Computer Programming and Analysis

Program Description

Seneca’s School of Computer Studies is a recognized leader in developing and delivering relevant programs. In fact, we have the largest offering of computer studies programs in the province and they are among the very best. Our advisory committee of IT business professionals reviews the subject offerings each year and the curriculum is updated to reflect current computer technology needs. As a student in the CPA program, you’ll enjoy a vast range of professional option subjects and the opportunity to specialize in semesters five and six in a computer area of your choice.

Additional features include the opportunity to specialize in business applications or technical programming in your upper years, and a co-op program for real world work experience.

You’ll study at Seneca’s state-of-the-art technology building where staff, faculty and student advisors are committed to helping you succeed. In a recent study more than 90% of Seneca’s Computer Studies students told us they were very satisfied with this program’s ability to deliver relevant career skills and abilities.

The Computer Programming and Analysis advanced diploma program is a three-semester per year program with core subjects offered in year-round. Start in the fall, winter or spring. Complete the program in consecutive semesters or take a break between semesters.

In your final year you’ll select a specialization in your area of interest. Choose from Java internet development, technical programming, IBM midrange computing or game programming, by taking seven subjects from a list of professional options. The list of options is updated regularly to reflect new technologies.

Your Career

Earn an advanced diploma in Computer Programming and Analysis and you’ll be prepared for a rewarding career as a software developer, systems analyst, information systems specialist, database administrator, web application developer, client/server applications developer, systems programmer, game programmer, network administrator, IBM midrange programmer, or UNIX/Linux system administrator.

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation (C), University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Grade 12 English: ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)
• Grade 12 Mathematics: (C) or (U) or Grade 11 Mathematics (U) or (M)

Applicant Selection:

• Applicants may be ranked by previous academic achievement (i.e. grades in the prerequisite English and Mathematics subjects or their equivalent).

Recommended:

• A home PC and Internet Service Provider (ISP) are highly recommended to be successful in this program.

The Importance of Learning Skills:

Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills.

Co-operative Education Option

Co-op can be a valuable experience for first year students in CPA. Helping students gain important work experience in their field of choice for more than 30 years, the co-op program at Seneca allows you to alternate academic and paid work semesters after semester three or four.

Our industry partners are committed to providing meaningful work assignments for co-op students. You could gain up to 12 months of paid employment experience while spending only four or eight months longer to achieve your advanced diploma. Entry to the co-op program and work terms can occur in each of three semesters (Fall, Winter or Spring). If selected for the co-op program, you must maintain above average academic standards for progression in co-op.

Students in the co-op option will also take CPP100 (Co-op Professional Theory) in the semester preceding their first co-op work term, and CPP200 (Co-op Professional Practice) in the semester following their first co-op work term. Students must successfully complete two co-op work terms to graduate from the co-op option.

For more information, please visit the Co-op page at  www.senecac.on.ca/co-op.

Co-op information sessions are held at the Seneca@York campus throughout the year.

Diploma to Degree... and Beyond

Through transfer agreements and institution partnerships, graduates of this Seneca College program may be eligible for credit at the following post-secondary institution(s):

Toronto

Ontario

Canada

U.S.

International

Areas of Study

The CPA program provides you with a rigorous theoretical background in object-oriented methodology, particularly in program design and system analysis. We integrate internet concepts into all courses across the curriculum and focus on the development of dynamic database-driven web applications on a variety of operating system platforms. You’ll enjoy small class sizes, computerized classrooms and an expert faculty. It all adds up to a supportive environment that will help you master the craft of programming and analysis. You’ll also develop your individual and teamwork skills. If you have prior post-secondary credits or related work experience you may be eligible for credits or challenge exams in related subjects.

Some of the subjects you’ll study include: programming and web scripting languages, system methodologies (object oriented analysis and design), E-commerce website design, internet client and server side development, design and maintenance of database systems, data communications, security and a variety of operating systems (Windows, Unix, Linux, IBM System i). In semesters five and six, you may select from a broad offering of professional options. You’ll also integrate systems and technical skills in the planning and implementation of a ‘real-life’ computer project for a business client. General education subjects (English and Liberal Studies options) complement the technology curriculum.

Fully equipped labs and open learning areas provide you with access to a network of mid-range (IBM System i, RS 6000s) and PC platforms utilizing today’s leading operating systems - Windows XP, UNIX/Linux, and OS/400. You’ll get a computer user account and have 24/7 access from external sites to Seneca’s extensive computing services. Come and see our building and lab facilities.

General Education

One of the general education subjects must be a literature subject for which EAC150 is the pre-requisite.

For more information, please visit: els.senecac.on.ca.

CIPS Nationally Accredited Program

The Computer Programming & Analysis Diploma program has met the national Computer and Information Systems Criteria as mandated by the Information Systems Technology Accreditation Council (ISTAC) and has received national accreditation status by the Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS).

ISTAC works with academic institutions to ensure that educational programs prepare students for the demands of the Information Technology profession. Completion of an accredited program assists graduates in pursuing CIPS Professional Certification. More information about CIPS and the professional certification program can be obtained at http://www.cips.ca

Curriculum

* English Assessment testing may place students in EAC149 (or below) prior to EAC150.

Professional Options

The following list is a snapshot of professional option choices available in semesters five and six. New and revised options will be offered each semester based on the demands of a rapidly changing computer industry. Upto- date information may be retrieved from the School of Computer Studies home page at: http://cs.senecac.on.ca.

Note: Not all options will be offered every semester, and offerings will be dependent on sufficient enrolment.

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