School of Advanced Technology

Our Program

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.

This is a mobile learning program which engages students in a collaborative, mlearning environment which helps them become skilled, confident users of the technology they are expected to use in the workplace. Students are required to supply and use a laptop computer that meets the minimum hardware and software specifications as outlined at http://mlearning.algonquincollege.com . Computers and supplies can be purchased directly from Algonquin's New Technology Store at educational rates.

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, networking (with an option of Cisco certification) 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 Developer's Network Academic Alliance (MSDNAA), other vendor agreements and from software supplied under the mobile technology fee.

Students who maintain a college-prescribed academic standing and who possess the appropriate level of business communication skills can take part in a cooperative placement at the end of Level 03. Co-op students can participate in three 15-week paid work terms.

There are two program start dates each year at the beginning of the Fall and the Winter Terms. Program progression varies depending on the term in which students begin the program.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• 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.

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Your Career

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 are also capable of 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).

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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
CST8101	Computer Essentials Learn how to manage your laptop environment to gain the best advantage during your college program and later in the workplace. Create backups, install virus protection, manage files through a basic understanding of the Windows Operating System, install and configure the Windows Operating System, install and manage a virtual machine environment. Explore computer architecture including the functional hardware and software components that are needed to run programs. Finally, study basic numerical systems and operations including boolean logic.	60.0
CST8103	Networking Basics This course covers the important concepts necessary to understand modern LAN and Internet networking. Students gain an appreciation and perspective of the immense impact that networking is having on technology in general and society as a whole. Included is a detailed study of the terminology and concepts related to the implementation and operation of computer networks. Topics include the basic structure and design of networks, layered communications models, IP addressing and subnetting, industry standards for network media, and protocols with an emphasis on TCP/IP protocol suite and Ethernet. Labs include practical exercises in using common networking tools for diagnosing and troubleshooting typical network problems. The course includes material from the Cisco Network Academy Program CCNA Exploration Networking Fundamentals and borrows from the CompTIA Network+ certification.	75.0
CST8110	Introduction to Computer Programming Learn the fundamental problem-solving methodologies needed in computing, such as structured analysis, structured design, structured programming and an introduction to object-oriented programming. Use pseudocode, flowcharting, as well as a programming language to develop solutions to real-world problems of increasing complexity. The basics of robust computer programming, with emphasis on correctness, structure, style and documentation are learned using Java. This course reinforces theory with application by means of practical laboratory assignments. An online section of this course is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once enroled in the program, students are notified by email of the registration procedure for this option.	75.0
CST8300	Achieving Success in Changing Environments Rapid changes in technology have created personal and employment choices that challenge each of us to find our place as contributing citizens in the emerging society. Life in the 21st century presents significant opportunities, but it also creates potential hazards and ethical problems that demand responsible solutions. Students explore the possibilities ahead, assess their own aptitudes and strengths, and apply critical thinking and decision-making tools to help resolve some of the important issues in our complex society with its competing interests.	45.0
MAT8100	Essential Mathematics This course covers the following topics: angles and their measure, trigonometric functions, solving right triangles, graphs of the sine and cosine functions; vectors; the straight line; factoring polynomial expressions; rational expressions; algebraic expressions with fractional exponents; radicals; exponential and logarithmic functions; equations of various types; and complex numbers.	45.0

Level: 02		Hours
CST8102	Operating System Fundamentals (Linux) Learn the basic concepts of the components of Linux operating systems, how they work and how they interact. Learn to install and configure a Linux OS, how the OS interacts with computer hardware components, and how to administer the system resources and processes. Lab exercises are designed to demonstrate how to implement the theory by developing skills using the powerful command-line tools and utilities in Linux, and in creating and executing shell scripts. Prerequisites: CST8101	75.0
CST8132	Object-Oriented Programming This course extends Object-Oriented Programming concepts and develops the solid programming skills that are prerequisites for higher-level courses. Java is used to illustrate the theoretical concepts and develop solutions to real-world problems of increasing complexity. Prerequisites: CST8110	75.0
CST8215	Database This course provides students with a solid theoretical and practical understanding of database systems. Topics include: the Structured Query Language (SQL); database analysis, design, and implementation; embedded SQL database administration; and security; and performance issues. Students get practical exposure to databases, such as MySQL, Oracle and/or SQL Server.	75.0
ENL1813T	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
MAT8101	Differential Calculus This course covers the following topics: algebraic and geometric concepts and definitions of the limit and continuity of a function; one-sided limits; infinite limits; slope of the tangent and normal to a curve; delta definition of the derivative of a function; instantaneous rate of change; derivatives of polynomials; product rule; quotient rule; chain rule; differentiation of implicit functions; calculation of higher derivatives; derivatives of the trigonometric functions; application of derivatives to related rate and min/max problems; and curve sketching using the first and second derivative tests. Prerequisites: MAT8100 or MAT8100P	45.0

