Advanced Diploma in Computer Systems Technology

at George Brown College - Casa Loma Campus Canada

The Information Systems Business Analysis graduate certificate program at George Brown College is designed to meet the urgent need for professionals who can be the key liaison between business and information technology functions within an organization. Further, George Brown is recognized by the International Institute of Business Analysis as an Academic Member, and is proud to offer the IIBA® Academic Diploma.

This intensive program is designed for IT or business professionals who aspire to enter into a business analyst role, or practitioners who wish to enhance their experience with formal education. A deeper level of understanding of the business analyst role will be developed through unique learning techniques and invaluable practical experience. Participants will be engaged and supported by a team of business analyst consultants and faculty in developing critical skills and competencies in the areas of:

• Problem identification
• Documenting and analyzing user requirements
• Process and workflow modelling
• Communication and facilitation
• Project management
• Technical writing
• Leadership and management
• Decision-making

A key characteristic of this program is the applied nature of the curriculum. Students are immersed in the process of business analysis through case histories of real-world business issues, and are responsible for developing solutions. The uniqueness of this program is in creating a practicing business analyst rather than creating someone who knows how to do it. This program creates work-ready graduates who can do, and have done, the business analysis process through applied, hands-on experience.

The Honours Bachelor of Technology (Construction Management) program provides a dynamic curriculum that integrates theory, applied research, field study and hands-on practical education. Recognizing that today’s successful construction manager must possess both technical and managerial competencies, the curriculum combines studies in construction science and technology with studies in business and management methods as applied to construction.

Students obtain the knowledge and skills to manage the functions and processes of construction projects from start to finish. They master construction-related technical disciplines and soft skills that are critical to completing projects on time and within budget. Graduates of this program are entitled to the academic credential designation of Hons. B.Tech. (Construction Management).

The Honours Bachelor of Technology (Construction Management) program is well recognized by the construction industry and is fully accredited by the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS), the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Graduates of this program are qualified to obtain professional memberships in various construction management associations. Professional memberships are based on the candidate’s education, training, and work experience.

With the completion of this degree program, graduates will have satisfied all academic requirements for professional membership of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS), and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Memberships in these associations must be applied for separately.

Graduates also qualify to obtain their Gold Seal Certification (GSC) offered by the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) to become certified Superintendents, Estimators, Project Managers, Construction Managers, and Construction Safety Coordinators.

Your Field Education Options
WORK TERM

An integral component of the Honours Bachelor of Technology (Construction Management) degree program is a mandatory field study or Work Term offered in the Spring/Summer of the third year of the program. The Work Term is jointly facilitated through the Angelo DelZotto School of Construction Management and the Centre for Construction and Engineering Technologies (CCET)’s Industry Liaison Office (ILO).

Prior to the Work Term, students participate in job preparation courses that cover areas such as workplace communication practices, resume writing, job search strategies and interview practice to enable them to communicate clearly and effectively. In the field settings, students practice team-building, managing, and tracking project resources, analyzing project performance, preparing technical proposals and reports, and improving their construction project management skills.

Students are required to complete a minimum of 14 weeks of full-time work experience, or part-time equivalent of no less than 420 hours of verifiable work experience, in the field of construction management in order to fulfill the Work Term requirement.

Students are allowed to complete the Work Term requirement through the following pathways:

Field Placement: Students register in the Work Term course (TCOP 1001), secure field placement in a relevant construction field, obtain a minimum of 14 weeks of full-time fieldwork experience, or part-time equivalent of no less than 420 hours of relevant fieldwork experience, and pass the course.

Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR): Students who have prior work experience equivalent to the minimum requirement (that is, minimum of 14 weeks of full-time or part-time equivalent of no less than 420 hours of relevant work) can seek to complete the Work Term requirement of the program through the PLAR process

WORK/STUDY ABROAD OPPORTUNITIES

There is also a work/study abroad opportunity that will allow a limited number of students to complete one month of field studies at Shanghai Urban Construction College (SUCC) in China, including two weeks of studies and two weeks of work. SUCC is a multi-divisional college that serves 6,000 students with over 400 faculty members.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Use relevant media to communicate all manner of information related to a construction project.
  • Analyze the past performance of construction projects to predict and improve the execution of future projects.
  • Manage construction projects in a compliant, safe, ethical and sustainable manner.
  • Apply management tools and techniques to execute construction projects on time and within budget.
  • Recognize and value the diversity of opinions, processes, and approaches in executing construction projects.
  • Incorporate effective leadership strategies to develop high-functioning, multidisciplinary and multicultural teams and work groups.
  • Apply the principles and practices of leadership development and human resources to manage and develop people in the construction industry.
  • Analyze technical problems encountered in construction projects and develop appropriate solutions in accordance with the principles and practices of construction science and management.
  • Apply business, accounting and financial principles and practices to effectively manage construction project costs.
  • Apply the principles and practices of construction management in assessing the key performance indicators of construction projects.
  • Evaluate potential risks impacting construction projects and devise appropriate risk mitigation strategies.
  • Create technical documents relevant to the design, procurement and execution of construction projects and manage documentation flow effectively.
  • Behave in a fair, ethical and responsible manner consistent with professional codes of conduct, laws, policies and contracts.

