Computer systems technologists solve computer-related issues for businesses, government agencies, utilities, law enforcement agencies, health services providers, educational institutions and more. It’s a career that demands a unique blend of skills—computer literacy, technical know-how and communications savvy—but also lets you specialize in areas that interest you the most, including programming, software design, mobile application programming, data communications and web design.
Start date
AugustLength
76 weeks
Locations(s)
Regina, SaskatoonLength and location notes
Year 1 - 37 weeks; Year 2 - 37 weeks
Note: Some year 1 semester 1 courses are offered online. If you plan to take these courses online, ensure that you apply for admission to the program as you near their successful completion. You must meet all admission requirements (including English language proficiency) at that time. Tuition for the online delivery of courses is significantly higher, as costs must be recovered in full.
The two-year Computer Systems Technology diploma is available full time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon campus and Regina Campus, with a number of courses also available through distance and/or continuing education. Comprehensive technical training gives you a solid foundation of theory and hands-on lab practice in:
- designing, installing and managing local area networks
- developing computer programs in various programming languages
- developing interactive web pages with multimedia components
- developing proficiency in several common computer application packages
- installing and configuring computer hardware and software
- performing systems analysis and design
- programming apps for mobile devices (smart phones, tablets, etc.)
- providing end-user technical support services
- troubleshooting and repairing hardware problems
You’ll also learn business principles, project management and communication skills—attributes potential employers look for when hiring for IT personnel.
Diploma to degree
Bachelor of Applied Management
Career and salary information
Your career
Graduates are prepared for a wide variety of jobs: computer programmer, software designer/developer, mobile app programming, network analyst, webmaster, web designer and systems administrator. You also have a broad choice of work environments in the public and private sectors. You could work in the IT department of a large organization or be a one-person IT department for a small business. You could join a company that provides computer sales, installation and support for other businesses. Or you could set up your own IT business and work directly with clients.
Potential careers
| Sample job title | NOC classification |
|---|---|
| Computer programmer | Computer systems developers & programmers (21230) |
| Software developer | Software developers & programmers (21232) |
| Web developer | Web developers & programmers (21234) |
| Database administrator (DBA) | Database analysts & data administrators (21223) |
Admissions
Admission requirements
- Grade 12
- Minimum 60% in Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30*. Effective Sept 2025: Minimum 70% in Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30*
- Minimum 70% in one of the following sciences: Physics 30, Chemistry 30 or Computer Science 30
- Minimum overall average of 65%
- English Language Requirement
*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:
- Minimum of 70% in Math B30
Alternative admission
Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.
ACCUPLACER©
Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.
- 250 Arithmetic
- 235 Advanced Algebra and Functions
- 254 Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics
- 250 Reading
- 245 Writing
Post-secondary
Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits. Review additional information.
If the program applied to has specific course requirements, they may be met through alternative post-secondary courses. Review already approved courses that may be used for admission purposes for your programs.
Admission method
First Qualified/First AdmittedThe First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.
Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.
Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.
See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.
Tuition and fees
Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.2024-25 academic year
Year 1 - $9,110
Year 2 - $8,870
International students
View tuition rates for international students.
Courses
Get credit for what you know
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.
See link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.
- Candidate Guide
- Candidate Guide (Department of Arts and Sciences courses)
- communications, mathematics, sciences, social sciences
- More about PLAR
Transfer credit
Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.
| Institution | Details |
|---|---|
| Athabasca University | Graduates of this program may receive 30-60 block credits towards one of the following programs at Athabasca University: Bachelor of Commerce (PD), Bachelor of Commerce with Major (PD), Bachelor of Management 3 Yr (PD), Bachelor of Human Resources Labour Relations (PD). |
| Athabasca University | Graduates of this program may be eligible for block transfer of 60 credit units into the Bachelor of Science Post Diploma program or 30 credit units toward Bachelor of Science Post Diploma program with Majors in Applied Mathematics, Computer Information Systems and/or Biological Sciences (with opportunity to receive up to an additional 30 credit units on a course-by-course basis) |
| University of Lethbridge | Graduates of this program with minimum 2.50 GPA may be admitted into the Post-Diploma B.Sc. (Computer Science) at the University of Lethbridge. If admitted, the graduate will be 3rd year degree level student in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. |
Student awards
Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.
Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.
Accreditation
Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS)
The Canadian Information Processing Society accredits the program, which means your education is recognized across Canada. Saskatchewan Polytechnic is also a member of the Microsoft Developer Network Academic Alliance (MSDNAA), which ensures that you’re learning on the most current software.
Related programs
Computer Engineering Technology
Computer Networking Technician