Computer Programmer
Overview
Prepare yourself to be an integral part of the software industry.
The Computer Programmer, two-year diploma program offers students the opportunity to study current trends in software development. This intensive, two-year program concludes with a work term for eligible students.
Web technology topics include HTML5, CSS5, JavaScript, jQuery, Bootstrap, React and others to develop user interfaces. Students work with server-side programming languages including Microsoft C#.NET, Python and Java. In the database components, students perform all aspects of database design and work with SQL/NOSQL on several database management systems (DBMS). Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing solutions to real world, three tiered (client, server, database) problems.
Major coursework is assigned as term projects that span entire terms allowing students to actively engage in the evaluation, design and implementation of real world software applications. As a result, student develop deep content knowledge as well as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and communication skills.
In addition, general education, business, math and communication courses help students expand their organizational, critical thinking and communication skills.
The widespread use of computer technology in all industries, from manufacturing, transportation, construction, education, health and financial institutions means that computer programmers are the key people shaping the solutions of today and tomorrow.
Admission Requirements
O.S.S.D. or equivalent with a minimum grade of 60% in the following:
- Grade 12 English C or U
- Grade 11 or 12 Mathematics C or U
Costs
- Year 1 $4,676.91
- Year 2 $4,586.88
Please Note: These fees apply to the 2025-2026 academic year and are subject to change. Fees do not include books (unless specifically noted), supplies or living costs.
Scholarships Available
There are 8 scholarships available for this program, with a total value of $1,000!
Technology Requirements
In order to keep pace with the requirements of each and every course in your program, Lambton College requires that each student have access to a laptop while studying at our college.
Computer Labs & Software Access
Students have the opportunity to practice coding in two dedicated computer labs. Each lab is equipped with a projector and teaching station, enabling the instructor to lead a dynamic mix of interactive coding activities and formal lectures. Plus, both labs feature HyFlex technology, which seamlessly supports lectures delivered simultaneously in-person and remotely, ensuring a versatile learning experience whenever needed.
Courses
PC Repair & Troubleshooting
The course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of PC hardware components, their operation, maintenance, and repair. Students will also learn to support and configure various hardware components, and to troubleshoot and resolve problems arising in various environments. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: diagnose and troubleshoot simple technical problems; understand the relationship between the hardware components, the operating system, and applications programs; utilize and implement common support-related methodologies, including maintenance schedules, and virus protection plans; provide proper customer service and support; communicate with clients, technical support, and help desk staff using appropriate PC hardware terminology.
Python Programming
This course uses the Python programming language to reinforced programming logic and problem solving skills taught in CSD 1133, Problem Solving/Program Logic. Students implement Python programs to (1) design, test, and debug programs using a top-down modernized approach; (2) control the flow of a program with decision and repetitive structures and functions; (3) implement array processing; and (4) develop programs that process data from files including control break processing.
Networking Basics
This course introduces the architecture, structure, functions, components, and models of the Internet and other computer networks. The principles and structure of IP addressing and the fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media, and operations are introduced to provide a foundation for the curriculum. By the end of the course, students will be able to build simple LANs, perform basic configurations for routers and switches, and implement IP addressing schemes.
Relational Database Design
A comprehensive introduction to relational database design and implementation, emphasizing theoretical concepts and practical applications. Using a hands-on approach, students (1) analyze user requirements and develop data models using Entity-Relationship Diagrams (ERD), normalization techniques, and relational data modeling principles; (2) create and modify database table structures using SQL Data Definition Language (DDL); (3) create test data and use SQL Data Manipulation Language (DML) to insert, update, delete, and query data; (4) implement and test database constraints to ensure data integrity; and (5) design and implement a comprehensive database system aligned with typical business requirements, concluding with detailed technical documentation.
Front End Web Development I
Through a blend of theoretical concepts and practical applications, students master the creation of dynamic and engaging websites. Using a hands-on approach, students integrate modern web technologies to (1) design and implement well-structured and semantically meaningful web pages using HTML; (2) implement Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to enhance the visual appeal of web pages, including techniques for layout, formatting, and responsive design; (3) incorporate JavaScript that adds interactivity, dynamic content, and functionality to web pages; and (4) design and publish a comprehensive and fully functional website.
Foundational Cloud Administration
This course discusses basic components of Cloud Administration. In this course we will be installing and configuring virtualization on a local host and using only that host's resources. We will be exploring servers and their basic configurations and management functions. Students will be tasked with installing configuring resources, operating systems, and networking using a variety of OS platforms and virtualization components both locally and within a Cloud (SAN). Hands on labs, assignments, and quizzes will be used to evaluate the students on this skill.
General Education Elective (G)
General Mathematics I
This general course in mathematics reviews and enhances topics in arithmetic, algebra, linear graphs, measurement, and statistics. A problem solving approach is used throughout the course, and there are many practical applications.
