Software Development

(Degree)

Program Description

The Software Development degree was created to address current and future needs for knowledgeable software developers, skilled in both the technical and non-technical aspects of business technology.

The curriculum includes an extensive exploration of software languages, operating systems, internet applications, multimedia interfaces, information security, databases and system analysis, and design principles. The course of study also emphasizes the importance of communication skills and business acumen in today's knowledge-based economy.

The Bachelor of Applied Technology (Software Development) degree is an eightsemester program that offers students the opportunity to start in either September or January. Students will study at Seneca’s state-of-the-art facilities located on the York University campus, an accessible location via GO, TTC and YRT transit.

Small class sizes, hands-on labs, electronic classrooms, and an expert faculty provide an enabling environment for student success. Students will be supported by excellent student services including library resources, counsellors, peer tutors and student co-ordinators.

Degree students will gain work experience in one or more paid co-operative work terms. With over 3,500 employers in the Seneca database, students will be provided real-world job opportunities that complement their academic studies.

Seneca’s School of Computer Studies is a recognized leader in developing and delivering programs that are relevant to the computer industry’s constantly evolving requirements. Computer programs at Seneca are not only the largest educational programming offerings in the province but also provide quality delivery. In recent government key performance indicator surveys, well over 90% of Computer Studies students responded that they were very satisfied when asked the question, "Does the program provide you with the skills and abilities specific to your chosen career?"

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Six Grade 12 (U) or (M) courses with a minimum 65% average including:
• Grade 12 English: ENG4(U)
• Grade 12 Mathematics: any (U) level Mathematics*
• Mature students (age 19 years or older) must submit proof of credits in the above subjects or their equivalent.

*It is recommended that the other (U) or (M) credits include one course in Business and one course in Computer Studies.

Applicant Selection:

• In addition to grades in the required subjects, applicants may be required to attend an orientation and complete given assignments and/or tests.

Scholarship

Scholarship opportunities are available for candidates with distinguished academic records in their high school careers. A variety of scholarships and bursaries are available to students based on merit and financial needs.

Your Career

Graduates can expect employment opportunities that are dynamic, exciting, challenging, and well paid. The Software Development degree will provide graduates with skills that are portable across industries, market sectors, and the globe.

Today's "hot" sectors of the economy include health care, business and financial services, computer game development, simulation and modeling, and Internet applications, to name a few. As a trained software developer, you can move into and among these sectors with your skill set. As an analyst, you can lead software teams and effectively communicate and manage projects in both face-to-face and remote environments.

"The IT skills gap is a world-wide phenomenon. Right here in Canada, the shortfall has been estimated at no fewer than 20,000 unfilled jobs."

Information Technology Institute of Canada

Seneca College has been granted a consent by the Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities continue to offer this degree for a five-year term starting September 16, 2008 . Seneca will ensure that all students admitted to the above-named program during the period of consent will have the opportunity to complete the program within a reasonable time frame .

Graduates can expect numerous and varied job opportunities as software developers in the business technology sector, health care and video game development sectors - jobs that are dynamic, exciting, challenging, and well paid.

The Bachelor of Applied Technology (Software Development) degree will prepare graduates for careers such as business systems analysts, business technology designers, client/server application developers, database application specialists, Internet designers and developers, information security analysts, project managers, software engineers, and system software programmers.

Graduates of the program may apply for designation as an I.S.P. professional, an internationally recognized certification.

Co-operative Education

Students in their final two years of the degree program will enrol in two courses specific to professional practices and will participate in at least one paid co-op work term. The experience gained during the work terms is highly valued by both students and employers and Seneca's co-operating employers are committed to providing meaningful work assignments. Students in the co-op option will take CPP600 (Co-op Professional Practice) in the semester preceding their first co-op work term, and CPP700 (Co-op Integration and Career Planning) in the semester following their first co-op work term. Co-op information sessions are held at the Seneca@York campus throughout the year.

Areas of Study

The degree curriculum will apply theory and concepts to the achievement of practical applications. The areas of study include:

• programming algorithms and software languages;
• operating system architectures;
• internet design and deployment;
• networking and information security;
• database design and development;
• system methodologies and project management;
• techniques for effective communication and teamwork;
• business principles and management practices;
• research and problem solving methods.

Extra Benefits

• Paid co-op opportunities with key players in the IT industry.
• Practical experience with leading edge industry technology in state-of-the-art computer labs.
• Innovative learning modes - interactive lectures, collaborative teamwork, panel discussions, e-learning, research projects, and more.
• Opportunities to pursue graduate studies.
• Portable skills for global careers.

Required for Success in the Program

An industry-standard home PC (two years old or newer) is essential and an Internet Service Provider (ISP) is recommended.

The Importance of Learning Skills

Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills.

Curriculum

Professional Options

In their final two years, students will be able to select five professional option subjects providing opportunities for specialization in areas of interest. New and revised subject designations will be offered each semester based on the demand of a rapidly changing computer industry.

Note: Professional options are offered on a rotating basis, and may change to keep up with evolving technologies. For an updated list, visit http://cs.senecac.on.ca.

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