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Trades & Applied Technology Programs

Information Technology & Applied Systems

The Program

The Information Technology and Applied Systems (ITAS) program prepares students for careers in the design, installation, operation, and administration of network and Internet-based information systems. The program combines rigorous theoretical and technical education with hands-on, project-based learning. Using the most up-to-date curriculum, the ITAS program develops a student's technical skills, as well as teamwork, communications, and project management skills to satisfy industry demands for well-rounded, highly employable technology graduates.

ITAS is offered as a one-year certificate, or two-year diploma program. The program consists of two 4-month terms per year, plus a 1-month practicum at the end of the first academic year.

The first year of the program provides students with a solid foundation in computer hardware, operating systems, networking, and web authoring/programming. Students are eligible to receive a Certificate in Computer Systems & Networking upon successful completion of the foundation year.

In the second year of the program, students install, configure, and administrate a wide variety of computer & network services such as DNS, email, web, database, and security services, in a mix of Linux and Windows environments. Students hone their web-programming skills by developing database-driven web applications using such technologies as HTML, XML/JSON, JavaScript, AJAX, PHP, and MySQL. Students are also introduced to mobile application development and cloud computing technologies. Second year graduates receive a diploma in Information Technology and Applied Systems.

Credit for IT Certifications

Some applicants may already hold industry certifications such as CompTIA's A+®, Security+®, Microsoft's MCSA, MCSE, Adobe/Macromedia's MMCP, or others. ITAS gives credit for selected IT certifications towards an ITAS diploma. Contact the Department Chair for more information (see below).

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the ITAS program will be qualified to work for:

  • Internet service providers,
  • Network design, installation, and support companies,
  • Web development and web-hosting companies,
  • Private and public educational institutes and training centres,
  • Computer retailers and systems integrators,
  • Most companies that use computers, computer networks, and the Internet to carry out their business operations.

Admission Requirements

  • General admission requirements apply.
  • Letter of application describing reasons for wanting to take the program (500 - 1,000 words). Include name and contact information, including email. A handout is available outlining the required content of application letter – see the Admissions Department, or email the Department Chair (see below).
  • Interview.

Recommendations for Admission

  • One of Principles of Mathematics 12, Applications of Mathematics 12, or Foundations of Mathematics 12.
  • Two years previous experience with computers, including experience installing and maintaining operating systems, and using office productivity software.
  • ICT 11 & 12 (High School Info Tech).

Notes on Admission

  • This program is open to full-time students only.
  • Interview will only be granted after all other admission requirements are met.
  • Students must supply their own computer system—see Program Fees.
  • Consideration will be given to mature students without Grade 12; however, they must complete all prerequisites or equivalents.

Program Continuation/Completion Requirements

Students should expect to spend 20 hours a week in the classroom, and an additional 15 - 20 hours per week on homework and assignments. Students must pass all courses and obtain a "C+" average in each term to be eligible to continue in the program and/or to receive an ITAS credential.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in September and a limited intake in January. Applications are accepted between November 15 and April 15.

Need More Information?

For more information please contact the Department Chair by emailing info@itas.ca, or for information about registering and late applications please contact Melanie Cousins at (250) 753-3245, Local 2282, or by emailing: Melanie.Cousins@viu.ca

ITAS Fall 2013 Information Package PDF Download the ITAS Fall 2013 Information Package

Program Outline

YEAR 1

Credits

ITAS 155 - (Introduction to Computer Hardware)

4

ITAS 164 - (Information Technology Project Management Essentials)

4

ITAS 167 - (Applied Operating Systems)

4

ITAS 175 - (Network Infrastructure Fundamentals)

4

ITAS 181 - (Applied Network Operating Systems)

4

ITAS 185 - (Introduction to Programming Concepts)

4

ITAS 186 - (Internet Programming I)

4

ITAS 191 - (Web Authoring)

4

ITAS 195T - (Practicum)

4

Total Credits

36

YEAR 2

Credits

ITAS 218 - (Information Technology Security)

4

ITAS 233 - (Windows Server Management)

4

ITAS 255 - (Internet Programming II)

4

ITAS 257 - (Linux Server Management I)

4

ITAS 274 - (Internet Programming III)

4

ITAS 278 - (Linux Server Management II)

4

ITAS 280 - (Advanced Wide Area Technologies)

4

ITAS 288 - (Database Administration and Design)

4

Total Credits

32

Updated April 11, 2013