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If you are interested in a career as a programmer, programmer/analyst, or software developer, the two-year Computer Information Systems program will teach you the skills you need to start your career in tech.

You will learn how to analyze, design, develop, and test information systems including web pages, web applications, desktop applications, and mobile apps. You will also study object-oriented programming, network communications, IT security, database management, and operating systems. 

Both Charlottetown and Summerside intakes offer a blended delivery format combining some in-person classroom sessions and some virtual classroom sessions happening online via our learning management system.

  • September 2026

    Prince of Wales Campus

    Program Length

    2 Years

    Credential

    DIPLOMA, COMPUTER PROGRAMMER ANALYST

    Canadian Tuition

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    International Tuition

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    Canadian Applicants

    Accepting Applications

    International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit

    Waiting list

    Other International Applicants

    Waiting list

  • September 2026

    Summerside Waterfront Campus

    Program Length

    2 Years

    Credential

    DIPLOMA, COMPUTER PROGRAMMER ANALYST

    Canadian Tuition

    View Cost Breakdown

    International Tuition

    View Cost Breakdown

    Canadian Applicants

    Accepting Applications

    International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit

    Accepting Applications

    Other International Applicants

    Accepting Applications

  • September 2026

    Distance Learning

    Program Length

    15 Weeks Per Course

    Credential

    DIPLOMA, COMPUTER PROGRAMMER ANALYST

    Canadian Tuition

    View Cost Breakdown

    International Tuition

    View Cost Breakdown

    Canadian Applicants

    Waiting list

    International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit

    Waiting list

    Other International Applicants

    Waiting list

  • Admissions Requirements

    • Grade 12 academic or equivalent
    • Grade 11 or 12 academic math
    • Résumé including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program

     

    Notes:

      • Training or experience in the use of computers such as keyboarding, desktop application software and operating systems is strongly recommended.
      • Don’t have the courses you need to get into this program? Upgrade, earn high school credits, or get your high school equivalency credential through Adult Education. It’s free!
      • If your first language is not English, please review our English Language Requirements.
  • Degree Pathways

    This program has degree pathways, giving you the opportunity to receive credit for your Holland College diploma when you continue your education. For a complete list of agreements, visit the Degree Pathways page.

    Partner Institution Credential Details of Agreement
    Athabasca University Bachelor of Science Computer Science Graduates receive two years of credit toward a Bachelor of Science Computer Science degree. This is an online program.
    University of New Brunswick - Saint John Bachelor of Applied Management Graduates with a 70% average receive two years of credit toward a Bachelor of Applied Management degree.
    University of Prince Edward Island Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) Graduates receive 39 hours and a co-op work term toward the Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) degree.
  • Program courses

    Course Code

    Course Name & Description

    Credit Values


    Course Code:SAFE-1005

    PEI Occupational Health and Safety

    An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

    Credit Value:0


    Course Code:CIS-1150

    Business Communications

    An introductory course on professional oral and written communications for a business workplace. Using typical office software tools, students apply written and oral communication techniques appropriate for a variety of situations.

    Credit Value:3


    Course Code:CIS-1201

    Introduction to Object Oriented Programming

    An introduction to object oriented programming. Students learn about problem solving strategies. Using a high-level object oriented programming language, students design and develop functional computer programs using fundamental programming concepts.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-1232

    Intermediate Object Oriented Programming

    Building on previous knowledge and skills in object oriented programming, continuation of programming concepts are analyzed and implemented. Detailed analysis and use of object-oriented techniques are a focus.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-1246

    Database Management

    A focused study of databases and how to use structured query language (SQL). An in-depth study of data models and implementing the relational model. Students develop strong skills in data modeling, relational operations, database design, normalization, and implementation.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-1280

    Web Application Development

    An introduction to modern web development through the use of HTML5 and modern CSS libraries. As well, students create, publish, and maintain interactive web pages based on a variety of web design considerations and techniques.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-1290

    Principles of Information Security

    An examination of current standards of due care and best business practices in Information Security with a focus on evaluation and selection of optimal security posture. Students explore evaluation of security models, risk assessment, threat analysis, organizational technology evaluation, security implementation, disaster recovery planning and security policy formulation and implementation.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-1300

    Operating Systems

    Exploring both Windows and Linux environments, students install, configure, and maintain operating systems. Students are also introduced to the concept of vritualization and use virtual machines to run their operating systems. Hardware components, such as CPUs, memory, and storage devices, are examined in the context of a functional system. Graphical tools and command-line tools are explored.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-1360

    Network Communications

    Students learn how data moves between devices using the standards and protocols employed in networks and the Internet. Students explore network Infrastructures, the OSI model, Internet communications, and common network services.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-2225

    Windows Programming

    Skills in creating object-oriented/event-driven windows-based applications are acquired. Visual design standards are emphasized when creating the user interface. The focus of this course is on developing visual multi-tiered applications.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-2232

