About Computer Programming in Algonquin College

Learn workplace-ready programming languages and practical applications to use wherever your career takes you.

The two-year Computer Programmer Ontario College Diploma program prepares you for a career in software development. The program also specializes in program development strategies (using object-oriented modelling), database design and database administration.

Use leading industry software products such as Oracle and CASE tools. Learn about programming languages such as Java, COBOL, SQL and PHP. Study object-oriented analysis and design, operating systems and coding in integrated environments, and learn how to debug, test, and maintain codes.

In your final semester, participate in a software development project working with external clients to gain real-world experience in the programming field.

Graduates may work in a variety of different fields, as almost all sectors of industry require programmers. You may be employed as:

• A software programmer
• A web programmer
• A business programmer
• An application programmer

Graduates may also find opportunities in database design and database administration.

Success Factors

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Enjoy solving problems.
• Are life-long learners ready to meet the challenges presented by rapidly changing technology.
• Take pleasure in providing assistance to others (build computer systems to meet their needs).
• Enjoy working with others as a member of a team.
• Can work independently.
• Are organized in their work and pay attention to detail.

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. Identify, analyze, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
2. Contribute to the diagnostics, troubleshooting, documenting and monitoring of technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
3. Implement and maintain secure computing environments.
4. Implement robust computing system solutions through validation testing that aligns with industry best practices.
5. Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationships.
6. Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
7. Apply project management principles and tools when working on projects within a computing environment.
8. Adhere to ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements and/or principles in the development and management of computing solutions and systems.
9. Support the analysis and definition of software system specifications based on functional and non-functional requirements.
10. Contribute to the development, documentation, implementation, maintenance and testing of software systems by using industry standard software development methodologies based on defined specifications and existing technologies/frameworks.
11. Apply one or more programming paradigms such as, object-oriented, structured or functional programming, and design principles, as well as documented requirements, to the software development process.
12. Model, design, implement, and maintain basic data storage solutions.
13. Contribute to the integration of network communications into software solutions by adhering to protocol standards.
14. Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

Careers

Graduates may find a variety of employment opportunities as applications programmers and systems analysts who can work independently and as part of a team to analyze, design, code, debug, test, implement and maintain application systems. Training in web programming, business programming, database design and database administration may also present job opportunities in those areas. Employment may be found in organizations of all sizes in both the public and private sectors.

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.

Refresher/upgrading courses are available through Academic Upgrading, AC Online, and through local school boards.

Algonquin College Highlights

Algonquin College Average Tuition Fees And Other Expenses