Student working on a laptop in a classroom with other students studying in the background.

Ontario College Diploma

Computer Programming

In the Computer Programming program you will learn how to build full stack software solutions through hands-on projects using multiple programming languages and development tools.

CIP Code: 11.0201
PGWP Eligible
This program meets the criteria to be Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligible as defined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Note: PGWP eligibility does not guarantee approval. IRCC assesses all applications individually.

Program Start Options

IntakeDurationFormatCampusDomesticInternational
0180
Fall
2 years
4 semesters
Full-Time
In-Person
+7 more
Domestic students accepted
International students accepted
0179
Winter
2 years
4 semesters
Full-Time
In-Person
+7 more
Domestic students accepted
International students accepted
0180
Fall
2 years
4 semesters
Full-Time
Online Live
Remote
Domestic students accepted
International students not accepted
Distance Education Program
0179
Winter
2 years
4 semesters
Full-Time
Online Live
Remote
Domestic students accepted
International students not accepted
Distance Education Program

Develop Your Own Innovative App

Ever look at a phone app or other piece of software and wonder if you could create that? With Confederation College's Computer Programming two-year diploma program, you can turn that curiosity into a career!

Our program equips you with the technical skills and creativity needed to thrive in the dynamic world of software development. You'll master various programming languages including HTML5, JavaScript, C#, Java, and SQL. Beyond coding, you'll dive into the art of application design, explore design patterns, learn user experience strategies, and gain hands-on experience with deployment and testing across multiple devices and environments.

Designed to prepare you for both self-employment and global opportunities, this program has a strong focus on building Full Stack development skills, ensuring you're ready for the diverse challenges of modern software development.

Top Highlights

  • Comprehensive Language Training: Learn multiple in-demand programming languages
  • Full Stack Focus: Develop skills for both front-end and back-end development
  • Real-World Projects: Apply your skills to practical, industry-relevant assignments
  • Entrepreneurial Preparation: Gain skills for self-employment scenarios
  • Global Perspective: Learn to work in an increasingly interconnected tech world

Ideal Candidate Profile

  • Analytical: Enjoy solving complex problems and puzzles
  • Creative: Can think outside the box to develop innovative solutions
  • Detail-oriented: Have a keen eye for spotting and fixing errors
  • Persistent: Willing to tackle challenges and learn from mistakes
  • Collaborative: Able to work effectively in team environments

Contact Information

Program Files

Get detailed information about program requirements, courses, and student resources.

Confederation College’s distance education program gave me hands-on tech skills and opened doors in the workplace—even from home, I felt like I was in the classroom.

RO
Ryan Overton
Graduate of 2021 – Product Support, TouchBistro

Confederation College is a model institution—supportive faculty, real-world connections, and a student-first approach made it the best choice for launching my career.

AH
Adam Harper
Graduate of 2020

Confederation College was incredibly supportive—nothing felt out of reach, even with the challenges I faced. It’s a welcoming place for everyone.

SD
Simeon Davenport
Graduate of 2018

I started with no programming experience, but thanks to the hands-on learning and supportive professors at Confederation College, I now feel confident entering the real world as a programmer.

BO
Byounghyun On
Graduate of 2019

Supportive professors, community events, and a welcoming environment made my transition from high school to college seamless—and helped me grow both socially and academically.

TVT
Tanner Van Teeffelen
Graduate of 2019

This program was perfect for me—if you're passionate about computers and want to truly understand software development, you'll find endless opportunities to grow at Confederation College.

KG
Kurtis Gibb
Graduate of 2016 – Business Applications Programmer

Confederation College’s Computer Programming program gave me the foundation, tools, and confidence to build real projects and prepare for a career in tech—far beyond my expectations.

JE
Juan Estrella
Graduate of 2018

Confederation College helped me build the communication and technical skills I needed to succeed in IT—and the support from my instructors made all the difference.

