Ottawa Valley (Pembroke)

Our Program

This two-year Ontario College Diploma program delivered in a compressed format over 45 weeks provides students with the technical knowledge and expertise to support the use of computers and networks. Students also develop their communication and administration skills, including the ability to work in teams and utilize project management and customer service techniques.

The program focuses on the technical aspects of commonly used components and troubleshooting techniques for computer hardware, operating systems, networking technologies, system administration, and a suite of related support and application software packages. Requirements and subject matter found in certifications such as Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+, Network+, Linux+, and Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) are used in this program. Some courses fulfil part of the basic requirements of Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE), I-Net+ and Novell Certified Linux Engineer (CLE) certifications.

Graduates are able to work individually or as part of a team to implement and maintain information technology (IT) solutions that correspond to the day-to-day requirements of individuals and organizations. From repairing desktop computers to network administration, graduates work in a broad range of employment settings in a variety of sectors, in both large and small organizations.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Are interested in learning how to design and implement computers, operating systems and networking technology solutions.
• Enjoy the challenge of a constantly evolving field.
• Can work independently or in a team environment.
• Have good problem-solving and analytical skills.

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Your Career

Graduates may find employment as technical support specialists for PCs and Networks in a wide variety of corporate environments in the industrial, governmental and service sectors. Positions may also include system
administration and maintenance for LAN/WAN (Local Area Network/Wide Area Network), Internet/Intranet and Unix/Linux environments, hardware/software sales representatives, customer service support representatives, technical support specialists, network installation and implementation specialists.
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Courses

Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with online learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.

Level: 01		Hours
CST7201	PC Systems Technology This course focuses on personal computer (PC) hardware and technologies. Course content includes the basics of how computers work, how they are put together, technical concepts and terminology, along with the historical evolution and current trends in PC technology. Students learn to recognize and describe the basic architecture and operation of motherboards, system buses, input/output (I/O) devices, system memory, microprocessors and chipsets. Students also learn about basic numerical systems and operations, Boolean logic, as well as, how software and hardware interact. Students then progress to learning the inner workings and operation of system buses, memory systems, central processing unit architecture and capabilities, and associated chipsets. Topics explored include PC customization and peripherals, performance issues and tweaking, system cooling, RAID (Redundant Arrays of Independent Disks), SCSI (Small Computer Systems Interface), efficient system architectures, emerging technologies and information storage systems. Practical exercises focus on installing, configuring, and troubleshooting internal and peripherals PC technology.	120.0
CST7203	Networking Essentials This course introduces the foundation knowledge of computer networking and LAN/WAN (Local Area Network/Wide Area Network) communications. Students are introduced to the terminology and concepts related to the implementation and operation of computer networks. Topics include basic network design, layered communications models, IP (Internet Protocol) addressing and subnetting, and industry standards for network media and protocols.	90.0
CST7212	Microcomputer Operating Systems This course introduces students to the Windows desktop operating systems with a progression to an advanced level of understanding. Students learn to use some of the core basic and advanced commands and perform common system set-up and management tasks that are commonly carried out by computer professionals. Typical tasks covered include, but are not limited to installing and configuring operating systems, installing device drivers, managing memory, troubleshooting the boot process, and customizing the operating environment.	90.0
ENL7777	Communications I Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.	45.0
MAT7401	Math Fundamentals This course provides a review of mathematical fundamentals including measurement and basic geometry, basic operations with numbers, algebraic expressions and algebraic fractions, formulas, solving linear, fractional and simple quadratic equations, exponents and radicals, systems of linear equations, logic gates, binary, hex and boolean.	45.0
PRL7532	College and Career Success This course develops and expands student's abilities as lifelong learners. These abilities are essential to learners as they take their place in college, community, family and working life. Course content includes awareness of self as a learner and study of learning, motivation and problem-solving theories. Important throughout are attitudes which help learners to deal with a complex, changing world. Teaching/learning methods include classroom discussion and exercises, reflective journals to monitor, evaluate and guide the student's development, as well as lectures.	45.0
WKT7100	Employment Preparation This course prepares students to find employment in their field of study. Resume preparation, cover letters, job search techniques and interview skills are covered. Students learn the proper etiquette, conduct and attitude necessary to be successful in their chosen career. The co-op component of the program (optional in some programs) is also introduced in this course and is considered as a prerequisite to taking the co-op option.	12.0

