Computer Systems Technology
Overview
Build hands-on skills in design and development of intelligent web / mobile / or general sofware applications using AI-assisted tools while launching your career developing software and solving computer-related issues for businesses, governments, or institutions.
| Tuition | $10,287 |
|---|---|
| Credential | Diploma |
| Length | 2 years |
| Hours | Full-time |
| Delivery | Class-based |
| Campus | Downtown |
| Tuition | $37,950 |
|---|---|
| Credential | Diploma |
| Length | 2 years |
| Hours | Full-time |
| Delivery | Class-based |
| Campus | Downtown |
| PGWP | International graduates may be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit. |
What to expect
The main mode of delivery for the CST program is face-to-face in a lab setting. Instructional strategies include classroom lectures, demonstrations, group discussions, computer labs and hands-on practical work, and online sessions.
Students have access to state-of-the-art modern computer labs with software and tools such as Visual Studio, Azure Microsoft suite of applications and Operating Systems, web and mobile app development tools, and private department servers.
What you will learn
- Install and configure computer hardware and software
- Develop software applications for PC, mobile and embedded devices
- Create computer software using multiple programming languages
- Develop intelligent web and mobile applications
- Integrate cloud-based services and solutions in software apps
- Apply version control and project management skills in software development
- Collaborate and communicate effectively in team-based development environment
- Evaluate and implement new technologies in software development
Program duration and maximum time for completion
This program is 2 years of full-time study. A term break is typically scheduled between year 1 and year 2. The maximum time to complete the program is 5 years.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
- English Studies 12 with a minimum ‘C’ grade, or equivalent
- Foundation of Mathematics 11 with a minimum ‘C+’ grade, or equivalent
Learn more about VCC's academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended considerations
- Extended periods (4+ hours) of computer work requiring sustained visual attention to screens. Tasks require frequent keyboarding and mouse use.
- Students are expected to have access to a modern laptop capable of running Microsoft Windows with full privileges. Required hardware consists of at least a quad-core processor and 16GB of RAM and 256GB storage, in order to do their assignments or connect to the lab computers remotely.
- Audio/video hardware including webcam/speakers/microphone for participating in classes that have an online delivery mode.
Program availability
Fall 2027 |
|
|---|---|
| Program start date | |
| Status | Open |
| Application opens | Oct 1, 2026 |
| Application deadline | Jun 1, 2027 |
Fall 2026 |
|
|---|---|
| Program start date | Sep |
| Status | Closed |
| Application opens | Oct 1, 2025 |
Courses
This full-time program can be completed over four (4) terms by successfully completing the following: 15 credits (term 1), 15 credits (term 2), 14 credits (term 3), 16 credits (term 4).
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (Foundation Courses) | ||
| CSTP 1101 | Communication and Workplace Behaviour | 3 |
| CSTP 1106 | Website Development | 3 |
| CSTP 1120 | Introduction to Computer Systems | 3 |
| CSTP 1130 | Python Programming | 3 |
| CSTP 1150 | Applied Mathematics for Programmers | 3 |
| CSTP 1202 | Data Communication and Networking | 3 |
| CSTP 1204 | Software Analysis and Design | 3 |
| CSTP 1206 | Internet Programming and Web Applications | 3 |
| CSTP 1210 | Database Systems | 3 |
| CSTP 1230 | C++ Programming | 3 |
| Year 2 | ||
| CSTP 2104 | Windows Interactive Application Programming | 3 |
| CSTP 2120 | Client-Server Computing | 3 |
| CSTP 2130 | AI Technologies | 3 |
| CSTP 2140 | Algorithms and Data Structures | 3 |
| CSTP 2150 | UI/UX Development | 2 |
| CSTP 2210 | Cloud Computing | 3 |
| CSTP 2220 | Computer Security | 3 |
| CSTP 2230 | Advanced Web Application Development | 3 |
| CSTP 2240 | Capstone Software Development Project | 4 |
| CSTP 2250 | Android Mobile Application Development | 3 |
| Total Credits | 60 | |
This guide is intended as a general guideline only. The college reserves the right to make changes as appropriate.
This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Fees and costs
| Application fee | $36 | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $10,287 |
Year 1 - $7,887 Year 2 - $5,144 |
| Student union | $290 | |
| College initiative | $181 | |
| Campus resource | $206 | |
| Medical and dental | $570 | Explore medical insurance options |
| U-Pass | $751 | Get your student transit pass |
| Graduation | $45 | |
| Total | $12,366 |
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a non-refundable deposit.
Refund policies vary for domestic and international students. Review the applicable policy for eligibility, deadlines, and refund amounts.
Need help with tuition?
Explore your options for scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans.
Technical requirement
General technology requirements for online learning
This program has additional equipment or technical requirements
Tuition deposits are usually payable within three weeks after an offer is issued. The amount listed on this page is based on the first-term estimate. Refer to your offer for the exact amount required to accept an offer – either First-Term Estimate or First-Year Estimate.
| Tuition deposit | $11,000 | $10,000 non-refundable |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $145 | |
| Tuition | $37,950 | |
| Student union | $290 | |
| College initiative | $190 | |
| Campus resource | $380 | |
| Medical and dental | $568 | Explore medical insurance options |
| Temporary medical insurance | $148 | |
| U-Pass | $751 | Get your student transit pass |
| Graduation | $45 | |
| Total | $40,470 |
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a non-refundable deposit.
Refund policies vary for domestic and international students. Review the applicable policy for eligibility, deadlines, and refund amounts.
Need help with tuition?
Explore your options for scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans.
Technical requirement
How to apply
Ready to apply?
Online
You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.
Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5
International students
Apply to VCC international programs online. Check the availability status for your desired program and intake before applying.
Contact us
Advising services
Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: [email protected]
Advising services for International students
Do you have any questions?