Choose one from equivalencies:		Hours
GED0006X	General Education Elective For this course, you have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Your options will include courses which cover the following broad topic areas: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ARC9001 or DSN2001 or ENL7643 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or GED1896 or GED5002 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED5300 or GED6022 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2007 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI0003 or PSI1702 or RAD2001	45.0

Level: 03		Hours
CST8130	Data Structures Learn to use a variety of data structures and associated processing algorithms to manage massive amounts of data. Explore concepts using Object-Oriented Programming (in Java). Implement some solutions using first principle coding and others using predefined Collection and Map classes. Master techniques to assess the relative performance of alternative solutions (Big-O analysis) and make well-reasoned choices of selected data structures. Prerequisites: CST8132	75.0
CST8216	Processor Architecture This course introduces students to logic circuits used in typical microprocessors. Elementary electronic components, basic numerical systems and operations, Boolean logic and logic gates are explored with their relationship to a microprocessor/microcomputer. Students learn microcontroller programming using assembly language and system level languages. The theory is supported by lab exercises involving the creation and analysis of logic circuits using simulation software and the programming of a microcontroller. Prerequisites: CST8101	75.0
CST8234	C Language and Network Programming This course introduces students to the basics of the C Programming language. Building upon the foundation laid in prerequisite courses, this course addresses application design, development, debugging and testing in the Unix/Linux operating system environment. Topics covered include regular expressions, memory management, I/O and file system resources (buffered and unbuffered), and data communications between processes (within a single Unix system, and between systems using POSIX-standard IPC and/or socket-based programming). TCP, UDP and IP protocols are addressed with reference to the Internet RFC standards and documents. Application-level protocols examined may include FTP, SMTP, POP3 or HTTP. Security and safe programming practices are emphasized. Prerequisites: CST8102 and CST8103 and CST8110	75.0
CST8238	Web Programming Learn website design and implementation. Use XHTML, JavaScript, PHP and XML to explore web-based solutions to problems of increasing interactivity and complexity. Lectures are reinforced by practical assignments that encourage students to construct and maintain their own websites. Prerequisites: CST8215	60.0
ENL1819T	Reporting Technical Information In this technical communication course, students draw upon knowledge acquired through their studies and through research to improve their skills in communication, critical thinking, and the documentation, and evaluation of both primary and secondary sources. These combined skills are demonstrated in the production of workplace-oriented, vocationally-related documents and presentations. Emphasis is placed on technical communication goals which students are required to achieve for graduation. Prerequisites: ENL1813T	60.0
WKT8100	Cooperative Education Work Term Preparation This course covers career planning, effective resumes, job search techniques, job interviews, raising one's profile, supervisors, security in the workplace, setting personal learning objectives, self-directed learning, co-op evaluations and work report guidelines.	15.0

Level: 04		Hours
CST8152	Compilers The principal goal of this applied course is to introduce the basic principles, techniques, and tools used to translate text expressed in one language to equivalent text expressed in another language. The concepts discussed in this course and the programming concepts studied in previous courses are applied to develop and program the front-end of a simple compiler or interpreter using ANSI C as implementation language. The ideas and techniques discussed in this course could be applied to general software design and to parsing of structured files, such as HTML, XML, register and configuration files. Prerequisites: CST8234	75.0
CST8219	C++ Programming This course is a primer on C++ that builds on the concepts of memory management and object-oriented programming that have already been studied in other languages in previous courses. Used as a language of choice for highly efficient application development particularly on the Windows platform, the C++ language expands the C paradigm to include encapsulation, inheritance and polymorphism. In addition, standard libraries, such as the Standard Template Library is introduced as ready-made frameworks for application development. Prerequisites: CST8234	75.0
CST8221	Java Application Programming Learn advanced Java by developing multi-tiered applications featuring a rich graphical user interface (GUI). Also study object-oriented design patterns, networking, and multi-threading and access to a database. Prerequisites: CST8130	75.0
CST8233	Numerical Computing This course emphasizes the usefulness and power of numerical computing methods to perform a wide range of engineering and scientific tasks. Using C/C++ as the underlying programming languages, algorithms are studied and used to write applications that analyze and process real-world data. These include statistical data analysis, solving sets of linear and ordinary differential equations, interpolating and fitting data (including Fast Fourier Transforms), numerical differentiation and integration and simulating Real-World dynamics with Newton's Laws (as examples of differential equations). Prerequisites: CST8234 and MAT8101	75.0

