Overview
This graduate certificate program bridges the gap between the worlds of IT and all other disciplines that require IT. Systems integration and expanded capabilities of computers, smart phones and embedded systems are constantly evolving to meet the needs of almost every industry.
You become proficient with both the back- and front-end of software development. You graduate with knowledge and skills in front-end, server-side, and database technologies and frameworks.
You also gain an understanding with the front-facing parts of a website that operate according to the principles of user design and user experience (UX). This includes architecture that monitors responsiveness of application, design features and usability.
It's a great pathway for non-IT program graduates to develop baseline skills in application development, using their knowledge of what kind of app is needed in the world of their initial discipline. Coding is a key component to this program and would be a good fit for those who already enjoy coding or hope to gain more coding skills.
Work experience
- Field experience is a mandatory credit course, providing the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills outside the classroom.
- Opportunities are typically unpaid and last approximately 5 weeks.
- Transportation, accommodations and other costs related to work experience courses are your responsibility.
- For more information, visit work experience opportunities.
- Alternatively, an entrepreneurial project developing an application for an industry partner can be completed.
Choose NSCC
- You gain practical experience and apply your skills during work terms.
- Courses are designed to give you a well-rounded experience that parallels industry workplaces.
- You graduate with a portfolio that captures your skills and achievements – a definite asset in a competitive job market.
- You benefit from expert faculty who bring years of experience to the classroom.
Other info
- Many employers in this industry require a current, official criminal record check as part of the hiring process. A conviction on your criminal record may impact your ability to secure employment.
Courses may include
These are some of the courses offered in this program. It is not a complete list and courses are subject to change in advance of the academic year.
Recognizing prior learning / transfer credits
If you have previous learning (course, employment, etc...) that's relevant to your program, you may be able to apply to earn credit. Not all programs are eligible. Learn about our recognizing prior learning (RPL) process.
APPD 5000 - Introduction to Software Development
This course covers basic programming skills. Students will modularize problems and create simple algorithms as well as learning the core syntax of JavaScript language.
APPD 5010 - Software Testing and Quality Control
This course covers the practice and tools of web software testing. Students will learn how to design tests and implement those tests within a modern testing framework on both client and server.
APPD 5015 - Cross Platform Application Development
This course covers technologies that enable web developers to use their existing skills to create desktop and mobile applications. Students will gain the additional skills required to develop cross-platform applications.
APPD 5020 - Emerging Technologies for Application Development
This course provides an opportunity for students to explore new and emerging technology in the area of application development. Students will identify potential future application or how it could enhance or make an application more efficient or productive. This is a self-study course which supports personal development.
DBAS 5000 - Database Development
This course covers data storage for web applications. Students will learn about the common categories of data storage used by web applications, how to design a data-model, how to use SQL language and how to write server-side code that interacts with a database.
ICOM 5000 - Business Development and Entrepreneurship for IT
This course covers the basics of business development and entrepreneurship from an IT perspective. Students will focus on business solutions using standard processes to write business cases and conduct market research. Students will also explore the tools and skills required for starting a business as an IT professional.
ICOM 5010 - Career Development for IT Professionals
This course is focused on the professional practices and methodologies required to build and maintain a career as an IT professional. Students will learn how to create an effective web developer resume and cover letters, how to prepare for interviews and how to develop and maintain an online, web developer portfolio.
ICOM 5015 - Agile Methodology
This course builds the skills and knowledge required to be effective and productive within an agile environment. Students will learn about iterative development, sprints, Kanban, story points, burndown rates and Scrum roles.
INET 5010 - Server-Side Programming
This course covers programming within the web server environment. Students will learn about Node.js, RESTful, APIs and server-side libraries.
INFT 5500 - Work Experience
This course is either a campus-based or external applied learning experience which may consist of work experience, directed studies, industry projects or applied research.
ISEC 5000 - Software Application Security
This course covers security topics that impact web developers. Students will learn about the OWASP Top 10 security vulnerabilities and practice security-related web programming tasks including: providing authentication, validating input, and logging and monitoring.
OSYS 5000 - Operating Systems and Networking
This course covers essential operating system and networking skills for developers. Students will learn advanced level tasks, including using the command-line in Windows and Linux. Networking concepts and tools used for debugging web applications are also covered.
PROG 5010 - Front-End Programming
This course covers programming within the web browser environment. Students will learn about the Document Object Model (DOM) and will practice using client-side libraries and frameworks.
SAFE 1000 - Introduction to WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems)
This course offers learners basic overview of WHMIS principles and establishes a solid foundation to support workplace-specific training on the safe storage and handling of controlled/hazardous products. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive basic WHMIS certification.
SAFE 1001 - Introduction to NS OH&S Act
This course offers students an introduction to the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Act of Nova Scotia, which is required by any person employed in a Nova Scotia workplace. This is a generic, introductory course that provides basic knowledge of the Act for students and is considered to be the basis from which more specific training can be given.
WEBD 5000 - HTML and CSS Fundamentals
This course covers the concepts of markup and stylesheet languages. Students will learn HTML and CSS syntax and apply knowledge to create webpages that leverage modern best practices.
WEBD 5010 - Full Stack Web Development I
This course covers web programming across the full stack: client, sever, and data storage layers. Students will learn how to integrate skills developed within each layer to build full stack web applications.
WEBD 5015 - Full Stack Web Development II
This course covers web programming across the full stack: client, sever, and data storage layers. Students will create a full stack web application using a modern web application framework.
