Bachelor of Technology (Business Systems Development) (Honours) (Co-op) at Algonquin College

Today`s global business environment requires students that have developed the ability to become technology professionals capable of creating and implementing information and communications technology solutions to achieve competitive advantages, productivity gains, and innovation. This four-year degree program prepares students for a career in business software systems development and technology management by providing skills and competencies in two closely related disciplines, technology and business. Our program curriculum provides the necessary key knowledge in software development and business technology management required by business and offers students the opportunity to use, develop, and research emerging business technologies such as mobile and wearable computing, artificial intelligence and agent technologies.

Students gain practical experience in technology project management, systems analysis and design, software development and implementation, data analysis, database technologies, operating systems, web applications and information security. When combined with knowledge of business principles, economics, accounting, internal audit and human resource management, students develop a unique skill set critical for strategic information and communications technology development environments.

Graduates have a unique blend of applied knowledge and skills in core competencies in software development and business, including the project management book of knowledge (PMBOK) and the business analysis book of knowledge (BABOK). Students gain significant hands-on experience through online, in-class, simulation-based learning experiences and experiential learning activities such as co-op work terms and interdisciplinary final year team-based projects. The combination of knowledge, skills and experience allows students to integrate quickly into the complex global technology and business workforce in entry level information communications technology positions.

The Bachelor of Technology (Business Systems Development) (Honours) program is aligned with the learning outcomes and competencies published by the Business Technology Management (BTM) standards. Algonquin College has initiated the accreditation process with BTM.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well suited for students who:

• Possess strong analytical, logical, critical-thinking and interpersonal skills.
• Succeed working independently and collaboratively in problem-solving teams.
• Are interested in working in diverse situations spanning business, and technology.
• Enjoy working with computers, mobile devices and up-to-date technology.
• Appreciate working in a creative environment, and challenging their beliefs through exposure to a diversity of opinions.

Careers

Graduates may find employment in municipal, provincial and federal government as well as within the private sector as business systems solution providers. Opportunities include employment as business systems analysts, systems designers, database analysts, database developers, business IT project managers, software developers, programmers and internal IT audit. With the BTM alignment, graduates become cross discipline savvy, able to bridge technology and business being able to seek employment in entry level business positions.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. Analyze, design, develop, implement and maintain business systems and/or components to support strategic business requirements.
2. Manage the process of evaluating, selecting and using business systems.
3. Develop and improve business systems by applying accepted methodologies, theories, concepts and practices.
4. Manage data using appropriate methodologies and standards to improve business processes and decision-making.
5. Apply the Project Management Institute`s Body of Knowledge to business systems software engineering projects.
6. Apply security principles and practices in systems development and the systems environment.
7. Apply principles and skills of business management, leadership and change management in the context of business systems software engineering.
8. Apply quality assurance and quality management principles to business systems development projects.
9. Educate a diversity of clients in the use of business technology to support, promote and improve business processes.
10. Apply business technology management skills to innovate in business systems development targeting new and existing local and global markets.
11. Adhere to professional, ethical and legal codes and standards.
12. Conduct and evaluate research to contribute to evidence-based practice in business systems development.
13. Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
14. Leverage artificial intelligence and agent technologies to support short and long term business decisions.

Program Eligibility

• Six Grade 12 university (U) or university/college (M) courses with a minimum 65% average including:

  • One Grade 12 U English course, with a minimum of 60%.
  • One Grade 12 U Math course, with a minimum of 60%.
• Please note that mature students must meet the following subject-specific Program Eligibility requirements, either directly or through equivalencies:
  • One Grade 12 U English course, with a minimum of 60%.
  • One Grade 12 U Math course, with a minimum of 60%.
• 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 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22.
• Applicants who do not possess the required English credit (ENG 12U or equivalent) with a minimum of 60% will be considered for admission upon registration in a preparatory English course to be offered by Algonquin College prior to the start of the program. Students must achieve a minimum of 60% final mark in the course prior to the start of the program.