Choose one from equivalencies:		Hours
GED0006X	General Education Elective For this course, you have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Your options will include courses which cover the following broad topic areas: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ARC9001 or DSN2001 or ENL7643 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or GED1896 or GED5002 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED5300 or GED6022 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2007 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI0003 or PSI1702 or RAD2001	45.0

Level: 05		Hours
CST8218	Web Application Programming This course focuses on designing and implementing applications for the World Wide Web. The course emphasizes developing multi-tier applications that require a presentation layer, middle controller layer and a persistence layer. Other topics include multi-user access, client-server networking and security. This course introduces web application development using the Java Enterprise Edition (JEE) framework. Prerequisites: CST8221 and CST8238	75.0
CST8223	.NET Programming This course focuses on using the C# object-oriented language and the .NET Framework to produce applications for a wide range of different environments. These include Internet applications with client-server interaction, Desktop applications with database connectivity and XML Web services for distributed applications across the Internet. Prerequisites: CST8221	75.0
CST8225	Software Requirements, Specification and Analysis The requirements definition phase of software development is introduced in this key course. Software engineering principles, the techniques and notations for object-oriented analysis, modelling and the specification of software requirements are explored to prepare for its practical application. The course consists of lectures, case studies, and both individual and group practical lab work. Appropriate documentation including UML diagrams must be produced to support successful progression to the sixth level Industrial Application Development, and Software Design, Testing and Quality Assurance courses. Prerequisites: CST8152 and ENL1819T	60.0
CST8244	Real-Time Programming This course builds on the student's prior knowledge of Linux/Unix. Learn the difference between Real-Time/Embedded system programming and batch processing. Design real-time applications in C Language using the QNX Real-Time Operating System and the special functions built into QNX to enhance RT and embedded system programming - exceptions, messages resource managers, and timers. Prerequisites: CST8152 and CST8216	60.0

Choose one from equivalencies:		Hours
GED0006X	General Education Elective For this course, you have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Your options will include courses which cover the following broad topic areas: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ARC9001 or DSN2001 or ENL7643 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or GED1896 or GED5002 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED5300 or GED6022 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2007 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI0003 or PSI1702 or RAD2001	45.0

Level: 06		Hours
CST8227	Interfacing This course progresses from the Real-Time Programming course to explore specific constraints, challenges, and attributes that are unique to mobile and embedded systems. The role and capabilities of such compact systems in today's world is explored, with detailed reference to available processing speed, storage and power consumption. Students gain knowledge of sensors and actuators, their operational parameters and characteristics. Methods for interfacing, sampling, and controlling the devices are studied, including polled vs interrupt driven, DtoA and AtoD conversions and simple digital vs PWM outputs. Practical lab exercises include interfacing to realworld devices using a small embedded development board and using a smartphone, such as a RIM Blackberry, to provide the UI and control. Prerequisites: CST8244	60.0
CST8228	Software Design, Testing and Quality Assurance This course, taken in parallel with the sixth level Industrial Application Development course, introduces testing, debugging and quality assurance aspects of the software engineering process for the development of computing systems. The course consists of lectures, and practical work in support of project teams' real-world industrial applications. Activities include the development of a Quality Assurance plan, user acceptance (Black Box) tests and modular (White Box) tests. An overview of security, product implementation and maintainability issues are discussed. Appropriate documentation must be produced to support progression in the sixth level Industrial Application Development course. Prerequisites: CST8225 Co-requisites: CST8235	75.0
CST8235	Industrial Application Development This course introduces project teams to the practical aspects of design, testing and quality assurance of the software engineering process. Under the direction of one or more staff advisors, project teams are given the opportunity to apply sound software engineering principles to the implementation of their real-world industrial application. Activities include the implementation of software products, integration with hardware (where applicable), writing and executing test scripts, debugging, creation of installation packages, addressing security issues, adherence to Quality Assurance standards and the creation of supporting documentation. A technical presentation to faculty and a formal project-launch showcase to peers, faculty, staff and invited guests is an integral part of the course. Prerequisites: CST8225 Co-requisites: CST8228	60.0

