Computer Programming (Co-op) at Algonquin College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

Welcome to the Computer Programming (Co-op) program, a two-year Ontario College Diploma designed to equip you with the essential skills for a successful career in software development. This program emphasizes practical applications and workplace-ready programming languages, ensuring you are prepared for the demands of the tech industry. You will delve into program development strategies, database design, and administration, while gaining hands-on experience with leading industry software products like Oracle and CASE tools. Throughout your studies, you will learn various programming languages, including Java, COBOL, SQL, and PHP, and engage in a final semester project that allows you to work with external clients, providing you with invaluable real-world experience.

Program structure

The Computer Programming (Co-op) program spans a duration of two years and is structured to provide a comprehensive education in software development. The program includes:

Hands-on learning experiences through practical applications.
Opportunities for a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term, subject to availability and academic eligibility.
A final semester project that involves collaboration with external clients.

This program is designed to be accessible, with no prior programming knowledge required for entry. Students will engage in a curriculum that consists of approximately 75% applications programming courses and 25% communication courses, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. The co-op option allows students to integrate classroom learning with real-world work experience, enhancing their employability upon graduation.

Featured Experiences

The Computer Programming (Co-op) program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Co-operative Education: Students can participate in a paid co-op work term, gaining practical experience in the industry.
Real-World Projects: In the final semester, students work on a software development project with external clients, providing hands-on experience.
Industry-Standard Tools: Students learn to use leading software products such as Oracle and CASE tools.
Collaborative Learning: The program encourages teamwork and collaboration through various projects and assignments.
Accessible Learning: The program is designed for students without prior programming knowledge, making it more inclusive.

Career Options

Graduates of the Computer Programming (Co-op) program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada, including:

Applications Programmer: Develops and maintains software applications, ensuring they meet user needs and function effectively.
Systems Analyst: Analyzes and designs information systems to improve efficiency and effectiveness within organizations.
Database Administrator: Manages and maintains databases, ensuring data integrity, security, and accessibility.
Web Developer: Designs and builds websites, focusing on user experience and functionality.
Software Developer: Creates software solutions, from initial concept through to deployment and maintenance.

With programming and database skills in high demand across various sectors, graduates can find opportunities in industries such as healthcare, education, finance, and information services, making this program a valuable stepping stone to a successful career.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

Academic Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

College Eligibility:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent;
Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.

Program Eligibility:

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
Mathematics, (Grade 12 MCT4C) or (Grade 11 MCR3U) or equivalent; or (Grade 12 MAP4C with a grade of 80% or higher) or (Grade 11 MCF3M with a grade of 70% or higher).
Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Note: Applicants should have basic computer skills such as keyboard proficiency, Internet browsing and searching, and proficiency with an office software suite (word processing, spreadsheets, etc.) prior to the start of the program. Training in these skills is available to students via the Student Learning Centre Coaching Lab in C260. While programming experience is not a requirement to enter the program, aptitude for programming is necessary and would include strong language, problem-solving, and logic skills. This is often demonstrated by skill and enjoyment in solving word problems in math.

Prerequisite Courses:

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
Mathematics, (Grade 12 MCT4C) or (Grade 11 MCR3U) or equivalent; or (Grade 12 MAP4C with a grade of 80% or higher) or (Grade 11 MCF3M with a grade of 70% or higher).

For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

For the Computer Programming (Co-op) Diploma program, the following language proficiency tests are accepted:

IELTS - International English Language Testing Service (Academic) with an overall band of 6.0 and a minimum of 5.5 in each band.
TOEFL - Internet-based (iBT) with an overall score of 80, and a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20.
Duolingo English Test (DET) - Overall score of 110, with a minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!