Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology
Computer Programming (Undergraduate)
Ottawa, Canada
Diploma
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
About: The two year Ontario College Diploma in Computer Programming at Algonquin College (Ottawa or Pembroke) teaches software development, object oriented modeling, database design and administration. Students learn Java, Python, COBOL, SQL, JavaScript and databases (Oracle, MySQL, MongoDB), plus algorithms, data structures, cloud computing, Agile methodology, operating systems and practical AI in software development. The final semester is a team client project; students can apply for an optional paid co op work term (subject to eligibility).
Career Outcomes: Graduates can work as applications programmers, IT developers, systems analysts, database administrators, business programmers across healthcare, education, finance, industry and public sector.
The two-year Computer Programming Ontario College Diploma prepares students for software development roles and specializes in program development strategies (object‑oriented modelling), database design and administration. Students study languages and technologies including Java, Python, COBOL, SQL, JavaScript, Oracle, MySQL and MongoDB. Core topics include algorithms, data structures, object-oriented analysis and design, cloud computing, Agile methodology, business intelligence, operating systems, and practical application of artificial intelligence in software development. In the final semester students participate on a software development team working with external clients to design, code, debug, test, and deliver software products. Students may opt to apply for a paid co‑operative education work term (subject to academic eligibility); admission to co‑op does not guarantee a placement.
Why choose this program?
- Learn industry-relevant programming languages (Java, Python, SQL, JavaScript, COBOL)
- Hands-on coursework in databases (Oracle, MySQL, MongoDB), web and mobile development
- Final collaborative software development project with external clients
- Optional paid co-op work term (subject to eligibility)
- Emphasis on practical skills: debugging, testing, Agile methodology, and AI-assisted development
Graduates may find employment as applications programmers, IT developers, and systems analysts. Training in web programming, business programming, database design and database administration may lead to roles in those areas. Employment opportunities exist across private and public sectors including healthcare, education, commerce, science, finance, production, information services, information technology, service industry and human services.
Two-year Ontario College Diploma delivered online (AC Online) with bi-monthly intakes. Program is organized into four levels delivered across consecutive terms; students complete core programming, database, networking, web and mobile courses, plus communications and technical mathematics. In the final semester students complete a team-based Software Development Project with external clients. Students may optionally apply for a paid co‑op work term (subject to eligibility). General education electives are included (choose 1 in specified levels).