Front End Web Development II
This course is a continuation of CSD 1103, Front-End Web Development I, where JavaScript and jQuery are introduced. Students (1) implement JavaScript and jQuery to enhance the user experience; (2) implement various components of JavaScript including the Document Object Model, form validation, and object-oriented programming; (3) employ AJAX to allow server-side requests to exchange data with a web server; and (4) manage events using jQuery.
ITIIL Foundations
The internationally recognized Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL®) framework is rapidly becoming the best-known and most widely recognized certification for IT service management worldwide. This course introduces students to the basic principles and structure of ITIL, and prepares them to challenge and successfully pass the ITIL V4.0 Foundation exam.
Principles of Information Security
Students are introduced to the fundamental concepts, techniques and principles of securing information in computing environments. Students will gain a solid understanding of the key principles, technologies, and security best practices that are crucial for protecting digital assets, protecting privacy of sensitive data, and appropriately managing security risks. Key elements of information security will be taught in depth, including threat and risk assessment, risk management, access control security, cryptography and encryption, network security, identity access management and incident response. Students will learn hands-on techniques that are critical to protect sensitive information from unauthorized exposure, modification, disclosure, and destruction.
Project Management
One of the most in-demand IT skills today isn't really an IT skill: it's Project Management. As more and more demands are placed on IT departments, there is more demand for Canadians who understand and can manage in a project-based environment. Using the principles as defined in accepted industry Project Management standards, this course provides a hands-on framework for how to initiate, plan, execute, monitor and control, and close a project. Through lectures, labs and assignments, students look at all stages of project development with an eye to the tips and tricks that do a successful project. In addition, this course prepares students to challenge the CompTIA Project+ or the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® certification exams. CAPM and PMI are registered marks of the Project Management Institute.
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
This course introduces the core concepts of Artificial Intelligence, its related fields, and its applications. It covers the principles and fundamentals of AI, including its history and current trends. Students will explore the role of AI in various industries, particularly within Canadian business contexts, to understand how AI-powered solutions are applied to real-world problems. The course examines the relationship between AI and big data, highlighting how large data sets drive AI advancements and insights. Additionally, the course analyzes the role of intelligent agents in AI, explaining their functions and behaviors. A significant component of the course is dedicated to exploring various AI learning methods, including supervised and unsupervised learning, classification, regression, clustering, dimensionality reduction, and deep learning. Students will also examine artificial neural networks, focusing on their components, strengths, limitations, and applications. Lastly, the course delves into the Internet of Things (IoT) and its connection to AI, providing a comprehensive understanding of how these technologies integrate. The laboratory portion offers hands-on practice, allowing students to apply their knowledge to real-life AI challenges.
Workplace Communications
In this course, students write and speak in response to realistic workplace scenarios to build practical communication skills. They produce, revise, and edit written communication geared to the workplace and practice the oral communication and effective listening skills that will help them succeed in professional environments.
Full Stack JavaScript
As a continuation of Web Technologies II, students design and implement component-based web applications using JavaScript and JavaScript frameworks. This course introduces students to the MERN (MongoDB, Express, React, Node) web stack. Students (1) develop software using modern JavaScript standards (ES6+); (2) develop web applications that maintain a NoSQL database; (3) implement applications adhering to the microservice architectural pattern by developing web API endpoints, and (4) develop applications that run on a variety of computing platforms. Students add to their term project in Web Technologies II by designing and implementing component-based applications that include client-side, server-side, and database processing.
Programming C#.NET
The C# programming language is introduced. Students (1) create, test, and debug programs using a top-down modernized approach; (2) implement decision and repetitive structures and functions to control program flow; (3) formulate object-oriented designs using classes, instance variables and methods and constructors; (4) evaluate, create and analyze objects including strings and arrays. Microsoft Visual Studio is used for program development.
Programming Java SE
Various components of the Java object-oriented programming language are introduced. Students (1) develop solutions using data types, I/O, control structures, methods and objects; (2) work with arrays, reference types, inheritance, polymorphism, packages, GUI applications and recursion; and (3) document solutions with javadoc comments.
Relational Database & SQL
Building upon CSD 2203, students expand their skills in relational database design and Structured Query Language (SQL). Using a hands-on approach, students (1) use Barker's notation to broaden knowledge in database design and implementation; (2) create queries for single-table and multi-table databases, leveraging advanced join operations and conditional logic; (3) employ subqueries, Common Table Expressions (CTEs), and advanced filtering for more complex data retrieval; and (4) implement database views and indexes to streamline data access and optimize database performance.
Python II
This course is a continuation of Python programming. Students (1) develop applications using Object-Oriented Python; (2) access databases with Python; and (3) use Python libraries and frameworks.
Data Structure & Algorithms
This course is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to data structure and algorithms, with an emphasis on both theoretical concepts and practical implementations. Students will learn about essential data structures such as linked lists, stacks, queues, and trees, as well as fundamental algorithmic approaches for sorting, searching, and problem-solving. Additionally, the course covers key design patterns within the creational, structural, and behavioural categories, which are critical for effective software design.
