University Certificate in Computing and Information Systems

Learn the general principles of computer information systems and their applications with the online University Certificate in Computing and Information Systems. You will also gain essential programming and web development skills.

Computer science and information systems come together in the discipline of computing and information systems (CIS). CIS differs somewhat from other purely academic disciplines in that it combines theory and practice into comprehensive skill sets. The University Certificate in Computing and Information Systems will give you the opportunity to develop a sound understanding of the general principles of computer information systems and their applications.

You will learn about

• programming languages
• algorithms
• data structures
• operating systems
• computer networks
• database management
• systems design and analysis

Through this program you will be able to demonstrate a general understanding of each of these major subject areas that define the discipline, as well as the relationships that exist among them.

Also, with Athabasca University’s selection of elective courses, you can develop specialized skills in areas such as

• system administration
• design and analysis of algorithms
• computer programming
• human-computer interaction
• distributed computing
• web development

As a result of completing this program, you will be able to

• Apply a structured approach to the analysis of information systems
• Design, build, and manage computer networks
• Configure systems software and hardware
• Apply principles of computer science in the development of computer software
• Use and manage database systems to address business needs
• Ethically and legally design and manage computer systems
• Design, build, and evaluate usable and accessible computer systems
• Apply appropriate and efficient algorithms and data structures in the design of computer software
• Adopt effective approaches to the management of security and privacy in computer systems
• Integrate knowledge and skills gained on the course to the design and implementation of computer-based projects

Possible career options

Though job titles vary widely, graduates might typically be hired at an entry-level position as a

• Computer Information Systems Developer
• Programmer
• Computer System Analyst
• Web Designer

• Completion of high school in an English-speaking country.
• Completion of 15 university credits from a recognized English-speaking university, or 1 year at a non-university post-secondary institution with an overall average of 75% (GPA of 3.0).

English is the language of instruction and communication in SCIS graduate programs.

Proficiency in English is an essential requirement for admission to SCIS graduate programs. Although working and studying online requires a different level of English language skills than does the classroom situation, students must nevertheless be able to communicate effectively with faculty, administration, and with other students.

For more information on the English Language Prociency Requirements for Graduate Studies please refer to the AU graduate calendar.

• Minimum score of 6 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• Minimum score of 60% on the Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL).
• Minimum score of 80 on the Michigan English Language Battery (MELAB) test.
• Minimum score of 59 on the Pearson Test of English (PTE).
• Minimum score of 213 on the computer- or paper-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL PBT), with 4.5 on the Test of Written English (TWE).
• Minimum score of 80 with an essay score of 20 on the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT).
• Successful completion of AU’s English Language Proficiency Program with an overall average of 75% (GPA of 3.0).
• See the English Language Proficiency Requirements Policy for further details.

How to apply

You can apply to AU online any time. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee, you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.

You should enrol as an unclassified (non-program) student if you want to take the English Language Proficiency Program.

• How to enrol in an undergraduate program

Make sure we get your transcripts if you want us to consider your previous post-secondary education for transfer credit.