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Ministry-approved title: Computer Systems Technology
This transfer pathway is intended for applicants who have completed a Computer Systems Technician diploma from an Ontario College. Eligible applicants receive advanced standing for Semesters 1–4 and enter Semester 5. Applicants must meet the pathway admission requirements. Those who do not qualify should apply to the standard program (Semester 1 entry).
If approved for advanced standing, you will receive credit for previously completed studies and begin the program at the advanced semester indicated below.
Credits recognized: Semesters 1-4 Remaining semesters: 2 Your entry point: Semester 5
This new pathway is designed specifically for graduates who hold a diploma in Computer Systems Technician from an Ontario college, allowing them to earn an advanced diploma in Computer Systems Technology with advanced standing.
As computer systems technology continues to advance and integrate into every aspect of modern life, demand continues to grow for skilled professionals who can manage and innovate within complex computer information systems. This program prepares students for careers focused on the design, testing, installation, and maintenance of computer hardware and software systems. The Computer Systems Technology program is built on partnerships with leading organizations in technology, including Cisco, Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft.
In this program, students:
With increasing reliance on computer systems technology across all sectors, demand continues to grow for professionals with expertise in networking, systems, and cloud-based infrastructure. Graduates play a key role in supporting the security, efficiency, and reliability of organizational IT systems.
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.
Only applicants who meet these requirements will be eligible for advanced standing. If you do not meet the requirements for this pathway, click here for the direct entry (semester 1) program.
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The Computer Systems Technology program opens the door to a breadth of exciting and rewarding career paths in IT. The diverse nature of the IT field means that your skills will be in demand across multiple industries, including business, IT industry, service provider, and government, offering numerous opportunities for professional growth and development.
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Fill out the form to get more information on your program of interest, upcoming events, and how to become a Durham College student. By submitting your information below, you consent to Durham College contacting you via email and/or SMS with a minimum of 4 messages per month. You may withdraw consent at any time.
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Graduates of a Computer Systems Technician diploma can build on their existing technical knowledge and practical experience through the Computer Systems Technology program.
NOTE: Students enrolling in this program are required to purchase their own laptop. For specific hardware and software requirements for this program click here.
Graduates of the three-year Computer Systems Technology program are prepared to meet the information technology (IT) needs of the business, industry, service, and government sectors. Students are trained to plan, implement, and analyze IT solutions across operating systems, networking technologies, and cloud-based infrastructure.
The curriculum addresses:
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of current industry trends and technologies, supporting readiness to tackle complex challenges in the tech sector. Through hands-on experience, students apply classroom concepts to real-world situations, understand workplace dynamics, and build professional networks.
Graduates develop the skills and expertise required to contribute to the planning and implementation of organizational IT infrastructure, including deployment and management of workstations and servers, network design and implementation, and development of security plans. Knowledge of databases and project management is also developed.
The diverse skill set acquired through this program prepares students to pursue industry-recognized certifications, such as Cisco (e.g., CCNA), Microsoft, AWS (Certified Cloud Practitioner, Solutions Architect, and SysOps Administrator), CompTIA (e.g., A+, Network+), Linux (LPIC-1 and LPIC-2), and ITIL Foundation certification. These certifications validate technical expertise and support employability in a competitive job market.
To support informed program selection, a common first semester is offered for the Computer Systems Technician, Computer Systems Technology, Computer Systems Technician – Transfer to Ontario Tech University, Computer Programming, and Computer Programming and Analysis programs. This provides exposure to both systems/programming and networking/hardware pathways within 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:
Students applying to this program must submit their application as an advanced standing applicant through Ontario Colleges (ontariocolleges.ca).
Before adding this program to your Ontario College application, you must declare all previous postsecondary education within your profile. This step is required in order for the advanced standing option to appear for this transfer pathway program.
Important: If you do not declare your previous education, the advanced standing option will not be displayed, and you will not able to apply for an upper semester entry point.
Once your previous education has been declared, add the program to your application. To do this, search CSTY in the Ontario Colleges program search.
When you have found your program choice, select I am eligible for advanced standing.
Because this program offers advanced standing for eligible applicants, multiple semester entry points will be displayed.
When selecting your semester, choose the advanced standing entry point, rather than the standard Semester 1 entry. Your program choice will now be added to your application.
A transcript showing your in-progress or completed credential is required for assessment. You can request to have your official transcript sent directly to Durham College through the Ontario Colleges portal. If you are a former or current Durham College student, you will not need to send an official transcript.
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.
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.
School is an investment in your future, and DC’s Financial Aid and Awards office offers support to help you succeed.
Funding opportunities include: OSAP, scholarships, bursaries and awards, international student scholarships, and on-campus employment.
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As organizations increasingly prioritize digital transformation, the demand for skilled professionals who can securely manage and innovate within IT infrastructures continues to rise. Graduates of the Computer Systems Technology program have the opportunity to work at the forefront of technology, developing and maintaining the complex computer information systems that businesses rely on. Your ability to design, implement, and secure various IT solutions will make you an asset across a wide range of industries, including tech companies, financial services, healthcare, and government agencies. The versatility of your skills ensures that you can adapt to and excel in different environments, making a meaningful impact wherever you choose to take your career.
Students will be invited to apply to the co-op option during their first year of study. Entrance to the co-op option is limited, and the processes for securing a work term are competitive. Students enrolled in the co-op option who qualify for co-op will be eligible to complete a four-month, paid work term between the second and third years of their program. Learn more about co-op.
Students will have the opportunity to complete a four-week, 160-hour field placement in their final semester. This placement will enable students to apply the theories and concepts studied in the program in a real work setting, gain valuable hands-on IT experience, and make connections for future careers.
Durham College (DC) partners with colleges and universities across Ontario, Canada, and around the world to offer pathway opportunities to continue your education and reach your goals. Whether you’re a current student or a graduate, our Transfer Services team will guide you toward opportunities that fit your aspirations and open doors to new possibilities.
This program can open doors to additional learning opportunities. Pathway opportunities may include advanced standing or transfer credit toward diplomas, graduate certificates, degrees, and other academic routes, helping reduce duplication and create a clear path to your next credential.
Browse all pathway opportunities
You may be eligible to receive recognition for your prior learning. Credit Transfer can recognize completed post-secondary coursework, while Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) can assess skills and knowledge gained through work, training, volunteering, military service, or other life experiences.
Learn more about Credit Transfer and PLAR
NOTE: Students enrolling in this program are required to purchase their own laptop.
MINIMUM REQUIRED HARDWARE
SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
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