JW
Jordan Wolkowski
Graduate of 2015 – Service Desk Analyst

Admission Requirements

Fall · Winter

The following 4 intakes share the same admission requirements:

Fall (0180)Winter (0179)Fall (0180)Winter (0179)

Admission Requirements for Domestic Students

  1. Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) with courses from the College (C), University (U), University/College (U/C), or Open (O) preparation levels with Grade 12 English (C/U) Level.
  2. or successful completion of the Mature Student Assessment.
  3. or successful completion of the Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) or General Education Development Test (GED), prior to May 2024.
  4. or appropriate credits from the Academic and Career Entrance program (ACE).

Other Courses Recommended

  • Grade 12 Mathematics

Admission Requirements for International Students

  1. A high school/senior secondary diploma
    Original transcripts as well as a notarized, translated copy must be provided where applicable
  2. English Proficiency
    Academic IELTS: overall 6.0, with no bands lower than 5.5.
    Click here for more information

Prerequisites

In order to provide you with the greatest flexibility, we are asking that you come prepared to the first day of class with a laptop computer.

This program is a Windows only supported program. Please ensure your laptop has Microsoft Windows installed on it.

If you own a laptop purchased within the last 2 years, it should meet the minimum requirements. Most students will find older laptops slow, when run next to newer more powerful devices. Students will often purchase a new laptop at some point during the program. In some cases students will use an older laptop in class and a more powerful desktop computer at home to meet the program need.

Minimum requirements:

  • Microsoft Windows
  • 8 GB RAM
  • Video card that supports a minimum display resolution of 720p (1280 by 720); recommended resolution of WXGA (1366 by 768) or higher
  • Dual-band WIFI-certified 802.11a/b/g/n – compliant adapter and an Ethernet (wired) network port
  • 250 GB hard drive (500 GB or more recommended)
  • Carrying case, network patch cable
  • A wired headset (mic and headphones)
  • A webcam (most new laptops have integrated webcams)

Alternative Pathways

If you do not meet the entrance requirements, we encourage you to apply for the Pre-Technology - Technology/Aviation program to facilitate success in your technology path.

Student Accessibility and Essential Program Requirements

Confederation College is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive learning environment and will provide reasonable accommodations to students with disabilities in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), and College policy.

Students who require accommodations are encouraged to engage with Student Accessibility Services and are responsible for initiating and participating in the accommodation process. Accommodation is a collaborative process involving the student, Student Accessibility Services, faculty, and the Academic School. Requests for accommodation are considered on an individual basis, and the College will work with students to identify reasonable accommodations that provide equitable access to learning while maintaining the integrity of the program.

Students are expected to demonstrate the essential knowledge, skills, professional behaviours, learning outcomes, and competencies required to successfully complete their program. While the manner in which these requirements are demonstrated may be accommodated where appropriate, the essential requirements themselves must still be achieved.

For programs involving laboratories, field work, clinical placements, aviation environments, trades training, equipment operation, simulations, community placements, or other environments where health and safety are critical, accommodations must also be consistent with applicable legislation, professional standards, licensing requirements, accreditation standards, and workplace safety obligations.

In some circumstances, a requested accommodation may not be reasonable or possible where it would:

  • Fundamentally alter an essential program requirement, competency, or learning outcome.
  • Compromise the health or safety of the student or others.
  • Conflict with provincial or federal legislation.
  • Conflict with the requirements of an external regulatory, licensing, accreditation, or professional body.
  • Prevent the student from demonstrating competencies required for safe and effective professional practice.
Note

Where a particular accommodation cannot be provided, the College will work collaboratively with the student to identify whether an alternative accommodation can appropriately address the student’s disability-related needs while maintaining essential program requirements.

