Information Technology & Applied Systems

• 2-Year Diploma Program

• Program Fees: Domestic Students, International Students

• Apply for Admission: Forms and Information

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 each 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 leading-edge database-driven web applications using such technologies as XHTML, XML, JavaScript, AJAX, PHP, and MySQL. 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:

• Computer retailers and systems integrators,
• Internet service providers,
• Network design, installation, and support companies,
• Web development and web-hosting companies,
• Private and public educational institutes and training centres,
• 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).
• Successful completion of assessment tests, including computer skills.
• Interview.

Recommendations for Admission

• Grade 12 English and Math.
• 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 March 31. For further information regarding late applications, program contacts, and scheduled information sessions check the Program Availability List.

Need More Information?

A free information session for prospective students is usually held in February. Check with the Advising Centre for more details, 250-740-6410, or visit viu.ca/infosessions.

To request an information package, or to contact the Department Chair, email us at: info@itas.ca, or call: Mark Dutchuk, 250-740-6116.

Program Outline

Updated July 23, 2010