Advanced Diploma in Computing: Software Development

About the Program
The 2-year Advanced Diploma in Computing: Software Development (SCQF level 8) provides learners with a progression route into employment. It also provides opportunities for further study, including university degree programs.
The Advanced Diploma in Computing: Software Development (SCQF level 8) provides current skills in specialist technical software development, and it develops up-to-date knowledge in programming and systems development.
Software developers are needed in many different industries from biotechnology to telecommunications and transport. The Advanced Diploma in Computing: Software Development will give learners the skills and theoretical knowledge that they need as they move into higher education and employment.
The award builds on traditional software development techniques but also incorporates development for mobile platforms and the development of small-scale applications (apps). The award also incorporates skills in data-driven websites which are typically used in e-commerce.
The Units in this award have been selected to give learners the widest range of skills that are in demand by Industry and to allow access to a range of courses at universities.
The specific aims of the program are to:
- Develop a range of contemporary software development skills that are required by the industry.
- Develop students’ knowledge and skills in planning, developing, and evaluating.
- Develop employment skills, particularly relating to the IT industry.
- Develop learning and transferable skills (including core skills)
- Prepare learners for employment in competitive international markets.
- Prepare learners for progression to degree study at partner universities in various countries.
This program has been approved by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training.
Career Opportunities
The SQA Advanced Diploma in Computing: Software Development develops skills and knowledge in a range of systems analysis and design, development and implementation of a range of software development environments, and database analysis and design.
The SQA Advanced Diploma in Computing: Software Development is designed to lead to employment as a systems analyst, software designer/developer in applications development, database design and development, and web design incorporating e-commerce.
Successful learners should be able to progress to a range of degrees.
Who Will Benefit?
The AD Software Development is suitable for a wide range of candidates including:
• adult returners to education
• individuals in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
• people who wish to start their own business
Admission Requirements
- Minimum Grade 12 or Equivalent Canadian qualification.
- If English is not a student’s mother tongue, they are required to have an IELTS level 6.0 OR equivalent (In case of other testing standards) to be admitted to the course. If on starting the program, their language proficiency proves to be significantly lower than what is expected of an IELTS 6.0, they will be required to take an English course at Focus College before being able to continue with their program studies.
Fees
Application Fee (Domestic Students): $250.00
or
Advanced Application Fee (International Students): $200.00
Administration Fee: $100.00
Tuition Fee: $23,000.00
Assessment Fee: $250.00
Professional Fee: $1,000.00
Material and Lab Fee: $1000.00*
Archive Fee: $30.00
Total Program Fee for Domestic Students: $25,630.00
Total Program Fee for International Students: $26,380.00
First – Year Program Fee for International students: $15,880.00
First – Year Program Fee for Domestic students: $15,130.00
Focus College offers bursaries and scholarships up to 75% for domestic students. Contact our Admissions Representatives for further details.
*Textbooks are not included in these fees.
Questions about scholarships and other financing options? Learn more at Financial Assistance – Focus College
Want to speak with an Admissions Advisor?
Details
- Hours of instruction– 2400.
- Full-time duration– 80 weeks.
- Full-time hours– instructional time of 20 or more hours per week, or if the program leads to employment in a career occupation regulated by Transport Canada, instructional time is 15 or more hours per week.
- We offer instructor-led on-campus, online, and Hybrid classes delivery through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on training.
- Students are required to maintain their attendance as per the FC attendance policy.
- Graduation Requirements:
To graduate, students must pass the AD program at a minimum Grade of C. - Homework / Self-study Hours:
Approximately 10-15 hrs/week is required from students to be successful in this fast-paced and intensive program.