Tuition & Fees

Fees for Domestic StudentsProgram Code: 0180

Year 1
Total: $4,240.00
Fee Breakdown
Academic Fees
Total Tuition Fees:$2,740.00
College Service Fee:$863.00
Health Fee:$305.00
Bus Fee:$332.00
$4,240.00
Year 2
Total: $4,230.00
Fee Breakdown
Academic Fees
Total Tuition Fees:$2,740.00
College Service Fee:$853.00
Health Fee:$305.00
Bus Fee:$332.00
$4,230.00

Fees for International StudentsProgram Code: 0180

Year 1
Total: $18,586.25
Fee Breakdown
Academic Fees
Total Tuition Fees:$15,614.00
College Service Fee:$863.00
Health Fee:$652.25
Bus Fee:$332.00
$17,461.25
Ancillary Fees
Municipal Levy:$75.00
Student Fees:$300.00
Recovery Fee:$750.00
$1,125.00
Year 2
Total: $18,576.25
Fee Breakdown
Academic Fees
Total Tuition Fees:$15,614.00
College Service Fee:$853.00
Health Fee:$652.25
Bus Fee:$332.00
$17,451.25
Ancillary Fees
Municipal Levy:$75.00
Student Fees:$300.00
Recovery Fee:$750.00
$1,125.00
Note

Please note that fees are estimated and are subject to change.

Fees shown on this page are for full-time students attending the main Thunder Bay campus for Fall 2026.

Costing for Regional Campuses & Distance Education Students:

If this program is available at Regional Campuses, or to Distance Education students, see the following links for costing information.

Courses

2 intakes

Fall0180

Semester 1

CS 050

College Writing

42 hours

In this course, students will be introduced to academic writing styles with a thematic focus on current issues. This course will help students to express themselves clearly and correctly in written form. Students will critically analyse assigned readings and express their thoughts. The course will also focus on the development of an academic paper utilizing the APA style of documentation.

CP 150

Operating Systems

42 hours

Operating Systems is a course designed to give the user knowledge of the most popular and powerful operating systems used today. In this course, the student will acquire an understanding of both Linux and Windows operating systems. The student will gain understanding of the major features of an operating system, learn how to control the operating system, create shell script programs and install and manage packages and operating system virtual machines.

CP 160

Web Programming & Design

42 hours

Students will be introduced to web programming and design. The technical aspects of web development are covered with a focus on HTML and CSS. Beginning with basic HTML and CSS, the student will learn valid markup while focusing on layout and effective site navigation. By the end of the course, the student will know how to create a basic multi-page functional web site.

CP 180

Introduction to Databases

42 hours

The study of database design and management is essential for the business IT world today. Through this course, the student will be introduced to the concepts of database design and to the entity-relationship diagram (ERD). Using Microsoft SQL Server, the students will then develop SQL skills to query and manipulate data in an existing database. This course is designed to introduce students to databases and to help students manipulate and retrieve data through querying of a database.

CP 190

Programming Fundamentals

70 hours

In this course, students will be introduced to the concepts of critical thinking, basic Information Technology (IT) concepts, the systems development process commonly used in a business environment and the fundamentals of programming. The student will learn some of the approaches to problem-solving undertaken by an analyst, use some of the tools available in defining a system and begin to write computer programs using a professional editor. With an emphasis on the C# programming language computer programs will be written, tested and debugged, with a focus on the logical structures central to all programming: the sequence, decision and loop.

42 hours
42 hours

Semester 2

CP 220

OOP with Net

42 hours

Apply object-oriented programming concepts begun in CP140, and construct solutions with the extended features of the C# language. Students will study and practice working with advanced object classes, and programming techniques. Students will use the knowledge gained in this course to tackle more advanced programming problems and gain a broader understanding of what programming languages can accomplish.

CP 240

Advanced Web Applications

42 hours

Students will continue the study of web programming and design begun in CP160 to build web applications. Students will leverage JavaScript and extensible markup language (XML) to create interactive web applications.

