Admission Criteria and How to Apply

The School of Advanced Technology will have an intake for the third year of the Computer Systems Technology – Security (0156x), advanced diploma. This is a flow-through program based on the existing two-year Computer Systems Technician – Networking (1560x) program offered at the Ottawa Campus.

The 3rd year will next be offered in Fall 2026, starting with level 5 in September 2026. Level 6 will follow in Winter 2027, starting in January 2027.

Admission Criteria for the Computer Systems Technology – Security program:

  • Completion of Algonquin College’s Computer Systems Technician – Networking (1560X01FWO) program requirements.
    • Please note that students from the Pembroke version of the program may not be eligible for direct entrance into the 3rd year Security program, due to differences in the Program of Study offering.
    • For flow-through students, a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher is required.
  • Applicants who are not flowing directly from the Computer Systems Technician – Networking (1560X01FWO) program to the Computer Systems Technology program OR applicants who have not completed a qualifying version of Algonquin College’s Computer Systems Technician (0150X01FWO) program, but have similar or equivalent knowledge/experience, will be assessed on an individual basis through an Advanced Standing application to Level 5 of the program through OCAS.

Note: One of the key criteria for Advanced Standing applicants includes successful completion of CCNAv7 (or newer) training through an accredited Cisco Networking Academy; or successfully passed the CCNA 200-301 certification exam.

How to Apply

To register for the Fall 2026 intake, please go to the T307 front desk or email the CST Advisor, ICT-SSN.

If you have questions, please contact Program Coordinator Robert Brandon.

The equal consideration deadline for submissions is April 30th, 2026. Applications after this date will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. You will be assessed against the admission criteria outlined above.

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