Computer Systems Engineering Technology (Co-op)

The Computing Systems Engineering Technology (Co–op) program prepares students for the field of scientific and engineering computing. A combination of programming theory and practice, networking, and electronics ensures the graduate will be prepared to work in the fields of cloud computing and mobile device application development, as well as develop the foundation for the emerging fields of machine learning and Big Data. Graduates will obtain theoretical foundations as well as practical hands on experience with analog electronics, digital systems, including logic, microprocessor interfacing, and embedded microcontrollers and applications. Students will work with mobile devices, robotic systems, and wireless control. Specialized skills in the software stream include, but will not be limited to, object-oriented programming, databases, networking, and modern web technologies. Graduates of this three year program receive the Diploma of Computing Systems Engineering Technology (Co-op).

Graduates completing this program are automatically eligible for membership in the Association of Engineering Technicians and Technologists of Newfoundland and Labrador (AETTNL), as well as any similar association in Canada.

Upon completion of this program graduates may choose to further their education by completing a bachelor degree in technology or engineering at one of several institutions that have articulation agreements with College of the North Atlantic.

Graduates enrolled in this program will also complete courses in the Cisco Networking Academy program which will place them on the path to Cisco certification at the CCNA level.

Note: This program may not be suitable for applicants who do not have normal colour perception.

ACCREDITATION:
This program is accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board under the mandate of the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists.

This program is also CEWIL Canada (Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada) accredited.

The academic credentials of graduates of accredited technology programs are recognized internationally by the signatories of the Sydney Accord.

OBJECTIVES
As engineering technologists, graduates of this program will have the knowledge and skills that will allow them to:

1. Analyze, build, implement, and maintain computing systems and applications.
2. Design, develop, and implement relational database management systems.
3. Develop applications using object-oriented programming methods and practices.
4. Design and develop applications for mobile devices such as smart phones and tablets.
5. Prepare a quality assurance plan for testing and evaluation of software.
6. Design and implement computing systems suitable for cloud computing applications.
7. Specify, select, design, build, and troubleshoot micro-processor or micro-controller based systems.

CURRICULUM
General Education consisting of Project Management Skills (theoretical and applied), Communication Skills (oral and written), Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Electrotechnology, Engineering Graphics, Technology Awareness and Student Success.

Specific education in various aspects (theory and principles) of the computing engineering discipline including database design, Internet application development, embedded system development, graphical programming, and mobile application development, in addition to digital logic systems, microcontrollers, and IP networking.

Practical education in various aspects of the theory and principles of computing and programming.

Work exposure Laboratory and field experience, gained from compensated work terms, in the application embedded electronics and computing systems.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The graduate from the program will be a technologist who specializes in integrating computing technology into consumer and industrial products, who finds employment with hi-tech companies utilizing computers in new and innovative ways.

Graduates with two years of progressive work experience may be eligible to receive the designation of Professional Technologist (P. Tech) upon completion of a Professional Practice and Ethics Exam.

Note: Students will also be required to complete a number of non-credit co-op education seminars throughout the 3-year program (resume writing, job search skills and interview preparation).

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS – ACADEMIC YEAR 2020-2021 ONLY
Eligibility for admission to an Engineering Technology program requires the applicant to meet one of the following four academic criteria:

1.  High School
High School Graduation, plus:
i. English (2 credits) (minimum 60%) from: 3201 or 3202
ii.  Mathematics (4 credits) chosen from:

iii. Science (4 credits) two of which must be selected from:

Note: The remaining two Science credits to be chosen from the highest Science mark in level 1, 2 or 3.

2. Comprehensive Arts and Science (CAS) Transition
Comprehensive Arts and Science (Transition) Certificate with the following courses:
i.  Math (60% MINIMUM) MA1040, MA1041
ii. Two Science courses chosen from one of the following three combinations:

Note: It is strongly recommended that CAS learners who intend to enroll in Engineering Technology programs complete both of the Chemistry courses and both of the Physics courses.