CP 260

User Experience Theory

42 hours

This course is an introduction to the theory of user experience (UX) design as it applies to software development. Discussions will focus on the basic disciplines of UX process for designing software interfaces, the different aspects of UX and how they apply to design, as well as some of the process tools used by UX designers. Emphasis will be on learning design principles that factor in how the brain interprets, and learns from experiences about the environment around us. These principles will be applied through project work to develop user-centric interfaces. Students will conduct design reviews, and make further design changes by reviewing and interpreting user feedback as part of the design process. Analysis, documentation, and collaboration skills will also be practiced throughout this course.

CS 219

Communications for Technology

42 hours

This course emphasizes the importance of oral and written communication in an industrial and business setting. In Communications for Technology, students will work on independent and group projects and apply problem-solving techniques to develop both their individual and team building skills. Students will apply computer-technology and a variety of resources for researching, writing and presenting technical data into a clear and concise format.

CP 270

Advanced Database Design & SQL

42 hours

In this course, the student will design, build and interact with datasets in a relational database system. The entity-relationship diagram (ERD) will be further investigated to aid the student in the development and the creation of tables. With an advanced table structure in place, more complex methods of querying information will be employed, data report generation will be investigated and procedures and parameters will be examined. Concepts in database administration, integrity, security and design will be studied and applied to a practical database in this course.

CP 280

Req Analysis and Process Modelling

42 hours

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to a methodology designed to elicit and document the business requirements for a computerized system. This approach builds on some of the traditional analysis tools as well as incorporating some new techniques into the analysis process.

MA 115

Applied Math for Technology 1

56 hours

Applied Math for Technology I provides a foundation in mathematics for students in engineering technology and technician programs. Students will work with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, systems of measurements, units, and introductory algebra while solving applied problems involving variation, geometry, and right trigonometry.

Semester 3

CP 330

Design Patterns and Testing

42 hours

The course explores the basics in test methodologies. It also focuses on working with software bugs, creating and managing software tests and even test automation. Students will learn the importance of testing, the place of testing in the software life cycle, various forms of testing and the development and execution of a test plan.

CP 380

ASP.NET

42 hours

Students will learn to access supporting databases working with web and Microsoft.NET framework technologies to code and enforce business rules. A firm foundation in ASP.NET programming will be developed. ASP.NET allows developers to rapidly develop and deploy n-tier architecture solutions ready for e-commerce.

CP 390

Software Development & Deployment

42 hours

In this course students will be introduced to processes to allow successful application development in a larger team. Students will explore how Source Code Management (SCM) may be used in solo and in team environments for tracking and controlling small, incremental changes in software. Students will investigate how to package and deliver applications, and will consider impacts of development decisions and how to mitigate those impacts. By combining learned concepts in SCM and deployment processes, students will be able to contribute to a successful evolution and release of a final product.

CP 335

Object Oriented Analysis and Design

42 hours

This course provides students with the essentials of object oriented (O-O) analysis and design technology. Key OO concepts and techniques are explained within the Unified Modeling Language (UML) framework. Tools such as Rational Rose, and Visual Studio Ultimate can be used throughout the O-O iterative life cycle of applications as the modeling tool in planning, analysis, and design and implementation activities. The use case technique is applied to create communication scenarios. Students will complete a group project to demonstrate UML diagrams as they are used in the development cycle for small and middle-size businesses.

CP 345

OOP with JAVA

42 hours

Increase your knowledge of object-oriented programming by learning Java fundamentals. Learn how to develop, test, debug and deploy robust applications using modern IDEs. Topics will cover Java syntax, object-oriented concepts, exception handling, data structures and GUI programming.

CP 355

Project Management

42 hours

In this course, students will develop managerial skills to propose, plan, secure resources, budget, and lead project teams to successful completion of projects. Students will also learn why organizations have developed a formal project management process supported by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and its Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) to gain a competitive advantage. The case study approach will be used along with an investigation of software and collaboration tools that aid in carrying out activities of project planning and project execution.

