Computer Systems Technology

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.

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

Transfer agreements with the University of Saskatchewan, University of Regina and University of Lethbridge let you ladder into a computer science degree with two more years of study. It’s a great way to expand your career horizons, while leaving the door open to earn a living with your diploma.

Bachelor of Applied Management

Diploma graduates are eligible to take the Bachelor of Applied Management degree right here at Saskatchewan Polytechnic with only two years of additional study. Remote classes and part-time options are available.

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

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.

• Regina
• Saskatoon

Admission Requirements

• Grade 12
• Minimum 60% 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

The 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.

2021/22 Academic Year

Year 1 - $8,500
Year 2 - $8,000

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

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 links below to get more information about PLAR and detailed PLAR candidate guides for courses in this program.

• 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.

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.

More about scholarships

• Personal Readiness

• Women in Trades and Technology

• Business Information Systems
• Computer Engineering Technology
• Computer Networking Technician