This two-year Ontario College Diploma program prepares students for a career in computer applications programming, database design, implementation, and administration in the context of a business environment. Emphasis is placed on programming methodologies and languages, as well as, analysis and design for both application programs and databases.
Two-thirds of the curriculum consists of courses related to: programming for business applications and software; programming languages; analysis and design; operating systems; coding in integrated development environments; and debugging, testing, and maintenance of code; as well as database design, implementation, and administration. The balance of the curriculum consists of communications (English), mathematics, and other skills useful in the life-long learning requirements of computer professionals. In the final term, students participate in a program culminating team project. Because of the constantly evolving nature of the information technology (IT) environment, the program places emphasis on preparing students to become independent learners.
Students have access to modern facilities in the School of Advanced Technology such as the network of computers throughout the College and access to the Internet. Students work with leading industry products such as Oracle database software and languages such as Java and C++. Students work in both a Windows and UNIX/Linux networked environment.
Students who maintain a college-prescribed academic standing and who possess the appropriate level of business communications skills can take part in a cooperative work placement at the end of Level 03. Students participate in two back-to-back 15-week paid work terms before returning for their final level.
There are two program start dates each year: the beginning of the Fall and the Winter Terms. Program progression varies depending on the term in which students begin the program.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Enjoy solving problems.
- Are interested in working with computers and new technology.
- Like working with others as a member of a team.
- Can work independently.
- Are organized in their work and pay attention to detail.