Computing Science and Information Systems Certificate
The Computing Science and Information Systems Certificate Program prepares students for a career in computer user support. This one-year program combines business applications, systems concepts, database concept, basic programming, accounting and business management skills necessary for a business environment. The certificate is also available to students in other diploma programs who complete the CSIS Certificate requirements.
Department Website
For an overview of this program, including faculty listings and frequently asked questions plus other resources, visit the departmental website.
Career/Further Educational Opportunities
Graduates with a Computing Science and Information Systems Certificate are qualified to work as entry-level computer programmers, help desk specialists or user support experts. Some graduates add the certificate to another Business Diploma to enhance career options and employability. The certificate is also of interest to those people working in the IT industry who wish to achieve a formal credential.
The Computing Science and Information Systems Certificate Program ladders into the CSIS Diploma Program at Douglas College.
Transfer credits to UBC, SFU, UVic, UNBC, UFV, BCIT, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, University of Lethbridge and other institutions are arranged for many Computing Science and Information Systems courses.
Refer to the British Columbia Transfer Guide for individual course transfer.
Location
Available at the New Westminster Campus.
Intake Dates/Application Deadlines
The program commences in September for full-time and part-time students. The application deadline is May 1 of each year. Since there is a limited number of seats available, it is advisable to apply early. International applications are advised to apply well in advance of the deadline to allow time for processing.
Some courses may be available for part-time students who begin the program in January or May. The deadline to apply for the January intake is September 1.
Other Information
This program offers a free information session. For more details about dates, times and locations, please check on-line.
Co-operative Education Option
Students in this program may be eligible for a Co-operative Education designation. Co-op Education involves alternating full-time academic and work terms. Job opportunities are enhanced after completing the Co-op option. For further information see the Co-op Education section in this calendar or contact the Co-op Education office at 604-527-5100.
Admission Requirements
- General Admission Requirements
- English 12 with a minimum grade of "C" or approved substitution
- Foundations of Math 11; OR Principles of Math 11 with "C" grade or better or equivalent
Note: Please be advised that in order to register for CMNS1115, you must provide proof of English 12 with a grade of "B" or better or an equivalent. Equivalents/exemptions to this requirement are listed in the calendar.
The Computing Science and Information Systems (CSIS) Program is subject to revision. Please contact the Chair of the CSIS Department at 604-527-5448 for details.
Program Duration
Full-time students complete this program in one year. It may also be taken on a part-time basis.
Credential
Computing Science and Information Systems Certificate
Program Content
Semester I
| ACCT 1110 or | Principles of Accounting I or | 3 |
| ACCT 1235 | Principles of Accounting I and II | |
| BUSN 1210 or | Management Essentials or | 3 |
| ECON 1101 or | The Canadian Economy or | |
| ECON 1150 or | Principles of Microeconomics or | |
| ECON 1250 or | Principles of Macroeconomics or | |
| MARK 1120 | Introductory Marketing | |
| CMNS 1115 | Practical Writing | 3 |
| CSIS 1110 | Introduction to Computers | 3 |
| CSIS 1175 | Introduction to Windows Programming | 3 |
| 15 | ||
Semester II
| BUSN 1330 or | Business Mathematics or | 3 |
| FINC 1231 or | Commercial and Financial Mathematics or | |
| MATH 1130 | Discrete Mathematics | |
| CSIS 1140 | Productivity Software and Client Support | 3 |
| CSIS 2200 | Systems Analysis and Design | 3 |
| CSIS electives | Any 2 other CSIS courses | 6 |
| 15 | ||
Note: You must have the proper prerequisites; so not all combinations are possible. Due to course scheduling and prerequisite sequencing, for some course combinations the elapsed time of study will exceed a single academic year.
CSIS Elective List:
| CSIS 1150 | Business Data Communications & Networking | 3 |
| CSIS 1155 | Hardware Maintenance Concepts | 3 |
| CSIS 1275 | Java Programming | 3 |
| CSIS 1280 | Multimedia Web Development | 3 |
| CSIS 2280 | Web Server Administration | 3 |
| CSIS 2300 | Database Management Systems | 3 |
| CSIS 2365 | ASP .Net | 3 |
| CSIS 2375 | Programming Techniques | 3 |
For most courses, this means meeting twice a week for two hours each time: two hours of lecture and two hours of seminar or lab per week. If the class meets in the evening, three hours are scheduled once a week and students are expected to spend additional time on a computer at their own convenience.
Notes
The program is set up so that if you attend full-time (five courses per semester), you can start in the Fall semester, spend one academic year and earn your certificate (Fall and Winter semesters). Part-time students are also welcome, but must plan carefully because:
- Semester I courses are usually available in any semester (Fall, Winter or Summer)
- The elective courses may be available only once a year. Student should check the online College calendar to find out when each course is offered.
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