Cloud Computing
Traditionally, software applications were deployed on physical servers owned and maintained by the organization developing the software; however, over the past decade, there has been a shift from companies of all sizes towards leveraging cloud computing platforms over in-house servers due to a variety of economic and technical reasons. In this course students will (1) evaluate technical and fundamentals topics of cloud computing, (2) analyze various methods for cloud management, (3) evaluate cloud platform solutions including infrastructure as a service (IaaS) to install and configure virtual resources on the cloud platforms, (4) evaluate storage provisioning, networking, testing and deploying cloud technologies, (5) discuss cloud computing standards, security, the business in cloud computing and methods of planning for cloud integration, and last but not least, (6) discuss cloud deployment options and cloud DevOps.
Web Applications Using C#.NET
The C# programming language is expanded upon and ASP.NET is introduced. Students (1) implement web applications that follow the MVC architecture pattern by leveraging the ASP.NET MVC framework; (2) build web applications that interface with databases through the use of Entity Framework; (3) manage project dependencies with NuGet package manager; and (4) test applications with unit tests.
Programming Java EE
As a continuation of Programming Java SE, students (1) manage databases using Java; (2) build two- and three-tier client-server applications; and (3) refine industry-standard coding practices. Students build a complete Web-based application that incorporates three-tier development including client-side, server-side, and database processing.
Database Programming
A comprehensive journey into SQL and PL/SQL database programming within the dynamic Oracle database environment. Using a hands-on approach, students (1) create robust PL/SQL blocks that incorporate program control structures, embedded SQL statements, powerful cursors for data manipulation, and exception handling routines; (2) leverage the power of stored procedures and functions to design efficient, reusable code that scales easily in database development; (3) create packages that encapsulate and organize related PL/SQL objects, fostering modularity, scalability, and maintainability in database projects; (4) create database triggers that automate database actions and enforce data integrity constraints, ensuring database reliability and consistency. This course, combined with added study materials, prepares students for the Oracle PL/SQL certification exam.
DevOps: Tools and Practices
Modern software development is done with a high degree of velocity, often with software changes being released multiple times daily or weekly. This course introduces students to industry-standard tools and techniques that help manage the development and release of such software using Agile methodologies and DevOps principles. Students (1) evaluate technical and business background details related to DevOps;(2) evaluate Cloud platforms as a deployment option for applications; (3) evaluate responsibilities of operations teams and get familiar with their day-to-day operations;(4) evaluate CI/CD pipelines and their components and discuss micro-service architecture;(5) evaluate containers and containerization as the most up-to-date application delivery method. Throughout the term, students work in teams on a term project, to develop and deploy software with evolving requirements. Students will document these changes based on Software Requirement Specification standards.
General Education Elective (G)
General Education Elective (G)
Contact
School of Business and Sustainability Leadership
Room B2-106
Program Information
After Graduation
Employment Opportunities
A wide variety of rewarding career opportunities that are dynamic and challenging, offering a competitive rate of compensation are available to graduates. Courses prepare graduates for careers as computer programmers, software developers, web developers, programmer analysts, application developers, systems analyst, information system specialist, client/server applications developers, systems programmers, and application support analysts. Graduates acquire sufficient foundation to allow them to advance in a variety of career paths appropriate to their interests and abilities.
Pathways
Transfer to Programs outside of Ontario
- Bachelor of Science in Computing in Software Development - enter third year of three-year program
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Software Development - enter third year of four-year program
More Information
Technology Requirements
It is recommended that students purchase a laptop with a Windows operating system.
Internet Speed Requirements
For best performance for students learning remotely, an internet connection with a minimum of 40 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload speed is recommended in order to effectively use video conferencing and remote lecture delivery software as well as, other online resources remotely. Due to the large area over which students may be dispersed, we are unable to recommend a specific provider, so you will need to inquire around your area to find one that best suits your needs.
Minimum Laptop Requirements
In order to access the internet and virtually-delivered software and courseware, student laptops should include the following at a minimum. By meeting the following specifications, students will be equipped to access software and courseware on their laptop through the internet:
- Intel i5 8th Gen Processor or equivalent
- 16 GB of RAM (with a minimum of 8 GB)
- 100 GB HDD or more
- HD Graphics
- Webcam with a microphone
- Wireless 802.11n/ac 5ghz capable
- Windows Operating System (Windows 11)
Please note that Chromebooks and MacBooks may not support all software required for your program; students should verify compatibility with their professors.
Software
To ensure students are getting the most our of their classroom experience, some software will be required.
Lambton College has made this software easily accessible online. Students can leverage our Microsoft Office 365 software packages and services. In addition, much of the software you require for your courses will be available on demand for use on any device - on or off campus.