Computer Engineering Technology - Computing Science (Co-op and Non Co-op Version) at Algonquin College

Gain the analytical thinking and problem-solving skills for a career in programming and software development.

The three-year Computer Engineering Technology - Computing Science Ontario College Advanced Diploma program prepares you for an information technology (IT) career in the private or public sectors. You gain the knowledge and skills to use a broad range of IT-based analytical thinking and problem-solving skills in support of the day-to-day operation of an enterprise`s software systems or in the development of new systems.

Learn a variety of programming languages (Java, C#, C++, C, and others) and operating systems (Windows, Unix/Linux, and QNX). In addition, you study the development tools and debugging techniques used to design, code and test integrated and/or embedded applications and software systems.

In your final year, you work in teams on sponsored real-world projects to develop a comprehensive application as part of the software engineering portion of the program. You also have the opportunity to select an elective course from an approved list, in areas that include graphics/multimedia, advanced database programming, android, business programming (Cobol), security and advanced web programming.

The majority of the program consists of courses in systems programming, software development, testing and maintenance. The balance of the curriculum consists of courses in technical communications skills (both oral and written), mathematics and general education electives.

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 version of the program are subject to availability. Students who elect to apply to the non co-op version of the program may not have the opportunity to transfer to the co-op version at a later date.

Graduates may find employment as systems, integration, and applications programmers and/or testers, and as customer service representatives providing training and product support to clients of high technology corporations.

Graduates may also pursue careers in such diverse areas as:

• game and multimedia development
• GUI (graphical user interface) development
• IT communications, IT security, real-time and database systems
• web-based applications
• technical roles in all levels of government (federal, provincial, and municipal)

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Can work effectively in a teamwork environment.
• Can apply critical and analytical thinking and have good problem-solving skills.
• Are imaginative, attentive to detail and enjoy challenging their minds.
• Are interested in computers and various software applications.
• Have a strong commitment and dedication to their studies.

Careers

Graduates may find employment as systems, integration, and applications programmers and/or testers, and as customer service representatives providing training and product support to clients of high technology corporations. Graduates may also pursue careers in such diverse areas as game and multimedia development; GUI (graphical user interface) development; IT communications, IT security, real-time and database systems; web-based applications; and technical roles in all levels of government (federal, provincial and municipal).

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. Identify, analyze, design, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
2. Diagnose, troubleshoot, document and monitor technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
3. Analyze, design, implement and maintain secure computing environments.
4. Analyze, develop and maintain robust computing system solutions through validation testing and industry best practices.
5. Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationship.
6. Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
7. Apply project management principles and tools when responding to requirements and monitoring projects within a computing environment.
8. Adhere to ethical, social media, legal, regulatory and economic requirements and/or principles in the development and management of the computing solutions and systems.
9. Investigate emerging trends to respond to technical challenges.
10. Integrate multiple software and hardware components using appropriate systems, methodologies, and connection protocols.
11. Analyze, plan, design, develop, test, and implement computing devices and networked systems (software or hardware) in accordance with appropriate functional requirements and standards.
12. Apply principles of digital and analog circuits to design, implement, and troubleshoot computing devices, including embedded components and systems.
13. Design, build, test, implement, and maintain embedded (including IoT) devices and applications.
14. Develop, test and maintain software applications for systems integration.
15. Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

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.

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.