Advanced Diploma in Computer Programming and Analysis (Co-op option available)

Durham College

Today’s businesses and essential services depend on complex information and data management systems. Designing, developing and keeping those systems up-to-date with the business processes they support is the domain of programmer analysts. In a digitized world, the ingenuity and technical know-how of programmer analysts are in demand. From transportation networks to critical hospital databases to social network-driven applications, analysts design and develop the systems that are key to the success of all businesses and services in today’s digital world.

This program offers comprehensive study in information technology, systems methodologies and application programming, built on a solid foundation of business expertise. The curriculum includes in-depth instruction and the practical application of structured, mainframe and object-oriented programming languages.

Additionally, you will receive extensive training in:

• Advanced application development
• Database administration
• Internet development
• Project management

You will work independently and in teams to create course deliverables. As a graduate you will begin your career in programming, microcomputer support or computer operations and, with experience, advance to the position of systems analyst with responsibility for the design and planning of system networks and technical support or a management position in programming, operations or other areas.

Note: To ensure you make an informed decision about your information technology (IT) career path, a common first semester is offered for the Computer Systems Technician, Computer Systems Technology, Computer Programmer and Computer Programmer Analyst programs. This approach will give you an opportunity to explore the systems/programming applications and networking/hardware applications of the IT sector. At the end of the first semester, you will then select your program of choice.

Career Options

WHAT YOU COULD BE:

• Application support engineer
• Assistant software developer
• Developer/programmer analyst
• Junior business analyst
• Project manager
• Quality assurance analyst
• Research analyst
• Service desk analyst
• Support technician
• Web developer

WHERE YOU COULD WORK:

• Colleges and universities
• Computer and network infrastructure firms
• Credit unions and banks
• Digital business solutions firms
• Government
• Newspapers/media corporations
• Research companies
• School boards
• Small and medium-sized enterprises
• Software development firms

Co-operative education (co-op)

The best way to succeed in your field is to immerse yourself in it! Co-op is an excellent way to build your professional network, explore career paths and apply in-class teachings to real work situations. Co-op is a model of education that integrates academic learning with workplace learning in fields relevant to our students’ academic and personal goals. Similar to an academic course, work terms are a mandatory component of this form of experiential learning.

Students in the Computer Programming and Analysis (formerly called Computer Programmer Analyst) program will be invited to apply to the co-op option during their first year of study. Entrance to the co-op option is limited and the processes for securing a work term are competitive. Students who qualify for co-op will be eligible to complete a four-month, paid work term between the second and third years of their program.