Electromechanical Engineering Technology – Power and Control is designed to provide students with both theoretical and practical experience, enabling them to work in a wide variety of electrical engineering areas including power and control systems, utilities, industrial automation and robotics, instrumentation and process control. The curriculum incorporates theory, applications, practical experience and safety practices from power systems, utilities, manufacturing, control system, automation and computer industries, along with concepts from the sciences and humanities to ensure the graduate is equipped with technical knowledge, skills and practice.

The Fashion Business Industry two-year diploma program at George Brown College's School of Fashion and Jewellery in Toronto gives students an introduction to all aspects of the fashion industry, from product knowledge to marketing and small business management.

The small to medium-sized business enterprise is a flourishing sector of the fashion industry and represents a great opportunity for entry into the fashion world. Smaller companies require employees who possess a variety of management skills to manage a business from the start-up stage to more developed business models. Students will be prepared for the roles and develop skills essential for the operation of a successful small fashion business. The entrepreneurial aspect of this program guides students through the process of developing a comprehensive business plan, which is essential to start a new business or manage an existing business.

Students will gain an understanding of textiles, garment construction, quality criteria and apparel merchandising. They will also learn to apply marketing, accounting, financial and other business concepts necessary for the decision-making they will encounter in their future careers.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Use basic apparel drafting and construction skills and industrial sewing machines to complete apparel products.
  • Use standard fashion industry computer software for business and for design development.
  • Manage daily operations, resources, visual merchandising and customer relationships to ensure profitability in a retail enterprise.
  • Develop a business and finance plan for a small apparel enterprise that reflects awareness of market conditions, resources required and cash flow.
  • Apply appropriate buying, merchandising and accounting practices to support small business operations in the fashion industry.
  • Apply supply chain management and logistics to operate a successful fashion business.
  • Develop, communicate and implement a marketing plan by combining marketing research, strategies and tactics.
  • Analyze economic, fashion and industry trends to make business decisions in small and medium-sized apparel enterprises.
  • Evaluate products by applying quality control processes to meet appropriate standards.
  • Identify textile materials, asses their suitability and compatibility, and select accordingly for end use.

As the Information Technology (IT) sector continues to grow in Toronto and our industry partners report skills shortages, George Brown College is helping to meet employer demand by educating IT professionals who understand all aspects of computer systems. Our two-year Computer Systems Technician program provides students with a broad and in-depth technical base, through courses in the high-demand areas of system support, network administration and web technologies. The curriculum prepares graduates with the strong administration, troubleshooting and design skills they need for careers in IT.

As the Information Technology (IT) sector continues to grow in Toronto and our industry partners report skills shortages, George Brown College is helping to meet employer demand by educating IT professionals who understand all aspects of computer systems. Our two-year Computer Systems Technician program provides students with a broad and in-depth technical base, through courses in the high-demand areas of system support, network administration and web technologies. The curriculum prepares graduates with the strong administration, troubleshooting and design skills they need for careers in IT.

George Brown continues to invest in up-to-date networking, wireless and security lab equipment to help students develop hands-on installation, configuration and troubleshooting skills. Students use the NetLab platform, which enables them with 24/7 remote access to Cisco Systems physical equipment. This investment, along with our hands-on teaching environment, was recognized by Cisco when the college was designated an Area Support Centre and Instructor Training Centre.

Graduates of the Computer Systems Technician program are prepared to write several industry certification exams that are in demand by employers.

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Identify, analyze, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
• Contribute to the diagnostics, troubleshooting, documenting and monitoring of technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
• Implement and maintain secure computing environments.
• Implement robust computing system solutions through validation testing that aligns with industry best practices.
• Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationships.
• Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
• Adhere to ethical, legal and regulatory requirements and/or principles in the development and management of computing solutions and systems.
• Assist with the implementation of computer systems.
• Install, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, upgrade and decommission computing system infrastructures.
• Automate routine tasks using scripting tools and programming languages.
• Provide technical support for computing system infrastructures that aligns with industry best practice.
• Implement the basic concept, principles, and scope of DevOps.
• Apply task automation using configuration management and the Cloud.
• Automate network administrative tasks across distributed clients.

