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

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

The Computer Programming Ontario College Diploma program is a two-year course designed to equip students with the skills necessary for a successful career in software development. This program emphasizes practical applications and workplace-ready programming languages, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the demands of the industry. Students will delve into program development strategies, database design, and administration, utilizing leading industry software products such as Oracle and CASE tools. The curriculum also covers essential programming languages including Java, COBOL, SQL, and PHP. In the final semester, students will engage in a software development project with external clients, providing them with invaluable real-world experience in the programming field.

Program structure

The Computer Programming program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a period of two years. The program includes:

Hands-on experience with leading industry software products.
Focus on programming languages such as Java, COBOL, SQL, and PHP.
Study of object-oriented analysis and design, operating systems, and coding in integrated environments.
Final semester project working with external clients.

Students also have the option to participate in a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term, which provides real-world experience. However, co-op placements are subject to availability and academic eligibility, and admission to the co-op program does not guarantee a placement.

Featured Experiences

The Computer Programming program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Participation in a software development project in the final semester, collaborating with external clients.
Opportunity to engage in a paid co-op work term to gain practical experience in the industry.
Hands-on training with leading industry software products, including Oracle and CASE tools.
Exposure to various programming languages and development strategies.

Career Options

Graduates of the Computer Programming program can pursue a variety of career paths 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.

These roles are essential across various sectors, including healthcare, education, finance, and technology, reflecting the high demand for programming and database skills in the job market.

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

To apply for the Computer Programming (Non Co-op) Diploma program, applicants must meet the following language proficiency requirements:

IELTS - International English Language Testing Service (Academic): Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band
TOEFL - Internet-based (iBT): Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component:
- Reading: 20
- Listening: 20
- Speaking: 20
- Writing: 20
Duolingo English Test (DET): Overall 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!

Last updated on 2026-02-02

Program overview

Intake	Status	Open date to apply	Deadline to apply	Campus
May 2026	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
September 2026	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
January 2027	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
May 2027	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available