Diploma in Computer Systems Technology
Saskatoon, Canada
Diploma
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Aug 2027
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
About: Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Diploma in Computer Systems Technology teaches networking, programming, web and mobile app development, hardware/software installation, systems analysis, project management and communications. The two-year diploma is available full-time at Saskatoon and Regina, with distance options. Program is CIPS-accredited, uses Microsoft Developer Network resources, and has transfer agreements to degree programs.
Career Outcomes: Graduates work as computer programmers, software developers, mobile app programmers, network analysts, webmasters, web designers, systems administrators. They can join public IT teams, support small businesses, work for IT firms, or start an IT consultancy. Related roles include technical support, IT project coordinator and systems analyst.
Computer systems technologists solve computer-related issues for businesses, government agencies, utilities, law enforcement agencies, health services providers, educational institutions and more. It’s a career that demands a unique blend of skills—computer literacy, technical know-how and communications savvy—but also lets you specialize in areas that interest you the most, including programming, software design, mobile application programming, data communications and web design.
The two-year Computer Systems Technology diploma is available full-time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon campus and Regina Campus, with a number of courses also available through distance and/or continuing education. Comprehensive technical training gives you a solid foundation of theory and hands-on lab practice in:
- designing, installing and managing local area networks
- developing computer programs in various programming languages
- developing interactive web pages with multimedia components
- developing proficiency in several common computer application packages
- installing and configuring computer hardware and software
- performing systems analysis and design
- programming apps for mobile devices (smartphones, tablets)
- providing end-user technical support services
- troubleshooting and repairing hardware problems
You’ll also learn business principles, project management and communication skills—attributes potential employers look for when hiring IT personnel.
Diploma to Degree
Transfer agreements with the University of Saskatchewan, University of Regina and University of Lethbridge let you ladder into a computer science degree with two more years of study. It’s a great way to expand your career horizons while leaving the door open to earn a living with your diploma.
Bachelor of Applied Management
Diploma graduates are eligible to take the Bachelor of Applied Management degree right here at Saskatchewan Polytechnic with only two years of additional study. Remote classes and part-time options are available.
Accreditation
Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS)
The Canadian Information Processing Society accredits the program, which means your education is recognized across Canada. Saskatchewan Polytechnic is also a member of the Microsoft Developer Network Academic Alliance (MSDNAA), which ensures that you’re learning on the most current software.
Year 1 - Semester 1
- ADMN-220 Organizational Behaviour
- CNET-184 Data Communications and Networking 1
- CODS-100 Data Automation
- COOS-181 Operating Systems Fundamentals
- COSC-180 Introduction to Programming
- CWEB-180 Web Site Development
- CWEB-195 UX Fundamentals
Year 1 - Semester 2
- CDBM-190 Introduction to Database Management
- COHS-190 Hardware
- COOS-190 Server Administration
- COSA-190 Systems Analysis and Design
- COSC-182 Intermediate Programming 1
- CWEB-190 Internet Programming/Web Applications 1
- TCOM-190 Technical Communications
Year 1 - Semester 3
- COSA-195 Systems Project
- COSC-183 Intermediate Programming 2
- COSC-195 Mobile Application Programming
Year 2 - Semester 4
- CDBM-280 Database Management Systems
- COHS-280 Enterprise Systems Support
- COSA-280 IT Development Project 1
- COSC-286 Advanced Programming 1
- CSEC-280 Security 1
- CWEB-280 Internet Programming/Web Applications 2
- MATH-282 Mathematics of Computation
- TCOM-291 Career Path Search
Year 2 - Semester 5
- CLTR-200 Culture and Diversity
- COOS-291 Advanced Operating Systems
- COOS-294 Cloud Infrastructure Administration
- COSA-290 IT Development Project 2
- COSC-292 Advanced Programming 2
- COSC-295 Advanced Mobile Application Programming
- CPMG-290 IT Development Project Management
Year 2 - Semester 6
- COET-295 Emerging Technologies
- COOS-295 Systems Administration 2
- CSEC-295 Security Topics
Graduates are prepared for a wide variety of jobs: computer programmer, software designer/developer, mobile app programmer, network analyst, webmaster, web designer and systems administrator. You also have a broad choice of work environments in the public and private sectors. You could work in the IT department of a large organization or be a one-person IT department for a small business. You could join a company that provides computer sales, installation and support for other businesses. Or you could set up your own IT business and work directly with clients.