The Fashion Management program prepares you with essential knowledge and skills required to meet the Canadian fashion industry's core business needs. You will gain a deep understanding of textiles, manufacturing inputs and processes, and movement in the supply chain, as well as management of the value, costing and quality of apparel. You will also be able to apply the tools of marketing and merchandising to maximize product success in the market. This program is designed to meet the needs of today's Canadian market, which has shifted to product development, niche markets and omni-channel retail.

The Fashion Management program is the only academic program curriculum in Canada identified by the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) as an affiliate school. Benefits to you include an up-to-date curriculum, connection with the industry and access to industry research materials exclusively available to members.

The concepts of developing, sourcing and marketing a product from initial idea to retail sale are introduced. You will test and problem-solve for quality assurance; develop buying, merchandising and marketing plans; examine logistics processes; and work as a team to manage a retail store.

The structure of this program gives you flexibility in the choice of a career path. You will also gain relevant industry knowledge through field education experience after the first year of study. The Field Experience may be in fashion buying, production, distribution, retailing, wholesale, or a related marketing area. Students have the opportunity to network with potential employers at our FashionWorks industry event.

Note: Students starting in January will have an alternate order of courses, and will not graduate until their field education component has been completed. January intake students will complete semester two from May to August, and continue into semester three in September of the same academic year.

The School of Fashion offers a diverse, hands-on learning environment, including many extracurricular activities for students.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Identify textile materials, assess their suitability and compatibility, and select for end use.
  • Use basic accounting concepts and financial analysis in order to interpret reports and make business decisions.
  • Make optimal sourcing decisions based on research and analysis of domestic and global sources.
  • Use merchandising concepts and retail math to develop merchandise, assortment and buying plans.
  • Communicate visually by using appropriate tools and practices to create product development packages, sales materials, and merchandising displays.
  • Apply the principles of logistics and supply chain management to operate a successful fashion business.
  • Use effective interpersonal and team skills to enhance leadership, management and sales expertise in a fashion business environment.
  • Evaluate product by applying the principles of quality control to meet appropriate standards.
  • Explain the organization and operation of the Canadian fashion industry, its role within the global economy, and identify the forces that affect it.
  • Distinguish the processes and systems used in garment manufacturing to make production decisions.
  • Apply the product development process by preparing visual materials, technical specifications, and cost analysis for a product(s) aimed at a specific target market.
  • Develop, communicate, and apply a marketing plan by combining marketing research, strategies and tactics.
  • Analyze ethics, corporate social responsibility and sustainability principles to develop best practices in the fashion industry.
  • Develop professional goals through industry exposure with an emphasis on life-long learning and personal growth.

Wireless communications are pervasive in our lives. They have grown in recent years to include everything from personal communications networks to governments, hospitals and neighbourhood businesses. And there’s no end in sight to the growth of our wireless world.

George Brown College’s leading-edge Wireless Networking postgraduate program is designed to put you at the centre of this exciting world by giving you high-demand skills in radio frequency (RF), cellular, broadband and advanced data communications.

We offer you a unique choice of career direction. You can specialize in:

• Long Term Evolution (LTE) and Broadband Technologies
• Advanced Network Security
• Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Technologies

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

• Test and measure RF (radio frequency) signals, attenuation and antenna systems.
• Assist with the preparation and execution of wireless site surveys.
• Build a wired and/or wireless computer network using system design documentation.
• Measure performance of both wired and wireless network components and applications using a variety of basic and advanced network management tools.
• Produce documentation and reports related to network components and applications performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical problems related to both wired and wireless networks using standardized approaches and methodologies.
• Install and upgrade network hardware (e.g. workstations, servers, wireless access points, routers, switches, firewalls) and related components and software according to best practices in the industry.
• Monitor and evaluate network security issues and perform basic security audits on both wired and wireless networks.
• Assist in the collection and analysis of user requirements related to wired and wireless networks.
• Utilize change control, issue documentation and problem escalation procedures and processes as per industry best practices.
• Generate and maintain “as built” network documentation following industry best practices.
• Compare network performance against service levels and assist in the development of action plans as required against service level agreements.
• Employ concepts and practices as defined in ITIL (IT Infrastructure Library) to manage IT services and operation, including project management tools and techniques.

The Cyber Security graduate certificate program at George Brown College is designed to meet the high demand for cyber security professionals and related IT security professionals across multiple sectors – including consulting services, finance and health care.

