This three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma program prepares students for an information technology (IT) career in the private or public sectors. Students 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. The curriculum covers a variety of programming languages (Java, C#, C++, C, and others) and operating systems (Windows, Unix/Linux, and QNX). In addition, students study the development tools and debugging techniques used to design, code, and test integrated and/or embedded applications and software systems. In their final year, students work in teams on sponsored real-world projects to develop a comprehensive application as part of the software engineering portion of the program. In Level 06, students select an elective course from an approved list in areas which include graphics/multimedia, advanced database programming, android, business programming (Cobol), security and advanced web programming. Approximately two-thirds of the curriculum 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 have access to modern computing facilities. A large internal network provides access to the Internet and offers an extensive variety of software, some of which is available at minimal cost to students through the department-sponsored Microsoft Imagine program, other vendor agreements and from software supplied under the BYOD technology program. This program offers an option for three cooperative education (Co-op) Work Term(s). Qualified students with a minimum GPA of 2.7, have the opportunity to apply for paid co-op employment to gain valuable work experience and contacts within industry. * See Additional Information for more details. This program participates in Algonquin`s etext initiative. All required texts and digital resources are provided to students and can be accessed for life from up to four devices simultaneously. There are three program start dates each year at the beginning of the Fall, the Winter and Spring Terms. Program progression varies depending on the term in which students begin the program. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Students are expected to have and use a laptop or mobile computing device when registered in this on-campus program. A Windows-based laptop with Intel i5 processor, 16G RAM and minimum 1TB hard drive is required. Hardware and software specifications required by your program are outlined at http://algonquincollege.com/byod . Mobile devices/laptops and supplies can be purchased directly from Algonquin`s New Technology Store at educational rates. 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.