Diploma in Computer Systems Technician

at George Brown College - Casa Loma Campus Canada

As we advance further into this increasingly digital world, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science will revolutionize most industries by optimizing business processes and automating decision-making in many white-collar jobs. The Applied A.I. Solutions Development program will instill graduates with the skills needed to provide existing businesses and emerging startups with the tools required to thrive in the digital revolution.

This three-semester graduate certificate program uses a hands-on, applied approach to the field of A.I., giving students the broad range of skills needed to excel in this rapidly growing industry.

It teaches the development and application of Machine Learning/Deep Learning models and provides a fundamental understanding of the underlying mathematical algorithms that power them. This combination of knowledge and skills will allow graduates to identify and select appropriate algorithms for a given use, build and fine-tune models, and visualize and effectively communicate the resulting data, thereby bridging the traditional roles of Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer and Business Translator.

Your Field Education Options

• To be eligible for co-op, a student must complete all Semester 1 and Semester 2 courses. As well, an overall GPA of 3.0 must be achieved.
• During the third semester of the program, students may choose whether to apply for a Co-op position or take a Work Integrated Learning course that includes an industry-sponsored project.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Identify, evaluate and manage relevant data sources to support data analytics and to meet organizational needs.
  • Recommend different systems, architectures and data storage technologies to support data-driven solutions.
  • Develop and deploy complete Machine Learning/Deep Learning production systems for a variety of industry use cases that meet the needs of a specific operational/business process.
  • Assess and apply appropriate mathematical models, algorithms, tools and frameworks to develop A.I.-enabled, industry-specific solutions.
  • Design and present A.I. solutions effectively to stakeholders through the use of data visualizations.
  • Apply legal, ethical, privacy and security-related standards and considerations in data science projects in a manner that protects privacy and confidentiality, addresses data bias and transparency, and ensures data integrity.
  • Implement artificial intelligence systems on time and budget using best practices and strategies in design thinking, project management and lifecycle management.
  • Design artificial intelligence (A.I.) systems through the application of systematic approaches and methodologies to meet growing organizational needs.

The Plumbing Techniques program covers residential, commercial and industrial applications in the plumbing industry, paying particular attention to residential plumbing. It is a hands-on program that may benefit anyone seeking to enter an apprenticeship or any construction-related career path.

Through hands-on projects you will learn about:

• Tools, materials, equipment and methods used in the plumbing industry
• Estimating materials and labour costs
• Proper use of hand tools and power tools
• Safety practices and procedures associated with these tools

The program includes studying industry standards and building codes while considering health and safety issues and energy conservation.

Projects include:

• Constructing and testing both drain and water systems
• Learning how to install hot water heaters and a variety of residential plumbing fixtures.
• Research on the science of sanitation, water, and the forces acting on a sealed piping system with and without atmospheric pressure applied to it.
• Studying blueprints and learning basic drafting techniques that will enable you to design, comprehend and build plumbing systems.
• A final project will focus on how to maintain the plumbing system you install and those that you may encounter in the future.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Work according to contractual obligations; the project manual; and applicable laws, standards, bylaws, and codes.
  • Perform residential plumbing projects effectively and accurately by interpreting and producing basic data in graphic, oral and written formats.
  • Work responsibly and effectively with others and in accordance with appropriate practices, procedures and in compliance with health and safety legislation.
  • Use tools and equipment for basic installation manufacture, and repair of components to required specifications.
  • Contribute to the organizing and planning of residential plumbing installation projects.
  • Solve routine problems related to work environments using a variety of systemic approaches.

The Computer Systems Technology program is designed with extensive input from industry and offers two optional specializations in its third year. The Networking specialization focuses on network security, voice-over-IP (VoIP) and wireless LANs. The Systems specialization focuses on mail server administration, content management systems (Collaboration), database administration and computer security. Both specializations include core courses on infrastructure virtualization (through the VMWare IT Academy) and cloud computing, along with best practices in Information Technology.

The three-year Computer Systems Technology program is designed with extensive industry input and offers two optional specializations in its third year:

The Networking specialization focuses on network security, voice-over-IP (VoIP) and wireless LANs.
The Systems specialization focuses on mail server administration, content management systems (Collaboration), database administration and computer security.
Both specializations include core courses on infrastructure virtualization (through the VMWare IT Academy) and cloud computing, along with best practices in Information Technology (IT).

George Brown College continues to invest in up-to-date networking, wireless, radio frequency, VoIP and security lab equipment, so that all students gain hands-on experience in installation and configuration of equipment ranging from small offices all the way to enterprise-class hardware and software. This investment, along with the hands-on teaching environment, was recognized by Cisco when the college was designated an Area Support Centre and Instructor Training Centre, and became part of a very select group of Cisco Networking Academies in Canada.

