WHO STUDIES
COMPUTER SCIENCE?
If you are considering a career in computers, do the following traits
apply to you?
• You find enjoyment in solving problems.
• You enjoy being creative.
• You have a methodical approach to work.
• You do not give up when work gets difficult.
• You pay attention to details.
• You are resourceful in your work.
• You like to work on your own.
• You are able to work in a group.
• You have curiosity to learn on your own.
• You can adapt to change.
COMPUTER SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY
This is a three-year career program of studies that prepares you to work
as a computer programmer, programmer-analyst, Internet site developer or
network administrator in business, industry, and the public sector.
Computer systems used in these areas are more and more complex. Thorough
preparation is needed to perform well at jobs in this field. Students
starting in the program are assumed to have no background in computers.
Everything starts from the beginning. Some students may have previous
experience using computers and this will be useful. However, those with
no experience can be reassured that they are not at a disadvantage.
PROGRAM OF STUDY
The four main areas of study are outlined below. Students must, also,
develop their oral and written communication skills in both French and
English since these skills are essential to all computer-related
occupations in Quebec.
1. The first area of study involves computer courses covering the
following content:
• Structured programming (This is traditional programming.);
• Object-based and object oriented programming (This is part of modern
programming.);
• Event-driven programming (This is another part of modern
programming.);
• Major programming languages such as Java, C++, Visual Basic, Perl
(CGI) and some Cobol;
• Systems analysis and design using computer assisted graphical design
tools;
• Individual and team projects in e-commerce and database design;
• Data base systems using SQL, Oracle, Microsoft Access, JDBC and ODBC;
• Client/server systems;
• Computer operating systems including Windows 95/98, Windows-NT/2000,
UNIX/Linux;
• Standard integrated packages in Microsoft Office including Word,
Excel, Access, PowerPoint;
• Telecommunications and computer networks (Windows-NT/2000) and
Internet servers;
• Programming and multimedia for the Internet using HTML, DHTML, XML,
scripting languages (JavaScript, VBScript), and Web server programming
using Active Server Pages (ASP), Java Server Pages (JSP), and CGI (Perl).
2. A ‘stage’ (work-training period) in
industry, which runs three days per week during the entire sixth
semester of studies. Students work on real programming projects at a
business company. The stage gives valuable work experience, which is
essential to getting a permanent job in the computer field.
3. Selected courses in Mathematics,
Business Administration, and the Psychology of Relations in the
Professional World round out the specialized preparation of the career
program.
4. All Cégep students must pass courses
in general education (English, French, Humanities, Physical Education,
and Complementary studies). These courses develop oral and written
skills. They help students to develop a mature and informed outlook on
the world needed by graduates to develop successful careers.
COMPUTER LAB FACILITIES
Several well-equipped computer labs are reserved for students of
Computer Science Technology. These labs have up to date computers
running current software and operating systems for teaching programming,
Internet development, and network administration. Lab hardware and
software are updated regularly as the computer industry changes.
Students meet with their teachers in small groups in the labs to work on
their computer courses. Students spend more than half of their course
time with their teachers in a lab setting. These labs are also available
to students for homework time. |
JOB
OPPORTUNITIES FOR MEN AND WOMEN
The work-training period (stage) spent in industry during the final
semester of studies is an important asset. It gives students on-the-job
experience that is essential to have on a resume. Computer Science
technologists find many job openings in private business and the public
sector. Areas of employment include:
Computer software development, design and development of Internet Web
sites,
aircraft construction,
railways,
hospitals,
pharmaceutical companies,
retail business,
telephone companies,
sports operations,
construction,
computer suppliers,
manufacturing,
chemical companies,
colleges,
universities,
government departments,
banks,
insurance,
airlines, and many others.
FURTHER EDUCATION AFTER GRADUATION
The Computer Science Technology Program at Vanier College equips
students with a sound basis in programming, databases, analysis,
networks, the Internet, operating systems, telecommunications and
general education. Many graduates continue their studies toward a
related degree at university. Additional pre-requisites in math and
science may be required, depending upon the particular university.
Entrance requirements at the specific university should be checked.
All people working in computer
technologies regularly update their training through personal study or
by taking more courses. Most companies provide training in new systems
that employees must use. Students will be well positioned to seek
various certifications one they complete this Diploma in Computer
Science Technology.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
General requirement
The Quebec Diploma of Secondary Studies or equivalent schooling is
required. Students graduating from secondary school in Quebec as of June
1, 1997 must also have passed the Secondary-V second language, Physical
Science, and Math 574 or 436 (see the Math 536 Specific Requirement
topic below). Adult education students require History IV in addition to
the other courses mentioned above.
Applicants with post-secondary education
will be evaluated on their overall academic and prerequisite
performance. (see also the “Fast-Track” topic
below.)
Specific requirement
High School Mathematics 536; or CÉGEP Math 004; or Adult education high
school Math 5076-5082, inclusive. Students missing the Math prerequisite
should call the Admissions Office to discuss their admissibility to the
Program.
A ‘Fast-Track’ if
you have advanced standing
Students may qualify to take the Computer Science Technology program at
an accelerated pace. Applicants with solid post-secondary education
(such as a CÉGEP DEC in another program or University studies) will be
evaluated on their overall academic performance in these prior studies
and may be allowed to ‘fast-track’ their Computer Science Technology
studies. This means that they can shorten the normal time required to
complete the program. Please contact the Admissions Office at (514)
744-7500 for details.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
In order to graduate you must pass an ‘English Exit Examination’ and
‘Comprehensive Assessment’ exam by the end of your graduation semester.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
The application deadline is March 1st for the fall semester, which
begins in late August. The application deadline is November 1st for the
winter semester, which begins in late January.
INFORMATION
We welcome inquiries from you. For more information please call the
Information Office at (514) 744-7100,
the Admissions Office at (514) 744-7500, or the Computer Science
Department at (514)-744-7620. |