Elective: choose 1		Hours
CST8177	Linux Operating Systems II This follow-on course in the Linux stream focuses on the administration of a Linux workstation, and the administrative requirements, and capabilities of Linux in a multi-user, multi-computer and networked environment. Emphasis is placed on basic administrative tasks and tools, user and workstation account creation and management, process and services management and run levels. Students also learn fundamental problem-solving methodologies through basic PDL and scripting languages in order to accomplish administrative tasks. The theory is reinforced through practical laboratory assignments. Prerequisites: CST8207	75.0
CST8236	Graphics This course studies the techniques and methods used to develop graphics applications running on modern computers. Some topics remain constant in time and constitute much of the theoretical framework. Other topics are driven by developments in hardware and are changing rapidly. The curriculum has been designed to balance these two aspects and to emphasize code development using modern Application Programming Interfaces (API) that harness the power of current graphics processors.	60.0
CST8237	Game Programming This course combines skills learned in previous courses to develop advanced multimedia and game applications that run on a PC. Using the power of the Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) on the video card it is possible to program shaders that simulate real-life objects moving under the laws of physics. As an end product, the course develops a complete virtual 3D world with terrain, and a dynamic environment that the user can explore and interact with.	60.0
CST8255	Web Imaging and Animations This course introduces students to basic concepts and techniques used to produce graphics, animations and video optimized for the World Wide Web. Students use Adobe software to create images and animations, build graphical user interfaces and author interactive applications. Prerequisites: CST8110	60.0
CST8270	Basic Network Routing This course focuses on the theory of moving data between and interconnecting Local Area Networks. Topics include different routed protocols (with focus on IP), routing protocols, both link-state and distance vector (using RIP, EIGRP, and single-area OSPF as examples); classless IP addressing; variable length subnetting; knowledge of LANS to encompass routing and the issues of moving data between network segments. This course includes material from the Cisco Network Academy Program CCNA Explorer Routing Protocols and Concepts curriculum. Prerequisites: CST8182	75.0
CST8283	Business Programming This course continues computer program development, in a business environment, using structured methodology and the COBOL language. Topics include: output design; logic design tools; structured, top-down and modular coding; testing and debugging; JCL and documentation. The programs include interactive and file-based processing of data related to business problems. Arrays, indexed files and sub-programs are included. Prerequisites: CST8110	60.0
DAT2355D	Database Systems In this course, students acquire practical experience using Oracle, an object-relational database management system. Advanced topics in database design are covered. Students have hands-on use of SQL, SQL scripts, PL/SQL and embedded SQL in host programs. Database concepts covered include data storage and retrieval, administration, data warehouse, data mining, decision support, business intelligence, security and transaction control. Students also explore the use of open source database software. The course helps students prepare for industry-recognized database certification exams. Prerequisites: CST8282	60.0

Choose one from equivalencies:		Hours
GED0006X	General Education Elective For this course, you have the opportunity to choose one from a group of general education electives. Your options will include courses which cover the following broad topic areas: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ARC9001 or DSN2001 or ENL7643 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or GED1896 or GED5002 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED5300 or GED6022 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2007 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI0003 or PSI1702 or RAD2001	45.0

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Fees & Expenses

Approximate 1st Year Costs

Tuition/Fees: $ 3,424
Books/Supplies: $ 700
Incidental Fees: $ 0
Total: $ 4,124



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

Tuition Fees: $1,212.20 per term in Levels 01 and 02, $1,206.40 per term in Levels 03 and 04, and $1,200.58 per term in Levels 05 and 06.

Information Technology Fee: $62 per term. *

Mobile Computing Fee: $150 per term. **

Incidental Fees: $25 in Level 03.

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.

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.

* 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 www.algonquincollege.com/its/services/it_fee.htm

** The Mobile Computing Fee covers the costs associated with providing various services to students registered in a mandatory laptop programs.
*** 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.

Books and supplies cost approximately $700 in the first year, $650 in the second year, and $720 in the third year and can be purchased in the campus bookstore. Selected books are available for a reduced price through ebook initiatives at www.coursesmart.com.

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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 and Winter 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
1385 Woodroffe Ave, Room C150
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Email: askalgonquin@algonquincollege.com

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Additional Information

Curriculum for this program is reviewed annually to reflect evolving industry standards in the information technology field.

For more information regarding this program, please email:
coordsci@algonquincollege.com or visit www2.algonquincollege.com/sat.

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