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Ministry-approved title: Computer Systems Technician
The Computer Systems Technician program is the perfect vehicle to launch a rewarding career in computer assembly, installation, configuration, and troubleshooting. Students learn from industry-connected faculty in state-of-the-art labs while building hands-on experience with technologies used throughout today’s IT sector. The program is supported by partnerships with leading organizations in technology, including Cisco, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Microsoft.
In this program, students:
Durham College’s (DC) Computer Systems programs have been strengthened through a donation from General Motors (GM) of approximately 100 Cisco switches, providing students with access to industry-grade networking equipment and hands-on learning experiences. The partnership began when a Computer Systems Technology student completing a co-op placement at GM recognized the potential impact the equipment could have at DC. This student-led collaboration highlights the value of industry partnerships in creating meaningful opportunities and preparing graduates for careers in IT and engineering.
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NOTE: Students enrolling in this program are required to purchase their own laptop. For specific hardware and software requirements for this program click here.
Organizations rely heavily on information technology (IT) professionals to maintain and secure computer systems and networks. The Computer Systems Technician program equips students with the comprehensive technical skills needed to succeed in this high-demand field. Whether working with personal computers, networking technologies, or application support, students develop the expertise required to meet the evolving IT needs of modern businesses. Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles within the IT sector, including network technician, systems administrator, and IT support specialist.
The program provides the technical skills and expertise required to work in the high-demand areas of personal computers, networking, cloud technologies, and application support. Coursework combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning, ensuring students gain experience with current technologies and industry practices. Through real-world scenarios and lab-based activities, students strengthen practical problem-solving abilities that support workplace readiness.
The program curriculum addresses the technical aspects of commonly used components and troubleshooting techniques for:
In addition to technical development, students strengthen communication and administrative skills while building the critical-thinking abilities needed to respond to a wide range of technical challenges. Graduates develop the ability to:
These certifications are highly valued by employers and help strengthen employability within the IT job market. Graduates leave the program with hands-on experience, technical knowledge, and industry-relevant skills that help distinguish them in the field.
To support informed program selection, students share a common first semester with several Durham College IT programs, including Computer Systems Technician, Computer Systems Technology, Computer Systems Technician – Transfer to Ontario Tech University, Computer Programming, and Computer Programming and Analysis. This approach provides exposure to both programming and systems-focused areas of the IT sector.
Students may choose to pursue the following industry certifications, which could require additional exams and/or related work experience to qualify:
First-year students enrolled in this program will receive a membership to all seven of Durham Region’s Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade for the duration of their studies, plus an additional year following graduation. DC is proud to be one of the only colleges in Ontario offering students this unique connection to business leaders.
The seven Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade are:
Membership benefits:
Durham College (DC) offers pre-admission assessment testing to mature domestic applicants to meet admission requirements in English and/or Math. Domestic applicants who are 19 years of age or older as of the start date of their program, and who do not have the required program credit(s), i.e. Grade 12 English and/or Grade 12 Math are eligible to take an admissions assessment test.
Learn more about how to book Pre-Admission Assessment Testing here.
DC also offers Academic Upgrading. Courses are FREE and designed to help you meet the admissions requirements for this program. Available to individuals 18+, these courses are offered on campus at DC. Boost your qualifications with:
Learn more about Academic Upgrading and connect with our team to get started.
The courses listed below are for incoming students. If you are a current student, please refer to your program of study for the year you began your program. Your program of study can be found on MyDC.
Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
In person
Students will come to campus to complete in-person learning requirements. Detailed schedules, with course-specific delivery information, will be available after registration. Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
School is an investment in your future, and financial support is available to help you succeed.
DC's Financial Aid and Awards is here to help you access funding and opportunities that make pursuing your education easier and more achievable:
Visit Financial Aid and Awards to explore all the options to help finance your education.
Computer Systems Technician courses incorporate experiential learning in the form of project-based, and problem-based learning, which puts students in simulated scenarios meant to prepare them to adapt to the expectations of working in industry quickly.
Graduates may choose to return to Durham College to complete an additional year of study in the Computer Systems Technology program. Durham College also offers degree completion opportunities with a number of Canadian and international institutions. Please visit www.durhamcollege.ca/pathways to learn more about how you can transfer your credits towards a degree. Sample diploma-to-degree opportunities include:
Please visit our pathways page to learn more about how you can transfer your credits towards a degree.
Looking for more pathway opportunities or to transfer to Durham College? Click here for more information.
Students enrolling in this program are required to purchase their own laptop.
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