FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions for Computer Systems Technician

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, we have had to make significant changes to how we deliver our programs in order to maintain a high quality learning experience while ensuring the safety of our students and staff.

This program is planned to be delivered with a combination of remote and on-campus instruction for the Fall 2021 term. This means that some learning activities will require you to come on-campus. All courses will be adapted for this new delivery model, to ensure you have an engaging and personalized experience. On-campus classes and activities will be planned in accordance with Public Health guidelines, with appropriate physical distancing and other protocols in place.

We have also transitioned our services to virtual delivery and we have developed many new resources to support your success, such as our new Student Learning Kit. You may also wish to participate in one of our upcoming virtual events for prospective students to learn more about what’s in-store for you this Fall.

Your timetable is planned to be released on August 6, 2021.

What makes a good Computer Systems Technician (CST) student?

CST students enjoy the challenges of a constantly evolving field, have good problem-solving and analytical skills, and love to learn new things. They are interested in learning how to design and implement computer operating systems, and networking technology solutions. They are able to work independently or in a team environment.

What is the We Saved You a Seat project and is this program part of the project?

We Saved You a Seat is a pilot project at Algonquin College to establish a diverse learning environment where all our learners can succeed. We want to:

  • Actively recruit women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) programs
  • Create programs where women can develop their talents
  • Attract more women to non-traditional careers

Project Goals: To increase the number of women in the technology industry, we will:

  • Reserve up to 30% of classroom seats for qualified women
  • Raise awareness of the career opportunities available for women with an education in technology
  • Provide the necessary program support, including mentoring and financial incentives

Program Waitlist? You Can Still Apply: If you are a woman and are interested in one of the participating programs, but noticed it’s waitlisted, you can still apply since We Saved You a Seat.

Our Computer Systems Technician Co-op and Non Co-op program is part of the project. Learn more about We Saved You a Seat.

What is the difference between the regular and co-op stream of the CST program?

Through the Ontario Colleges Application Service, students have the opportunity to choose at their time of application whether they want to apply to the regular three-semester stream (program number 0150X04FPM) or to the four-semester paid co-op stream (program number 0150X10FPM). If you don’t apply to the co-op stream but decide at a later date that you would like to complete a paid co-op, you still have that option available to you, even after you have started the program, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.

Where do CST Students get co-op placements and where do they work after graduation?

Students who participate in co-op placements gain valuable on-the-job experience, and the opportunity to build their contacts, and make a favourable impression on the employer. In the past, we have had co-op students complete their term at government agencies such as the Department of National Defence, Canada Revenue Agency, Statistics Canada and Shared Services as well as private business, school boards, hospitals, large manufacturing companies and any business that has a network the needs maintaining.

How does the optional paid co-op work?

Qualified students with a minimum GPA of 2.7 have the opportunity to apply for a Cooperative Education (Co-op) Work Term. The term is four months in duration and is completed during the summer term (May to August). To be eligible, students must have successfully completed the first two semesters of the program in good academic standing. Students are required to pay a co-op fee and complete at least 420 hours during their co-op work experience.

How do I apply for the co-op program?

Students will apply for co-op in their program of study in September using an online application form on HireAC. When the application portal on HireAC is open, students will be notified by email and provided with instructions on how to apply. The application portal will be open for roughly seven business days.

For answers to more typical Student Co-op questions, please visit: www.algonquincollege.com/pembroke/coop

Is there a fee that students must pay to participate in the optional paid co-op?

Yes. Co-op fees are paid in three installments, by semester:

  • Preparation Term (September to December): $186.33
  • Job Search Term (January to April): $186.33
  • Work Placement Term (May to August): $186.33
  • Total Co-op Fee: $559

*Please note that co-op is optional, and not mandatory for program completion and is therefore not included in Program Tuition Fees

How do students complete the program in 16 months?

Students who start the program in September will be done by December the following year, in only 16 months with a total of 42 weeks of studies. Each semester is four months long:

  • First semester is September to December
  • Second semester is January to April
  • Optional Co-op term is May to August
  • Final semester is September to December

I will be funding my studies in part with OSAP. How does the payment schedule work with this compressed program format?

You will receive your OSAP funding in two installments during your first year and two installments during your final semester:

First-Year

  • 1st installment: When you begin your studies (e.g., September)
  • 2nd installment: During your second semester (e.g., January)
  • You will reapply for OSAP funding over the summer months after your first-year

Second-Year, Final Semester

  • 1st installment: When you begin your final semester of studies (e.g., September)
  • 2nd installment normally is deposited into your bank account in late October or early November