long applied research project, you collaborate with community partners in the design, development and deployment of an authentic information system solution.
Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op work term are subject to availability and academic eligibility. Please note that admission to the co-op program does not guarantee a co-op placement.
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
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
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
CST8116
Course Name:
Introduction to Computer Programming
Course Description:
Possessing the fundamentals of logic, problem-solving and programming language structure provides a solid foundation for further study in th... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
CST8118
Course Name:
Computer Essentials
Course Description:
Maintaining a computer, using operating system and productivity software, and expressing related environmental and sustainability concerns, ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST8215
Course Name:
Introduction to Database
Course Description:
Databases are used to store data and are a core component of many information technology systems. Students learn the fundamentals of relatio... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
CST8300
Course Name:
Achieving Success in Changing Environments
Course Description:
Rapid changes in technology have created personal and employment choices that challenge each of us to find our place as contributing citizen... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1813T
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT8001C
Course Name:
Technical Mathematics for Computer Science
Course Description:
The study of algebraic and transcendental functions is an essential prerequisite to Calculus. Students manipulate algebraic expressions, sol... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST2355
Course Name:
Database Systems
Course Description:
Database systems can automate data processing tasks as well as tie into the security of information technology systems. Students acquire pra... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST8102
Course Name:
Operating System Fundamentals (GNU/Linux)
Course Description:
Operating systems form the backbone of information technology systems coordinating the interaction between hardware and software. Students e... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
CST8284
Course Name:
Object Oriented Programming (Java)
Course Description:
Working in the field of information technology as a programmer requires a firm understanding of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) concepts. ... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
CST8285
Course Name:
Web Programming
Course Description:
The World Wide Web (WWW) has become an integrated part of everyday life. Students develop basic skills of web programming, website design an... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ENL2019T
Course Name:
Technical Communication for Engineering Technologies
Course Description:
The ability to communicate effectively in a technically-oriented interdisciplinary workplace is a foundational skill in an innovation-driven... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEP1001
Course Name:
Cooperative Education and Job Readiness
Course Description:
Students are guided through a series of activities that prepare them to conduct a professional job search and succeed in the workplace. Thro... + Read More
Hours:
21.0
Code:
GED1561
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
For this course, you will have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Your options will include courses... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CST2234
Course Name:
Systems Analysis and Design
Course Description:
Complex information technology systems require extensive planning and design. Guided by industry standard software engineering methodologies... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST2335
Course Name:
Mobile Graphical Interface Programming
Course Description:
Mobile devices play an instrumental part of everyday life, thus requiring knowledge of mobile graphical user interface development. Students... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST8109
Course Name:
Network Programming
Course Description:
Software programming in today's environment requires detailed knowledge of the underlying network topology, its implementation and programmi... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
CST8288
Course Name:
Object Oriented Programming with Design Patterns
Course Description:
Design patterns are programming architecture solutions to common challenges faced in software implementation. Students implement best practi... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
CST8283
Course Name:
Business Programming
Course Description:
Information systems built using the COBOL programming language support important institutions such as government services and the banking se... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST8390
Course Name:
Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
Course Description:
Business Intelligence (BI) can be broadly defined as a set of applications, infrastructure, and best practices that integrate and transform ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
WKT8001
Course Name:
Work Term I
Course Description:
Students complete a cooperative work term, and submit a written report which documents the location of employment and the duties performed.... + Read More
Hours:
Code:
WKT8002
Course Name:
Work Term II
Course Description:
Students complete a cooperative work term, and submit a written report which documents the location of employment and the duties performed.P... + Read More
Hours:
Code:
CST8002
Course Name:
Programming Language Research Project
Course Description:
Learning a new programming language or framework on your own is a challenge faced by programmers on the job as part of their career. Student... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CST8276
Course Name:
Advanced Database Topics
Course Description:
Database administration is an important role, in particular for deployed information technology systems. Teams and individuals explore advan... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
CST8277
Course Name:
Enterprise Application Programming
Course Description:
Enterprise applications connect clients to services that are based on data stored in database management systems. With a focus on the IT Ent... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
