about the school

The School of Computing and Academic Studies (CAS) prides itself on the quality of its highly educated instructors, who understand and keep pace with the changing demands of industry and the technology-oriented workplaces of today. Many are also involved in leading edge research—investigating and innovating in areas ranging from forensic blood spatter analyses to state-of-the art medical imaging, from the mathematical modeling of life forms to atom manipulation with light.

Our students reap the benefits of the excellence in teaching and the innovation in research the faculty bring. Many instructors also bring innovative approaches to the classroom, such as technology enabled learning, collaborative projects, and applied research projects on “real-world” problems, including industry projects. In addition, many CAS faculty are involved in BCIT initiatives to continue to improve the quality of teaching and learning, including Instructional Enhancement Grants and Technology Enabled Knowledge (TEK) Projects.

Computing and IT

There is a skills shortage in the Information Technology sector and thousands of jobs are unfilled. With such a strong demand for Computing and IT specialists, the BCIT School of Computing provides students with several specializations delivery options for an applied IT education. Working with industry and subject matter experts, we have developed 7 different full time career-oriented credential programs which lead to certificates, diplomas, and a bachelor’s degree in Computer Systems Technology, CST.

For those students who want to attend part time, we also provide over 400 individual ‘COMP’ courses every year. Part time students may earn credit for several IT credentials and also work toward the CST Diploma and Degree. School of Computing graduates are provided with problem solving, communication and teamwork skills, plus a solid academic foundation that encourages lifelong learning. This prepares School of Computing alumni to become the future managers, entrepreneurs and leaders in all aspects of the computing and IT sector. 

Forensics

With the heightened concerns for security in today’s world, this discipline is expanding rapidly. Both private and public sector organizations are looking for professionals with education in forensic investigation including in forensic science, in computer and fiscal crimes, in health sciences and in imaging techniques and analyses.  This department is geared to professionals in various fields wishing to expand their careers through part-time studies. Flexibility and specialization allow students to choose the areas and the credentials that meet their career needs, including degrees in Economic Crime, Computer Crime, and Forensic Science, and various Specialty Certificates.

Academic Studies

The Academic Studies departments of Math, Chemistry, Physics, Communication, and Liberal Studies provide the essential building blocks for all technologies and credentials. BCIT students are given the applied and theoretical knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen fields, as well as advanced skills in critical thinking, applied ethics, and research methodology. Along with offering foundational courses for all BCIT programs, Academic Studies runs the Technology Entry Program and the Degree Transfer in Science and Technology Program, which bridge into BCIT credentials, as well as its own specialized certificates, such as the Technical Writing Certificate.