    Advanced Object Oriented Programming

    Advanced programming tools including model view controller frameworks, database integration, web services, and serialization are used to allow students to develop complex systems. Students are introduced to object oriented application testing, maintenance, and modification.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-2245

    System Analysis and Design

    Addressing the breadth and depth of object-oriented system analysis and design using a multiple iteration approach. Students investigate, analyze, evaluate, document user requirements and design a business information system. Students apply object (Unified Modeling Language) modeling techniques to document business process, data requirements, and system design. Development of strong verbal and written communication skills, project management skills and effective teamwork are practically applied.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-2250

    Mobile Application Development

    An introduction to mobile application development programming for mobile devices such as phones and tablets. Object oriented programming skills learned in prior application programming courses are enhanced. Data persistence is used to allow apps that provide solutions to business needs. Interfaces to external services will be implemented to improve app capabilities.

    Credit Value:3


    Course Code:CIS-2286

    Internet Programming Part I

    Students become familiar with client-side javascript programming in a web environment. A number of modern Javascript frameworks are explored.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-2288

    Internet Programming Part II

    An introduction to server side web programming. Students become familiar with the PHP programming language, and concepts involved in server-side programming. Database connectivity, session management, and web services are also introduced.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-2510

    Technical AI Solutions

    This course introduces students to the concepts, tools, and applications of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in professional computing contexts. Students will explore generative AI models such as large language models (LLMs), text-to-image systems, and AI code assistants, with a focus on ethical, legal, and responsible use of AI in practical applications for programming, data management, business communication, and systems development.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-2530

    Intermediate Cybersecurity

    This course builds on foundational cybersecurity concepts to provide students with knowledge and applied skills in securing enterprise networks, operating systems, applications, and cloud environments. Students will configure security tools, conduct vulnerability assessments, respond to simulated incidents, and evaluate risks.

    Credit Value:4


    Course Code:CIS-2590

    Capstone Project

    Students analyze and design an application, including a relational database, for a client-server environment using the concepts acquired during previous courses. The application development environment must meet the identified requirements. Students apply an appropriate Software Development Life Cycle framework throughout the entire process of planning, developing, and testing the application.

    Credit Value:4


    Take - 1 course(s) from the following, minimum grade: 60%

    Course Code:CIS-1160

    Introduction to Information Systems

    An examination of various administrative information systems used by IT analysts at various levels. Emphasis is placed on systems that serve to assist the programmer or business analyst with regard to coding and project management.

    Credit Value:3


    Course Code:CIS-2180

    e-Health Business Fundamentals and Messaging Infrastructure

    An examination of health coding systems and standards, as well as the technical framework and messaging systems used in e-Health development projects. It also examines how software and hardware developers are working together with standards organizations to deliver quality e-Health solutions.

    Credit Value:3


    Take - 1 course(s) from the following, minimum grade: 60%

    Course Code:CIS-1170

    Business Fundamentals

    Explore technologies and business processes in business activities and how to employ them efficiently. Students examine each department and function within an organization, such as finance, marketing and human resources and how a business operates, using organizational structures and business ethics.

    Credit Value:3


    Course Code:CIS-1180

    Introduction to Healthcare Informatics

    AAn introduction to e-Health with a focus on the similarities and differences in how e-Health compares to traditional Information Technology. Students are exposed to healthcare organizations and operations commonly associated with e-health, including Canadian and international governing bodies. Both the technical and business needs of an e-Health organization are explored. In addition, students examine information security and its importance to e-Health systems.

    Credit Value:4


Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Apply knowledge of computing fundamentals to defined and applied computing procedures, processes, systems, or methodologies.
  • Assess the responsibilities relevant to computing technologist practice for societal, health, safety, legal, and cultural issues.
  • Communicate technical problems, processes, and solutions.
  • Demonstrate professional and personal skills that enhance job performance and well-being. 
  • Design solutions for computing technology problems to meet specified needs with appropriate consideration for public health and safety, cultural, societal, and environmental considerations.
  • Implement procedures for ongoing Web site revision.
  • Maintain existing computer programs by making modifications as required.

This program is located in the Charlottetown Centre. Take a virtual tour

  • Programmers
  • Programmers/Analysts
  • Software Developers (Internet, client/server, mobile)

Graduates of the CIS program are working on Prince Edward Island with various departments of the Provincial Government, Veterans Affairs Canada, Aliant, Summerside Tax Center, Maximus Canada (DeltaWare), and Maritime Electric. Graduates are also employed off-Island with IS consulting firms.

The CIS curriculum is validated by local Information Technology professionals and is accredited by CIPS, Canada’s Association of IT Professionals. The nationally recognized curriculum enables graduates to pursue employment opportunities throughout Canada, the United States and in many international locations.

Did you know?

All CIS students are required to complete on-the-job training before graduating. This work placement gives you practical experience in an IT role and the opportunity to build your network of potential employers.

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