42 hours

Semester 4

CP 430

Mobile Computing

42 hours

This course provides an introduction to the programming for mobile computing. A new generation of smartphones and mobile based operating systems increase the complexity and rework necessary to deliver native applications to devices. Students will learn the concepts of mobile programming and how to create applications that display a user interface and can store and manage data on the device.

CP 440

Major Project

42 hours

This course introduces Project Management through the delivery of a Major Project. Analysis and development will be woven into the basic theories, techniques, and rationales of project management. Working in teams, students will be engaged in project management activities: meetings, documentation, and writing. These will culminate in a final presentation where students will have to demonstrate a working product, and describe what they have done and why in a project management and information technology context.

CP 470

Open Source Programming

42 hours

Server-Side programming enables websites to deliver fast, dynamic data to their users. PHP is an open source language supporting rapid database and e-commerce solutions. The MYSQL database is a lightweight (in terms of server resources), yet powerful enough tool to meet small and medium size database requirements. Approximately sixty percent of the web server market is hosted by Apache Web Servers. PHP, MySQL and Apache come packaged with most distributions of the Linux operating system and form what is commonly called LAMP. Students in this course will learn how the four work together to solve most web application requirements.

CP 435

Computer Networks

42 hours

The entire globe is now an interconnected tangle of billions of devices. In this course, students will gain conceptual and practical knowledge of how these devices are connected to and communicate with each other. Students will be introduced to computer network hardware and software technologies. Using the client/server model, students will study and analyze effective solutions for local area networks. The course will explore hardware specifications, network configuration management and system conflict resolution.

CP 445

Data Specialization

42 hours

Data is the world's most valuable commodity, exists everywhere and is being generated at an unparalleled, extreme, daily rate. In this course, students will investigate two variations of specialized data: big data and geospatial data. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of geospatial data. With these concepts, the student will explore how to interact with and obtain meaningful information from this geographically oriented data. Students will explore the fundamental concepts of big data, investigate the sources of this data. Throughout the course students will be familiarized with technologies and processes involved in the storage, manipulation and analysis of these specialized forms of data.

CP 455

Ethics and Law

42 hours

As computers have a central, and growing, role in all aspects of society, computer programmers will find themselves in situations where they will be required to make informed legal and ethical decisions. In this course, students will be introduced to provincial, federal and international legislation that will inform them in areas of privacy, data protection, cybersecurity and cybercrime. The computer programming student will explore professional ethics and code of conduct as laid out by professional computer organizations. Through research papers, case studies, reflective assignments and discussions, students will explore this challenging world of the legal and the ethical impacts of computers, software and their very own decisions.

CP 465

Systems Security

42 hours

Computer systems and networks form the core of our modern information age and are increasingly being targeted by malicious actors. In this course, students will investigate the various ways that computer systems are being compromised and the impacts of a security breach. With this knowledge, concepts will be explored with the objective of protecting these systems against intrusion, information theft, data corruption and other forms of damage. This course will look at different methods, the implementation and potential impacts of increased system security.

Winter0179

Semester 1

CP 150

Operating Systems

42 hours

Operating Systems is a course designed to give the user knowledge of the most popular and powerful operating systems used today. In this course, the student will acquire an understanding of both Linux and Windows operating systems. The student will gain understanding of the major features of an operating system, learn how to control the operating system, create shell script programs and install and manage packages and operating system virtual machines.

CP 160

Web Programming & Design

42 hours

Students will be introduced to web programming and design. The technical aspects of web development are covered with a focus on HTML and CSS. Beginning with basic HTML and CSS, the student will learn valid markup while focusing on layout and effective site navigation. By the end of the course, the student will know how to create a basic multi-page functional web site.

CS 050

College Writing

42 hours

In this course, students will be introduced to academic writing styles with a thematic focus on current issues. This course will help students to express themselves clearly and correctly in written form. Students will critically analyse assigned readings and express their thoughts. The course will also focus on the development of an academic paper utilizing the APA style of documentation.