In the third year of the program, students will be involved, hands-on, in real-life projects or case studies. These may be completed independently, in conjunction with an industry partner, or George Brown's Office of Research and Innovation, and may include developing proposals and working in teams to plan, set schedules and achieve specific goals in the field of information technology. Through some of these projects, George Brown students have recently helped develop IT solutions for hospitals, large corporations and major IT and telecommunications service providers, including Bell Mobility, Rogers Communications, Cogeco Data Systems and many other well-known companies in the Greater Toronto Area.

This program covers all courses of the official Cisco CCNA Routing & Switching curriculum. The curriculum also prepares students to write several other examinations leading to industry certifications, such as the Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA) and Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate.

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

• Identify, analyze, design, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, document and monitor technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
• Analyze, design, implement and maintain secure computing environments.
• Analyze, develop and maintain robust computing system solutions through validation testing and industry best practices.
• Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationship.
• Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
• Apply project management principles and tools when responding to requirements and monitoring projects within a computing environment.
• Adhere to ethical, social media, legal, regulatory and economic requirements and/or principles in the development and management of the computing solutions and systems.
• Investigate emerging trends to respond to technical challenges.
• Analyze, plan, design, implement and administer computer systems and cloud solutions.
• Research, design, deploy, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, upgrade and decommission computing system infrastructures.
• Select and apply scripting tools and programming languages to automate routine tasks.
• Install, monitor, optimize and administer a database management system in response to specified requirements.
• Design, implement and administer technical support processes for computing system infrastructures that aligns with industry best practice.

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.

This rigorous and comprehensive two-year Dance Performance diploma program provides you with the necessary skills to launch a career in dance. As a graduate, you will be a classical ballet and/or contemporary dancer with the professionalism, technical expertise and industry contacts required to pursue a career in dance. With a choice of specialty in classical or contemporary dance, students train in ballet, modern and jazz with studies in acting, vocal, repertoire and composition to elevate their overall performance quality and marketability.

There are two streams for students to specialize in either classical or contemporary dance:

• The Classical stream is for intermediate/advanced ballet students and includes more advanced training in ballet and pointe.
• The Contemporary stream is for intermediate-level ballet students and includes additional contemporary training and the option of less advanced pointe classes.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Perform advanced classical ballet and modern dance technique in choreographed solo and ensemble productions.
  • Perform jazz dance technique in choreographed solo and ensemble productions.
  • Sing at an intermediate level using pulse, rhythm and metre in both solo presentations and chorus productions.
  • Create artistically expressive dramatic characterizations in a dance context at an advanced level in both solo and ensemble performances.
  • Present self professionally at auditions and in industry environments through resumés, biographical backgrounds, and photographs to advance artistic and career opportunities.
  • Develop self-knowledge and reflective practice to make informed artistic, pedagogical, personal development and career choices within the performing arts industry.
  • Apply pedagogical skills and concepts to educate students in the areas of ballet, modern and jazz dance training.

The General Arts and Science one-year (two semesters) certificate is designed for students who wish to develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows students to explore subjects within the Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Science and Mathematics; and to develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications, and career development. An effective career counselling component helps students consider their options for a vocationally specific college education, as well as their interests and eligibility for university/degree transfer.

As a student in the General Arts and Science one-year (two semesters) certificate program, you will develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows you to explore subjects within the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and science and mathematics; and to develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development. An effective career exploration component helps you consider your options for a vocationally specific college education, as well as your interests and eligibility for university/degree transfer.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Develop, through general knowledge gained in a wide range of subjects, insight into both self and society.
  • Develop flexibility and clarity of both thought and expression in order to develop communications competence to a level required by business and industry.
  • Understand and utilize critical thinking processes and problem solving techniques.
  • Examine and evaluate various aspects of our changing society to assist in developing a sense of personal and social responsibility as a citizen in society.
  • Employ basic vocational skills drawn from the areas of the Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences of Vocational Studies (Business, Technology).

Robotics, controls and process automation are cornerstones of modern production facilities and automated systems. Our multidisciplined and hands-on approach to learning culminates in a capstone project in which students design and produce a complex, integrated, fully functional electromechanical system by applying their accumulated theoretical and practical knowledge.

Students complement their technical skills with a focus on the soft skills needed to establish a successful career and add value to any team. Students will learn from faculty who are experienced in both the workplace and the teaching environment.

The industry-relevant curriculum is delivered through hands-on learning in the college’s machine shops, electrical and industrial automation laboratories, process controls and robotics facilities, to ensure that graduates can move quickly and directly into industry.

