Software bridging program connects IT students to real-life projects
Technology runs our world, with electronic gadgets and software-run devices found everywhere we turn. However, it is still the great effort of human intelligence that advanced technology is possible. Computers can’t run properly without the right signals and commands. If you want to take control of the future, start with a hands-on experience in college.
Computer science and information technology (IT) are not exclusive to university students. There are some technician programs offered in college that can lead to the same career path. However, if you are looking for a degree in this field, look no further from your community college, because they are offering a software design program. Centennial College has the Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences - Bridging to Software Systems Design program for two or three-year college graduates in the same discipline. Credits from the first program can be carried over so students will complete fewer courses towards their degree.
The Bridging to Software Systems Design program has four semesters, starting in the fifth semester level. Computer and Human Interaction is a software design course in Toronto where students learn the guidelines in designing interfaces, layout design, and structuring data entry fields. It is one of the initial courses, which involves analytical problem solving skills to identify patterns and test and maintain software. Students will progress with courses that build on mathematical and communication skills, with courses including Discrete Mathematics and Technical Writing and Documentation.
The main practical component comes in three semesters of project-based practice. Each project is independent of one another, but the learning progress as students plan and create various software systems, based on the needs of a specific industry. Students collaborate in teams as they complete the projects:
- Software Development Project 1: Students will select an organization in a vertical market, such as health services, banking, and transportation, and assess their needs that their profession in the software industry can be of service. They will perform a software requirements analysis on the organization’s system then formulate a plan of action where the client and professor are involved at all times. The final project will be presented in the class and will have an invitation for the client for attendance.
- Software Development Project 2: Students will have lectures and hands-on experience time allotted for the second project. Working in a team, students will create an application for a company where they analyze all business data and build an enterprise-level data integration system. Students will continue to work on their technical and project management skills.
- Software Development Project 3: Building up on the previous two projects, this final project is a capstone in software creation. Learning essential skills, including communication, team work, project management, problem-solving and skills, students will once again work with a real-life client and analyze their business.
Students can join this college degree program once they have some college or university education in a related field. A college diploma in a programmer or analyst program or university degree in computer science, information technology, or software engineering is required. The Software Systems Design program is very competitive, only admitting students with a minimum grade point average of 2.8, but they should always aim for higher GPA scores to ensure a space in the program. An excellent track record and transcript grades will surely help when students apply their knowledge in their projects.
