Information Technology deals with the use of software, computers and computer-related equipment to convert, store, protect, process, transmit and receive information over IP-routed networks and telephony-based wide area networks. For that reason, information technology professionals are often called IT Specialists/ Consultants or Business Process Consultants, and the division of an organization that deals with computers, software and communication technology is often called the IT department.
The Information Technology program encompasses four majors: Computer Systems, Network Systems, Software Development and Telecom Systems. There is a common first semester, then you move into the major that you will have selected during the registration process. It is a full-time, 2-year diploma program.
This program will also utilize an e-learning (SAIT issued laptop computer) instructional delivery method.
Your Career
Computer Systems Major: Graduates of the Computer Systems major will have rewarding careers with a diverse set of job titles and descriptions. They help keep computers, communications and information systems installed, connected, maintained and supported. Graduates will often start in entry-level tech support roles (customer support representative, help desk, desktop support level one, etc.) and advance to more sophisticated levels of IT support roles (levels two and three, in larger corporations), management of support teams, or specialize into storage, server administration, or IT security areas. Graduates will have a well-rounded and strong foundation to begin their careers in the growing field of IT technical systems and support, with the opportunity to advance into senior technical analyst, systems administration and IT management roles.
Network Systems Major: Graduates of the Network Systems major will have strong technical skills in designing, installing, configuring, maintaining and administering local, municipal and wide area networks. This major focuses on the network infrastructure of an organization, but also includes significant discussion of related topics including security, network operating systems and network management (including wireless). In addition to comprehensive technical skills, graduates will acquire and demonstrate the professional communications, general business and problem solving skills required for success in industry. Students receive in depth training on router, switch and server configuration for support of network infrastructure, data transmission mediums, and new and emerging technologies. Students also receive the training required for industry recognized certifications.
Software Development Major: Graduates of the Software Development major will assist with the development of software applications, work collaboratively with teams to design new software, create software on multiple platforms (Windows, Web, Linux) use various languages (i.e. Java, C, .NET, PHP, XML, PL/SQL, SQL) and utilize different technologies (i.e. networks, databases, operating systems, ERP). Graduates can start in a junior position and work their way up to more advanced levels of Software Development or go into specialty areas. This is a field that graduates, right out of a post-secondary institution, can excel at.
Telecom Systems Major: Graduates of the Telecom Systems major may find employment as a telecom technologist, production test technologist, cable technician, service technician, associated field engineer, sales and marketing, communication equipment installer and manufacturing technologist. They will be proficient in designing, installing, configuring, commissioning, integrating, maintaining and administering voice, data, and video networks owned telecommunications companies such as TELCO or Information Service Providers (ISP). They also find careers in a wide range of businesses, industries, and government institutions.