Level: 02		Hours
CST7207	Linux Operating System I This course introduces students to the basic concepts and core functions of the Linux operating system in a stand-alone environment. Students learn basic command structures and capabilities of the Linux operating system, along with the skills required to perform common basic system configuration and management tasks routinely carried out by computer professionals. Typical tasks covered include, but are not limited to installing the operating system, working on the command line, managing, mounting and creating file systems, file permissions overview, troubleshooting the boot process and customizing the operating system environment. Prerequisites: CST7212	60.0
CST7220	PC Troubleshooting This course places emphasis on problem analysis methodology and techniques for finding, identifying, and correcting hardware, operating systems and software problems. Practical experience is gained by using common industry troubleshooting tools, such as POST (Power-On Self Test) cards and utility software, to resolve common problems. Labs are designed to test students troubleshooting skills using a series of computer systems with preset problems. Prerequisites: CST7201 and CST7212	60.0
CST7222	Local Area Networks I This course focuses on Microsoft's Server Network Operating Systems, as well as their internetworking capabilities. Comparisons between Microsoft's Server Network Operating Systems and other Network Operating Systems are used to understand the similarities and differences between these network operating systems, while taking the time to understand some of the details of how each one works. Topics such as installation and basic configuration, management/administration of users and operating system capabilities and how Directory Services tie them together are discussed in class. Lab computers are configured into Local Area Networks (LANs) to teach skills, such as network setup and configuration, providing students with a solid understanding of modern data communications and hands-on experience. Prerequisites: CST7203	120.0
CST7270	Introduction to Network Routing This course focuses on the theory of moving data between Local Area Networks (LANs). Topics include different routed and routing protocols, and the study of distance-vector and link state protocols. Traffic filtering using Access Control Lists, Bridging VLANs, Switching and Spanning Tree are also covered. This course furthers the student's knowledge of LANs to encompass inter-networks and the issues of moving data between network segments. Prerequisites: CST7203	75.0
ENL7618	Technical Communication - Computer Systems Technician This course helps you to achieve graduate level communication skills that computer systems technicians require in order to be successful in the workplace. We examine such topics as technical report writing; researching, interpreting, reframing, and presenting technical information; teamwork; presenting information orally; and other communication skills required in today's workplace. Prerequisites: ENL7777	45.0
GEN7201	Ethics Some would say that "there is a hole in the moral ozone and it's getting bigger". This course examines and addresses the ethical challenges we face every day. It assists students to clarify their own values and understand how these values impact the course of their lives. The course provides students with tools and decision-making models to deal with personal and professional ethical dilemmas.	45.0

Co-op: 01		Hours
WKT7102	Cooperative Education Work Term For students who qualify academically and who choose to participate, there is the opportunity to enhance their diploma with an officially recognized co-op designation. This designation is achieved by successfully completing a paid co-op educational employment experience where students have the chance to gain valuable work experience, network and make contacts in the industry, and assess their skills and weaknesses in a real world work environment. Prerequisites: WKT7100

