Computer Systems Technician (CSN)

Starts in January, May, September

Campus

Newnham

Duration

4 Semesters (2 Years)

Credential Awarded

Ontario College Diploma

School

School of Information Technology Administration & Security

Program and course delivery

This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements.

About the Program

This two-year Computer Systems Technician diploma program offers you the skills and knowledge needed to meet the challenges of the ever-changing field of information technology administration. In Seneca’s modern labs, you will enhance your abilities by completing practical, hands-on training in networking, operating systems, security and cloud computing.

Your studies will teach you to design and implement wireless, local/wide area and software-defined networks; how to work with and configure open source and proprietary operating systems; and how to work on premises and in the cloud taking you into the future of IT administration.

Computer Requirements

16 GB RAM minimum
256 GB SSD Hard Drive (500+ GB would be better)
Quad-core i7 2.4GHz or better
Video card (2GB RAM minimum/4GB RAM recommended)
Webcam

Part-time option is available >

Skills

Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:

Internet of Things
Linux/UNIX administration
Microsoft administration
wireless networks
software-defined networks
cloud services
maintenance and security
analyze and resolve information technology problems
system design and installation

Work Experience

Optional Co-op

Students meeting all academic requirements may have the opportunity to complete a maximum of one optional co-op work term in a formal work environment. The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and typically involves full-time work hours that may be paid or unpaid. In programs with limited co-op opportunities, additional academic requirements and a passing grade on a communication assessment may be required for eligibility. Eligibility for participation does not guarantee a work position will be secured. Additional fees are required for those participating in the optional work term stream regardless of success in securing a work position.

Review eligibility requirements for work-integrated learning

Program Availability

Learn more: Seneca’s program delivery options and how courses in this program will be delivered each term.

Canadian Applicants
International Applicants

Start in	Location	Availability
Jan. 2025	Newnham	Open
May 2025	Newnham	Open
Sept. 2025	Newnham	Open
Jan. 2026	Newnham	Open

Start in	Location	Availability
Jan. 2025	Newnham	Open
May 2025	Newnham	Open
Sept. 2025	Newnham	Open
Jan. 2026	Newnham	Open

International students: review Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility before choosing program and course delivery.

Please note that availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Your Career

When you graduate from this program, these are the types of career options you can explore:

Technical support specialist
Network administrator
Local-area network/Personal computer technician
Computer network technician
Helpdesk support

Professional Certification

To demonstrate expertise in the cybersecurity field, graduates of this program can pursue certification through the International Information Systems Security Certifications Consortium (ISC2), a global leader in cybersecurity certification. Seneca has partnered with ISC2 to offer preparation courses that prepare students to write the ISC2 certification exams.