CP 180

Introduction to Databases

42 hours

The study of database design and management is essential for the business IT world today. Through this course, the student will be introduced to the concepts of database design and to the entity-relationship diagram (ERD). Using Microsoft SQL Server, the students will then develop SQL skills to query and manipulate data in an existing database. This course is designed to introduce students to databases and to help students manipulate and retrieve data through querying of a database.

CP 190

Programming Fundamentals

70 hours

In this course, students will be introduced to the concepts of critical thinking, basic Information Technology (IT) concepts, the systems development process commonly used in a business environment and the fundamentals of programming. The student will learn some of the approaches to problem-solving undertaken by an analyst, use some of the tools available in defining a system and begin to write computer programs using a professional editor. With an emphasis on the C# programming language computer programs will be written, tested and debugged, with a focus on the logical structures central to all programming: the sequence, decision and loop.

42 hours
42 hours

Semester 2

CP 220

OOP with Net

42 hours

Apply object-oriented programming concepts begun in CP140, and construct solutions with the extended features of the C# language. Students will study and practice working with advanced object classes, and programming techniques. Students will use the knowledge gained in this course to tackle more advanced programming problems and gain a broader understanding of what programming languages can accomplish.

CP 240

Advanced Web Applications

42 hours

Students will continue the study of web programming and design begun in CP160 to build web applications. Students will leverage JavaScript and extensible markup language (XML) to create interactive web applications.

CP 260

User Experience Theory

42 hours

This course is an introduction to the theory of user experience (UX) design as it applies to software development. Discussions will focus on the basic disciplines of UX process for designing software interfaces, the different aspects of UX and how they apply to design, as well as some of the process tools used by UX designers. Emphasis will be on learning design principles that factor in how the brain interprets, and learns from experiences about the environment around us. These principles will be applied through project work to develop user-centric interfaces. Students will conduct design reviews, and make further design changes by reviewing and interpreting user feedback as part of the design process. Analysis, documentation, and collaboration skills will also be practiced throughout this course.

CS 219

Communications for Technology

42 hours

This course emphasizes the importance of oral and written communication in an industrial and business setting. In Communications for Technology, students will work on independent and group projects and apply problem-solving techniques to develop both their individual and team building skills. Students will apply computer-technology and a variety of resources for researching, writing and presenting technical data into a clear and concise format.

CP 270

Advanced Database Design & SQL

42 hours

In this course, the student will design, build and interact with datasets in a relational database system. The entity-relationship diagram (ERD) will be further investigated to aid the student in the development and the creation of tables. With an advanced table structure in place, more complex methods of querying information will be employed, data report generation will be investigated and procedures and parameters will be examined. Concepts in database administration, integrity, security and design will be studied and applied to a practical database in this course.

CP 280

Req Analysis and Process Modelling

42 hours

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to a methodology designed to elicit and document the business requirements for a computerized system. This approach builds on some of the traditional analysis tools as well as incorporating some new techniques into the analysis process.

MA 115

Applied Math for Technology 1

56 hours

Applied Math for Technology I provides a foundation in mathematics for students in engineering technology and technician programs. Students will work with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, systems of measurements, units, and introductory algebra while solving applied problems involving variation, geometry, and right trigonometry.

Semester 3

CP 330

Design Patterns and Testing

42 hours

The course explores the basics in test methodologies. It also focuses on working with software bugs, creating and managing software tests and even test automation. Students will learn the importance of testing, the place of testing in the software life cycle, various forms of testing and the development and execution of a test plan.

CP 380

ASP.NET

42 hours

Students will learn to access supporting databases working with web and Microsoft.NET framework technologies to code and enforce business rules. A firm foundation in ASP.NET programming will be developed. ASP.NET allows developers to rapidly develop and deploy n-tier architecture solutions ready for e-commerce.