As a student in this program, you will begin with learning the theory and practical skills required to become a cyber security professional, including the differences and similarities between cyber security and hacking. You will learn about the primary attack surfaces (physical, social, electronic), methods for compromising the attack surfaces, and how to mitigate potential attacks.

In the third semester, you will learn advanced techniques in ethical hacking incident response. A capstone group project will provide you with an opportunity to showcase your skills and talents for potential employers. These skills include:

• Digital forensics and incident response management
• Ethical hacking and analyzing malware
• Delivering security training
• Applying cryptography

In addition to traditional technical skills, the cyber security professionals of today require many non-technical skills and talents, such as:

• Analytical skills
• Written and verbal communication
• Project and time management skills
• Interpersonal and conflict management skills

Students graduating from this program are prepared to help defend organizations from the many cyber threats, including malware, network attacks and data compromise. They will have the capabilities to monitor, assess and evaluate security risks and threats to physical and digital infrastructure, develop and implement security contingency planning, and lead the development of policies and procedures to ensure the mitigation of security risks.

The Civil Engineering Technology advanced diploma program is a three-year program that focuses on the planning, design and construction of roads, bridges, tunnels, sub-divisions, buildings, municipal services and heavy infrastructure. Students learn to ensure projects are functional, economical and meet standards and codes. There is a blend of lectures, laboratories and tutorials, with a focus on real drawing sets. There is an option for co-op.

The Civil Engineering Technology advanced diploma program includes:

• Designing reinforced concrete structures, storm, water and sanitary systems, roads and steel-framed structures.
• Interpreting construction drawings and specifications for various types of projects through extensive practical training from project drawing sets.
• Estimating, bidding, scheduling and managing/supervising projects using the latest software.
• Health and safety, site management and quality management on construction sites.
• Risk analysis and value analysis for construction projects.
• Types of contracts used by the construction industry as well as the legal aspects of construction.
• Business management techniques to pre-qualify projects based on expected returns, to create and manage a construction company and to understand the financial statements involved in running a construction business.

Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:

• Develop and use strategies to enhance professional growth and ongoing learning in the civil engineering field.
• Comply with workplace health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
• Complete duties and monitor that work is performed in compliance with contractual obligations, applicable laws, standards, bylaws, codes and ethical practices in the civil engineering field.
• Promote and carry out sustainable practices in accordance with contract documents, industry standards and environmental legislative requirements.
• Facilitate collaboration and interaction among the project team and project stakeholders to support civil engineering projects.
• Collect, process, analyze and coordinate technical data to produce written and graphical project-related documents.
• Use industry-specific electronic and digital technologies to support civil engineering projects.
• Participate in the design and modelling phase of civil engineering projects by applying engineering concepts, technical mathematics and principles of science to the review, production and/or modification of project plans.
• Contribute to the scheduling, coordination and cost estimation of civil engineering projects and monitor their progression by applying principles of construction project management.
• Coordinate and perform quality control testing and evaluate equipment, materials and methods used in the implementation and completion of civil engineering projects.
• Apply teamwork, leadership, supervision and interpersonal skills when working individually or within multidisciplinary teams to complete civil engineering projects.

The Gemmology program teaches you to analyze and classify a wide variety of gem materials, both natural and artificially created. The program focuses on analyzing chemical and physical characteristics of gem and gem-like materials, and identifying different gems. The gem materials are classified into categories according to their desirable characteristics, which eventually determine the value of the gems. To accomplish the identification and classification, you use a number of specially designed instruments, such as microscopes, spectroscopes, refractometers and polariscopes, on real gem materials.

Visual acuity and accurate colour rendition are essential traits for success in Gemmology.

Refractive Index liquid (RI liquid), which contains diiodomethane, is a commonly used chemical in Gemmology practice. If you are pregnant, have certain medical conditions or are sensitive to RI liquid, please consult with your physician for advice before you attend this program, as you will be exposed to RI liquid in Gemmology lab work.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Identify a large number of gemstones and gem materials and distinguish them from synthetics and imitations.
  • Use, maintain and handle gemmological instruments and testing equipment competently and safely.
  • Grade gemstones for quality based on their cut, colour and other physical characteristics, chemical composition and possible place of origin.
  • Grade diamonds based on their cut, clarity, colour and carat weight.
  • Apply the basic skills of jewellery appraisal to assess market value.
  • Contextualize jewellery according to historical and stylistic qualities to assess provenance, materials and method of production.
  • Conduct ethical and secure business practices consistent with jewellery business standards.