CST8319
Course Name:
Software Development Project
Course Description:
Industry recognizes the value of graduates possessing real-world software development experience. Following the agile software engineering m... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
GED1561
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
For this course, you will have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Your options will include courses... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CST8400
Course Name:
Analysis and Design Using Emerging Technologies
Course Description:
In the world of technology there is an ever changing and growing number of disruptive products, exciting tools and assistive services techno... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST8410
Course Name:
Advanced Mobile Applications
Course Description:
Mobile devices are the primary means of communication in today's world, and having knowledge in development of mobile applications is advant... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST8411
Course Name:
Information Systems Development and Deployment
Course Description:
In a team environment it is important to coordinate development efforts to increase efficiency and reduce errors. Students explore the techn... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CST8412
Course Name:
User Interface Design in Application Development
Course Description:
Possessing the skills to write software that is user-friendly, accessible and maintainable is desirable by industry and end users. Students ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST8413
Course Name:
Data Warehousing and Advanced Business Intelligence
Course Description:
Data warehousing systems are a foundation for Business Intelligence (BI) and decision making within an organization. Through designing and m... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST8414
Course Name:
Applied Research Project 1
Course Description:
Experience with practical projects provides students with learning opportunities to gain industry-relevant insight and experience. Through c... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CST8512
Course Name:
Cybersecurity
Course Description:
Organizations recognize the importance of cybersecurity in the design, development and management of information systems. Students explore c... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
CST8513
Course Name:
Quality Assurance and Testing
Course Description:
Assuring the quality of information technology systems is vital as these systems support businesses, health systems, entertainment franchise... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CST8514
Course Name:
Business and Information Technology
Course Description:
Information systems are an integral part of conducting business in today's world. An understanding of business concepts is key to the analys... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CST8515
Course Name:
Applied Research Project 2
Course Description:
The ability to identify and satisfy all stakeholder expectations is essential in successful product development and delivery. Students colla... + Read More
Hours:
70.0
Code:
MGT0114
Course Name:
Entrepreneurship
Course Description:
Taking a concept for a software product or service to market requires specific business knowledge. Students examine entrepreneurship as a fu... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
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
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
Textbooks cost approximately $500 per semester on average.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; 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). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- 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).
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- 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.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.
Application Information
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING AND ANALYSIS (CO-OP AND NON CO-OP VERSION)
Program Code 1561X03FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
CO-OP INFORMATION:
All applicants apply directly to the co-op version of this program through OntarioColleges.ca or our International Application Portal. Applicants not wishing to pursue the co-op version will have the opportunity to opt-out after being admitted to the program but prior to the first co-op work term.
Co-operative education (Co-op) allows students to integrate their classroom learning with a real-world experience through paid work terms. Two academic terms prior to the cooperative education work term, students are required to actively participate in and successfully complete the self-directed co-op course, readiness activities and workshops.
Students must actively conduct a guided, self-directed job search and are responsible for securing approved program-related paid co-op employment. Students compete for co-op positions alongside students from Algonquin College and other Canadian and international colleges and universities. Algonquin College?s Co-op Department provides assistance in developing co-op job opportunities and guides the overall process, but does not guarantee that a student will obtain employment in a co-op work term. Co-op students may be required to relocate to take part in the co-op employment opportunities available in their industry and must cover all associated expenses; e.g., travel, work permits, visa applications, accommodation and all other incurred expenses.
Co-op work terms are typically 14 weeks in duration and are completed during a term when students are not taking courses. For more information on your program?s co-op level(s), visit the courses tab on your program`s webpage.
International students enrolled in a co-op program are required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to have a valid Co-op/Internship Work Permit prior to commencing their work term. Without this document International students are not legally eligible to engage in work in Canada that is part of an academic program. The Co-op/Internship Work Permit does not authorize international students to work outside the requirements of their academic program.
For more information on co-op programs, the co-op work/study schedule, as well as general and program-specific co-op eligibility criteria, please visit www.algonquincollege.com/coop.