CP 390

Software Development & Deployment

42 hours

In this course students will be introduced to processes to allow successful application development in a larger team. Students will explore how Source Code Management (SCM) may be used in solo and in team environments for tracking and controlling small, incremental changes in software. Students will investigate how to package and deliver applications, and will consider impacts of development decisions and how to mitigate those impacts. By combining learned concepts in SCM and deployment processes, students will be able to contribute to a successful evolution and release of a final product.

CP 335

Object Oriented Analysis and Design

42 hours

This course provides students with the essentials of object oriented (O-O) analysis and design technology. Key OO concepts and techniques are explained within the Unified Modeling Language (UML) framework. Tools such as Rational Rose, and Visual Studio Ultimate can be used throughout the O-O iterative life cycle of applications as the modeling tool in planning, analysis, and design and implementation activities. The use case technique is applied to create communication scenarios. Students will complete a group project to demonstrate UML diagrams as they are used in the development cycle for small and middle-size businesses.

CP 345

OOP with JAVA

42 hours

Increase your knowledge of object-oriented programming by learning Java fundamentals. Learn how to develop, test, debug and deploy robust applications using modern IDEs. Topics will cover Java syntax, object-oriented concepts, exception handling, data structures and GUI programming.

CP 355

Project Management

42 hours

In this course, students will develop managerial skills to propose, plan, secure resources, budget, and lead project teams to successful completion of projects. Students will also learn why organizations have developed a formal project management process supported by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and its Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) to gain a competitive advantage. The case study approach will be used along with an investigation of software and collaboration tools that aid in carrying out activities of project planning and project execution.

42 hours

Semester 4

CP 430

Mobile Computing

42 hours

This course provides an introduction to the programming for mobile computing. A new generation of smartphones and mobile based operating systems increase the complexity and rework necessary to deliver native applications to devices. Students will learn the concepts of mobile programming and how to create applications that display a user interface and can store and manage data on the device.

CP 440

Major Project

42 hours

This course introduces Project Management through the delivery of a Major Project. Analysis and development will be woven into the basic theories, techniques, and rationales of project management. Working in teams, students will be engaged in project management activities: meetings, documentation, and writing. These will culminate in a final presentation where students will have to demonstrate a working product, and describe what they have done and why in a project management and information technology context.

CP 470

Open Source Programming

42 hours

Server-Side programming enables websites to deliver fast, dynamic data to their users. PHP is an open source language supporting rapid database and e-commerce solutions. The MYSQL database is a lightweight (in terms of server resources), yet powerful enough tool to meet small and medium size database requirements. Approximately sixty percent of the web server market is hosted by Apache Web Servers. PHP, MySQL and Apache come packaged with most distributions of the Linux operating system and form what is commonly called LAMP. Students in this course will learn how the four work together to solve most web application requirements.

CP 435

Computer Networks

42 hours

The entire globe is now an interconnected tangle of billions of devices. In this course, students will gain conceptual and practical knowledge of how these devices are connected to and communicate with each other. Students will be introduced to computer network hardware and software technologies. Using the client/server model, students will study and analyze effective solutions for local area networks. The course will explore hardware specifications, network configuration management and system conflict resolution.

CP 445

Data Specialization

42 hours

Data is the world's most valuable commodity, exists everywhere and is being generated at an unparalleled, extreme, daily rate. In this course, students will investigate two variations of specialized data: big data and geospatial data. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of geospatial data. With these concepts, the student will explore how to interact with and obtain meaningful information from this geographically oriented data. Students will explore the fundamental concepts of big data, investigate the sources of this data. Throughout the course students will be familiarized with technologies and processes involved in the storage, manipulation and analysis of these specialized forms of data.

CP 455

Ethics and Law

42 hours

As computers have a central, and growing, role in all aspects of society, computer programmers will find themselves in situations where they will be required to make informed legal and ethical decisions. In this course, students will be introduced to provincial, federal and international legislation that will inform them in areas of privacy, data protection, cybersecurity and cybercrime. The computer programming student will explore professional ethics and code of conduct as laid out by professional computer organizations. Through research papers, case studies, reflective assignments and discussions, students will explore this challenging world of the legal and the ethical impacts of computers, software and their very own decisions.