Level: 03		Hours
CST7230	Network Security This course focuses on the fundamentals of information technology security. Students are introduced to the goals of computer security, threats to security and security counter measures. Several operating systems are examined for their security features. The use of Firewalls, Secure Socket Layer technologies, IP (Internet Protocol) Masquerading, and other methods of protection are explored. Prerequisites: CST7270	75.0
CST7231	Network Services and Support This course covers the knowledge and skills required for supporting common network services in an Enterprise Network environment. Students learn basic network management and tools, as well as the installation, configuration and troubleshooting of typical user services, such as mail, Internet access, news services, shared resources and drives. Prerequisites: CST7222	75.0
CST7232	Local Area Networks II This course focuses on the capabilities of Microsoft operating systems in a network environment. Topics explored are automated installation, the Microsoft DNS (Domain Naming System) implementation, domain controllers using Active Directory, Group Policies, Terminal Services, Windows security and the Windows Distributed File System (DFS). Students install and configure Windows with Active Directory and practise advanced system administration tasks. Prerequisites: CST7222	75.0
CST7272	Wide-Area Network Administration This course extends the student's knowledge of networking gained from previous courses to include Wide Area Networking connections. Topics covered include scaling IP (Internet Protocol) addresses using Network Address Translation (NAT) and Port Address Translation (PAT), implementing Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) on routers, WAN (Wide Area Network) technologies and standards, Point-to-Point (PPP) Protocol, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and Frame Relay architecture, Virtual Private Networks, Virtual Local Area Networks and Wireless technologies. Laboratory exercises focus on the technical aspects of the technologies discussed using routers to simulate real WAN technology setups. Students are brought into the realm of networking in complex environments, including the integration of enterprise routing with routing across the Internet. Students utilize networking tools to troubleshoot their networks. Prerequisites: CST7270	60.0
CST7277	Linux Operating System II This course focuses on the administration of a Linux workstation in a multi-user, multi-computer and networked environment. Emphasis is placed on basic and advanced administrative tasks and tools, user and workstation account creation and management, and file system management. Students learn fundamental problem-solving methodologies. The theory is reinforced through practical laboratory assignments. Prerequisites: CST7203 and CST7207 and CST7222	75.0

Choose one from equivalencies:		Hours
GED1150	General Education Elective Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ARC9001 or ENL7643 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or FIN2300 or GED1896 or GED5002 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED5009 or GED5200 or GED5300 or GED6022 or GEN1957 or GEN2003 or GEN2007 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI1702 or RAD2001 or SOC2003 or PSI0003	45.0

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Fees & Expenses

Approximate Program Costs

Tuition/Fees: $ 5,852
Books/Supplies: $ 1,600
Incidental Fees: $ 0
Total: $ 7,452



Tuition Fees listed are in effect for the 2011-2012 academic year.

Tuition Fees: $1,612.40 per term.

Information Technology Fee: $62 per term. *

Student Activity/Sports Fee: $190.50 per term.

Student Centre Building Fee: $17.50 per term.

Health Service Fee: $10 per term.

Health Plan Fee: $114.50 paid once annually. **

A $35 graduation fee is payable in the final term.

A $25 transcript fee is payable in the first term a student attends Algonquin College.

International Students pay all relevant Canadian fees plus an International Premium of $4,400 per term.

* Students paying the Information Technology fee are provided with a network account, an email address, and Internet access. For more information please visit our website at algonquincollege.com/its/services/it_fee.htm

** Students who have coverage with another plan can request a refund by supplying the Students' Association with documentation supporting the
request. This request will have to be made annually.

Co-op Fee: $465 payable in two installments in the term preceding each work term. The first installment of $100 is payable at the time of registration for co-op and is non-refundable. The second installment of $365 is payable on the standard fees due date. Students on a co-op work term will pay 10% of the Student Activity and Building Fees. Co-op students on work term in the Fall will pay the Health Plan Fee.

Books and supplies cost approximately $400 to $500 per semester and can be purchased in the campus bookstore. A suitably equipped PC at home would be an asset, as would Internet access through either a dial-up modem or a high-speed connection.

In addition, students should expect to spend between $80 to $100 for
consumable fibre optic components, Ethernet cable and in-class printing.
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Admission Requirements  2012/20132011/2012

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Application Information

Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:

ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228

Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should contact their Guidance Office to apply. For all other applicants, applications are available online at ontariocolleges.ca. A $95 fee applies.

Applications for Fall Term, Winter Term and Spring Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.

International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the
International Student Application Form at
https://xweb.algonquincollege.com/FormIE/index.aspx or by contacting the Registrar's Office.

For further information on the admissions process, contact:

Registrar's Office
Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley
315 Pembroke Street East
Pembroke, ON K8A 3K2
Telephone: 613-735-4700 ext. 2708
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723

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Additional Information

The optional co-op work term takes place between Level 02 and Level 03, during the summer months.

While the overall learning outcomes at the Pembroke and Woodroffe Campuses are the same, the curriculum order and subject delivery are reflective of local circumstances which may affect program delivery.

For more information, please contact Paul McGuire, Program Coordinator, at 613-735-4700 ext. 2763 or mcguirp@algonquincollege.com.

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