Build skills in programming, design, mobile apps, and security while launching your career developing software and solving computer-related issues for businesses, governments, or institutions.
What you will learn
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- design, analyze, and develop complex software application systems for PC, Web, and Mobile devices
- design, analyze, develop, debug, and optimize web and mobile applications written in popular programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java, C++ and C#
- develop and design interactive web pages/mobile apps with multimedia components
- install and configure basic computer hardware and software
- collaborate efficiently in a typical software project team working with popular project development tools and current development frameworks
- work in large and small teams as an effective team member
- learn new tools and technologies independently following the latest trends in software and hardware
What to expect
Program Duration and Maximum Time for Completion
The CST diploma program can be completed in 5 terms of full-time study (average 17 credits per term), with an expected completion time of 2 years. There are 3 terms Fall, Winter, and Summer per year. The Summer term is a shorter term which means the month of August is a break month. The program must be completed within a maximum of 5 years. CST diploma accepts students for Winter and Fall terms.
- Foundation of software development is taught in first year: core courses in Computer Systems, Programming, and Software Analysis and Design
- In second year students take Project-oriented hands-on courses in which they work often in team on industry level projects.
- Final Term students work on a Capstone project to develop real-world application for real or simulated clients.
- Blended Mode of delivery, with hands-on courses being in-person, and at least 50% of the program hours are delivered in-person.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
- English 12 with a minimum 'C' grade, or English Language Proficiency at a minimum Grade 12 'C' level, or equivalent
- Knowledge of mathematics demonstrated by one of the following:
- Pre-calculus 12 with a minimum grade of 'C' (60%) or equivalent
- Foundation of Mathematics 11 with a minimum grade of 'C+' (65%) or equivalent
- VCC Pre Calculus assessment with a minimum grade of 72%
- VCC Intermediate Algebra assessment with a minimum grade of 52%
General
- Seats are offered to applicants who have met all admission requirements, on a first-qualified, first-served basis.
- International applicants must be 17 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
- Applicants must submit official transcripts and educational documents as required by their course or program.
- All VCC applicants are required to function successfully in an English-speaking classroom. English requirements vary by program. For details, visit VCC International - English Requirements [PDF].
Recommended Characteristics
- Love coding and problem-solving
- Logical and critical thinker
- Able to work long hours on computers
- Ability to work well in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
- Research-oriented, quick to google a subject and find relevant info
- Client-oriented outlook and ability to work well with a wide variety of people
- Ability to give and receive feedback
- Enthusiastic, positive, optimistic attitude
- Pro-active self-starter
- Basic understanding of computers and comfortable using mobile devices
- Interested in technology, gadgets, and applications that run on them
Courses
*Prior learning assessment and recognition
Prior learning assessment and recognition is not available for this program.
In the First Year students complete the foundational/core courses. In the second year students take advanced software development, web, mobile, and Windows PC specialized courses. In the last term, students focus on developing an industry-scale Portfolio/Capstone project as a team.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (Foundation Courses) | ||
| CSTP 1101 | Communication and Workplace Behaviour | 3 |
| CSTP 1104 | Computer Systems Administration | 5 |
| CSTP 1105 | Introduction to Programming | 4 |
| CSTP 1106 | Website Development | 3 |
| CSTP 1108 | Applied Mathematics | 2 |
| CSTP 1201 | Introduction to Database Management Systems | 4 |
| CSTP 1202 | Introduction to Data Communication and Networking | 3 |
| CSTP 1205 | Programming in C++ | 4 |
| CSTP 1206 | Introduction to Internet Programming & Web Applications | 3 |
| CSTP 1204 | Software Analysis and Design | 3 |
| CSTP 1302 | Windows Programming | 4 |
| CSTP 1303 | Introduction to Client-Server Computing | 3 |
| CSTP 1304 | User Interface Design | 2 |
| CSTP 1305 | Algorithms Analysis and Data Structures | 3 |
| Year 2 | ||
| CSTP 2104 | Windows Interactive Application Programming | 3 |
| CSTP 2110 | Introduction to Cloud Computing | 3 |
| CSTP 2106 | Introduction to Computer Security | 3 |
| CSTP 2107 | Advanced Internet Programming & Web Applications | 4 |
| CSTP 2108 | Mathematics for Programmers | 2 |
| CSTP 2204 | IT Development Project | 5 |
| CSTP 2205 | Android Mobile Application Programming | 3 |
| CSTP 2208 | Career Path Search | 1 |
| CSTP 2301 | Emerging Technologies | 3 |
| CSTP 2305 | iOS Mobile Application Programming | 3 |
| Total Credits | 76 | |
This guide is intended as a general guideline only. The college reserves the right to make changes as appropriate.
* This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Fees and other costs
*This program has additional equipment or technical requirements
Tuition deposits are payable usually within two weeks after a Letter of Offer is issued.
Tuition Deposit: 11800 (5000 non-refundable).
Tution deposits are payable usually within two (2) weeks after a Letter of Offer is issued.
| Tuition Deposit |
11800 (5000 non-refundable) Tution deposits are payable usually within two (2) weeks after a Letter of Offer is issued. |
|---|
| Fee description | Fee Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | 145 | |
| Tuition Tuition | 44858 |
Tuition Breakdown
0 - 1
0 - 2
0 - 3
0 - 4
0 - 5
|
| Student union | 320 | |
| College initiative | 225 | |
| Materials | 0 | not including textbooks |
| Campus resource | 449 | |
| Laundry | 0 | |
| Tools (deposit) | 0 | |
| Coverall (deposit) | 0 | |
| Uniform (deposit) | 0 | |
| Medical and Dental | 550 | |
| Temporary Medical Insurance | 149 | |
| U-PASS | 1017 | |
| Graduation | 40 | |
| Program-specific extra fees | 0 | |
| Total |
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable.
Fees listed are for international students. For domestic programs, visit vcc.ca.
Any refunds are issued according to VCC's international refund policy.
Apply now
MONTH/TERM APPLICATION
OPEN DATE APPLICATION STATUS*
STATUS INFORMATION
- Apply Now: Qualified applicants may receive offers of admission if seats are available, or placed on waitlists if seats are full.
- Closed: Applications are not accepted.
- For details about application availability based on study permit status and recommendations if the application status is closed, visit the Availability Status page.
For more information and tips, see Apply page