CP 465

Systems Security

42 hours

Computer systems and networks form the core of our modern information age and are increasingly being targeted by malicious actors. In this course, students will investigate the various ways that computer systems are being compromised and the impacts of a security breach. With this knowledge, concepts will be explored with the objective of protecting these systems against intrusion, information theft, data corruption and other forms of damage. This course will look at different methods, the implementation and potential impacts of increased system security.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Support the analysis and definition of software system specifications based on functional and non-functional requirements.
  2. Contribute to the development, documentation, implementation, maintenance and testing of software systems by using industry standard software development methodologies, based on defined specifications and existing technologies/frameworks.
  3. Apply one or more programming paradigms such as, (e.g. object-oriented, structured or functional programming), and design principles, as well as documented requirements, to the software development process.
  4. Model, design, implement, and maintain basic data storage solutions.
  5. Contribute to the integration of network communications into software solutions by adhering to protocol standards.
  6. Identify, analyze, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
  7. Contribute to the diagnostics, troubleshooting, documenting and monitoring of technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
  8. Implement and maintain secure computing environments.
  9. Implement robust computing system solutions through validation testing that aligns with industry best practices.
  10. Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationships.
  11. Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
  12. Apply project management principles and tools when working on projects within a computing environment.
  13. Adhere to ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements and/or principles in the development and management of computing solutions and systems.

Meet the Program Staff

5 staff members

Careers

Graduates of this program go on to work in web development, desktop software development, mobile application development, database administration, business analytics, system analysis and design, customer technical support, information technology and other areas of computer programming.

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Pathways

Confederation College offers a variety of articulation agreements designed to help you advance your education and career. Whether you're coming to us from another institution or planning your next steps after completing your program, our pathways make your transition seamless and effective.

Pathway Out — Credits recognized by another institution

Lakehead University — Undergraduate Degree Programs at Lakehead University

This pathway allows students to begin a diploma at Confederation College and then apply to Lakehead University to continue into a degree program, combining hands-on learning with academic study.

Confederation College and Lakehead University offer a joint admission pathway that supports a smooth transition from diploma to degree studies.

Pathway Structure:

  • Students begin with a diploma program at Confederation College, focusing on applied, hands-on learning over two years
  • After completing their diploma, students transition to Lakehead University to pursue undergraduate degree studies

Key Features:

  • Combines practical, career-focused training with academic and theoretical education
  • Provides experience in two distinct learning environments
  • Prepares students with both applied skills and advanced knowledge

Admission Process:

  • Students who complete their diploma at Confederation College can apply directly to Lakehead University

Contacts

University of New Brunswick — Bachelor of Applied Management (BAM)

Graduates from eligible 2-year or 3-year diploma programs at Confederation College can apply to enter the third year of the Bachelor of Applied Management at the University of New Brunswick, with a minimum 70% program average. Additional courses may be required.

Minimum Admission Average
70% overall program average
Entry Point
Year 3 of a 4-year degree

Institution: University of New Brunswick, Saint John, NB

Agreement Type: Memorandum of Understanding

Graduates of eligible diploma programs at Confederation College may be considered for advanced standing in the Bachelor of Applied Management (BAM).

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Completion of a 2-year (four-semester) or 3-year (six-semester) diploma program
  • Minimum overall program average of 70%

Transfer Details:

  • Eligible students may enter Year 3 of the 4-year BAM program
  • Additional courses may be required depending on the applicant’s academic background

Program Notes:

  • Eligible Confederation College programs are outlined in Appendix A of the Memorandum of Understanding
  • Students should consult the contact person for full details and program-specific requirements

Contacts

Students at Confederation College

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