Note: If you enrol in the program in January you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Fabricate and build electrical, electronic, and mechanical components and assemblies in accordance with operating standards, job requirements, and specifications.
  • Interpret and produce electrical, electronic, and mechanical drawings and other related technical documents and graphics for a variety of stakeholders in compliance with industry standards.
  • Select and use a variety of troubleshooting techniques and equipment to assess, maintain, and repair electromechanical circuits, equipment, processes, systems, and subsystems.
  • Maintain and repair electrical, electronic, and mechanical components, equipment, and systems to ensure that they function according to specifications and to optimize production.
  • Support the design and production of mechanical components by assisting in the specification of manufacturing materials and processes.
  • Apply, analyze, build, install, commission, and troubleshoot a variety of mechanical, electrical, and electronic control systems, logic and digital circuits, passive AC and DC circuits, and active circuits.
  • Install and troubleshoot basic computer hardware and programming to support the electromechanical engineering environment.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot automated equipment including robotic systems.
  • Establish and maintain inventory, records, and documentation systems to meet organizational and industry standards and requirements
  • Select and purchase electromechanical equipment, components, and systems that fulfill job requirements and functional specifications.
  • Assist in applying quality control and quality assurance program procedures to meet organizational standards and requirements.
  • Work in compliance with relevant industry standards, laws and regulations, codes, policies, and procedures.
  • Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance and to remain current in the field and responsive to emergent technologies and national and international standards.
  • Contribute as an individual and a member of an electromechanical engineering team to the effective completion of tasks and projects.
  • Support project management activities such as planning, implementation and evaluation of projects, and monitoring of resources, timelines, and expenditures as required.

Learning in state-of-the-art architectural studios with the most up-to-date equipment and software, you will develop a thorough knowledge of architectural drawing and technical design skills, as well as an understanding of sustainable building design and construction materials grounded in current green principles.

Courses cover 2D and 3D computer-aided drafting, design, rendering and modelling, design and development drawings, construction drawings and architectural presentation. You will also learn and apply the concepts of building science, building systems, building codes and construction law. Teamwork in a project-based learning environment is emphasized.

Note: If you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Communicate with clients, contractors, other building professionals, and approval authorities.
  • Assist in the preparation, reading, and interpretation of drawings, and other graphical representations used in building projects.
  • Read and assist in the preparation of specifications and other project documents used in design and construction.
  • Assist in the preparation of estimates of time, costs, and quantity.
  • Assist in solving technical problems related to building projects through the application of principles of building science and mathematics.
  • Collaborate with members of the building team.
  • Assist in the development of architectural designs.
  • Review and assist in the preparation of site planning documents.
  • Comply with the legal and ethical requirements of an architectural technician in the practice of building design and construction.
  • Assist in the assessment of buildings related to repurposing and renovation projects.
  • Ensure personal safety in the workplace.
  • Identify sustainable design and building practices.
  • Use current and emerging technology to support building projects.
  • Assist in the administration of the construction phase of building projects.

Graduates from this program benefit from a combination of advanced machine-tool technology principles (CAD/CAM/CNC) and extensive hands-on manufacturing practices that better prepare them for the technical challenges they may face in the workplace.

Advanced CNC and Precision Machining students have the opportunity to strengthen their skills by engaging in specialized industry partnerships that include precision machining/welding workshops and formula race-car and rocketry manufacturing with University of Toronto Engineering and Aeronautics undergraduate students.

In their final year, students engage in applied projects to design and fabricate prototypes using digital manufacturing technology (lasers, 3D printer, multi-axis CNC machine tools).

All students will augment their technical training with courses in mathematics, communications, and general education.

Your Field Education Options

• Students will have the opportunity to complete a mandatory 15-week co-op term in Year 2. Co-op participants will be selected based on their academic performance, including a minimum GPA of 3.0 and an interview component.

Program Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Complete all work in compliance with current legislation, standards, regulations and guidelines.
  • Apply quality control and quality assurance procedures to meet organizational standards and requirements.
  • Comply with current health and safety legislation, as well as organizational practices and procedures.
  • Apply sustainability best practices in workplaces.
  • Use current and emerging technologies to support the implementation of mechanical and manufacturing projects.
  • Analyze and solve mechanical problems by applying mathematics and fundamentals of mechanics.
  • Interpret, prepare and modify mechanical drawings and other related technical documents.
  • Perform technical measurements accurately using appropriate instruments and equipment.
  • Manufacture, assemble, maintain and repair mechanical components according to required specifications.
  • Contribute to the planning, implementation and evaluation of projects.

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.